Balham Vacations from $869

This property is close to Paddington Station and is how we arrived in London. We arrived early and the staff was willing to hold our luggage for us. Incidentally, Expedia says to call ahead or contact the property. There’s no need for that. The property is prepared for you as long as you book through Expedia. The room was small, directly above the ground floor pub. A couple of nights were noisy for a while, but the pub closes at midnight so it wasn’t really an issue. Our room was small but clean. The restroom was really small but adequate. I couldn’t figure out the thermostat and couldn’t cool the room enough even though it is air conditioned. The bathroom got pretty warm because of poor ventilation. That was the biggest negative. The breakfast provided was what I would classify as light with the only warm option as toast, tea, and coffee. Still, it was fine and it was enough to start the day. The staff was always pleasant and welcoming. There is a bus stop near the hotel. It was convenient and we used that method of transportation often. The Edgeware Street Station is about an 8-minute walk down the road and we used that tube stop quite a bit. The neighborhood is a near a working-class commercial area and safe enough for us—we experienced no issues. This was a good value. It’s not fancy or big but I’d go there again. Not with kids, though. Just me and my wife.

First and foremost the staff are absolutely superb. Everyone we met went above and beyond to make our stay exceptional. The hospitality we experienced here we will not forget. The hotel itself is beautiful and our room was fantastic. Breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner at the barn were all fantastic. Restaurant Woven is an exceptional dining experience and one we can’t wait to enjoy again. Superb.

I have just had yet another spectacular stay at the Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences. I was welcomed back with the usual genuine warmth that I have come to expect from this wonderful place. As ever the service was impeccable and the accommodation out of this world, particularly as I was given the most amazing upgrade to the most luxurious suite I have ever stayed in. Thank you to everyone at the Taj for another world class stay. I would not wish to stay anywhere else when I have occasion to visit London.

Very clean room and hotel. Excellent breakfast.