City of London
Apartment, 2 Bedrooms + Convertible Bed(s), 2 Baths (Sleeps 4-6)
$125-$375/nt
Write a Review
Guest: Darjen
(Texas)
Date of Stay: 05/11/12
Review Submitted: 05/20/12
My husband and I stayed for a week and we could not have been more thrilled about the location and set up of the property! It was absolutely perfect! Barry walked us around and showed us all the "foodie" spots as well as historical spots that definitely satisfied my difficult palate and craving for history. The pictures are wonderful, but do not do it justice - it is just stunning here. We will most definitely be returning - 6 month limit on U.S. passports and this is exactly where I want to stay when I live in London for that time!
Owner response:Ah the location! Once upon a time, Piccadilly Circus was the centre of London, but with the Olympics the city is definitely moving east! People are loving the Southbank which is just great. The property really does seem to attract nice guests which makes this process such a joy. Delighted it worked out & am grateful for your kind comments - appreciated. Barry
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Wendy
(Jerusalem)
Date of Stay: 01/31/12
Review Submitted: 02/12/12
This place is a gem, a gem, a gem! I simply couldn't believe all the rave reviews this apartment got. Well, staying there is believing. The apartment is lovely and clean, and the location simply can't be beat. It is walking distance to many of the major sites, with easy access to the others. The South Bank area has its own character, and almost a Greenwich Village-feel. The owner could not have gone more out of his way -- welcoming, attending to every detail, and doing everything he could to ensure a pleasant stay. We felt that he would let no stone go unturned in making sure that we knew how to navigate London, and how to be comforatable in this apartment. Following a full orientation in the apartment itself, Barry took us to the river, and gave us both a Famous London Sites orientation, and a local must-do sites orientation! On future trips in London, there is no doubt that this will be home-base for us. My daughter and I chose this site after days and nights of exhaustive research on VRBO. This was undoubtedly the right choice -- and we wholeheartedly recommend it to singles, couples or families who are visiting. You will not find a better deal, nicer owner, or better location.
Owner response:Many thanks for your kind words. Delighted to assist & look forward to your next visit. Kindest Barry
Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.
Guest: Bernard
(Canada)
Date of Stay: 09/12/11
Review Submitted: 09/22/11
The flat is clean and very comfortable and the patio garden right outside the door was such a luxury to have in London. I used it every day to wind down whilst I finish off the last of my work phone calls or emails and even just walking through it helped to calm the nerves after very busy days. You can see it through the patio door whilst sitting in the kitchen which makes it feel even more like being at home. Location is great to get around, with the river literaly steps away and I ended walking to most of my appointments. I travel a lot and have an extremely busy schedule when I travel and as such need somewhere that I feel at home. As such, I have stayed in a lot of places and this has to be one of my favourites. Barry is really helpful too. Would definitely recommend it and will stay there again.
Owner response:Bernard - I appreciate your kind comments. Bernard left the property in such good condition I even paid all his Paypal fees! He is welcome anytime. He was working long hours so I know that riverside walk was a great relaxation -so too the deck. Thanks again Bernard!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Andree
(Falmouth, MA)
Date of Stay: 08/18/11
Review Submitted: 08/25/11
This is a fantastic flat to rent while visiting London. The flat was very comfortable, had beautifully remodeled bathrooms, and was a perfect size for our family of two adults and two children. It was clean, nicely decorated, and had all the amenities that were needed plus more that we did not need. The patio was beautiful and a perfect place to have a relaxing morning coffee. The location could not be better. We were within walking distance to everything that we wanted to do, and it was only a block off the river. If that wasn't enough, the host was incredibly welcoming. He met us upon arrival and took us on a brief tour to point out any of the attractions we might want to see, the best locations to eat, as well as grocery stores and other useful tips. It was such a warm and welcoming arrival that we felt like long lost family. As we were packing up to go home, I realized that I had left my jacket at a restaurant a few blocks away. I mentioned this to Barry and he said he would check on it for me. Well, he ended up going back several times and then had to go to a sister restaurant across the city to retrieve it. That was above and beyond what someone would expect when renting a property. I can not say enough about how happy we were staying at this flat. I would recommend it to anyone and I hope we will be back soon.
Owner response:Pleased it worked & no problem with your jacket - it is what I'm here for. Great guests, least I can do! Thanks for this great review.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: pacemom
(Atlanta, GA - USA)
Date of Stay: 08/01/11
Review Submitted: 08/29/11
Loved, loved our stay. I will argue with anyone who can find me a better spot for touring London. We stayed in early August (myself and 3 children) and found it a perfect spot for our needs. The flat was immaculately clean and had everything you could need for a comfortable stay. The added bonus of the charming terrace made my morning coffee all the more delightful. I would recommend this flat without reservation. FYI we are Americans!!!
