Lse Passfield Hall

The building complex takes a little figuring out, and it wouldn’t work for anyone with mobility issues. But check-in was easy, and the room was spacious with plenty of storage. It had a sink, while the shared toilets and showers were clean, close by, and never busy, though they were very small. The bed and bedding were better than I expected. I loved the inner courtyard, with its chairs, sun umbrellas, and huge trees. It was a great place to sit for a while. The breakfast was surprisingly good, with lots of variety, many vegan choices, and a big hot-food buffet. It’s a very practical budget stay in a great location.

Great value if you’re travelling on a tight budget. The rooms, washroom area, and kitchen were clean, and breakfast was included. It’s very central for London attractions. There’s no lift to the third floor, so it’s fine if you travel light, but with mobility issues or lots of luggage, ask for a room on the second floor or lower. The basement dining room had lots to choose from, including dairy-free options.

The windows are locked shut, so there’s no way to open them, and the rooms have no fridge or kitchenette. The bathrooms are communal, everything feels sticky, and things are broken throughout the place. The beds have 70s-era springs poking into your back, and there aren’t even queen beds for couples. No AC, rude staff, and the building looks like it hasn’t been upgraded since probably the 60s. Do yourself a favor and stay somewhere else. I wouldn’t pay a dollar to spend another night here.

The heat in my room and the hallway was unbearable. I was sweating even without moving. I politely asked the receptionist whether there might be another north-facing room, but he first said there were no other rooms without checking the system, then said there were other single rooms but they cost more. When I asked him to check, he said he didn’t have access, then insisted all the rooms were the same temperature. It seemed there were spare rooms, but he wouldn’t help. He was also unnecessarily rude and accused me of not tapping my room card when the gate was open. I don’t know how he got the job, but he seems troubled and unsuited to hospitality. The floor-to-ceiling window made the room poorly designed. I had to leave it open for air, but then constant street noise came in, and I had to keep the curtains shut because passers-by could see straight inside. There was no point in opening the window. I barely slept an hour, and it ruined my London trip. I’ve stayed in LSE vacation halls several times over the past three years, but Passfield Hall will be one to avoid. My experience was a complete disaster and the worst I’ve had in the UK. Rosebery and High Holborn are much better. Four stars for the location, and that’s it. Avoid if you don’t want unbearable heat and difficult staff.