I'll be in London for just a few days (first time there) and am looking for a hotel or B&B in the $150 USD or less range for a basic double room. <BR> <BR>I'd like to be close to pubs/attractions/etc. and would like a private bath/shower (with such limited time, I'd rather not find myself waiting for another guest to get out of the shower). <BR> <BR>I've been looking primarily at Victoria Station area and also at a few Picadilly area 2- or 3-star properties. <BR> <BR>Any suggestions? We go in mid-September. <BR> <BR>Thanks.

Scotty, <BR>Take a look at the London Guards Hotel at www.demon.co.uk/hotel-uk/guards.html <BR> <BR>A double should cost you in the neighborhood of $135 USD including tax and a buffet breakfast. The hotel has been recommended on this forum in the past and has had favorable reviews from guests posted here as well.

How about Annandale House or Willett Hotel (they are across the street from each other) right by Sloane Square tube station? Annandale House is a little cheaper but not quite as nice as the Willett.

We just stayed at the London Guards. The cost was 95pounds for a double (this is a special price - rack rate is 125). The "buffet" breakfast is continental - corn flakes, croissants, rolls that look like hotdog buns, and tea or coffee. Juice or anything else is extra. We got real tired of it and started eating breakfast out or buying pastries, yogurt, fruit, etc. to keep in our room. The plus side is, the hotel is very clean and attractive with a good sized refrigerator in the room and is in a very quiet location. Some ethnic restaurants and a few good pubs are nearby. A walk to Queensway will find more restaurants and shops. The hotel is air-conditioned, but did not work in our children's room the entire time we were there and worked in our room only part of the time. The windows had safety bolts and could only be opened a few inches. Fans were provided, but we did not get much results when we asked them about fixing it. We loved being so close to Hyde Park and Kensington Park. We spent many evenings there just enjoying the peacefulness and resting after sightseeing. <BR>All in all, it was a pretty nice place, but we will probably try somewhere else next time.

Try the Gloucester Hotel. It's excellent value. They offer upgrades whenever available and are right opposite a tube station. The rack rate is over 150 pounds but they often offer specials at 89/99 pounds per night.