The Best Accommodations Deal in London

London Uptown Reservations, which represents some eighty upscale Bed & Breakfasts (emphasis on the “upscale”), provides the answer with double rooms that can cost as little as £95, or US$192, a night, including breakfast.

A sensible and affordable alternative to hotels, these host homes are welcoming and superbly comfortable.  They are owned by empty-nesters—businessmen, diplomats, interior decorators and even lords and ladies—who enjoy meeting and entertaining visitors.  The hosts, of course, know the London scene and can provide information and advice on sightseeing (be sure to get a bus map), affordable restaurants (a fixed-price lunch is cheaper than dinner) and even shopping (January and July are sale months).  This personal touch makes the Uptown experience “like staying with friends,” as previous guests have said.  The homes have been carefully inspected and are in London’s best and safest neighborhoods: Mayfair, Chelsea, Kensington, Knightsbridge, Belgravia, Pimlico and Holland Park. And all are close to Underground stations and bus lines.

Double and twin rooms cost £95 (approximately $192) or £105 ($212) a night, depending on location and degree of luxury.  Singles are £72 ($145) or £80 ($161).  Some B&Bs even have triples for £125 ($249) and quadruple family rooms (which can be two adjoining rooms with a bath) that cost £135 ($269), which is still less than a mediocre hotel double.. All prices include a private bath or shower, tax, service and a substantial continental breakfast of juice, cereal, yogurt, fruit, toast, marmalade and tea or coffee.

For more information and to see pictures of the host homes, visit Uptown Reservations’ web site, www.uptownres.co.uk. To make a reservation, complete the booking form on the web site and submit it.  Uptown will confirm by e-mail (or telephone).   .

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