London sleeping
No matter when you come to London, you should always book your accommodation ahead. The capital has a huge variety of hostels, Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs) and, in the summer months, university residences for budget accommodation. Moving upscale, there are a good selection of no-nonsense budget hotels and, if you’ve come to London to splash out, try some of the world’s best boutique hotels where design is defined.
Ashlee House (www.ashleehouse.co.uk)
A welcoming, stylish and well-maintained backpackers’ hostel with 180 beds on three floors close to King’s Cross station. Tel: +44 20 7833 9400; 261-5 Gray’s Inn Rd WC1.
Hazlitt’s
If you’re thinking of breaking the bank, do it here. One of London’s most characterful cribs, this stunningly stylish hotel in the middle of Soho consists of three 18th century terraced houses. Tel: +44 20 7434 1771; 6 Frith Street W1.
Piccadilly Backpackers
London’s most central hostel right in the heart of the West End, very good value too. Tel: +44 20 7434 9009; 12 Sherwood Street.
St Christopher’s Inns (www.st-christophers.co.uk)
There are six excellent, clean locations throughout London. Popular and highly recommended.
Tel: +44 20 7407 1856.
Wake Up! London (www.wakeuplondon.co.uk)
A colourful, fun and modern hostel in the Paddington area with loads of great facilites including massive TV lounge, stylish bar and laundry services. Tel: +44 (0) 20 7706 8548, 1 Queens Gardens, Paddington, W2.
Insider Info - Longer term accommodation
If you're looking for less temporary accommodation, away from the hostels or move in with friends, check out Accommodation London, with fantastic rates from 4 nights to 3 months from £17 per person per night for a triple share studio apartment. Mid to long term rates are as low as £10 per person per night for a triple share studio apartment for 3 to 6 month bookings. Accommodation is mostly around the north London area and there's also really useful information for getting set up and working in Britain.
If you are a student in London and looking for longer term accommodation, the International Student House (www.ish.org.uk) near Regents Park in North London has excellent rates with single rooms from £105 per week to dormitory rooms from £48 per week though there is a minimum stay of 3 months.