Smart Russell Square

The toilets and facilities were especially clean, and I often saw staff working on them. The location was central and close to the train station. I stayed two nights in a six-bed dorm and got the lower bunk I had requested. The room and bathroom were clean, though the bathroom was too small. The beds made a lot of noise whenever someone moved, but most of the other guests were considerate and kept things quiet at night. I tried breakfast once, and it was good for £6.50.

The hostel itself was pleasant and in a great location. After some back and forth, staff moved me to a room on the lower floor, which was great, and I really appreciated that. But I didn't feel the aggressive guests were handled as carefully as I was. I understand staff can't control who gets assigned to a dorm, but when someone raises a safety concern, they should act on it. I woke up to two angry women in my dorm swearing at me for being loud, even though it was 8 o'clock, when people get up. I went downstairs for help and was offered a move. When I went back to collect my things, the women got more aggressive, and I didn't feel safe staying on the same floor. The alternative offered was a refund so I could find another hostel. I had three appointments that day and didn't know how I was supposed to search for somewhere else to stay.

For £11-12 in London, the service and location are hard to beat. I was catching an early Eurostar, and the place worked perfectly for a seasoned traveler. My six-bed dorm was quiet, the bed was clean, and I got a bottom bunk. The staff were incredible: when I needed to catch the 6:00 AM train, the night staff personally made sure I was awake. The rooms are small, but have what you need for a safe, efficient stay. Don't let the 3.3 rating put you off. A hidden gem for budget travelers.

It's a great spot for getting around, close to public transport, the British Museum, and plenty of other attractions. For a cheap place in the center, it does the trick. The common areas are big and well maintained, the WiFi works very well, and each bed has a privacy curtain that blocks light nicely. The amenities are clean, breakfast is good, and the staff are helpful and organized. They try to accommodate requests and give useful local advice. The rooms get unreasonably hot. I stayed in the middle of winter and was sweating even with the window open and a fan on. The bathroom light is on a motion sensor that switches off every 30 seconds, so you have to leave the shower to trigger it again or shower in the dark. There are no elevators either, so carrying a suitcase upstairs is a workout.