196 Bishopsgate

I booked specifically because the listing said there was a lift, but it was out of service and apparently won't be fixed for months. I have an injury, so climbing 75 steps up and down every day was really difficult. The rooms also need attention: the beds are broken, tiles are loose in the toilet and kitchen, and the sofa fabric is ripped. My partner and I couldn't sleep because the bed made so much noise. Hot water was limited too, so two people had to leave time between showers. This wasn't close to four stars; I'd give it two. I wish I could add the videos I took.

The staff were very helpful, and having good facilities for washing, drying and cooking made a real difference while we were living out of suitcases and eating out during our month-long European holiday. We stayed at 196 Bishopsgate for seven days in late October and early November 2025. It was easy to get around London, with a bus right outside and the tube across the road, and the main tourist sights were accessible. One small thing, the apartment could use a bit of refurbishment.

The location was amazing, but the room layout felt off. The kitchen was large while the double bed was small, and a big cupboard blocked half the window. There were no amenities, and the toilet was very cold. The lift wasn't working either. Regular guests told me it's often out of order, which makes the upper floors very hard to reach.

The lift was out of order again, and that seems to keep happening. I was also able to use my American Express to secure the reservation, but they wouldn't accept it when I went to pay, which was frustrating and inconsistent. For the price, I expected more dependable service. I won't stay here again.