Ridgemount Hotel

Travelers looking to book that old fashioned, story-book London B&B they've been dreaming about should certainly consider the Ridgemount Hotel, a charming spot located very near the British Museum in the heart of Bloomsbury. Of the dozen or so B&Bs lining Gower Street, the Ridgemount is one of the only still run by its original owners, and it’s certainly one of the very best deals.

The B&Bs 34 simple rooms feel old fashioned, with quilted bedspreads, patterned carpets and floral curtains. Bed frames and wardrobes come in dark wood, and all rooms are equipped with a fan, heater and TV. Although all of the rooms feel peaceful, the quietest are those facing the garden out back. (Even with the double glazing on the front windows, those facing busy Gower Street will probably still pick up some street noise.)

About half of the rooms have private bathrooms, while the others share facilities. All bathrooms are simple but clean and well-equipped. Hair dryers are available.

At the back of the hotel, a walled garden provides a lovely oasis, and there is also a comfortable living room, simply furnished with a couple of comfy sofas and a vending machine.

A full English breakfast, included in the room rate, is served in a room that embodies the archetypal B&B, with bottles of ketchup and brown sauce set atop red and green gingham tablecloths. Wi-Fi is free throughout, and there is also a free Internet station.

Reserving at the Ridgemount Hotel

Those looking for a similar option might consider the George Hotel, a pretty B&B on Cartwright Gardens. The sweet, “budget-boutique” Arosfa Hotel is another excellent choice.

Read more about the Ridgemount in our blog

Read more about the Ridgemount in our blog, where we’ve written about the changing B&B scene along Gower Street, and in our Q&A with the Rees family.