The Justin James Hotel

The staff were all helpful and friendly, and I couldn’t fault the place. My single room was small, but had enough space for one night. There was tea and coffee in the room, the bed was comfortable, and the good-sized bathroom had a walk-in shower with hot, strong water.

The staff were very friendly, breakfast was simple but adequate, and the location is great, only 400m from Wimbledon station. The room was clean but basic and small, with some furniture in poor shape. One chair literally fell apart in our hands. There was black mould in the otherwise clean bathroom. At £75 a day it’s not too bad for London, but in the real world that’s insanely expensive for this level of service.

Lu-Ma Cafe attached to the hotel is lovely, with organic, fresh and gluten-free food, though it’s a shame they don’t serve supper. I’d stay again, and in fact I’m coming back soon, because the location works well for Datix headquarters, where I’m currently on a training course. The place feels more like a comfortable hostel than a hotel or B&B, and the cafe staff are lovely, but reception could be more welcoming. I stayed three nights and don’t think I heard a good morning or evening once as I passed. Room 7 is small but has what I need, though the mattress is a bit squidgy. I have a bad back and kept waking up to find a comfortable position. The rooms are warm, but light from the corridor shines under the door and makes sleeping harder. The rooms aren’t particularly quiet either. Avoid 12 or 15 if you can, since they’re by reception and the cafe, where you can hear people talking all day and night. Room 15 has a bath but no shower.

The cafe is a standout, with organic food, beautifully brewed coffee and lunch, plus vegan-friendly options. The hotel is family friendly, in a fantastic location, and the staff are warm. The rooms are clean and unfussy, and the prices are very competitive. One of the best budget places to stay in Wimbledon, I’d recommend it.