Rick Steves' London: More Feedback
If you've traveled with this guidebook, please help us improve it for future travelers. How can it be more helpful and accurate? Did any recommended hotels, eateries, or sights disappoint you? Do you have any new experiences or new places we should consider? Any warnings or tips for people traveling with existing edition?
Vancouver Studios
I also would highly recommend Vancouver Studios. We were there a week last September. Our room had no lounge chair, but was very clean and comfortable. The room was straightened each day and new towels were provided.
The first night we worried about the street noise, but promptly at ten o-clock it ended, so no problem. Apparently there was a hostel down the street.
It's convenient to two tube stations. That was a lifesaver as the Bayswater station was closed when we were on our way to the airport early the last morning. We simply walked a couple more blocks to Queensway and continued.
There's also a nice Moroccan restaurant down the street. They were very friendly and we enjoyed the food.
New Traveler
IA USA Tue 05/24/2005
Vancouver Studios - Check it out.
(May '05) -- We just got back from 5 nights at Vancouver Studios in Notting Hill. I did not see many comments on this board about Vancouver Studios, but I would definitely recommend it. Our rate was 100 GBP per night for a double balcony room. The room was the usual European size (smaller than the typical U.S. hotel room) but clean, comfortable, and even nicely decorated. The biggest plus was an in room mini kitchen with two burners, small fridge, microwave, etc. All glasware and pots/pans provided. (Supply your own napkins or paper towels) There was a table with two chairs, lounge chair and double bed. Instant coffee, tea and hotpot also provided. The flooring is sisal with tile around kitchen and in bathroom. (One small detail, to flush the toilet, pump several times on the handle, then it will flush all the way.) The shower is typical European size but plenty of hot water and good water pressure.
The Bedding was a duvet with white cover with several down throw pillows. An attractive canopy-style wall hanging decorates the head of bed.
Vancouver Studios location is excellent, a 5 min. walk from Bayswater Tube station and one stop from Paddington and the Heathrow Express and other National Rail trains.
The nieghborhood is fun and funky Queensway Street with shops, tourist stuff, grocery stores, indoor multi-story mall (GAP, H&M, etc.) banks, cell phone stores, etc. Marks and Spencer (in the mall) sells grocery items as does Tesco, another market. There's also a Starbucks on Queensway and my mocha tasted EXACTLY as in the U.S. (Hey, we all have our comfort items.)
The staff at Vancouver studios was very polite and accomodating. They staff 24 hours a day. When you leave, drop your key off at the front desk and use the buzzer to re-enter. There's a cute little patio and sitting area for guests. A small cabinet offers books for trade. Vancouver Studios also has a coin op washer and dryer on the lower floor. One load is 4.50 GBP.
If you're looking for a hotel in convenient location, clean, quiet, less expensive (for London) Vancouver Studios is for you. http://www.vancouverstudios.co.uk/
Jennifer <email>
Napa, CA USA Tue 05/24/2005
Go Early
We went early to see the Tower of London. Thanks to Rick's advice, the "Q" was short and there was no line for the crown jewels. See that first! After a beefeater tour, the line for the jewels was around the block. In addition, we got great theater tickets that were half price, being it was a Monday. Lastly, double check that places will be open. St. Paul's was closed for the opening of Parliment and it was our last day in London. Fortunately, we received 2 for 1 discount and went the next morning. The TI across the street from St. Paul's was extremely helpful too.
Angela <email>
USA Tue 05/24/2005
Winchester Hotel
We stayed at the Winchester for four nights in early May. The staff was very friendly, but the room was dingy and the furniture soiled. For two mornings there was no water, hot or cold, to our room between the hours of 7AM and about 9:30AM. Very inconvenient. The staff said it happened when too many people were showering. The owner later said that it was due to a city water main break - which we found doubtful. In any case, we won't be going back.
Mark
Salinas, CA USA Mon 05/23/2005
Cherry Court Hotel
My wife and I visited London lately.We stayed in the Cherry Court Hotel by Victoria station (Central London)recommended by your Travel Guide. If you don't mind the small size of the room, this is a treat considering the location, the price and the friendliness of the Hotel Manager, Mr. Patel.
Andrew Chan <email>
Saratoga, CA USA Mon 05/23/2005
SoHo Spice
This is the Indian Restaurant recommended by your Travel Guide.The food is good, but business practice left something to be desired.We paid with our debit card, and without our permission, it was chargedand converted to US dollars at a higher rate. (In all our othertransactions in London, it was charged to British pounds, without any questions asked). We said we would pay in cash instead and asked them to reverse the charge, they made the reverse but we found out later they paid back in British pounds. In between (a few minutes), we're being charged with the higher conversion rate.
Andrew Chan <email>
Saratoga, CA USA Mon 05/23/2005
Went to London and saw the Queen!
Having visited London three times before we thought we had seen everything. During the last week we had planned a shopping day but the 'host' of Blades Hotel, Kevin, urged all the guests to go to Westminster to see the State Opening of Parliament. He told us exactly were to stand and we found ourselves next to a military band. Within a half an hour hundreds of soldiers dressed in brilliant costumes rode by on horseback then we saw the Irish State Coach (over 300 yers old) carrying the Queen and Prince Phillip. The band started playing 'God Save the Queen' and the Queen waved directly at all of us - now we have seen everything! London can be a little expensive and rooms and bathrooms are not as large as we expect in the US but there are many compensations such as free art galleries and museums and so much history. Booked hotel direct on www.blades-hotel.co.uk Returning home tomorrow with gifts and memories.
Jim and Maggie
Lakeland, Minn USA Sat 05/21/2005
Wagamama 2 for 1 coupons
Wagamama is a great restaurant chain - and their website (http://www.wagamama.com/members/offers/) has weekly promotions including at least one 2 for 1 special in one of their London locations. You can print as many coupons as you want - but the promotions change each week, so check each Monday morning.
Stephen Sander <email>
West Chester, PA USA Thu 05/19/2005
London 2 for 1 Attractions using Southern from Gatwick
Just returned from London. Rather than take the Gatwick Express (₤23.50 return), we took Southern Railway (http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/) between Gatwick and Victoria (₤16.00 return). They run about every 15 minutes and take only a few minutes longer (32-37 minutes per trip vs. 30 minutes). With the dollar as weak as it is, that's a good savings for a couple. In addition, they had a 2-for-1 promotion on their website - covering most of the major London attractions. I printed out the coupons and used them for St. Paul's, The Tower, The Globe Theatre, The London Transport Museum, and Harry Ramsden's Restaurant. There were many more I did not use (http://www.london2for1.com/2for1/). This promotion ends May 31 - so there is still time to take advantage of it.
Stephen Sander <email>
West Chester, PA USA Thu 05/19/2005
Blades Hotel
My husband and I stayed at the Blades Hotel while in London in April. Kevin was an informative and entertaining host. We stayed in a small double, and it was very small. More importantly, the room was clean, the bed comfortable, and the shower hot. It was also convenient to the Tube and Victoria Station.
Doris <email>
San Antonio, TX USA Wed 05/18/2005
Historic london pubs
We went on one of the 'aletrails' pub walks after seeing a recommendation on here. It was really great- we did a private tour, it cost about 45 pounds for a three hour trip, and my husband and I found it one of the highlights of our stay in London. Bob our guide was very friendly and we got to see some places off the beaten track. Some of the pubs he took us to had my husnband drooling over the place and going crazy with his camera, he's a real architecture freak! Highly recommended - www.aletrails.comLucy, Philadelphia
lucy duncan <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Tue 05/17/2005
Respond from Cherry Court Hotel
Hello to all Rick's readers I am Mrs. Patel from Cherry Court Hotel would like to respond to the posting from this board. I am in Rick's guide book from last 15 years. Its true the rooms are small and yes he has described it in his guide book exactly what he has seen personally. Since last 30 years Mr. Patel and I really take pride running our small B & B and it really hurts my feeling when I see these messages. Last year we spent £30,000 (pounds)in improvement. We have new carpets, new beds, fully air-conditioned and fully decorated hotel. All the facts are also on our website. Its true we do not change towels everyday but if clients ask, we never refuse to give them fresh towels.
Regarding the bathrooms and the cleaniness of the hotel personally I check after my maids have cleaned them and I had to tell its nothing like what the messages say on the board. Within the 12 rooms we have 2 maids working and they have been with us from past 9 years. As the owner of the hotel I would just like to say that there have been countless people who have stayed at Cherry Court Hotel past years and used Rick,s guide book. Please come forward and pass your comments.
When staying at Cherry Court Hotel please tell us your true opinion so at least we get an opportunity to investigate there and than.
Mrs. Patel <email>
London, UK Tue 05/17/2005
Cherry Court Hotel
My sister and I stayed at the Cherry Court for 3 nights while in London. We fully expected small, simple, and basic, but we didn't expect unclean. The bathroom had hair on the floor and was grimey looking. The bed was very hard and lumpy, and the pillow hard and flat. Having said that, the location was great. Very close to many of the the wonderful attractions London has to offer.
Shelly
Canada Mon 05/16/2005
Harrington Hall Hotel
My wife and I spent two weeks in London during the last Christmas season and would reccomend the Harrington Hall Hotel in South Kensington very much. This hotel is an upscale beautifully decorated very English hotel.The rooms are immaculate and large by British and London standards.The hotel is very quiet and the staff friendly.The Hotel is also only one block from the Glouster Road tube station so transportation is quick and easy.London at Christmas was a great experience and Christmas Eve services at Westminister Abbey should not be missed.The Blackfriars Pub should not be missed as it is an architectural treasure. The interior is almost all alabaster.
Ed Olds <email>
Hot Springs,Arkansas, Ar USA Fri 05/13/2005
London Hotels
We stayed at Blades Hotel in Pimlico4/16-4/21 2005. It's convenient, well managed and reasonably priced. Kevin is a wonderful host.
Steve Marquardt <email>
Des Moines, IA USA Sun 05/01/2005
London in winter
We spent two weeks in Dec/Jan in London. It rained a lot-usually not pouring, just wet-we bought cheap umbrellas. On the few bright, sunny days it was COLD. We had one day of snow-rare there and very very beautiful. A wool scarf was de rigeur-you can unwrap it on the tube so you're not too hot-also a fun souvenir to buy. I would try silk long johns the next time as recommended by many on this board. The museums are fine; we just didn't get to "do" all the parks. Things were very crowded during the holidays (from before Xmas to 12th night) so keep that in mind, and people dress very casually.Cheers!
Susan
USA Sun 04/17/2005
Cherry Court Hotel
We were disappointed in the Cherry Court Hotel. The shower and wash basin had black mold and rug needed a good cleaning. We stayed there 6 days and would have traded the daily fruit basket for clean towels and bedding after three or four days. The daily maid service consisted of straighten the bed covers and empting the trash. I can't recommed the Cherry Court Hotel in London.
Lois <email>
Corinth, TX USA Tue 04/12/2005
Pay cash - save dollars!
Recently I posted a report on my visit to London (stayed at the Blades Hotel) and on returning I have found that I have been charged a small percentage by my credit card company for the hotel transaction payment. I have advised hotel of this and they have just replied with the following "We are sorry to hear that you have met additional costs to your vacation. In future we are willing to offer our North American guests who indicate they want to pay their hotel bill in cash a five per cent discount rather than pay commission to credit card companies and banks". This may not seem a fortune but I would have saved nearly 50 dollars on my hotel bill if I had paid cash!
Mary Freeman <email>
Brooklyn. NY, NY USA Sun 04/10/2005
Experience in London
Just got back from a week in London with a day trip midway through to Paris (it was fun, but a long day:). We stayed at the Kensington Gardens Hotel in Bayswater, it was a great place (provided you don't mind stairs), quiet, inexpensive for having a bathroom in the room (which you may call me an UA, but it is really nice to have:), and the owner (?) Rowshanak is unbelievably nice and helpful!!!
If you do stay in that area, make sure you make it to Kahns for some of the best, yet inexpensive Indian food in London - pubs are fun and I love the Beer (Commercial American Beer Sucks!), but you can only eat Bangers and Mash so much - Indian food in London is a much better bang for the buck.
Also, if you really want to experience the British culture, make it to a footbal match. If you are in London you have the choice of around 12 different professional teams, the atmosphere at the games is greater than anything you would experience at ANY American sporting events. And don't worry about the "Hooligan" history, 95% of the fans are really nice, just be sure that you aren't cheering for the opposite team as the area you are sitting in, this will get you kicked out faster than anything (stadiums are designated as home supporters only with a small section with a separate enterance for visiting team fans).
Brian Newhouse
Mountlake Terrace, WA USA Thu 04/07/2005
London eats
Ate at Soho Spice Indian restaurant last night and it was about the best Indian I've had, even counting my years living in Chicago. Good value as they include rice, dal, and paan. Highly recommended.
Watch your purse, though. A young woman waiting at a club in Soho as we walked through had hers snatched.
Dennis <email>
MN USA Thu 04/07/2005
Premum tours and Bath/Stonehenge
took the Bath/Lacock/Stonehenge tour with Premium. Exactly as described, very professional, on time, group size of 46, got to have private tour of stones and actually touch them at sunset. once in a lifetime experience...a must do! RM
Red Millander <email>
Stuttgart, GE Tue 04/05/2005
Winchester hotel
Stayed 4 nts at Winchester. Was a little concerned about noise factor based on postings here. Asked for and recieved quiet room on basement floor. Nightime was quiet, but since it was next to breakfast room, there were some kitchen noise that started at about 0630 each day. Not really a factor...beds typically European "hard". Jimmy is a little overbearing, but manageable...I thought he was classic and got along with him great. rated 3 stars and thats accurate. good value...nothing to really rave about but nothign to rant either. front office staff were VERY helpful and very nice. recommend for first time or repeat travelers. RM
Red Millander <email>
Stuttgart, GE Tue 04/05/2005
Chandos Pub--Trafalgar Sq
The wife and I just spent our second vacation in London in 6 months. We found a great pub just off Trafalgar Sq. Chandos. Great, quiet atmosphere, upper room called Opera House off limits to kids and smoke free till 7PM. Full pub menu; fish/chips for 7,50 pounds. we ate there twice in 5 days. check it out! RM
Red Millander <email>
Stuttgart, GE Tue 04/05/2005
Re:Theater Tickets, half price or otherwise
Though this will surprise no one on this board, Rick's advice about tickets in London is sound. We did best at the theater itself-once I called a few hours before a show for a seat(no handling fees, etc) and once a friend waited in line for returns at the theater and got a great seat for Lion King(on New Year's Eve!). We did buy some tickets from home before the trip for shows we were afraid we'd miss(I am a consummate overplanner), but even the really hot shows had seats if you went to the box office in person and were somewhat flexible about dates and location.
Susan
WI USA Mon 04/04/2005
March 2005 visit
Thanks to Rick Steve's guidebook, my wife and I had great time in London. We stayed at the Luna Simon hotel on Belgrave Road. It is a great value (clean, safe, big/hearty breakfast, & close to the Pimlico tube). I'm very surprised it's not in the Guidebook.
We especially enjoyed the hospitality of the hotel owners (Peter and Bernard) and other locals that we met. There's also a good new barbecue restaurant nearby called Cyprus Mongal on 45 Warwick Rd.
As Rick says, the half-price ticket booth at Leicester Square is overrated. A fellow tourist recommended buying tickets there. We followed that person's advice for a matinee showing of "The Mousetrap." When we presented these at the box office, we found the face value of the entrance ticket they gave us was less than the price we paid at Leicester Square's "Half Price" ticket booth. (In addition to zero discount, the Half-Price booth charges an additional fee plus a credit card surcharge). Later, I found out (via a theatre brochure and the box office itself) that there are no discount tickets that are sold for "The Mousetrap." However, a sign outside the Half Price ticket booth falsely indicates that discount tickets for "The Mousetrap" could be purchased. So, if you plan to see "the Mousetrap," buy the tickets directly from the box office.
