Thrive Boutique Apartments

There was water damage in the bathroom, and the sink drained very slowly. The kitchen cupboards were filthy, and the coffee machine was so disgusting we didn't use it. The flat was dirty and run down, and even after three days the same rubbish was still in the hallway as when we arrived. Avoid this place.

The apartments were clean and well equipped with all the essentials, and the company provided great service. Both locations have amenities just a few minutes away, so they're wonderfully placed. The company suggested booking ahead. I'd definitely recommend these apartments for stays of any length.

Alex had arranged a way for me to pick up the keys when I needed to check in at an awkward hour, so that wasn't a problem. I was in London for a seminar and stayed here the whole time. The location is fantastic, close to shops, bars, restaurants, and Clapham junction station. The apartment was clean, modern, and well equipped. I'd happily stay again when I'm in the area.

If you want the feel of living in a London neighbourhood, Thrive Apartments on Battersea Rise are a great option. We prefer that to staying in a hotel. We were in Suite D (the Opal Suite), in a renovated flat in a Victorian-era building. There's no lift or A/C, so stairs are part of the deal, though London usually doesn't get hot enough for A/C to be essential. Fans are provided, and opening the windows in the evening cools the flat down nicely. It's a lively area with lots to do and plenty of places to eat or buy food within walking distance. Bus stops and Clapham Junction train station are under a 10-minute walk away. Friday and Saturday nights are the noisiest. The main downside was the shared back area with a pub on Northgate, which dumped glass bottles several times each evening between 10PM to 2AM. With the bedroom window open, that was loud enough to wake you. If you're out during those hours, it may not bother you. There's no garage or carpark, so plan on the bus, train, or Uber if you rent a car. A few quirks in the flat: sink water starts as a trickle, then spurts out fast when you turn the faucet up. There is plenty of hot water, enough to run the washer and shower at the same time, but it can get scalding, so beware. An instruction sheet for the washer/dryer combo would be helpful. The freezer is so cold that ice cream needs a bit of microwave time before you can scoop it, and heat from the toaster tends to set off the smoke alarm. Flapping a dishtowel at it stops the alarm quickly. Wi-fi worked very well, which was handy after patchy service during the day, and there was a good TV channel selection. Alex was a great, responsive host. All in all, it's a lovely little flat at a very reasonable price for what you get, and a great place to stay for that neighbourhood feel.