Lancaster Hall

The hotel’s well placed, about an 8-minute walk from Paddington station and 5 minutes from Lancaster Gate station. Plenty of free museums are walkable, and there’s a Wetherspoons about 13 minutes away for good meals at a lower price. Breakfast is good, though the price makes most sense if you’re a big eater. I’d stay here again.

Cynthia greeted us warmly at reception and kept up some light banter while checking us in efficiently. Our room was small, but perfectly adequate, with crisp bedding, plenty of towels and a spotless, functional feel. We booked with price in mind, and as a Booking.com 'Genius Discount' guest, I found the strong reviews and score deserved. It’s a wholesome, realistically priced hotel in a great location, and the staff and place were well above what I’d expect at this price. The only thing that detracted was street noise. I’d happily recommend this budget hotel, and it deserves five stars in its price range.

The staff were consistently courteous, helpful and excellent, and it’s clear someone has put care into making the place look nice. The location is another real plus, close to two Underground lines, the rail station, Hyde Park, plenty of restaurants and mini marts. Still, I probably wouldn’t stay again. I found three separate hairs when I pulled back the duvet, even though the sheets looked pressed, and that stopped me from giving a better review. I also heard several conversations through the thin walls during the night, though the other guests weren’t shouting or being especially loud. The bathroom was uncomfortably small, with old separate hot and cold taps right by the sink, so it was basically very hot or cold water. The slippery bathtub was a concern for older guests. Maybe small rooms and old buildings are just part of staying in Zone 1, especially by American standards. But I didn’t see these issues mentioned in the reviews when I booked, and I wish I’d known more beforehand.

After spending a night in a terrible hotel, Lancaster hall felt like heaven. It isn’t fancy, but it’s clean and welcoming. I like a cold room when I sleep, so even though the AC was a bit loud, I was glad to have it. The hot drink station was better than any I’ve seen, and being able to make an espresso in my room was such a treat. The bed was a little too hard and uneven, but I still woke up well rested, so it’s a small thing. I’d definitely recommend this hotel!