Russ
San Diego, CA USA Sun 04/03/2005
Georgian House Hotel
I wanted to thank Craig from Sacramento for his response to my question about the Georgian House. Just like in any 'first time', there's a learning experience in everything. Next time, I'll ask advice BEFORE I book. Thanks!
Bethany <email>
Reedsburg, WI USA Tue 03/29/2005
Easter in London
I am writing this in London - my fourth visit to this great city. As a single female travelling I always make sure I stay in a hotel or b&b that is in a safe area and well managed, so once again I am staying at the Blades Hotel in Pimlico near Victoria and Westminster. It is like 'home from home'. A warm welcome back from Noreen the owner and Kevin the manager, truly like meeting up with old friends. The Easter weekend has been nothing short of awesome. Saw Mary Poppins, the musical - fabulos. Attended the Easter service (with nearly 3.000 others) in Westminster RC Cathedral - breathtaking!Going on boat trip to Hampton Court later and just wishing that my company had a London office and I would relocate tommorow! Quote of the year from Kevin about the forthcoming unpopular royal wedding with Charles and Camilla "the nation is GRIPPED with utter indifference!" Book direct with the hotel, its better than going through agencies: www.blades-hotel.co.uk
Mary Freeman <email>
Brooklyn, New York, NY USA Mon 03/28/2005
Georgian House - OK, nothing special
In response to the reader's question about the Georgian House Hotel, my wife and I stayed there about a year ago and thought it was just OK, nothing special. Good location, room was fine, decent value, but it didn't seem terribly friendly. We tried the B&B Belgravia this year and thought it was terrific (I posted on the "Heroic B&B Friendliness" wall about it). I'd imagine the B&B Belgravia might cost an extra 10-15 pounds a night, but we found it to be well worth the extra expense. Hope that helps.
Craig Dandurand
Sacramento, CA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Warwick Hotel- Blackpool
It may pay to stay clear of the WarwickHotel in Blackpool, U.K.. My daughterstayed there one night. Her charge cardaccount was charged an additional $240.00 after she returned to the U.S.A.They said there were ink spots on the blanket and called it "wilful damage"done by her. This is unfair toher. It happened to her, so it can happen to another American tourist.
Jill Nelson <email>
Kokomo, In USA Tue 03/22/2005
Priceline and European Hotels
Although it sounds like Rick's recommendations for hotels are great, I think Priceline.com is also a great way of getting hotel rooms too. I booked three nights in London through Pricleine and got the Hilton Olympia in Kensington for $90/night!
You can check recent winning "bid" amounts on www.biddingfortravel.com
I had similar luck for Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels hotels. However, I stuck to Rick's recommendations when it came to tbe B&B's in Bath
HP
Los Angeles, CA USA Sun 03/20/2005
London Two for One
We saved hundreds of dollars using the London Two for One Program. Our family of four just got back from two weeks in London. There is a special program going on now until May 31st. If you take a train into London, you qualify. With your train ticket and a 2 for 1 voucher form you can buy one, get one free on dozens of London attractions like The Tower of London, St. Pauls, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, Imperial War Museum, British Museum special Mummy exhibit, London Ducktours... the list goes on and on and even includes theatre tickets. Go to www.London2for1.com for details. I never saw anyone else using it except us. You can use as many vouchers as you like. You have to take a train into London and the airport express trains DON'T count. We flew into Gatwick and took the Southern train instead of the express, which only took 5 minutes more than the Express. It was a great program.
Chris Ignasiak <email>
Avon, OH USA Sat 03/12/2005
London 2005
Great book!! Changes for 2006::Lawrence statue and Churchill moved [P149];Davinci painting and cartoon now in room 2; Manet just went to Munich museum [p217];bus map [from British Travel]would be great addition to Tube map.
Richard Welsh <email>
westfield ctr, oh USA Fri 03/11/2005
Festival of flowers and music - London
Further to the very helpful comments from Chrtina and anny King 'Flower power in London', we too are going to London in May and have made our reservations coincide with the 'Festival of flowers and music' at the Westminster Roman Catholic Cathedral. It was ten years ago when we were in London and they had the festival in this great cathedral - it was awesome. The evening events involving the famous Westminster Cathedral Boys Choir are sensational. A team of 180 floral decorators will be preparing this years festival, also this years festival is dedicated to 'Children of the World'. So any planning to be in London 11, 12, 13 or 14th. of May go to the cathedral and be inspired!
Patrick and Helen Doyle
New York, NY USA Wed 03/09/2005
bath
We took the side trip from London to Bath last year.Which was a great place to spend a few quiet days and relax.Our only disappointment was the thermal spa, still not opened to this day and no opening date yet. Enjoyed the roman baths and other sights Stonehenge
<email>
USA Tue 03/08/2005
Flower Power in London!
Two great days in London for flower enthuasiasts: 11th to 14th. May in the bueatifull Westminster RC Cathedral - Festival of flowers and music, this year the festival will feature the famous Arundel Carpet of Flowers which hasn't been seen in London for 23 years. The famous Royal Chelsea Flower Show - May 24th to the 27th. We reularly stay at the Blades Hotel and they seem to really well informed of all these events and keep us posted. Hotel close to both of these events.
Christina and Danny King
San Diego, CA USA Wed 03/02/2005
Great art.
IA , sorry you are wrong there is nothing 'equally impressive' to Michaelangelos cartoon - it is the greatest treasure in the National Gallery - others are ofcourse immensely impressive.
Van Gogh (just joking)
CA USA Mon 02/28/2005
J D Wetherspoon cheap eats/drinks
The large J D Wetherspoon pub chain has bargain meals, including a current 2 meals for only £5.75 deal. Meals are hearty, if not elegant; including fish and chips, spaghetti, and sausages.On the positive side, Wetherspoon pubs are a bargain, they have a large selection of well kept real ales, they have no smoking sections, most allow children in family sections (order by five, have them out by six), they have no canned music, and they are proud of their clean toilets. The pubs can be architecturally interesting, in old banks and the like. They are near the sights, including Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square, Oxford Street, Madame Tussaud's, etc. The entire chain will be smoke free by May, 2006. They are not touristy, but are filled with locals for an after work drink or dinner. A pint of real ale cost between £1.69 and £2.05 during my January visit.On the negative side, smoke may drift into the no smoking sections. They are big and can be noisy. There are certainly more charming pubs, even in London.I enjoyed my meal at Belgo Centraal. I had a great Thai meal in Chiswick and a swell pie at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese. I found no better value than at the Wetherspoon pubs.http://www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk/index.php
Chip
IA USA Mon 02/28/2005
Kew Gardens Aquarium
There are dandy aquaria tucked away in the basement of the Palm House. I'm glad my sister-in-law stumbled onto the basement. I'd have missed them. The area is a "Marine Display" in Kew Gardens parlance.Be prepared to wipe the fog off your glasses every time you enter a hot house on a cool day.Kew Gardens: http://www.rbgkew.org.uk/
Chip
IA USA Mon 02/28/2005
Exchange rate
The London 2005 exchange rate is optimistic. Currently a better estimate is that 1 British Pound (£1) = about $2.This does make estimating costs easier, if scarier. To keep calm, I thought of pounds as dollars. I knew London would be expensive and tried not to think of a £7 meal as costing about $14.
Chip
IA USA Mon 02/28/2005
British Museum/Michelangelo
The Michelangelo cartoon was not on display in January, 2005. Room 90 of the British Museum was closed for a new temporary exhibit.An equally impressive treasure is in room 49: the Vindolanda Tablets. These are Roman "postcards", written on thin wood, giving insight into life in a Roman fort near Hadrian's wall. One postcard is a birthday invitation from one woman to another. Really neat.See also: http://vindolanda.csad.ox.ac.uk/index.shtml
Chip
IA USA Mon 02/28/2005
Hunterian Museum and Foundling Museum
There is a new, or newly-renovated, museum in London: the Hunterian Museum of the Royal College of Surgeons of England 35-43 Lincoln's Inn Fields London. WC2A 3PE (Tube: Holborn) 020 7869 6500 Tue-Sat 10-5http://www.rcseng.ac.uk/services/museums/index_htmlI attended the opening of the Hunterian on Feb 9 and was enthralled by the beauty of the new exhibits, the result of a $5 million renovation lasting over two years. The results are simply stunning and even if you think medicine and surgery are not your thing, think again. Well worth the visit by anyone, and certain to garner awards for museum design. Special kudos go to Keeper of Collections Stella Mason and Curators Simon Chaplin, John Kirkup, and Mick Crumplin, and the rest of the Hunterian project team for a superb job. Another interesting and comparatively recently redone place is the Foundling Museum 40 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AZ (Tube: Russell Square) 020 7841 3600 www.coram.org.uk
Jim Edmonson <email>
Cleveland, OH USA Thu 02/24/2005
Avoid the Corbigoe Hotel!
Travelling through the UK on a budget and booked into a central London hotel that look good on the internet - the photo must have been taken years ago when the place was fresh and clean, now it is smelly and the staff rude. So avoid at all costs the Corbigoe Hotel in Belgrave Road, near Victoria. Met a fellow American in an English pub near by who was staying at the Blades Hotel which I now realise is very popular with Rick Steves fans. After a row at the Corbigoe and some difficulty getting my money back for nights I was not going to stay, got checked into Blades Hotel. Extremely clean, very friendly staff and so very helpful (www.blades-hotel.co.uk) They had a copy of your 2004 guide which a previous guest had left for others to read - what an eye opener! Great hotel, excellent book. Rick you have a new follower!
Sam Dalston
New York, NY USA Tue 02/22/2005
Lime Tree Hotel
My wife and I have been staying in York for a few weeks with family and decided to put Rick's advice into action and try the Lime Tree Hotel in Belgravia, London for an overnight trip. We couldn't have been more delighted with our room and the helpful, friendly staff. The breakfast the next morning was lovely and we were very close to Victoria tube station. We also ate at the Ebury Wine Bar & Restaurant next door to the Lime Tree and we recommend it highly. A bit pricey (we had bread, 2 starters, 2 mains, 2 desserts, some still water, and a few glasses of wine and it was around 65 pounds...), but it was our Valentine's to each other, so we splurged. The dress is smart casual, but I used a black sweater and pair of wrinkle free black trousers I had stuffed in our bag and no one batted an eye. Very friendly.
Oh, our must see's for London are the National Gallery, British Museum, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Tate Modern. We didn't make it to the Library, unfortunately, but we spent many hours in the National Gallery and British Museum in particular.
Shannon Dew <email>
Phenix City, AL USA Fri 02/18/2005
Abbey Road Studios
Sorry, that's www.abbeyroad.co.uk .
John Crochet <email>
West Fork, AR USA Tue 02/15/2005
Abbey Road Studios
Abbey Road Studios will be open to the public (for the first time ever, according to the press release) for a film festival March 19 to April 3, 2005 (which is when we'll be there!). Ticketholders get into studios 1 and 2. Details at www.abbeyroad.uk.
John Crochet <email>
West Fork, AR USA Tue 02/15/2005
Cherry Court Hotel
I was very disappointed with Cherry Court Hotel in London. We stayed there for 3 nights during Sept 04. Mrs Patel refused to give us clean towel every night. She said the nightly rate only covers clean towels for 2 of the 3 nights we paid. The room was not clean either. The coffee pot had coffee stain on the outside, and dusty. The shower/bath was not finished... like as if it's still under construction. I would not recommend it to anyone. For the rate, I didn't expect the room to be extravegant... but this hotel definitely doesn't qualify for "CLEAN".
Wendy <email>
San Jose, CA USA Thu 02/10/2005
Maggie Jones
Four of us were disappointed with our meals at Maggie Jones in London. Each ordered different entrees. Menu inovative but dishes dry and tough.
LT
LA, CA USA Thu 02/10/2005
London at Christmas
We--a family of 5--spent Christmas in London and relied on Rick's London book for lots of tips. We stayed at the Blades Hotel in Pimlico. It was very comvenient for getting around--2 blocks from the Pimlico Tube station and a 10 minute walk to Victoria. In addition, the manager, Kevin was great. We were greeted at the door when we arrived. He provided excellent advice for getting around London and for side trips outside the city as well. Lots of great breakfast conversation that made our day start off well. Be sure to go up in the London Eye. We went at night with no lines. Avoid American type restaurants--they are awful there. But we did eat at Grumbles, Wagamamma's near the London Tower and the Windermere--they had an excellent Christmas English dinner. Getting around the city on the tube was easy--thanks for all of the advice, Rick. Since it was a holiday, our kids rode free most of the week. Add Goya, a spanish restaurant to your list. It was around the corner from the Blades and had wonderful tappas. Another good place for fresh ingredient pizza was Pizza Express. Sounds like a quickie restaurant, but it was relaxing and good eats. Contrary to our expectations, it was bright and sunny most of the time--some afternoon rain. Everyone was friendly and we will return.
Gretchen <email>
Milwaukee, WI USA Sun 01/23/2005
Use of Sightseeing Bus in the Rain
We had a wonderful time in London over the Christmas holidays and the Lime Tree B&B was a lovely experience. The only change I would recommend for your guidebook is to let folks know that taking the on/off sightseeing bus on a rainy day can be quite uncomfortable. The windows were steamed up (I tried to use my gloved hand to clear it, but that resulted a newly steamed window and a wet glove) and when the bus was full downstairs, the driver threw plastic drycleaning bags for ponchos out and yelled for folks to go up onto the uncovered upper level. The condestion on the ceiling would drip even on the lower level. Please make people aware of this time wasting situation. I would have rather walked. Thank you.
Nancy Keith <email>
Lake Oswego, OR USA Thu 01/20/2005
London
Used this book for recent visit to London. We booked hotels separate so just some notes on the tours: your museum/site tours were great. We paid for a tour guide at the Tower but felt your book covered it all. British Museum information was outstanding. Thank you for such a helpful guide. Had heard about pantos (pantomimes) separately and would consider some explanation (these take place during school breaks). We could not get into Westminster Abbey during holidays for a tour but attended Sunday services: great experience. The choir was wonderful and we enjoyed the change of pace.
Kathy Price <email>
Springfield, MO USA Tue 01/04/2005
Winchester Hotel
Add us to the "pro-Winchester" crowd. Great location, reasonable rates, good food,clean rooms and professional, courteous staff. Jimmie's a character, but that adds to the hotel's charm. During our England travels, we missed getting an Oxford sweatshirt for our grandson. Jimmie learned of it and sent one to SC in time for Christmas. Thanks to Jimmie, Juanita and the staff. We'll be sure to visit again.
Bob & Chris Whitley <email>
Greenville, SC USA Fri 12/31/2004
WINCHESTER HOTEL - LONDON
The Winchester Hotel disapointed us greatly. We told them in the first 5 minutes that our room was too noisy but we were informed that the room next to us that faced an inside court would "cost more". That room stayed unoccupied during our stay. It would have been so nice if they would have offered that room. Also, Mr. McGoldrick berated his staff loudly in the breakfast area both mornings we were there. We felt bad for his staff to have a boss like that. It also was inappropriate for him to come out and tell us how dumb today's youth are,etc. The last morning we decided to forgo eating the full English breakfast just so we wouldn't have to listen to his yelling. Also, the food was pretty bad. I'm sorry to relate this but even though the location was good, we'd never ever stay there again.
Carmen Morgan <email>
Monument, CO USA Thu 12/30/2004
Jack the Ripper walks
I too would avoid the Jack the Ripper, Original London Walk. It is jam-packed, you can't hear the guide and as the person from NY stated most of the areas Jack frequented are gone, torn down, bombed out etc. Save your money, and go to the Cabinet War Rooms, Westminster Abbey, Royal Mews somethings with more meaning than roaming a bad section of town at night.
Ernie
Meriden, ct USA Thu 12/30/2004
Afternoon Tea
Anyone who is is London and would like to indulge in afternoon tea in lovely surrounding, my wife and I would recommend The Orangery. It is located in Kensington Gardens Park just across from the Royal Albert Hall.
