Smart Hyde Park Inn

I’d rate it 3.4/5, mostly because of the price. The staff and location are great, but being so cheap means it will inevitably attract workers and semi-homeless people. That happens at every cheaper hostel, unfortunately, and it’s not their fault. The room I was given was absolutely disgusting. It was small, bleak and poorly ventilated, and the smell from a basically homeless guy was overpowering. There are better options at this price in central London, though this isn’t a bad place and some tourists stay here too. Smart Russell Square is much better because it’s a little more expensive and consequently attracts a better clientele.

Hyde Park Inn Hostel is lively, with a mix of solo travellers and groups. The shared bathrooms were maintained regularly, which I appreciated, and the staff were friendly, helpful and always around for questions. The rooms are basic but clean, and the beds comfortable enough for a short visit. It’s not the most luxurious hostel, but it offers good value if you’re looking for a budget-friendly place in a central location. The location is one of its biggest advantages, a short walk from Hyde Park and close to public transport, making it convenient for exploring London. A solid, affordable option for a budget trip.

For one night it was fine, and the rooms were clean with curtains on the beds. The bathroom is tiny, with the toilet practically in the shower, but it works. The price was very low, so I didn’t expect much. The location is great. Just be aware there’s no lift/elevator. If your room is on the top floor, hauling a suitcase up all those stairs is a real hassle.

I was there for 24 hours as a transit stop before travelling to the USA. The subway is nearby and there are several stores and a McDonald’s close by, so the location is very convenient. The reception team was kind and helpful, especially Carolina and Ghazi, who made us feel welcome and assisted us whenever we needed help. They’re definitely one of the place’s strong points. The rooms were crowded and short on space, which made comfort and cleanliness a bit challenging, and there were some unpleasant smells. It may suit a short transit stop of a few hours, mainly because of the location and friendly staff.