I have not only stayed in many different backpackers and hostels all over the world, from South Africa to Slovakia and everywhere in between but I have also worked in a few across Europe and feel I know what makes a backpacker hostel stand out from the rest.
I have stayed in a few different hostels across London over the years, but there is only one that I have returned for a second stay at that is Palmers Lodge Boutique Hostel in Swiss Cottage and both stays have been fantastic. The first time was a couple of years ago and I had a bunk in a female-only larger dorm, which was clean and comfortable, and each bed has a privacy curtain. My second and most recent stay this year was in one of their private en-suite rooms, and it confirmed to me that this is definitely one of the best hostels in London and here is why.
Location - Swiss Cottage
While there are more centrally located backpackers, Palmers Lodge is in Zone 2 and well connected with a short walk to a 24hr tube station, bus station and London Overground. You can get in and out of central London quickly, and it's also within walking distance of Regent's Park. It also feels less rushed and a calm base from which to explore the city but also get a good night's sleep.
Accommodation
What makes Palmers Lodge so special is the building, a stunning and historic Victorian building in which it's housed. With a grand entrance, beautiful wooden staircase, tiled flooring and gorgeous lounge area, it's easy for it to be mistaken for an upmarket hotel. The only difference is the budget-friendly accommodation on offer from deluxe private rooms to small and larger dorms, including female-only rooms.
I've stayed in both a dorm and a private double ensuite, both options come with comfy, clean beds and fresh free linen. The dorm beds all have privacy curtains and lockers, along with an access card which is needed both for your floor and room and on both occasions I felt very safe. Some private rooms have shared facilities while others are en-suite.
My most recent stay this year was in a double en-suite and cost under £60 for a Sunday night stay and I couldn't fault it. The room was fantastic and spacious, plus the double bed was very comfy, as well as having a small coffee station.
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| My double private room at Palmers Lodge London |
Common areas and Facilities
There is plenty of space to work, catch up with emails as well as socialise with other guests in either the large lounge and reading room which is filled with sofas, seating and charger ports or head downstairs to the bar and conservatory to play a game of pool, darts and table tennis or enjoy a drink in the relaxed garden area. There is also a self-catering kitchen and laundry room for guest to use.
But it doesn't stop there, there is free wifi throughout the building, 24hr reception and staff on hand to help. There is also parking available on site, and for £7.50 you can enjoy a full continental breakfast, which I do recommend as the selection is great.
A note on breakfast
For £7.50 you have access to a well-stocked continental breakfast which is served from 7am - 10am and you can fill your plate as many times as you wish, making this great value. You can expect pastries such as croissants and pain au chocolat as well as muffins, a selection of cereal, granola, yoghurt pots, fruit, eggs, ham, cheese and tea, coffee and fruit juice
Staff and Atmosphere
The staff are knowledgeable, welcoming and helpful and the reception is open 24hrs and they are always happy to provide recommendations on places to eat, visit and things to do. Palmers Lodge is open to all ages, including families (families with children under 16 can book private rooms only). The lounge, bar and garden offer chilled spaces to hang out, socialise or catch up with work.
While the basement bar does play music at night, it's for guests only so it never gets too busyy or loud and closes at 11:30pm. Palmers Lodge, while it's a social place to stay, it's not a "party" hostel and both of my stays I slept really well and would happily stay here with my kids as well as a solo traveller or with friends.
No matter if you are a solo traveller, family, or part of a small travel group, Palmers Lodge Boutique Hostel in Swiss Cottage is the perfect base. Another hostel in the City that I would also recommend is the YHA London Central which is in Fitzrovia, the rooms are smaller but it's safe, family-friendly, and has a great atmosphere - read my blog post about it here.
*I paid for my stay in full, I am not affiliated with Palmers Lodge, this is an honest review.