Christopher Orriss <email>
Hillsboro, OR USA Sun 12/26/2004
London
Just returned from 9 days in London with 18 and 9 yr old sons.Belgravia b+b is clean,full or continental breakfasts included from 7-10AM. 4 blocks to Victoria Station.It is newly remodeled with private baths, well informed hostesses and a large room for this family of 4. Highly recommended and the cost was the best we found. It's quiet and safe with access to internet in the lobby. TVs and phones, powerful showers with plentiful hot water, shampoo and shower gel included. NOTE: Portions of the ditrict and central line tubes WILL BE CLOSED every week-end in Feb and the Easter week-end in April. Some of the highlights of the Nat'l Gallery have been moved or loaned. Follow Rick's instructions to get the free update at the info desk. The 1 hour tour here was most informative and is highly recommeded. Mary Poppins is EXCELLENT. We also had front row seats purchased the day of the matinee for Chitty Chitty BAng BAng. Follow Rick's advice and contact the theater directly. Pret A Manger is a deli reasonably priced salads, soups and sandwiches. Jenny Lo's was mostly without flavor and $80 for a simple meal for 4. Most pubs do NOT allow children. The Thames cruise to Greenwich was very good. The walking tours were very informative. Linda
Linda <email>
turlock, ca USA Sun 12/26/2004
Using Priceline
I think using Priceline is a very cost effctive method to travel to London, especially a little off season. We were able to get a room at the Holiday Inn Kensington Forum, a few steps to a tube stop, for $75/night in November. Also, we happened to be in London for the state opening of Parliament, with the queen and a grand parade riding with Buckingham Palace to Parliment. A reference to this annual event might be warranted in the next revsion of the London guide.
Scott
Minneapolis, MN USA Sun 12/19/2004
London Visit
We had an excellent trip to London. We did a tour on Premium Tours (www.premiumtours.co.uk) that covered Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath all in one day. Our guide was excellent and very informative. I would highly recommend this tour for anyone who has an extra day in London. Unfortunately, we had an awful stay at the Days Inn Westminster. Our bathroom was 3'X 3' and the management was very unhelpful. Please stick to Rick Steves' recommended hotels!
Stacy <email>
Huntington Beach, CA USA Thu 12/16/2004
Walking Tours & Big Bus Tours
Don't miss one of the many great walking tours from www.walks.com One tour we took was "Ghosts of the Old City." Our black-caped ghost-host guided us through backstreets of London (places you'd never go on your own)and entertained us with ghostly folklore and history of the city. The walks are informative,inexpensive and FUN!
The Big Bus tour, as Rick recommended, was fantastic. Our guide was knowledgeable and hilarious. Big Bus, with live guides, is definitely more fun than audio tours.
Judy <email>
Dallas, WI USA Mon 12/06/2004
Packing Light and Cherry Court
First, I think the Rick Steves guidebooks are the best, and I've looked at LOTS of guidebooks. He cuts to the chase with the information I want and need. (budget-conscious travel information) and the sites we shouldn't miss.
On our recent trip to London, we stayed at Cherry Court, recommended by Rick. The Patels were very accommodating hosts, the room was inexpensive, and the location couldn't have been better - an easy walk to Victoria Station. The rooms were teeny, but my two daughters and I didn't mind, for we'd each packed only a small school-sized backpack for the 5 days, not taking up a lot of space in the room.
While there, another guest and her husband were comparing rooms. She was unhappy that their room was so small. However, her complaint was put into perspective when we saw her the next morning, standing in the hall, surrounded by her MANY suitcases. Packing light has its many, many advantages. Rick is right: You'll never wish you'd brought along more. THANKS!
Judy Masrud <email>
Dallas, WI USA Thu 12/02/2004
Winchester Hotel
The Winchester Hotel near Victoria Station was a great value. Convenient to bus, underground and train,comfortable & quiet sleeping, GREAT breakfasts and an extremely friendly and helpful staff. We stayed for eight nights and highly recommend it.
Deb & Tom Martell <email>
Somerset, WI USA Tue 11/30/2004
YORK CITY
Recently stayed on a business trip in the historic city of York in england, we found an 1869 built small (15 rooms) hotel - Ascot House. The rooms, the staff - family run - were so very kind and caring. The hotel is in a most stunning 'city' of great British history. If you want to enjoy true Yorkshire hospitality then we warmly recommend Ascot House' (www.ascothouseyork.com If you are travelling between London and Edinburgh - stay here. Ask for June & Keith - lovely couple and there son, Rob, (who my wife adored!) for his fab breakfast.
Carl and Annie Camden
NY USA Thu 11/25/2004
We walked 10 to 16 miles a day and used our Travelcard for the underground and bus frequently. London is a great town for getting out and seeing the sights. So much to see and so little time. Follow the advice in Rick Steve's book on London and it'll make your trip a more pleasant and enjoyable experience.
Gene and Noreen <email>
Pleasanton, CA USA Tue 11/23/2004
Jack who?
Jack The Ripper Walk:The gruesome story of brutal murders of nineteenth century prostitues in the East Area of London is horrible and the 'walk' is a waste of time as the area was pulled down over a century ago - remaing bits were destroyed in the second world war as this was a Jewish area the Nazi's wanted to wipe out. Save your money and enjoy the more classic London and stop being stupid visitors as even Londoner's think the story too horrible.
NY USA Mon 11/22/2004
Harrods.
Rick is right about Harrods - it is closed on Sundays except for a few Sundays leading upto Christmas. under British law large stores are not allowed to open for more than 6 hours on a Sunday, giving the smaller stores a chance to survive. Oh and we found Harrods awful
USA Thu 11/18/2004
London
London was wonderful! We used the book quite a bit and found it very helpful overall. The restaurant suggestions were terrific though we wanted more suggestions. Too many of them were for Asian food which is not what I go to London for. In addition, the book said Harrod's was not open on Sunday. We didn't try to go because we believed the book and then we saw people on the Tube with Harrod's bags. They said it was open indeed! We were very sad to miss this since it was something we wanted to do. The book needs to update their hours of operation. Overall, it is clean, safe, easy to get around and a tremendous city. Be prepared to do lots of walking!!!!
MThompson
Chicago, IL USA Wed 11/17/2004
>
An incredible city...........
The 2004 guide to London has saved us more dollars than it cost by a very long way - so 'thank you' Rick also the advice was excellent and real. Read another guide that was a waste of both time and money! Stayed three days at a hotel in Queensway, nr. Notting Hill, did not like the hotel or the area. Best theater nights we ever had and ticket prices not bad in comparison to Broadway.
The weather was really bad on a couple of days so we went to the mueums and art galleries - all free. Loved the ceremony at Horse Guards Parade - check with hotel days to go. Ignored the too many American food and coffee places as we wanted to experience a European city not what we can get so easily at home. Paid our respects at the peacefull 9/11 memorial garden in Grosvenor Square - near our embassy.
There were a few things we didn't like but they were too few and do not deserve a mention. No anti-Americanism, great humor and kindness over eight days, just avoid the Queensway area.
John Charlwood <email>
Boston, Massachusetts, USA Mon 10/18/2004
Great views and no queues!
We went to the London eye (the ferris wheel) to get a roof top view of London but the queue was too long and it was also a bit too expensive. the next day while visiting the Roman Catholic Cathedral near Victoria Station we saw a small sign offering a lift ride to the top of the cathedral tower - no queues, great views and a quarter of the price!
Shane Carmichael
Los Angeles, CA USA Fri 10/15/2004
New London Hotel
For those of you who'd like to stay close to Victoria Station, there is another excellent option: B&B Belgravia (www.bb-belgravia.com). It has just finished an 18-month renovation and we were totally impressed. Unlike any other traditional English B&B in the area, the property feels like a small contemporary boutique hotel you would find in New York or San Francisco. Everything is brand new. Double room cost GBP89 and it has flat screen TV, high quality linens and powerful hot shower. There is also an open lounge area where you can relax, check your e-mail, watch a movie on a large flat-screen TV and enjoy a cup of coffee any time of the day. Breakfast is cooked right in front of you in an open kitchen. Since Victoria Station is only 5 minutes away, I strongly recommend anyone who wants to stay in the area to check out this property. We were glad that we did.
Morrie G
Fort Worth, TX USA Thu 10/14/2004
Elizabeth Hotel and Restaurants
Someone recently asked for an opinion on the Elizabeth Hotel in London. Well, my wife and I just returned from London where we spent 4 nights at the Elizabeth. It's a fairly nice little place, but the rooms are nothing special. Our bed was pretty uncomfortable and most of the staff spoke little to no English. However, they do serve a fantastic English Breakfast every morning that is included in the price of the room. The hotel is also in a fantastic location. (Belgravia) It's about a 10 minute walk from Victoria Station and is right next to Warwick street where you can find many nice cafes, several pubs and a few late night markets. All in all, I'd stay there again, but it wasn't quite as nice as I'd hoped.
We also recommend the restaurant LA CAMPAGNOLA. The food is excellent and it is very conveniently located. It is a bit on the pricey side, so beware of that. A place I definitely wouldn't recommend is the Ebury Wine Bar. I cannot figure out what would make Rick recommend this place. The service was terrible, the waiter was extremely rude and the food was very sub-par. The was our worst dining experience during our entire 10 days in Europe. Heck, evern the food at the chain restaurant called Garfunkels at Victoria Station was better and cheaper.
Ben <email>
Dallas, TX USA Thu 10/14/2004
Westminster Abbey & Westminster Cathedral
Much is said of the greatness of westminster Abbey - it is awesome in its history but we felt it was not a very religious experience and this was confirmed by one of the staff there who agreed that it is a 'state church' recognizing great political and historical figures and used for state occasions - coronations etc.
The Roman Catholic Cathedral however at the end of Victoria Street (the abbey at one end and the cathedral at the other) is truly a religious shrine and a most moving memory of our London visit. The choirs in both are simply breathtaking. Both are worthy of a visit when on this historic city.
Cindy Dowling
New York, NY USA Wed 10/13/2004
Three days in London
My wife and I just returned from three days in London at the end of our two-week trip to England and Wales. Despite dreary weather throughout our stay, London was wonderful.
Based upon all the enthusiastic comments on this site we stayed at the Blades Hotel, and it worked out very well...except for the STAIRS. Our room was at the top of the Hotel, feeling like the 19th floor of a 5-floor building. We had 85 steps from our room to the lobby, and 101 from the room to the breakfast room in the basement! As Kevin told us -- and I imagine everyone else who stayed up there in the nosebleed section -- we were close to God.Kevin was as reported by others...very enjoyable, knowledgable, and a lot of fun.
London's sights were of course great. Of particular note were the London Eye and Churchill's Cabinet War Rooms. Of course, Parliament, Big Ben, and the Tower of London aren't bad either.
Except for Wagamama's Noodle Bar, restaurants recommended by RS were excellent. Two in the Victoria Station neighborhood were just wonderful: Grumbles and La Campagnola. We don't understand the appeal of Wagamama, as the entrees we had were tasteless and the service less than enthusiastic.
Ron <email>
DeWitt, MI USA Mon 10/11/2004
High 'tea' robbery
High Tea - a very English tradition. So while in London recently we decided to go to Fortnum & Masons, an elegant store in Piccadilly with royal connections. No need to reserve a table we were told when calling. Turned up at 3.30p.m. to find the area reserved for mid afternoon 'high tea' was tiny - the rest of the restaurant area was sealed off ready for dinner. A 15 minute wait for a table, left standing and ignored by a member of staff until he could see we were getting annoyed. Two pots of tea later, with a three teired plate display of a sandwich each cut in four with different fillings, a few English scones and very sweet cakes and continued poor service with no atmosphere and then a bill for four of us for GBP 88.00 - yes around 150 dollars!High teas was high robbery at Fortnum & Masons. Maybe there are better better places for high tea in London but this store was not it!
Beth and Kevin.
Orlando , FL USA Mon 10/11/2004
Harrods
I, too, noticed a similar change with Harrods. In regards to the royal patronage shields they had, I heard from an employee that the entire royal family requested that they be taken down when the owner alFaied started to accuse them of killing Diana and his son. Who knows, but I also thought that the "shrine" they had was kinda tacky.
Dorothy
Eugene , OR USA Wed 10/06/2004
HARRODS ugh!
First trip back to London in 25 years and enjoyed it - a few changes good and bad but great to be back. Harrods the store was a shock. Gone has the elegance, gone has the style now it is just a department store. Pop music in every department, the royal emblems have been removed from the exterior, it is now frankly an over priced store. The elegant clientele have disappeared, really a shame. Found Harvey Nicholls a block away - that was worth visiting!
Sam Collins.
New York City, NY USA Wed 10/06/2004
Loved London.........
I loved my trip to London, loved its history and the real pubs and enjoyed the good nature of the people. Some of the previous comments are bizarre and not seeing the historic city I saw. Rick Steves guide 2004 was essential reading. Great experience and I respect the Londoner's comments. Oh and it would take ten years to see all of London but my week was fabulous!
Phil Sanderson <email>
Miami, FL USA Fri 10/01/2004
Westminster Abbey
Jim of WA, sounds like you don't like history. The Abbey one of the most beautiful Abbey there is. Of course it would have tombs, they also have the poet's corner. I would suggest to you instead of "Ugly American" comments just stay home. Millions of Americans love and enjoy the Abbey
Oh USA Wed 09/29/2004
Re: London Tips & Some People Should Stay at Home
I fully agree with "An American". I would like to add that I have shopped a Harrods dozens of times - the last time was the end of June 2004 & received excellent service. Each time the clerk asked me if I want to have my bill converted to US Dollar amount when paying by credit card. At that time they show the converted US Dollar amount & will give the exchange rate if I ask them to. Each time I have declined the the conversion to US Dollars as my bank gives a lot better exchange rate with absolutely no problems. It clearly shows what currency is been used on the receipt. The clerks can always void the transaction & redo the transaction charging in British Pounds.
I really don't think this is a scam but clearly a case of 1) the clerk making an error/or comunication issue & 2) the customer not catching & correcting having them correct it. Even though most people think we use the same language, the British mostly speak English & we mostly speak American....sometimes they have just an much problems understanding us as we do them.
Another American
Sunnyvale, CA USA Mon 09/27/2004
Some people should stay at home!
JIm of WW - so Westminster Abbey was full of tombs and English history - like Kings, Queens and a 1.000 years of history - why do some people leave their state let alone the country. Embarrassing to read such comments.
An American
USA Mon 09/27/2004
London Tips
Beware of businesses who "conveniently" (and without telling you) convert pounds into dollars on your receipt - at a higher exchange rate. The first time this happened to us was at Harrods (which we didn't notice until after we had left) and then again at a restaurant. The exchange rate while we were there was $1 = £1.75 but they changed our money at £1.85. On a £30 meal, this turned out to be a $3 charge. We asked the restaurant to give us our receipt in pounds and from then on made sure that we told all businesses to give us our receipt in pounds. I wouldn't call this a scam, but it is a little deceitful that they don't tell you they are doing this.
When in a restaurant, don't assume that something that is brought to your table without you asking for it is free. For example, in Paris, bread is included with every meal. However in London, we were charged £1.80 ($3.20!) for two small rolls in an Italian restaurant of all places. We were also charged £1.20 in another restaurant for olives, which were already on the table when we were seated. We learned to ask what the price was of items brought to or on our table that we did not order.
We did both Westminster Abbey and St. Pauls, and recommend skipping the Abbey if you do both. At about $27 for two people for the Abbey and $25 for St. Pauls, it's expensive to do both. The Abbey was stuffed with tombs and there wasn't really much to see inside unless you are really into English history. St. Pauls, on the other hand, is a huge place modeled after St. Peters in Rome and the climb to the top was well worth it.
Some of the prices listed in the Rick's 2004 London book have gone up. Zone 1 Tube tickets are now £2, £15 for a book of 10. Many of the site admission prices have gone up by 50p to £1 as well.
