YOTELPAD London Stratford

I only needed somewhere for the night, and after checking the booking sites, one of the cheapest options was a room with no windows. There’s luggage storage, and reception has a modern bar area. The twin room had two single beds pushed together, which were comfortable enough. The shower was modern and refreshing. My room was directly opposite the lifts, which need a room key to access, but there was no noise. With London hotel prices so high, shopping around on booking sites is definitely worthwhile.

The staff were wonderful. I arrived early in the morning after a red-eye flight, and they worked hard to get me an early check-in. While I waited, they brought coffee and pastries as I tried not to fall asleep in the lobby. Having the lobby staffed around the clock was especially nice as a solo traveller. The room was small, as expected, but very clean and thoughtfully laid out. The hotel is beside a pretty, leafy square and just down the street from Bethnal Green station. The station unexpectedly closed one night. When it was running, though, it was handy having it so close, since the hotel is a bit out of the way from central London. I wouldn’t share this room with someone, it would have been impossible, but I’ll definitely stay here again if I’m in London on my own.

The location worked really well, just a few minutes’ walk from the underground. We found three supermarkets nearby and some good restaurants within walking distance. We also liked the lift and the refreshment corner in the lobby, where there was warm water, coffee, and soft drinks available all the time. It’s handy to grab a coffee before heading out, and the Espresso machine in the room was great for my boyfriend, who needs his morning coffee. We spent five consecutive nights here and had a pleasant stay. The room was compact and clean, which felt normal to us since we’ve stayed in similar rooms in Tokyo. We really liked the facilities and would definitely come back if we visit London again.

A cosy little room, with a prompt and polite check-in when I stayed. It’s within walking distance of Bethnal Green Station, and there’s road parking nearby too. Parking is easier if the area isn’t busy. A great choice if you get a good room rate!