On at least 10 previous trips to London we have stayed in a plain but pleasant little hotel right off Russell Sq. called The Celtic. Now a few years have passed and I know that the previous operators have gone and that their family, formerly of St. Margaret's hotel, now run the place. I'm going back in November and wonder if anyone knows the extent of the changes made, particularly in the price? Renovation had started when I was there in ’07…now it is done. I had never needed a reservation before, but when I called recently I was told to definitely make one. I tried to discuss pricing but had language differences with whoever answered. Of course we know the date we’re arriving but we have no idea how we will be in and out of London, etc. any information is welcome.

I popped in about a year ago and saw the public rooms which seemed very pleasant. I believe the family are gradually upgrading the rooms but they still won't be en suite. Rates continue to be competitive as far as I'm aware but I'd send an e-mail to see what they can offer.

Well, that was a bit of the problem, they have no web site and, at least from what I could make out from the garbled English, no email address...which brings me here. I was trying to get an idea of cost but the phone call had already gone on 'way too long with few or no result. Thanks, though...if anyone else knows anything, lemme know, please...or of another cheap and clean place to crash in that vicinity. I've seen tons of little places north of the Celtic but have no idea as to their names or prices.

Sorry don't know the Celtic, but just read about this place in today's Toronto Star:

http://www.thestar.com/travel/europe...are-extra?bn=1

The Tune is worse than easyHotel. Housekeeping costs extra, a/c costs extra, tv costs extra, <u>towels</u> cost extra fer cryin out loud. The basic rate seems cheap -- but that is for essentially a cell and everything but a room key costs extra.

DiAblo,

You are welcome to e-mail with your details and i will try to make contact with the hotel to check availability, rates and to ask any other questions you may have.

[email protected]

This is why I LOVE this site, people are willing to go out of their way to help and discuss...Thank you all, adamhornets I just sent you an email, too kind!!!

There are quite a few B&B's in that area, if you need alternate accomodations. I've always syaed in the Bloomsbury area when visiting.

Would you share the best of those you've tried, MICHEL_PARIS?
We have always like the Celtic because it is so close to the Russell Sq. tube station...and because they serve a good breakfast. We also became somewhat friendly with the (former)operators....