Jim
WA USA Mon 09/27/2004
Inexpensive, recommended hotel - Alhambra
Stayed here two nights this September. We were placed in the annex across the street and the door sign said Argyle Hotel. We took our full English breakfast and reception across the street at the Alhambra Hotel so I think they are the same hotel??? We were a group of 15 - 4 moms and 11 high school seniors. The hotel rooms are SMALL, especially the bathrooms, but they are immaculately kept and comfortable. The people make it a wonderful place to stay. The owner Martine, her daughter Sonia, and Sonia's husband are wonderful hoteliers! They were helpful, kind, conversant and made us feel at home. They graciously served us breakfast each morning, asked how our previous day had gone and what we were going to do, simply lovely people.
The hotel is transportation convenient with the King's Cross tube hub and St. Pancreas train station just across the street. The local pub serves yummy fish and chips and burgers. You can walk to the British Library. In this expensive city, Alhambra is a good find.
<email>
Maryland USA Sun 09/26/2004
Good/Bad Anyone? The Elizabeth Hotel, Eccleston square.
Hey All, this is just an inquiry if anyone has any feedback about the Elizabeth Hotel, Eccleston square (by Victoria Station).
I have finally convinced my elderly parents (and my 87 year old aunt) to come see why London/England is one of my favorite places. My mother's insisted that they are *paying their own way* (they're on a fixed income), plus they aren't accustomed to the sort of backpacker places I usually haunt.
After raking my brains, I had picked up Rick Steve's Book London 2004 and did some initial research. I chose the Elizabeth Hotel. Although all the reviews I originaly came across were good they were all from 2002-early 2003. Recently I've come across some unsettling review from late 2003 that are making me real nervous.
In addition to that for some reason I was having trouble getting them to just to email me a confirmation of my reservation. Funny, thing is yesterday they've now emailed me a response six times.
Does anyone have any recent experience (this year) with the Elizabeth Hotel or knows anyone who does?
Thanks ahead.... J J
J J <email>
New York City, NY USA Sat 09/11/2004
Cherry Court Hotel, London
As expected the room was small, but it was amazingly efficient. Theroom had lots of storage space so we were able to stow our luggage.It was a second floor (first in UK) room with a window overlooking anice quiet street. There was a nice quiet garden patio in back.
Mrs Patel was very helpful andfriendly. She received some faxesfor me and there was a computeravailable to access the internet.
If clean, friendly, efficient andinexpensive is what you are lookingfor, this is a great choice.
Kurt Dicke <email>
Wheaton, IL USA Thu 09/09/2004
Sunny England
Just returned from sunny London. That's right, 6 beautiful sunny, warm, and dry days in England!
Enjoyed many good meals in London: Mela--near Covent Garden for good Indian; Belgo Centraal--probably best meal in London; Palms-- decent Italian; Wagamama near London Tower--yummy noodles; and Sherlock Holmes--decent fish and chips.
Enjoyed touring the Houses of Parliament. We had a great guide who really knew her stuff. The Cabinet War Rooms were fun, but the audiotour rushes you a bit. Take my advice and use the 'pause' button. Saw a great production of 'Much Ado about Nothing' at the Globe; we had such a good time. We also enjoyed 'Jerry Springer: The Opera.' I know what you are thinking, but if you can get past the rude language, this show is a lot of fun.
We took two day trips and visited both Cambridge and Oxford. We agree with Rick that Cambridge is more enjoyable.
In Cambridge we punted along the Cam for a wonderful view of the town. We also strolled along the path that crosses the famous Grantchester Meadows to the Orchard for an late lunch. So wonderful to picnic among the apple and pear trees, home to the famous Grantchester Group [Rupert Brooke (a poet), Russell and Wittgenstein (philosophers), Forster and Virginia Woolf (novelists), Keynes (an economist), and Augustus John (an artist)]. Rick, you must add this Cambridge attraction to your book!
Nancy <email>
Silver Spring, MD USA Thu 09/09/2004
Mr. Bramah!
I couldn't agree with Shelley more about Mr. Bramah! He is one of the rudest people I have ever met during travel. He was relentless about "we the people" and our low standards when it comes to just about everything. And the point of us going to his establishment was to learn and correct the tea faux pas of the past. Oh well. I will say that he is a "colorful" presence.
Brenda
Atlanta, GA USA Thu 09/09/2004
Bramah Tea Museum in London
The seminar is not worth the time and money. Very disappointed. The actual afternoon tea was very good but would not recommend the seminar. Mr. Bramah himself is quite rude.
Shelley Mackinder <email>
Kamloops, BC CAN Sun 09/05/2004
Cherry Court Hotel in London
Also high praise for this hotel right near Victoria Station. Very reasonable price and the service provided by the Patel's was great! Will also go back again and again. Thanks for a great stay.
Sue & Steve Kirkpatrick <email>
Redwood City, CA USA Tue 08/31/2004
Aster House - I wouldn't stay anywhere else in London!
My husband and I spent 4 nights at the Aster House in South Kensington. We LOVED the place, the location was perfect, very convenient to everything! I have never been so happy to have found such a gem! Since I was 5 months pregnant, the air conditioning came in very handy and the Tan's made sure that I was on the 1st floor, so I didn't have to go up too many stairs. I loved that it was quiet and in a very pretty neighborhood. The breakfasts were also really good. Even though it is slightly expensive, I would highly recommend it. We didn't regret it for one second!
Kris <email>
WA USA Mon 08/30/2004
Garden Court Hotel, Kensington Gardens, London
Stay away from the Garden Court Hotel until their construction is completed! We stayed there last week, and the place is totally torn apart. The views from the windows are blocked by scaffolding and construction noise begins at about 8:30 a.m. The room we had was absolutely tiny, but the staff was very friendly, extremely apologetic about the construction, and the breakfast quite good.
Elizabeth Higashi <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 08/24/2004
London in general
Rick's suggestion to schedule London for the end of a UK trip is an excellent one. Less overwhelming that way. The tube is very easy to navigate. Take a bottle of water with you on the hotter days.
I found it hard to follow the Top 50 audioguide tour at the British Museum because of the sheer size of the place, the crowds, and because everything you pass is amazing. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by all the history surrounding you. Three hours was barely enough time to scratch the surface. Might be better to focus on two or three sections instead.
Tower of London is a must. See the crown jewels first (a line formed by mid-morning, so go first thing). Beefeater tour was an absolute delight. Check the green while you walk around between towers. While I was there, they had a funny, but informative dueling demonstration & a Punch & Judy style puppet play for the children.
If you enjoy Shakespeare, watching a at the Globe Theatre is a treat. Cushion rental is 2 pounds, worth it when you have to sit for three hours. They give out free paper hats if it's sunny and sell plastic ponchos to the groundlings during the break if it rains.
Canada House on Trafalgar Square allows Canadian citizens to use the internet for free. There are set hours though, so you should check in advance.
Walking around London at seven in the morning is a vastly different experience than during the day. If you're an early morning riser, I highly recommend it. Lots of runners/joggers around the Thames at that time of day.
Jenny
Canada Sat 08/21/2004
Holiday Inn for the whole trip in England?
A 17 days vacation (June 13 2004) for 2 adults and 2 children in England all with Holiday Inn!!! Sound expensive? Not realy! 5 in London (Holiday Inn Bloomsbury) for $89.00/night. 3 nights in York (Holiday Inn Tadcaster) for $68.00/night. 4 nights in Express Hotel Warwick for $49.00/night. 4 nights in Holiday Inn Bath for $67.00/night. 1 night in Heathrow Airport Crown Plaza for $124.00. So how do I do that? Try ichotelsgroup.com and book your hotel about 6-8 month ahead with prepaid!!! You will be amazed with the savings. My food bills came out twice as much as my hotel bills!! MR. Rick Steves, I love your book (I use them like my bibble for travel in Europe). The only thing I realy like the book to be included are the restaurants that open on Sunday and the Holidays.
Tyler Hoang <email>
Aliso Viejo, CA USA Wed 08/18/2004
British Museum
My wife and I visited the British Museum on May 18, 2004 and for the most part just loved the Museum. It was beautiful and beyond compare.
However, our visit was ruined with patrons taking flash photographs and touching the statues throughout your galleries. My wife went up to a security guard and expressed her concern. The security guard was very friendly and kind, but said that basically it is impossible to stop people from touching the statues or using their flash photography. We saw one tour group led by an American touching an ancient scarab and had all of her group do the same. I know that many other museums with much less important works can control touching/flash photography. I cannot tell you how concerned I am that our heritage is being damaged.
I think the museum needs many more reminders to not touch/use flash photography throughout the museum. Then I think that the security guards need to follow up on any flashes or touching. People being what they are will need to be reminded/ corrected. When we visited the National Gallery they did not allow cameras at all - flash or not. I would definitely prefer this to having the current state of flashes/touching going on which might cause irreparable damage to irreplaceable works of art. I think it is important for all of us to be aware of this and encourage the Museum staff to take needed steps to assure safety of these irreplaceable works of art.
Don Weir <email>
Greendale, wi USA Sat 08/14/2004
The Winchester Hotel
The Winchester Hotel, located within easy walking distance of Victoria Station, is a must for those wanting convenience in the City. Jimmy and Juanita are the greatest and will help plan your schedules and make sure you make wise transportation decisions. The staff could not have been more helpful. We will definitely be back. Dick Thorn
Richard Thorn <email>
San Diego, Ca. USA Sat 08/14/2004
Harrods
When I was last in London, November 2003, Harrods had stopped charging a pound to use the restrooms. In addition, Highgate Cemetary is a spectacular place to visit. I advise it.
Erica Hokens <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 08/13/2004
London to Paris - save on Eurostar!
On planning a return trip to London with a few days in Paris we re-booked with the much mentioned Blades Hotel. Telling the manager, Kevin, of our plans to go to Paris on the Eurostar train he suggested that even though we wanted a 'one way' ticket as we are flying back to the US from Paris that we should ask for the rates of 'one way' and 'return'' - we did and saved over forty dollars each on our tickets by buying return tickets to London even though we would not be using the return part! Crazy but a return ticket can often be cheaper than one way. I suppose this means bringing Kevin another t-shirt from the US as he has a fine collection by now! Seriously this travel saving should be remembered if you are thinking of travelling between London to Paris or Paris to London 'one way'. Oh' book as early as you are sure of your plans to get best rates.
Kathleen O'Dwyer <email>
Washington DC, USA Fri 08/13/2004
Don't travel without the guide!
Anyone going to London without the Rick Steves 2004 guide will really miss valuable advice - it saved us hours and many hard earned dollars! Location is important for the hotel and we found the Blades Hotel in Pimlico (close to Victoria, Westminster and Buckingham Palace) perfect. Very clean, homely and a warm welcome by Kevin and his staff. Plenty of 'upto date' local advice from him and his team. Try the Gallery Pub for fish and chips and local restaurants all worthy of a visit. Avoid the underground (subway) on hot days as it is stifling - though a great service otherwise.
Mary and Dan <email>
SA, CA USA Mon 08/09/2004
A few London Highlights & Hotel Recommendations
Enjoyed London more than Paris. Don't miss the Queen's Gallery in Buckingham Palace. Other highlights included Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London (a super place if you have kids along). The Cherry Court Hotel was a great, clean bargain with super-friendly owners (the Patels). No frills, but just what you need. The Blades Hotel is another great spot (clean and centrally located). Kevin was a great host.
Mike
Overland Park, KS USA Sun 08/08/2004
Winchester Hotel
I'm not sure what Susan is refering to when she comments that Rick must have deleted the negative comments about the Winchester Hotel. I too was concerned before my actual stay at the Winchester. I went back on the Graffiti board and found the three negative entries that had be a little worried about staying at the Winchester. It's one thing to express a negative opinion about a hotel. Everyone has different tastes and is free to comment as they wish on this site. But don't accuse Rick Steves of something that is not true.
Peter
Salem, OR USA Thu 08/05/2004
Winchester Hotel
Winchester Hotel was a disappointment. Prior to departing on my vacation, I checked this site to discover several negative comments about this hotel. A few days later I returned to this website to only discover that many of the negative comments were removed. What is up with that Rick? At any rate, we discovered first hand that this hotel deserved every negative comment that was (at one time posted) In my instance, the toliets would not flush, the rooms were dirty and one morning we had no water. The excuses provided upon my inquiry did not add up. Steer clear of the Winchester Hotel on Belgrave.
Susan Feeney
USA Wed 08/04/2004
CHERRY COURT HOTEL - LONDON
High praise for this hotel. With the exchange rate as horrible as it is for our US Dollar...a fantastic rate with stellar service from the Patel's! Our room was cozy and fit the bill perfectly! Would stay again and again!
Ellicott City, MD USA Tue 08/03/2004
London with Kids
We just returned from a week in London with a 10 and 12 year old. They loved Legoland, the hands-on exhibits at Greenwich Maritime Museum, Hamley's Toy Shop (7 stories tall), eating ice cream in Trafalgar Square, the Imperial War Museum, the London Eye, and the tour guides on The Big Bus. Leave lots of down time and time for ice cream -- it worked wonders with their energy level!
Sue <email>
Newport Beach, CA USA Tue 08/03/2004
Travel Inn County Hall
We stayed at Travel Inn County Hall and had plenty of room for 4 of us, quiet street, and great location near Waterloo station and London Eye. Great value for the price, and easy to get to everything from there.
Sue <email>
Newport Beach, CA USA Tue 08/03/2004
Winchester Hotel
My family and I had made reservations for two rooms at the Winchester months in advance based upon recommendations from RS and writers to the graffiti board. Just before we left on our trip I read two rather negative comments about the hotel. So it was with a little anxiety that we arrived in London wondering what the Winchester Hotel was really like. Contrary to the two negative comments, we found the Winchester exactly as described in Rick's book. The rooms were large, comfortable (although beds in England tend towards the hard side), plenty of hot water, & great breakfasts. Jimmy is quite a character and will share his opinion on a whole host of subjects, including things to do. Juanita was very helpful in suggesting bus and/or tube routes to various locations as well as advice on the best way to get back to Heathrow. The location of the hotel is great - just down the street from Victoria station and just around the corner from bus 24 that takes you to many of the top site in London. So based on my family's experience, I highly recommend the Winchester Hotel if your travels take you to London.
Peter
Salem, OR USA Tue 08/03/2004
Bath tour & B&B kudos
I wanted to second the guidebook's suggestion of taking the Mad Max tour from Bath to Stonehenge/Avebury/Lacock/Castle Combe. We did this last week with the excellent tour guide Richard, and we had a wonderful, wonderful day. This tour combines both Cotswold cuteness and Stonehenge/Avebury spookiness (perfect for those who are short on time or who don't want a whole day of either). The group was small and I can't say enough good things about the guide -- we gained een more appreciation for him after enduring a terrible tour guide in Edinburgh. Would definitely recommend this tour highly. Also, we stayed at Brock's Guest House, which we loved -- nice location (a bit of street noise, but not much) -- very kind owner Marion, tasty breakfast, and the kind of bathrooms that make you weep with joy after a gritty stay in London.
M.T. Benson <email>
Cambridge, MA USA Sun 08/01/2004
Enthralled with London
Beware of over doing it in London. Our family have just returned from a visit to London and on the last couple of days we realised we were overdoing everything - there really is too much to do and see. Loved the Shakesprear Theatre, Covent Garden and St.James' Park. Found the RS 2004 guide invaluable and saved us plenty of dollars. Stayed at the much praised Blades Hotel and enjoyed the friendly caring staff - Kevin the manager had us all enthralled by his morning suggestions of what to do and what not to do - this guy knows London and is very amusing. Our teenage children adored London life and we hope to return again in a couple of years.
Carol and family <email>
LA, CA USA Wed 07/28/2004
London
Enjoyed a newly opened gelateria with very high quality authentic italian gelato across from Khyber Pass in South Kensington; I think it was called Odonno's. It is open late and made for a great evening snack.
Used the Tube with the family travel card and found it cheap and efficient. Used the tube after 10 P.M. on several occasions and felt quite safe. On our last day we added the extra zone for Heathrow and spent the whole day enjoying London before getting to the airport all for 9.7 pounds for a family of 5. There were steps down to the train stop but no transfers required and once at Heathrow there were escalators and moving walkways making the trip quite easy.
