Judd Hotel

For the price and location, people complaining must be dreaming if they think they’ll find somewhere better. We had a peaceful third-floor room overlooking the crescent, and although it was on the smaller side, it was a decent size for London and had what we needed. The staff were friendly and let us leave our bags before check-in. Breakfast is included and high quality, which feels like life before enshitification. There’s decent free shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel, plus a Nespresso machine, though no pods. The shower was powerful, the bed was comfy, and the windows open fully. I can’t understand why the rating isn’t higher. It’s brilliant value in a great London location, and we’ll definitely return.

We got a family room even though we’d booked a double, which was spacious and comfortable and excellent value. The transport links are really good, and the staff were very friendly. Breakfast had a great choice and was excellent, though getting toast was hit or miss. Everyone ordering through the kitchen at once meant a long wait, so a self-service toaster on the counter would make sense. That’s a tiny issue, and we’ll definitely stay again.

The location was one of the best parts of my stay at The Judd Hotel. Russell Square station on the Piccadilly line is just a couple of blocks away, so Heathrow was easy to reach. Euston and King’s Cross are also close, and I could walk to the British Museum and Regent’s Park. I rarely needed public transport. Staff were friendly and helpful. The front desk sorted out a booking issue and offered to store my luggage for up to 12 hours after checkout, which was very convenient. Breakfast had limited choice but was good quality. The room, though, was smaller than I expected and a bit uncomfortable. Nothing was actually wrong apart from the old, small TV, but with two carry-ons and a larger suitcase, there wasn’t enough storage or room to move around. The little table with the kettle and complimentary tea and coffee took up more space too. I’d consider staying again, depending on the price difference, but would probably choose a larger room.

The tiny bathroom was a bit of a drawback, and I’m not sure my husband could have used the shower if he’d been with us. Still, it didn’t spoil a safe, quiet, clean stay. Cartwrighd Gardens felt peaceful despite being so close to Euston, Kings Cross/St Pancras, and Russell Square tube station. We were in G01, just behind reception, and it was very quiet. There’s always someone at the desk, and everyone was friendly and helpful. Our room was tidy, with daily turndown service and fresh towels. Breakfast was delicious and an economical way to eat before a day out, since staying fed in London is EXPENSIVE. One odd thing: the lights and outlets only work if you leave your room key in a slot by the door. Maybe that’s a UK thing to stop people leaving all the lights on. I’d recommend the Judd for a restful sleep and a good starting point for London adventures.