S. Barrows <email>
Fresno, CA USA Tue 07/27/2004
Cherry Court Hotel
Because of a communication mix-up, my teenage son flew into London from Romania without a place to stay! I called the Cherry Court Hotel near Victoria Station and Mrs. Patel could not have been more friendly and helpful. She had a room for one night but said that she would help him find lodgings if he didn't meet up with his friends. I received an e-mail from her letting me know that he had arrived safely. When my son called he reported that the room was tiny but very clean, (very reasonable for London!!) and that Mr. Patel had graciously printed out my son's travel info as well as provided him with some helpful tourist "tips".
We heartily and gratefully recommend the Patel's Cherry Court Hotel.
Carla Muller <email>
Frazier Park, CA USA Fri 07/23/2004
Hotel recommendation
Having just returned from a 10 day trip to Britain, I'd like to recommend The Duke of Leinster Hotel (20 Leinster Gardens, Bayswater) where we stayed while in London. Recently refurbished, with small lift to all floors, very clean, small but functional rooms, excellent bathrooms with power showers with instant hot water and very good included continental breakfast with assorted cheeses and hard boiled eggs besides the usual cereals, yogurt, juice and fruit, sweet rolls, cofee and fresh toast. Be sure to reserve thru Internet (www.dukeofleinsterhotel.activehotels.com) since there is a huge difference between Internet and rack (what you would pay if you just drop on them) rates. We had a very comfortable triple room for three nights (sat., sun., and mon.)in July for 285 GBP.
And in Edinburgh, the Airdenair Guest House, recommended by Rick, is all he says and more. Jill Mc Lennan is a terrific host!
USA Thu 07/22/2004
London - 10 Wonderful Days
My husband and I were in London for 10 days at the end of May before going to Paris (see Paris page)for a week. We used some of Rick's suggestions in his book, but the map was a great asset. We stayed in the Bayswater area which was very convenient for getting around. We had awesome Indian food at Durbar Tandoori Restaurant in Bayswater. As we had been to London before we didn't do the usual things tourists do in London. If you are a Henry VIII buff, then Hampton Court is a must. One tip a friend in the UK gave me was to take the train from Waterloo station to Hampton Court (5.10 GBP return).
At Waterloo station if you book your return train ticket through the Tourist Information ask for the coupon which allows 2 people to get into Hampton Court for the price of 1. That saved us 11.80 GBP! We're big fans of the Original London Walks and did 3 walks this time. We went to the Theatre (We Will Rock You) and enjoyed it immensely. We really enjoyed Holland Park, Kensington Palace Gardens and Hyde Park. Greenwich was another highlight. Just about everything is free (check opening times). Seeing Nelson's naval uniform with the bullet hole was impressive. Westminster Abbey was the one thing we hadn't done before and being able to touch the tomb of Queen Elizabeth I was magical! We stopped at several pubs worth seeing:
1. Cittie of Yorke
2. The Grenadier
3. Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Rick's recommendation)
4. The Blackfrier
5. George Inn - rebuilt 1677
London is a wonderful city and we've only scratched the surface.
C. Shephard <email>
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Wed 07/21/2004
Queen's Gallery at Buckingham Palace
We really enjoyed London and all of it's sights. We'll need to go back again and again as there is so much to see and do. One thing I would recommend that seemed to be missing from Rick's London guide is to see the Queen's Gallery at Buckingham Palace. It is a museum that shows rotating exhibits of the Queen's art collection. The exhibit going on for the summer of 2004 is a display of things aquired by King George III (this is the King who lost the American colonies) and his wife Queen Charlotte. There were some beautiful pictures, jewelry, china and even Queen Charlotte's sedan chair. I reccomend it highly and the exhibits change every 4 months or so.
Brad <email>
Portland, OR USA Tue 07/13/2004
London
We found the Zagat guides good for restaurants-we ate at Wagamama. We enjoyed going to the Tesco supermarket in Earl's Court. we stayed in So. Kensington at the Hotel Gallery-ease of walking to manyplaces or using the tube. this was in June 01.
Machlowitz <email>
NY, NY USA Sun 07/11/2004
Cherry Court Hotel
We were disappointed with the Cherry Court Hotel. The room had torn carpet, the drywall/plaster was torn, the bed was very uncomfortable, there was no bedside lamp... I'd rather spend a little more money to get something that's a little better.
Mary <email>
USA Thu 07/08/2004
Cherry Court praise
The Cherry Court Hotel in London is certainly a find. Just about a 3 minute walk from Victoria station, home to 3 tube lines, the Cherry Court is small, with small rooms, but comfy, quiet, and has a great family run atmosphere (Mrs. Patel is one of the sweetest people I have ever met). The nice fruit basket in the morning is a plus too. Next time I am in London, I will definately stay here again.
Zach
IL USA Thu 07/08/2004
New hotel
My husband and I stayed at the Windermere near Victoria Station for two nights in June. The room was comfortable, breakfasts were nice, and the staff was among the most helpful of any that we found.
Laura Carr <email>
Newton, MA USA Thu 07/08/2004
Hotel Not In Rick's Book
This past March I accompanied my brother and his family to London. I checked out hotels in Rick's book, but ultimately we went with a hotel I stayed in years ago. It is called the Dolphin Square Hotel, a 5 minute walk from the Pimlico tube stop. The price was slightly less than the Winchester Hotel that Rick recommended. We had a a very large 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom suite with living room and kitchen. The service and accomodations were exceptional. It even has an indoor pool, a plus given we had a 4-year old and were dealing with March weather in Britian. Although it's not the type of hotel that Rick typically recommends, I hope that he will check it out and consider listing it in his book.
Maureen <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 07/06/2004
Elizabeth Hotel
My family just returned from our trip to the United Kingdom. We were only in London for one night and stayed at the Elizabeth Hotel. If you are travelling with small children do not stay at this hotel. We booked a family room which, as it turns out, is a regular size room with 2 additional beds in it. There is no place to put luggage except on the bed. If you need to get in the bed this is a problem. Once you place your luggage on the floor do not plan on getting up - because there is no place for your feet. Also, only stay at this hotel if you wish to carry your luggage up many stairs. We were able to take an elevator up one level then we hauled 4 suitcases, two children and a stroller up two narrow flights of stairs. Needless to say - this required a couple of trips both coming and going. Fortunately, we didn't spend much time at the Elizabeth Hotel because we were so busy enjoying the city.
Diane Stern <email>
Jacksonville, FL USA Sun 07/04/2004
London and County Hall Travel Inn
County Hall Travel Inn was great for our family of 4. 85 pounds a night for a great room in a prime location next to Westminster,the Thames River,The London Eye and much more. The tube was easy to navigate and was our primary means of transportation. We bought the daily family pass and saved money.
Tonye Usher <email>
Sulphur Springs, TX USA Tue 06/29/2004
Winchester Hotel
Do yourself a favor and steer well clear of the Winchester Hotel, Belgravia. My wife and I consulted Rick's guide on a recent London trip and found it quite helpful, with the Winchester being a glaring exception. When we arrived, we found our room to be very poorly maintained and in a general state of disrepair. One of the reasons my wife and I chose the hotel was the comparably low price and wonderful "track record" as displayed on the Winchester website. However, the condition of our room was so pitiful- (stained bed cover was the clincher), we decided that it just wasn't acceptable at any price. We also figured if someone was willing to offer us accomodations that were that sub-standard and frankly dirty, would we want to then eat the breakfast they prepared? Obviously not. When we brought our concerns to the manager, Jimmy, he met them with a casual indifference and self-righteous indignation that was very surprising, but made our decision that much easier. I hate to be this negative, but I feel that potential patrons of he Winchester should be forewarned, particularly in light of the major expense that is incurred with a trip to England.
Jason Cutts
USA Sun 06/27/2004
Historic pubs in London
Whilst we were in London I found some information on a guided walk around unspoilt London pubs on a leaflet. We went along and it was the most informative walk I have ever been on. We went in some great pubs off the tourist circuit. In fact we liked it so much we did two others run by the same guy. Check out the web site at www.aletrails.com. Well worth an entry in the next edition of your guide Rick!
Graham Gartner <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Sun 06/27/2004
Cherry Court v. Winchester Hotel
My Finacee and I recently spent 4 nights in Londaon. We choose the Cherry Court Hotel because it fit into our budget and had a good review. While the staff was very friendly the room left little to be desired. We were on the ground floor with the busy street as our headboard and the noisy reception area at our feet. The cramped makeshift bathroom was covered with dried toothpaste, hair and mold. After one uncomfortable night we spent an early morning finding a new hotel (unfortunately the Cherry Court would not let us out of our stay without charging us for 1 more night). Our search led us to the Winchester hotel. We could not have been happier with this move. Juanita took excellent care of us! The breakfast service was wonderful as was our basement flat. We would reccommend the Winchester Hotel to anyone traveling to London.
Paula
San Diego, Ca USA Sat 06/26/2004
Lovely lodging near Gatwick
For excellent lodging near Gatwick, Rick is right to recommend Barn Cottage in lovely Leigh. The rooms are pleasant, but the English garden and in-ground pool are real draws and the hosts could not be more friendly. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay there (on the airport end of a trip) and plan to go back and explore Chartwell and other sites nearby. One major problem, though, is that website listed in Rick's guide is incorrect and refers to a different "Barn Cottage" in another village farther from Gatwick. The correct website is http://www.smoothhound.co.uk/hotels/barncott.html
Heidi
USA Wed 06/23/2004
Traveling between London and Bath
My wife and I were in London for 5 days last summer and Rick's book was indispensable. We saw most of the major sites. The British Museum was my favorite museum of our whole 1 1/2 month trip. What made Rick's book so valuable are the small places most people would never think of visiting. My favorite was the British Library, which had the most incredable collection of historical books I'd ever seen. I also greatly enjoyed Southwark cathedral (mentioned a few postings below).
Although we enjoyed Warick Castle, I do agree with the posting below. The castle is overpriced and a little commercial. If you visit Windor Castle as a day trip from London, I would say Warick is skipable.
A good tip for traveling between London and Bath is to use a tour company. To avoid driving out of London, we planned to rent a car when we left Bath. This made it difficult to use public transport to see sites inbetween. We took Astral Travel's 'Stones and bones tour' which included Avebury, Stonehenge, and Salisbury Cathedral, and Old Sarum. It was a great tour. Instead of returning to London with the tour group, at the last stop (Avebury) we took the bus to Swindon and hopped on a train to Bath.
Will <email>
Vancouver, WA USA Mon 06/21/2004
London
Skip the Elizabeth Hotel. Overpriced, cramped rooms, and snobby management. Stonehenge...the 45 minute trip offered by Evan Evans is WAY TOO SHORT. Find other means.
Karen Landreth-Weaver <email>
Bishkek, KG Tue 06/15/2004
Stonehenge
If you want to see Stonehenge close-up and personal go with Astral Travels (www.AstralTravels.co.uk). They have a sunrise or sunset tour of Stonehenge. They take only 12 people AND, they have an arrangement whereby you can walk among the stones. Other large groups must take the path around - you see Stonehenge from a distance. IT IS A SUPER EXPERIENCE and well worth the money!
Bob <email>
Milwaukww, WI USA Thu 06/10/2004
Lime Tree Hotel Winchester Hotel
Just stayed at the Lime tree Hotel, great location, good breakfast, clean but small rooms. We booked the Lime Tree after the Winchester Hotel did not return our e-mail confirmation and or my phone call to Jimmy. Our next trip to London will; include the Lime Tree. Rick's tips for London were invaluable. Thanks,
Colin
Colin Mac Fetters
Chalmette, LA USA Mon 06/07/2004
Westminster Cathedral
On a special return trip to Europe for the D-Day events we are staying over in London for the weekend. Went to the Solemn Latin Mass at the beautiful Westminster Roman Catholic Cathedral thgis Sunday morning (not to be confused with Westminster Abbey). The cathedral is up near Victoria Station. The younger choir members attend the cathedral boarding school and are selected on their voice. This morning was truly awesome with choral music and organ by J.S. Bach (1695 - 1750). It was only during the mass that we heard that President Reagan had died as the priest prayed for him. The cathedral has the remains of the last Catholic priest to be executed in England in 1650 - 350 years ago this month (June). A beautiful unfinished church - well worth a visit regardless of your faith. The church is of the Byzantine style and was inspired by an ancient cathedral in Istanbul, Turkey.
Carl Charlton <email>
San Diego, CA USA Sun 06/06/2004
Winchester Hotel in London
Just want to add my comments about the Winchester Hotel on Belgrave Road in London. My wife and I stayed at the Winchester (May 13-15, 2004) after reading Rick's guide and discovered a wonderful place with a wonderful staff. Granted the hotel is OLD and in some instances needs a litle TLC, our room on the first floor was sparce but clean. My only negative comment is that Blegrave Road is a bit noisy and traffic starts early. But then again that has to be expected in big European cities.
Over the last four years my wife and I have made three trips to London and this is by far the best inexpensive hotel we haved found. Jimmy, his wife, and staff could not have been more pleasant and helpful.
For future travelers, please take some of the negative comments with a grain of salt - you have to be a bit more flexible and not expect the Holiday Inn or the Comfort Suites style of comfort in Europe.
John and Joanne
John Munro <email>
Lakewood, CO USA Fri 06/04/2004
Royal Mews
If you have a horse lover in your group, be sure to visit the Royal Mews. You get to see all the Queen's horses and carriages too. It is located at Buckingham Palace, so you can walk over after watching the Changing of the Guard. The 40 minute guided tour costs 5 pounds.
Greg Jackson <email>
Lexington, KY USA Fri 06/04/2004
Bejamin Franklin in London
Just had our vacation photos developed and we are reminded of one very special place to recommend to visit - the only remaing home of Bejamin Franklin at 36 Craven Street in London. Found in a narrow street just off the Strand and not far from Trafalgar Square. We were urged to go there by Kevin, the manager at Blades Hotel. His enthusiasm for this particular house is also because he is an avid reader of Thomas Paine and it is believed that both Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Paine had many a meeting in this house - and it is thought that it was in this very property that Franklin invited Paine to come to America, thus making a very important contribution to our history. There is a plaque outside the house stating the Bejamin Franklin 'lived here'. Surely this must be on everyone's 'must see' list?
Walt Hardy
TX USA Wed 06/02/2004
I'd like to second the "Original Tour" sightseeing bus recommendation
Initially wary of the fast-talking sharpies hanging out at Marble Arch, we found a representative or "The Orginal Tour" who cut the corner off P24 of our guidebook just as specified and gave us our £5 discount. It was our first time in London, and we arrived about noon, so the £12.50 per seemed well-spent for an afternoon's sightseeing, the cruise to Greenwich and back the next day, a couple of cans of CocaCola, I guess to help us jet-lagged Yanks stay awake, plus some more goodies we didn't avail ourselves of.
The bus tour was invaluable for first-timers flabbergasted by London's layout, and the guides were spry and helpful, pointing out sights you might not otherwise see while driving in London's chaotic traffic, like 10 Downing Street, Margaret Thatcher's residence, and Cher's condo on the river :-) Then, once you are situated - the Tube is definitely the way to go!
W Sanders
SF Bay Area, CA USA Tue 06/01/2004
Warwick Castle, England
As mentioned below, we loved Rick's book on Great Britian. However, we disagree with the recommendation on Warwick Castle. We found it to be much too commercial and not nearly up to the exacting historial interpretation standards that we had come to expect after 10 days of touring in London and Bath. The price was exhorbitant for what we received.
Lora Dundek
St. Paul, MN USA Mon 05/31/2004
London Tube passes
We found your Great Britian Book very useful, and consulted it constantly! One money-saving tip: Some web sites indicate that in order to buy a weekly Tube pass in London you will need to have passport-sized photos. This is no longer necessary, which we found out much to our chagrin after we had already paid to have them taken. You simply purchase the pass - and if you're in London for at least a week, it is very economical to do so!
Lora Dundek
St. Paul, MN USA Mon 05/31/2004
Blades Hotel is tops in my book
After reading the positive comments I selected the Blades via Email and got a 60 pound rate. Kevin is a kick and is up-to-speed on all subjects. After returning from my Pakistan trip Kevin introduced me, and my exploits, to the breakfast crowd who were mostly Americans. It was suggested I do a solo walk to see the sights which I did. I experienced most of the spots on my personal hit list including "Bangers & Mash" , "Fish & Chips" and the "Eye." It took seven-and-a-half hours of walking and without the advice of the hotel staff I'd still be wandering around. BTW I opted for National Express bus in place of the train. Lugging two hugh duffels was not the way to get to the train. A porter at Vic Coach Sta took my duffels direct to the bus from the taxi. And I had the chance to see the countryside from the bus window.
George.
George
Tampa, FL USA Mon 05/24/2004
Budget hotel area in London
I stayed in London at the London Town Hotel near the Earl's Court tube station for 39 gbp in April. There are lots of hotels on the same street. Look in www.londontown.com. The Earl's Court area is interesting, on two main tube lines, and only about 45 min from Heathrow. Plus the hotel was nice at such a great price!
Swan
Calistoga, CA USA Sat 05/22/2004
Car from airport.......
I meant to have added to my comments about the Blades Hotel.
they arranged for a car and driver to be waiting at Heathrow Airport Arrivals for us - great service and about half the rate of a London taxi.
Walt Hardy
TX USA Sat 05/15/2004
Too much to see and do..........
Having just returned from London after a ten day stay we feel we are in need of another vacation as there was simply too much to see and do. On many recommendations on this page we stayed at the Blades hotel.The hotel was formerly a private house so it has only about sixteen rooms. We had a family room that comfortably slept four - high ceilings and bright and very clean. The breakfast room was certainly the place to start the day with a good laid out buffet and plenty of opportunity to ask the friendly staff about places to go and see. We walked along the Thames Embankment a number of times to Westminster and also took advantage of the new boat service from Tate Britain Gallery to the Tate Modern Gallery - close to St.Pauls Cathedral and the Shakespear Globe Theatre. The local transport services - bus and underground really suprised us, excellent service. Though London, like any capital city, can be expensive, the art galleries and museums were breathtaking and FREE!
Found the Rick Steves 2004 an absolute treasure, don't go on vacation without it! Bought great tickets deals from agents around Leicester Square - Chitty Chitty Bang Bang was the most amazing show we have ever seen. We booked direct with the hotel and would recommend others to do the same as the hotel answered many questions even before we arrived and this certainly made our trip the success it was. Check out their web page: www.blades-hotel.co.uk
Walt Hardy
TX USA Fri 05/14/2004
London
We just returned last night from our first trip to London (&Bruges&Paris) and had a great trip. London is very expensive and you just have to realize you are paying double for everything and try to put that out of your mind! We flew into Gatwick and took the Gatwick Express to Victoria Station. Just get on the train in 2nd class and you can buy a ticket while you are travelling (11£ each).
We stayed at the Winchester Hotel--clean room, great breakfast, friendly people & great location--but again, expensive (85£) & small compared to the US. We found earplugs to be necessary at all of our European hotels.
The first day we spent a lot of time off & on the Big Bus Co. tour. It was 2£ more than the Original Bus tour but went to more places. The guides were interesting and some were very funny. It's a great way to get your bearings and see all the major sites. And you can ride the Thames from the Tower to Westminster as part of the price.
We arrived at the Tower of London at 9 a.m. on a Thursday and went straight in and saw the jewels as long as we wanted and then caught the Beefeater tour at 10. Great guide and we enjoyed the whole place.
We saw all the major sites and found the tube extremely easy to use. On the weekend make sure and get the pass for the whole weekend and go, go, go!
We walked for miles and would recommend as many of the walking tours in the Rick Steves book as you can do. We loved the Covent Garden, Leceister Square area and also the walk from Trafalgar to Westminster, Big Ben area.
We really enjoyed a restaurant on Vauxhall two blocks from Victoria Station called Noodle-Noodle. It was only 10-15£ for two for meals and was extremely fresh, good food and NO Smoking (a better value than Jenny Lo's). We did lots of sandwich or pasties meals and enjoyed the Sainsbury or Pret-A-Manger food stores for their convenience and freshness. The crypt cafe at St. Martins-in-the-field was good and stops for tea and pastries was great!
A day trip to Oxford was great and Evensong at Christ Church was very beautiful. We took the bus from the Victoria Coach Station (bus station), very simple to use and then took another bus from Oxford to Blenheim Palace & the town of Woodstock. It's a beautiful place and very accessible from public transportation.
If you are a history buff, be sure and go to the Cabinet War Rooms. Very interesting. The Changing of the Guard was fun just for the pageantry. All the museums were amazing and Harrod's was great fun--especially seeing the crowds around Krispy Kreme!
We enjoyed seeing many churches, evensong at Westminster (WOW!) and my husband climbed the 800 steps to the very top of St. Paul's.
It was an excellent experience and makes us want to go back as well as appreciate many things we take for granted in the US!
J. Abbott
Siloam Springs, AR USA Wed 05/12/2004
Belgravia?
My regular hotel recommended on this page was full for dates I wanted so I checked out the Luna Simone as mentioned very recently - the cheapest room was seventy five English pounds - maybe they had a low season promotion on but sixty pounds isn't their normal price and when I asked about the lower price, the guy on the phone at the hotel clearly did not understand my question but he had no idea of a lower rate. Also as I know London it is wrong to describe Belgrave Road as Belgravia, it is only a few blocks away but do not kid yourself but the true 'Belgravia' is the most expensive real estate in Europe and hotels in its borders are way above my means!
Patrick Finlay <email>
USA Mon 05/10/2004
Stonehenge tour
Becuase of the historic significance of Stonehenge, most visitors are kept back from the stones on a paved walk - as much as 35 - 60 feet from the them so one can look at but not necessarily experiece. When we were in London in Sept., discovered a small tour company - Astral Tours - that has been granted the right to take its groups members into the stone formation. The tours leave London early afternoon - visit several areas of small stone croppings, painted cliffs, burial mounds, ect. enroute to Stonehenge, arriving about dusk. When the park closes to the general public, tour memebrs are allowed on site for about an hour to an hour and a half. We've travelled around the world in the last ten years - & this experience is at the top of my memory list - incredible! The tour guide was an anthropology buff - all the facts and tales you might want - all for about 50 euros. They are online ( I think AstralTours.com)and you can reserve before leaving the States. They don't make the trip every day so it's worth booking early. Highly recommend!
donna
FL USA Mon 05/10/2004
great hotel in Belgravia area
Luna Simone Hotel (www.lunasimonehotel.com)
We stayed here in March '04 and really thought it was an excellent value -- we payed 60 pounds for a double with bath. Sparkling bathrooms, tastefully decorated, great breakfast included, and really nice family owners. I think Rick Steve's should definitely check this one out since he mentions other hotels on Belgrave Road -- which we looked at, and didn't seem near as nice as Luna Simone.
Jason
Pasadena, CA USA Mon 05/10/2004
Lime Tree Hotel London
We stayed at the Lime Tree hotel for 3 days in April and found it to be quite nice. Very friendly staff, nice big quiet room overlooking the gardens. Good location that was quiet yet just 2 blocks from Victoria station. The only downside was the breakfast with bad eggs, not the true english breakfast you'd expect. All at a reasonable, for London, price of 120 pounds.
Walt
Danville, Ca USA Fri 05/07/2004
Stonehenge Tour Company
Hi, I am visiting London in mid-May, and want to take a day tour of stonehenge. I am looking at The Stonehenge Tour Company: http://www.stonehengetours.com/. Has anyone gone on a tour with this company before? Any opinions would be appreciated. Thanks!
Mzs <email>
San Francisco , CA USA Thu 05/06/2004
Winchester Hotel cont.
I had previously described my terrible experience at the Winchester Hotel in Belgravia. I wanted to add that my husband and I tried to resolve our problems with the owners. They have refused to refund our deposit (which was never said to be non-refundable) and, at the time would not change us to another room. I cannot believe that our room was the only one in such terrible condition, so I am not sure why there are so many messages complimenting the Hotel on this site. Beware before sending a cash deposit to any hotel, especially the Winchester!!
Katy Roussos
Riverton, NJ USA Sun 05/02/2004
Charning B & B in North Wales
Crow's Nest Hall - B & B in Conwy, North Wales, England is a wonderful small B & B. Nestled in the hills, with grazing sheep and wild horses just outside the acreage, you'll have to go far to find a nicer place. With just 4 rooms, all furnished with beautiful antiques, Tom and Vi have restored this beautiful small estate into a firts class Inn. Each room is a mini-suite, with ensuite toilet facilities. We had a very lovely stay and thouroughly enjoyed their hospitality, the beautiful Wales area, and the charm of their restored B & B. Very quiet and secluded, a true journey into the past, with all the modern conveniences you would wish. Highly recommended from two who have traveled Europe and around the USA in a variety of B & B's. Crows Nest Hall Sychnant Pass, Conwy North Wales tomandviv@crowsnesthall.co.uk Bon Voyage, Sue and Dan Stettner
Sue and |Dan Stettner
Huntington Woods 48070, MI USA Sat 05/01/2004
London visit
LONDON TOWER HOURS CHANGED: Visited 4/26 Monday and tried to go at 8:30am as recommended in book, but they only open at 10:00am on Mondays and 9:30am other days.
TUBE TICKETS: All day ticket is great for tube and buses, but be sure to purchase in mornings only… its good only on day of purchase. Found out the hard way that it wasn’t good for 24 hours when I purchased at 8pm.
HOTEL: Stayed at Dolphin Square Hotel (www.dolphinsquarehotel.co.uk)(near Pimlico tube station)for $129/night(approx. £70). No breakfast, but had refrigerator, microwave, and dishes/utensils.
Todd
San Francisco, CA USA Thu 04/29/2004
Vinopolis Tour a Hit
Just returned from 3 days in London.
Rick recommends visiting Vinnopolis and it was great! A tour of the wine regions around the world, wine tastings, a sample at the Bombay Sapphire Experience and wine-tasting classes were wonderful. Definitely worth a visit.
Kathy Hawkins <email>
Woodland Park, CO USA Tue 04/27/2004
Winchester Hotel
I am sorry that Katy had such a bad experience at the Winchester Hotel. I wonder if she tried to resolve the probloem with Jimmy or Paul? My husband and I stayed there in September and found the hotel to be very comfortable. Granted the room and bath were small by American standards, but everthing was clean and well-cared for. I hope her post does not discourage others from staying there.
Donna
FL USA Tue 04/27/2004
Accomodations in London
My husband and I just returned from a 9 day trip to England. As this was our first vacation in 4 years, I was very careful in choosing a hotel. I used Rick's London guidebook, looking for a reasonable B&B, close to transportation. Once I had narrowed things down, I looked through the Graffiti Wall to see the feedback of others. The Winchester Hotel was mentioned several times and was highly recommended, as it was in the guidebook. Others mentioned that it was clean and pleasant. So, I made the decision to stay at the Winchester. They required a cash deposit, which I sent promptly. When we arrived at the Winchester, we were horribly disappointed!! The ceiling in the bathroom had more paint peeling off than adhering to it, the shower was constantly dripping and was mildew lined, and worst of all, the bed was sunken from obvious years of use and was basically a case of hard springs with a stained bedspread. We made the decision to leave, after 30 minutes, forgoing my cash deposit of 90 pounds (about $175). We are not wealthy, so this was not an easy move, but we just knew we would not be able to sleep in this place, and we were willing to walk around London until we found a better place to stay. I do not understand all of the positive reviews of the Winchester on this site. I personally e-mailed one of these people, asking about the Winchester Hotel, and they responded with glowing reviews?! Our vacation was almost ruined becasue of these false descriptions of the Winchester Hotel (both in the book and on this site) and we have lost $175 of our hard earned money. Whatever you do, do not stay at this hotel while in London. Please feel free to e-mail me if you have any questions. -Katy
Katy Roussos
Riverton, NJ USA Mon 04/26/2004
ATM's credit cards & cash in london
Concerning using ATM cards; You need to check the limit; because with mine it is $200 day which is about 100 pounds; which doesn't go very far in London for four people. Also using Credit cards to get cash is a bad idea because my card charges %19 interest the begins accruing "immediately".
Mike
Iowa City, Ia USA Sat 04/24/2004
Warm Accomodations in Belgravia
The Winchester Hotel in Belgravia with its very caring staff of Jimmy, Juanita and the gang was an excellent choice for our stay in London. As 2 women traveling alone (my 18 year old daughter and I) everyone made sure we were okay. Most importantly, we felt like we were going home each night. Jimmy & Juanita have both have an excellent sense of humor that puts people right at home. Cheers!
Terry <email>
Rochester, NY USA Fri 04/23/2004
Cherry Court Hotel in London
We recently spent 10 days in London at the Cherry Court Hotel and highly recommend it. The Patels are excellent and helpful hosts. The prices are extremely reasonable by any standards, but particularly for London, the location right near Victoria Station and Victoria Coach was very handy for both taking day trips and taking the Gatwick Express from the airport. The rooms are neat and very clean. They are quite small though, just slightly bigger than the size of the bed, but since we spent very little time in our room, it was more than worth the cost savings for us.
The Wards <email>
Tampa, FL USA Fri 04/23/2004
Jo Ann Pickens
Following the glowing recommendations on this graffitti wall I recently stayed at the Blades Hotel, I will only say all the comments are true. My reason for adding anything to to express my joy at the suprise we all had at breakfast. Kevin, the manager, had an American guest staying there. The lady, Jo Ann Pickens, is a soprano singer who performs both opera and gospel. Originally from Texas but now living many years in Paris. Jo Ann was in london to promote her new gospel CD '"You Gotta Move". At breakfast she most graciously sang one of the songs for us - it was the most moving moment of any vacation in my life. The applause from the guests was thunderous.
Anthea Carlson <email>
Vermont USA Fri 04/23/2004
Creative touring of the Cathedrals in London
Spending the Easter weekend in London was a little tricky when it came to visiting the abbeys, churches, and cathedrals. We were in London from Good Friday through Easter Monday, so we did a little creative "sightseeing" by attending one of St. Paul's (London) Easter morning services, then attending Westminster Abbey's Evensong service at 15:00. We were absolutely thrilled with both services,got to see the interiors and got a good dose of spirituality on Easter! We were especially excited to be sitting service in the Poet's Corner!
terry
Livonia, NY USA 04/22/04
Church in London
I forgot to mention our great experience on Sunday. We attended church at Westminster Chapel on Buckingham Palace Gate Rd. north of Victoria St. It is a solid church leaning towards charismatic praise. Very good! They have fellowship lunches on occasion which I highly recommend. It was really special to share with others of the same faith in London. RT Kendall used to be the pastor.
Stephanie
Greenville, SC USA 04/21/04
Day Trip to Windsor
First, the Waterloo nonstop train stops at Vauxhall station, just one tube stop down from Pimilico on Victoria line. Much better than trying to get to Paddington and having to switch trains. Windsor is wonderful! Beautiful town and castle. The queen was there on our visit. The changing of the guard is less crowded than at Buckingham. We had a great view by standing near the entrance where they march through when going to the courtyard. I don't know if that's where they normally do the change or if it was up there b/c of the queen. Once they marched by, we ran around and went into the castle while all the crowds were watching - with very bad views - the guard. We got through with no line or crowds and could see the change from inside the castle. Quite nice! We had our best meal of the week at a pub across from the exit - the Horse and Groom. The steak and ale pie was to die for! Incredible. We went to Legoland in the afternoon. Just a note that it is an amusement park with lines and all - we thought we could just tack it onto our Windsor day, but it was really too much. We would've been better off just walking around Windsor and Eton for the day.
Stephanie
Greenville, SC USA 04/21/04
Week in London
Just got back from a wonderful week in London! Stayed at the Blades which is all non-smoking. Great area and near very convenient 24 bus. Kevin is a great man, very funny and helpful and Noreen is very nice as well. London is VERY expensive! Pretty much, whatever it would be here in dollars, it's the same number there but in pounds. So, McD's is $10, it's actually about 12 pounds for example. Why were we at McD's? Because it's so expensive and our kids don't eat sandwiches really. The picnic sandwiches like Rick recommends is definitely the way to go if you want to save money. Most sit down restaurants were 20-30 pounds for two people.
Eating - Rick's Jenny Lo's and Cafe at St. Martins were excellent! Recommended La Campagnola near Vic. Station not so great. The food was okay - and truly Italian - but they charge a cover charge just to eat there. Pretty cheeky, I thought! I don't think it's worth it, and would not eat there again. It costs enough to eat in London as it is. Noreen recommended the Seafresh restaurant on Warwick Way and we ate there several times for fish and chips. They also have take away. Very good. All locals.
If you go with kids, the Family Day Travel card is even cheaper than the 7 day card. Strollers are allowed on the escalators if you ride the tube. We enjoyed the buses more. The tube was kind of depressing, I thought.
The people in London are so friendly and courteous! Much more polite and helpful than Americans, I thought, especially for a big city. It was fun hearing all different languages as well.
Kevin sent us to a laundromat nearby to drop off our laundry for just a pound more than doing it ourself. The lady there is very nice, and funny. I tried telling her how to do my laundry. She said, "One knows how to do the bloody laundry dear, now go." One more note on the Blades. It seems like someone put a while back that it was a full English breakfast. It's large, but it's cereals, fruits, yogurts, bread/toast, and cold cuts. With tea, coffee, or chocolate, of course. Thorntons is excellent for sweets.
Oh, and if you want to buy some of the very cool trainers (aka sneakers), there is a great Footlocker on Oxford St not far from Tottenham Court Rd. Very helful and they have half sizes where most of the shops only had whole sizes. They don't sell the European style sneakers over here. Much less chunky than American shoes.
Stephanie
Greenville, SC USA 04/21/04
Southwark Cathedral
Regarding Cliff Bird's comments on Southwark Cathedral:
His information is incorrect. The Cathedral requests a donation from individuals of £4.00 (6.50 Euro). There is no compulsion to pay - although without receiving donations the Cathedral would not be able to remain open to visitors outside of service times. There is a compulsory charge for groups.
It is true that they do charge for photography - £2.50 for a permit. The Cathedral Shop has a range of postcards and an excellent guidebook costing just £2.50.
It is the oldest gothic church building on London and since the opening of its Millennium Buildings by Nelson Mandela has greatly enhanced its facilities for visitors. There is an excellent self-service Refectory / Restaurant and Shop. Visitors can also view an Archaeological Chamber - roman road, anglo saxon foundations, 17th century pottery kilns etc. It attracts around 180,000 visitors a year - steadily increassing and visitors often suggest it is the freindliest Cathedral in London. Cliff missed a gem! Hopefully, he will visit it next time he's in London. It has the tomb of John Gower, England's first poet, a memorial to William Shakespeare, who was a parishioner when at the nearby Globe, and a Chapel in memorary of John Harvard who was born in the area and baptised here in 1607. It was his legacy which founded the US's oldest University.
David Payne
London, UK 04/18/04
Southwark Cathedral
Being the only English Literature fanatic in the family (I walked to find the place where Chaucer's Tabard Tavern stood...now a print shop...and left them behind to rest)I convinced everyone to visit Southwark Cathedral - until we got to the front door. The guidebook mentioned no fee to enter. There is a 6 pound fifty "donation" to enter, and the entryway is blocked by a person collecting the donation! There is an additional 2 punds fifty charge if you want to take pictures!
This needs to be added to the new guidebook! I don't know if it was worth it because I was mad and disappointed and did not enter.
As a side note, we went to the reconstructed Globe - and it was worth every pence!
Clifff Bird
Cohoes, NY USA 04/18/04
London hotel review
Thistle Kensington Gardens, 104 Bayswater Road, London
Booked through: LondonTown.com
Cost: 42 pounds/night (US$81.81)including breakfast
Location
Just north of Kensington Gardens. Two blocks from the Queensway Tube. About 60 meters from a bus stop. Airbus A2 stops there.
Facilities
Quite good. Extremely clean. Bed slightly lumpy. Heated towel rack perfect for drying clothes. Large and deep bathtub. Temperature control actually switches between heat and air-conditioning. I used the safe at Reception.
Food
Excellent full English breakfast. Buffet has several kinds of meats, eggs, juice, rolls, fruit, etc. Coffee and toast brought to your table.
Nearby
On Queensway is everything one needs, multi-ethnic restaurants, fast food, supermarket, shopping mall, hardware stores, and internet cafe. At the corner of Queensway and Bishop Bridge Road is Brookford Laundrymat, as given in Rick Steves's book. Wash 3 pounds, 1 -2 pounds to dry.
View: http://www.pbase.com/image/27777989
Bill
South Pasadena, CA USA 04/18/04
Second hand and rare books in London..............
I have just received from a London bookstore a copy of an out of print book I have been searching for for years. So if you are in London and love looking around old book shops I recommend Pimlico Books and Fine Art. They are located at 34 Moreton Street London SW1V 2PD (literally one minute walk from the much mentioned Blades Hotel). The bookshop web page is www.pimlicobooks.co.uk
Mary Freeman <email>
USA 04/14/04
Tower of London Hours Correction
The London 2004 book was a great tool that we refered to frequently in the trip we took last week. One correction, the Tower of London does not open on Mondays until 10:00 instead of 09:00 as the book lists. As we waited the extra hour in the queue, I noticed that at least a half dozen of my fellow queue-mates had the Rick Steves book in hand. It was well worth the wait.
Mar
Maquoketa, IA USA 04/14/04
One Week in London, Pimlico
Just finished seven wonderful days in London.
The weather cooperated with no rain and moderate to cool temperatures. We agree with all the previous comments about the Blades Hotel. Rick Steves' London 2004 is essential.
Now some notes for fellow travelers.
1. The best surprise was the superior range of the art at the Courtauld Gallery. It is free on Mondays until 2 P.M. and well worth the time. It has the best of medieval, renaissance, impressionist, and post-impressionist works. And you don't have to walk miles to see it all!
2. The major department stores were expensive. Recommend the many sales at Debenhams on Oxford Street between John Lewis and Selfridges.
3. Tower of London was a big hit because we followed the Rick Steves advice. Buy tickets at the tube, go early, see crown jewels first, and use the free Yeoman Warder (beefeater) tours. If you ever had an interest in history (Henry VIII, Sir Thomas More, King Edward and his brother, etc.) bring your questions and be impressed with the guide.
4. Found the Globe Theatre tour overrated and the guide rude.
5. Used both the buses and the tube. Great scenery from the bus but it is slow. Recommend the Tube to get there fast.
6. Did the math and saved money for family of three by using the Family Travel Card for unlimited use of the buses and subway after 9:30 A.M.
7. Evan Evans Tours did outstanding job on day tour to Stonehenge and Bath.
8. Mind the step/gap/door.
Albert and Elizabeth
Clanton, AL USA 04/07/04
London accomodations
We recently spent a week in London having been there three times previously. On our third visit we stayed at the Winchester Hotel in Belgravia and we returned to this fine establishment for our forth visit to this great city. We found that Jimmey and his staff were just as friendly and helpful as when we visited before. Your recommendations on accomidations have always been top notch. Thanks for the excellent info!
William J. Pike, Jr.
Berlin, MD USA 03/30/04
New Times!
Considering recent history, the idea of taking a knife of ANY description into London's Parliament building is just unbelievable - the police there were right and I don't see why being a foreign visitor you were treated differently! We are living in new times and our personal habits have to wise up to them.
Mary Freeman <email>
USA 03/29/04
Knives in London
We just returned from a week in London. We utilized Rick's guide and were generally very pleased with the directions he gives.
When we visited Parliament, I came face-to-face with an oddity in UK law that almost got me in jail. I normally carry a pocketknife with me everywhere. I check it in my luggage when I fly, but, otherwise, it's in my pocket. it's a single-blade knife, with a 2" blade that locks open. I use it to sharpen pencils, cut papaer, and open the random package of cookies.
When I went through the security at Parliament, I tossed the knife in the tray along with my keys and loose coins. When I got to the other side of the gate, there were 2 bobbies waiting for me. They explained to me that blades over 3.5 inches are illegal in the UK. Because my knife locked open, the overall length was considered, not just the length of the blade. I was given some consideration because I am a US citizen and because I made no attempt to hide the knife. I innocently explained that I had never heard of the law in my research before I came to London.
The officers confiscated the knife and took down my information. After verifying my passport and entry information, I was released with a stern warning to not bring a "lock back" knife into the UK again. The officer told me that, if I had been a UK citizen, I would have been arrested on the spot.
Joe Gaffney <email>
Rohnert Park, CA USA 03/27/04
LIMEGROVE HOTEL 101 Warwick Way London S.W1V1QL
Limegrove Hotel,101 Warwick Way London SW1V1QL www.limegrovehotel.co.uk is where My people from states are staying and I would like to reccomend to any one,as it is cheap,clean and friendly and in the center of London.Steve Connor from Cincinnati Ohio US.
Steve Connor
Cincinnati, OH USA 03/21/04
No regrets - first time in London
Our first trip to London was everything we hoped for and more so because of the wonderful guidance we received through your book, Rick Steve's London 2004 and recommendations from Kevin (fabulous manager of the Blades Hotel) who, with absolute warmth and humor, steered us to restaurants and sites that we thoroughly enjoyed.
9
Things that worked:
1. RS London Tour book was the best of all London Guidebooks- and we researched all of them! (Even Lonely Planet- of which my husband is a staunch fan.) Your guidebook offers the most comprehensive, succinct, and practical recommendations. Plus, it being lightweight and slender in size made it easy for us to pack and carry around without burden.
2. Packing light and smart. The "cubes and pack-mates" saved so much space that it allowed us to bring gifts back even though we only had one small piece ofluggage for each of us.
3. Took the advice from Graffiti Wall travelers and bought a pair of very good walking shoes (Eccos). Great deal of walking and no discomfort.
4. We liked our stay at the Blades Hotel because it felt like a London home- Victorian home, and not an impersonal chain hotel. Plus, it was absolutely convenient to have the Tube just a few minutes away and the Red Bus #24, less than half a block from the hotel.
5. Followed the RS Guidebook "tour" of British Museum and National Gallery, which detailed key displays/artwork within a reasonable frame of time, otherwise it's easy to spend a full day or more at each site. It was nice to see the groups of British school children sketching and discussing the exhibits.
6. If you're a first timer to London, like us, it helped to take a London 101 tour on the first full day. Gave us a quick overview and we were able to select where we wanted to spend additional time later in the week.
7. Evan Evans tours were a worthy escape for a day trip outside of London to see the Cotswolds, Blenheim and Leeds Castles.
8. We purchased a 7-day travel pass at Heathrow (applies to Tube, bus, DLR) and from the go we were utilizing all of the transit systems. It is so easy to get around London. Tube and bus were ridiculously efficient, except for the last day when the Victoria line was down. But it gave us an opportunity to ride the famous black taxi from Pimlico to Heathrow for 44.80 pounds.
9. Kevin, from the Blades, recommended that we attend the Westminster Cathedral service on Sunday. The beautiful Byzantine designed church is Roman Catholic and there's a remarkable boys choir with the most stunning voices.
10. Food- Belgo Central in Covent Gardens for beer, mussels and frites. Grumbles in Pimlico for caramelized onions and duck liver appetizer, French style entrees very good. The Cotwold Arms (pub in Burford)- actually had really good fish & chips, and a delicious carrot and leek soup.
Jeanne and Warren
Duarte, CA USA 03/21/04
The Original London Sightseeing Bus Tour
We were in London for four days in March. We had a great time and found the museum and walking maps in the London 2004 book to be very helpful. (Spent a day/night in Bath and they were good also.) We had a hotel package that included the Original London Sightseeing Bus Tour. It was horrible. Taped commentaries were out of sync and we saw no live guides--even on the buses that were supposed to have them. Avoid this experience!
emilee leblanc
cherry hill, nj USA 03/16/04
Medical Care in London
London: Do not be afraid to seek medical assistance in London. In 2001 my wife and I were in Great Britain on holiday when I suffered a life threatening issue. Fortunately we were only minutes from Guys' and St Thomas's Hospital across the Thames from Big Ben. The ambulance paramedics were wonderful. The emergency room staff was magnificent. The surgeons and the nurses were the best in the business. They saved my life. You have nothing to fear from a British hospital. In addition, American Express and the British Tourist Authority were of considerable assistance to my wife. She think that the email telephone booths are of great value in a crisis.
David L Smith
Chicago, IL USA 03/15/04
If your looking for ideas in London
Email from previous message.
Guy
USA 03/13/04
hotel
We just returned from an 11 day trip to London and we had a great time. Rick's book was right on the mark on everything. We stayed at the "Cherry Court Hotel" which is just two blocks from Victoria Station. Mr and Mrs Patel are the friendliest people. They made us feel at home and with their free use of email and the internet it was easy to stay in touch with family and friends. My wife and I highly recommend them and their hotel.
Guy Wright
MN USA 03/13/04
2004 guide!
We have just returned from a truly fabulous break in London and we must thank the Rick Steves Guide 2004 for such superb and real advice. Not only did we save hard earned dollars, we found the information so accurate that made our first visit outside of the USA a dream!
Not in the book but on the graffitti wall we saw mentioned Blades Hotel. On instinct we booked in there and from the moment we arrived we felt 'at home'. If you are looking for a standard styled hotel you can find anywhere then this hotel isn't it, they really care about your day and your vacation. We walked to Buckingham Palace, Westminster, and the River Thames easily from the hotel. The local bus and underground 'subway' transport was only a half a block a way. We could not believe the museums and galleries (all free entry) - the buildings themselves were awesome, especially the Natural History Museum in South Kensington. Back at the the hotel our host, Kevin, insisted that we did not over plan our day - reminding us that we were actually on vacation, sound advice and allowing for moments to capture the spirit if London.
The churches are history alone - Westminster Abbey (Anglican) is a must and the Roman Catholic Cathedral, not far from the hotel, was truly spiritual and a choir that was the best you could ever live to hear. Kevin's recommendations on theatre was hysterical, what he loves he promotes and what he hates he destroys! We enjoyed many a theatre night at great discount prices. We booked direct via there web page: www.blades-hotel.co uk Our only question is why did we wait so long to travel? Thank you Rick for the inspiration and the advice. Finally the local 'pub' was great fun - The Gallery near the hotel, great food and great English beers too!
Steve Hayne
San Jose, CA USA 03/12/04
Routemaster Doubledecker Bus and Luna & Simone Hotel
If you want to ride London's famed Routemaster doubledecker buses, travel before they're gone next year. If you're not familiar w/the Routemaster, it has an open rear platform for hopping on and off. You pay your fare or show your transport pass to the clippie (conductor). I asked a clippie last week, what will happen to him and the other clippies. He said some will retire, others will drive and the rest will be made redundant (laid off). The Routemaster is being replaced by driver-only bendy (articulated) and newer doubledecker buses. The Routemaster is to London as the cable car is to San Francisco. Mayor Ken Livingstone might save a few Routemasters for a "heritage" route for tourists, which would repeat the mistake San Francisco made in the 1950s.
I enjoyed staying at the Luna & Simone Hotel at 47/49 Belgrave Rd. in Pimlico, a few blocks from Victoria Station. The room was clean and the bathroom was spotless. They serve a good English breakfast consisting of two strips of English bacon, fried (sunny side) egg, baked beans and toast. It's included in the hotel price (Off Season: Single £50, Double £60). The #24 bus stops almost at the front door to and from Victoria Station. Not having a lift (elevator) is a drawback. I recommend a room overlooking Belgrave Rd. Good view and not noisy. Rooms in the back overlook a shaft.
Dan Lee
Granville (Milwaukee), WI USA 03/10/04
3-Star Saver
The London Elizabeth Hotel has a special off-season deal: Reserve your room or suite at their current GBP rate. When you pay in cash or travelers checks (Euros or USD), they will accept E1.00 or USD1.00 = L1.00 !! This is a great savings considering the dollar is so weak right now. Make sure they are honoring this offer when you request your reservation.
See their website for details. www.londonelizabethhotel.co.uk
P Allen
Houston, TX USA 03/08/04
Winchester Hotel
We were in London for five days in mid-February and booked at the Winchester Hotel, due to the comments in Rick's book and on this board. We could not have been more pleased. Jimmy, the owner, was always prompt in answering Emails, and we were greeted by name by Paul (at the front desk) as we opened the door to the hotel -- and we had a very early flight. Our room was a tastefully decorated double with two large twin beds, lots of blankets (although they weren't really needed as the hotel is well heated), a nice sized closet, two easy chairs, good lamps, and a nice sized bathroom. My friend, with whom I was traveling, has been to London several times and was very impressed with this hotel in comparison to others where she has stayed in regards to room size, cleanliness, and helpfulness of the staff. We had a room with windows facing the street, but there was minimal street noise.
Jimmy's legendary full English breakfast was served in an attractive breakfast room -- and you could smell the food as you descended the stairs. It was such a large meal that we often found ourselves skipping lunch -- just not hungry. All of the staff are friendly and very helpful. Paul is a particular font of information about bus/tube routes, opening and closing times for attractions, etc. The hotel's location is ideal -- just a couple of easy blocks from Victoria Station. We could walk or take public transportation easily anywhere we wanted to go. We are looking forward to staying at the Winchester again.
Although we were in London during a mid-term schoool holiday (and had been told to expect crowds), there were not the large crowds of other times of the year. The weather was fine -- overcast and sometimes windy but relatively warm with no rain; it was in the 40s-50s all the time we were there. We ordered tickets online for the Tower of London (the new ticket booths were in operation, but it was nice to skip them), Hampton Court (a wonderful day trip with great audio tours on CD and also very interesting guided tours), and Kensington Palace (I loved the exhibit of Queen Elizabeth's hats and handbags!) as well as our 7 day travel passes and our tickets on the Gatwick Express. The exchange rate was better by doing that as well as receiving some discounts -- and the excahnge rate was terrible while we were there.
We especially enjoyed attending the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London, which prepared us so well for our visit of the Tower the next day.
The funniest thing in London to two Southerners was the Krispy Kreme Donut stand in Harrod's bakery food court -- complete with the famous Krispy Kreme neon sign -- and with very long lines. North Carolina should be proud! It was the only American vendor we saw at Harrod's (but there probably was a Starbucks somewhere as they were everywhere else.
Martha Ross
New Smyrna Beach, FL USA 03/08/04
Trains to Cambridge
The first map of London in Rick's guide book shows trains leaving for Cambridge from the Liverpool Station. Actually, they leave from the King's Cross Station.
Peter
Shoreham, NY USA 03/04/04
Pedestrian Safety
The London 2004 book is great, but one typo did stand out: On page 21, Pedestrian safety, it says "Cars drive on the right side of the road". That should probably be changed to "left" side.
Mike
Sacramento, CA USA 02/11/04
Watch rates on hotel bills
paid by credit card
Over the years I have spent many nights in several of the tourist hotels
in London's Cartwright Gardens . Great location, interesting neighborhood
and typically good value. In mid January this year I walked up to the
Harlingford Hotel and was quoted 75 pounds B&B for a single. I accepted.
When the clerk ran my credit card through, the receipt showed my card
had been charged at a rate of $1.89 per pound. This was higher than the
going rate at the time. I protested and asked the clerk to bill me in
pounds. She indicated the credit card company automatically converted.
Knowing better, I cancelled my lodging and, though visibly annoyed, the
clerk credited my card.
I walked next door to the Langham
and, using the same credit card I used at the Harlingford, I booked and
paid for a room in pounds. When my credit card bill arrived the rate was
$1.85. Obviously the Harlingford is adding to their profit margin by getting
into the currency changing business. Only 4 cents per pound difference
but on the bill it comes to a total of $3.00 more for the night. If extrapolated
for a trip this can add up. Just another lesson that the exchange rate
you enjoy on your credit card is typically far better than local hotel
or commercial exchange rates. Such tactics by the Harlingford or any hotel/operator
are very disappointing. Also in high season when space is tight you might
not have the luxury of walking away from your room.
David Little <email>
Vonore, TN USA 02/09/04
Best Western Phoenix Hotel
On the advice of another post, we booked the Best Western Phoenix Hotel
in Bayswater. We found a super rate of 55 pounds per night. The hotel
is 2 blocks from the Bayswater Tube stop, which is great considering it
was cold in January. Anyway, the lobby smells like an ashtray, but the
rooms were adequate. We had a non-smoking lofted suite, that had two single
beds and one single bed lofted. Interesting room. The hotel loaned us
plug adaptors, but the staff weren't too helpful when asked for dining
suggestions or relaying phone messages left for us.
We had a wonderful meal at the
Cous Cous Cafe (based on the advice of another post, on the same street
as the hotel). Fabulous! This small Moroccan restaurant was quaint and
the owner was magnificent. The Bayswater neighborhood itself is a nice
area. We explored its shops and the adjacent mall.
Sherry Johnson <email>
Baltimore, MD USA 02/06/04
London info
Rick's guidebooks are the best. I apply his travel philosophy (and equipment)
even when I travel on business in the states. Rick's tour info for the National
Gallery made it an extremely enjoyable and educational experience.
Dale <email>
Fairfield, OH USA 01/31/04
Lost e-mails!
While trying to re-book into a hotel I stayed in a while ago I did not get a reply. Knowing their phone number I called them up to find that for some unknown reason their attempts to reply to me had met with 'failure - returned mail'. So somewhere out in cyber space e-mails can go astray. In future I will be giving phone and facts contact numbers just in case. I thought fellow readers might find this information usefull.
Mary Freeman <email>
San Francisco, CA USA 01/26/04
A Tale of Two Cities
As a wedding anniversary present, my husband Jack promised me the holiday
of my dreams: a trip to London and Paris. This message is a special "thank
you" to Rick, to those who have posted their comments on this site,
and a special "thank you" to one hotel in London that made our
trip superb.
We had intended to fly to London for a few days and then to fly on to Paris - that was until we mentioned our ideas in our first e-mail to the Blades Hotel in London. They instead recommended going to Paris by Eurostar train. It goes from the heart of London, amazingly under the English Channel, to the centre of Paris - in less than three hours. It was a train journey of a lifetime!
London and Paris are so amazing, though
obviously because of the English language, we found London somewhat easier.
We stayed four days in London, four days in Paris and spent our final
three days back in London. It was our first but now certainly not our
last trip to Europe. Much has been said on this site about the Blades
Hotel so I won't repeat it except to say "thank you" all for
a dream come true - oh and "thank you" Jack for so many happy
years and such a holiday to cherish!
Jane Collingworth <email>
Eugene, Oregon USA 01/23/04
Moat House Hotel
Upon arriving at the Gatwick Airport for morning departure on Jan 5th, I
realized that I had forgotten my moneybelt in the Moat House hotel room!
I had split my money and credit cards up, but still had $350 US and over
100 Euros and an ATM/Visa Card in there. With heightened security at the
airport, I didn't have time to go back and get it. The concierge on the
Continental flight took my info and when I got to Houston, I had a note
that the hotel staff had found my moneybelt and they would send it to me.
I was thankful, but skeptical that I would ever see it. Today I received
it via registered mail! If you are looking for a reasonably priced, clean
and honest hotel near the Gatwick Airport, Moat House Hotel is my recommendation.
Chris Kopf <email>
Dallas, TX USA 01/16/04
Great Restaurant: Foliage
Foliage, 66 Knightsbridge, Tube: Knightsbridge, near Hyde Park, Michelin
Star. This is a great place to eat. We read a review in a newspaper before
our trip and thought we would give it a try even though Rick does not mention
it.
USA 01/13/04
Book Directly with Hotel!
One thing I have found is to try and book direct with the hotel you want
- booking 'on line' via an agency means that the hotel has to pay commission
so the chances of getting a good deal is reduced, also booking direct means
you build up a relationship with the hotel even before you arrive. So try
to find the hotel e-mail address or web-page.
Mary Freeman <email>
San Francisco., CA USA 01/11/04
Loved London
Don't even bother taking The Original Lon. Sightseeing tour bus. The info.
was recorded and we couldn't even hear it. It was Oct. and the sights weren't
very crowded except anything along the Thames on the weekend. A group of
5 mid-aged women went, and we rented a house. I think it made for an extra
special trip, having a 'home' to go back to and share the day's fun. And
it saved $ because we could feed ourselves if we wanted to. We had many
guide books between us and the one we used and carried was Rick Steves!
Excellent info. and we liked the conversational way it's presented. The
book will be going back with some of us, hopefully this year.
Sharon Haner <email>
Austin , Tx. USA 01/11/04
Christmas in London
Our family just returned from our second Christmas in London, but our
first using your book. So many great suggestions, thank you! Now we wouldn't
go without you!
We took your suggestion and did a day trip to Paris on the Eurostar. Very exciting day! We highly recommend that. We also bought Visitor Travelcards for the Underground, which paid for themselves immediately, as well as 4-day BritRail passes.
We visited Cambridge (a very charming place, gorgeous campus, and to think we thought Chapel Hill was a cool college town...) Bath (terrific-go! and eat at the "Retro Cafe"), York (disappointing, seems to have gotten very touristy in the 14 years since we last visited. The bungee jump outside Clifford's Tower kind of spoiled the experience) and Windsor. While in Windsor, walk across the bridge to picturesque Eton College.
London is absolutely magical at Christmas. If you have kids (we have an 8 year old and a 12 year old) go see "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" on stage. We have seen Broadway shows all our life but nothing compared to this. Wonderful! I had a lump in my throat the whole time.We also saw the English National Ballet do The Nutcracker, that was great too. We loved seeing the ice skaters at Somerset House, the awesome lights on Regent St, Oxford St and Carnaby St, and this year they lit up Buckingham Palace on Christmas night to look like one huge Union Jack! Our kids also loved the toy store Hamleys on Regent St.
Eating suggestions are Pancake Cafe on Museum Street near the British Museum, Rock and Sole Palaice in Covent Garden, Pizza Express (everywhere in London! the food is great! nice atmosphere), Cafe in the Crypt, Marks and Spencer has great takeaway food and grocery stores Sainsburys and Tesco are great too. Buy some McVitie's Milk Chocolate Hob Nobs and try any Cadbury bar and you will never eat an American chocolate bar again. :)
We loved the treasures of the British Library, so many unbelievably historic things to see. Take the tube to the Docklands Light Railway to Greenwich. Stand on the Prime Meridian and learn more about Admiral Nelson at the Maritime Museum where you can see his uniform with the actual bullet hole that killed him (the bullet is on display at Windsor Castle). The Cutty Sark is great but we thought the Queen's House was disappointing.
There is so much to do that you can get caught up in racing from one thing to the next. Take some time to just walk around the city because there is an adventure around every corner. Stop and let your kids play on the lions at Trafalgar, hop on a double decker bus and ride around just for the fun of it.
A highlight for us on Christmas
day was eating a delicious traditional English Christmas dinner at the
Windermere Hotel on Warwick Way (they were voted the best B&B in London
and we can see why!) We ate there last year and had such a memorable meal,
we went back this year. Not only were we greeted by name, but they had
reserved the same table we had last year for us. The food is scrumptious,
huge portions, great service. The hotel is lovely, very warm and friendly
staff. What a special place. Rick, you need to check out the Windermere
because you will want to recommend it to everyone!
Curt and Hilary <email>
Chapel Hill, NC USA 01/10/04
Correct E-mail for Cherry Court Hotel
I am the owner of Cherry Court Hotel. Both our website and email address
are fully working and we reply punctually to all emails which we receive.
If you didn't receive a reply, it may be that the email address was incorrectly
typed e.g. our address is bookings@cherrycourthotel.co.uk but if "booking"
is written instead of "bookings" then the email will not reach us. Please
do not hesitate to telephone us if you have any trouble reaching us via
email. Lastly we have a request to all of Rick Steve's readers, please include
your full telephone number when you email us, so that we can contact you
in case of any difficulties. Once again we wish to apologise to any guests
who have had trouble contacting us.
Mrs. Patel <email>
London, SW1 UK 01/05/04
Winter in London
Had a fabulous trip to London this winter and met all our travel goals
due to Rick's Great Britain Guide. The day trip to Windsor was perfect
and the advice of going early is key. Buying train tickets in London to
Windsor was easy. The corresponding London tube stops and site listing
are invaluable. Tube is your best friend by day 2. Rick's London map is
awesome! It was posted in our house 2 months prior to trip and we memorized
the city easily.
Recommendation to buy Tower of London entry tickets in Tower tube station great! Even though the renovation efforts at the Tower did not make it clear where ticket holders were to enter? Just squeezed past all the people in ticket line, no one minded. And if you want to see the Crown Jewels, be prepared for the masses in line viewing huge videos showing the Queen's coronation an up close jewels before. Squeezing by the masses to enter the jewel room is tough to do discreetly and seems disrespectful. We spent 2 hours on the Tower grounds, I imagine longer tour time during the high season.
Thanks to a short segment on Rick's London video and guide listing, we discovered Belgo restaurants. There are actually 5 in London with the main one in central London. If you want a break from pub grub and long for a Belgian ale - you must check this place out! Definitely make reservations for dinner or enjoy a long (but worth it) wait in the holding pen with a few ales available for purchase. Belgian cuisine and the most extensive list of Belgian brews we have ever seen. We loved it so much we went twice! It's the place to go. (Check out the restrooms, even if you don't have to - interesting?) www.belgo-restaurants.com
Hopefully St. Paul's Cathedral
will be completely cleaned our next trip. Restoration cleaning should
be done in 2004. Impressive front stairs and columns are totally hidden
from view. See in 2005 to avoid disappointmentment. For a long week in
London we had half sunny crisp days and half rainy days. I consider us
lucky. Can't wait to return!
Diane Cafasso <email>
Petaluma, CA USA 01/04/04
Christmas in London
Spent my 5th Christmas in London and thanks to Rick's suggestions for
has the best trip ever. Our stay in the Vancouver Studio Apartments in
Bayswater was wonderful. Apartments were clean, comfortable with a friendly
staff. Having access to a kitchen in your room is ideal especially after
we both caught colds. Using the microwave to reheat the tasty soups you
can get at Pret A Manger sandwich shops was a lifesaver. They make everything
fresh that day so their sandwiches and soups are a smart buy to eat in
or take out. The closest one was near the Marble Arch Tube station.
Buying the 7 day Travel Card was the best investment. I've usually traveled by tube but used more buses this trip and it was so simple. Not to mention a great way to see the sites. The travelcard also provided a nice discount on tickets for a Thames cruise on the City Cruise line.
You can find many shops, pubs and cafes open on Christmas and Boxing Day. You'll find these in the neighborhoods not in central London. In Bayswater the Art Cafe which served coffee and pastries was open on Christmas Day and very popular because of it. If you are in London to shop wait for the Boxing Day and after Christmas sales! Some stores were offering 70% off. Just know that Harrod's doesn't reopen until the 29th.
Good breakfasts at Cafe Diana,
and the pub grub at the quiet Prince Edward Pub was good and filling.
Belgo in Convent Garden was great. Our two "stumbled upon" finds were
the Pot Pies at the Tea Clipper Pub, which is a few blocks from Harrod's
on Montpelier street, and a Sausage and Mash cafe at the very end of the
Portabello Market. Really a great 10 days thanks to Rick's travel tips.
Claudia Eastman <email>
Hollywood, CA USA 01/02/04