Owner response:Loved, loved your review. Just so pleased guests appreciate the benefit of the private deck for breakfast. I used to have a coffeee maker in the flat, but it has become redundant since 2 fantastic coffee houses have opened less than 1 minutes walk away! Recommendation - go get your gourmet coffee next door then enjoy it on the deck! Thanks again, welcome anytime.
Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Tom & Kelly
(Phoenix, Arizona, USA)
Date of Stay: 06/13/11
Review Submitted: 06/21/11
WOW! What a jewel!! As you read the other reviews for this flat, you will see the same thing over and over again - LOCATION! It just can't be beat. We stayed with our two teenage kids for one week. We had plenty of room to spread-out, and the patio/garden, what a great place for breakfast or a bottle of wine in the evening. Incredibly easy access to rail/tube, walking distance to EVERYTHING, and INCREDIBLE personal service - Thank You, Barry! Upon our arrival, Barry met us for a personal tour of the area (very nice touch!). His suggestions of where to eat, shop, what to do - invaluable. We will definitely be back to visit again. This is my first stay at a VRBO property, but my wife has experienced other properties. We agree, this is the best thus far, and it will be very hard for another property to top this for location and service. I highly recommend this property to anyone visiting the area - just beware of Borough Market... You'll need to walk many miles to work-off the extra pounds from all of the delicious food! Thanks again, Barry! Hope to see you again very soon!!
Owner response:So pleased it all worked out. Delighted that they really found everything in walking distance as promised. At this time of year, the deck area is a delightful area for that evening bottle of wine! And the deck is absolutely blooming now - a flower show in itself. Thank you all for the continual comments on the personal service - as an ex London guide it is a pleasure to help with your great questions. Thanks again & look forward to assisting you again soon.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Jane
(Scotland)
Date of Stay: 04/09/11
Review Submitted: 04/20/11
I recently stayed at this property with my 3 year old and it was perfect for our stay. The location on the River Thames was perfect for us to walk to the London Eye and Aquarium. As well as being able to walk to Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St. James' Royal Park and Buckingham Palace. We also walked to Tate Modern art gallery, St. Pauls Cathedral and Covent Garden. With Waterloo station just a 10 minute walk from the apartment we were able to access the bus and train easily too. We loved being so close to the action' and felt perfectly safe in the neighbourhood. But the 'cherry on the cake' for us was the decked garden. This beautiful enclosed garden meant that even when we were at the apartment my son could still run around outside in a totally enclosed safe environment. I could relax sitting on the deck whilst he ran off any remaining energy!!! Another really big plus for me is that whilst the apartment is so central it is totally quiet due to it's location within the building. This meant that we were able to sleep and get 3 year old to sleep easily. Not like other central London apartments I have stayed in. The kitchen has everything you could need, the lounge is comfortable and there are lots of handy guide books. We found the apartment to be warm at all times and there was plenty of hot water throughout our stay. Barry was very helpful and I really appreciated being met at the property by the owner. I have already recommended this property to friends and would love to stay here again in the future. I think it's a real gem.
Owner response:Many thanks & appreciated. So pleased the urban garden worked for you too.
Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Kim Y.
(Chicago)
Date of Stay: 04/02/11
Review Submitted: 05/14/11
Our family of 5 immediately felt at home in your well-equipped, modern and comfortable flat. Thanks to you and your Mom for accomodating our early arrival and for the informative tour! We appreciate your careful and thoughtful attention to all details. We loved your suggestions to experience Borough Market, Southwark Cathedral, Tate Modern, the Globe, the Eye, etc., which we all managed to fit it during our stay. Would love to stay again!! Regards, Kim and Eric
Owner response:Many many thanks for your kind words. I know guests appreciate the personal touch rather than just picking up keys in a box - I really think it makes a difference when visiting somewhere which may not be familiar. How on earth you fit in all the places in the time you were here is beyond me! Glad it went well! Kindest, Barry
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Jim M.
(Philadelphia, PA, USA)
Date of Stay: 02/22/11
Review Submitted: 02/28/11
It was incredible to just turn right outside the front door and be on the South Bank at the OXO Tower in the distance of about one city block. We made a point of walking along the river whenever possible - it was great during the day and beautiful at night, with museums and attractions in easy walking distance. The flat included absolutely everything we needed for our stay, and the garden was such a pleasant surprise - it made for a great and very private view from the flat. Waterloo Station is literally just a few minutes down the street, with access to both British Rail and three lines on the underground, so we had easy access to our friends in Brighton, our friends in northwest London, theater, museums, Heathrow, and everything else the City has to offer. Barry went well above and beyond any other owner from whom we have rented, even returning early from Birmingham one day during our stay to offer additional services. His tour cued us in to where to shop and eat in the neighborhood. Whatever you do, don't miss the Borough Market, which like so many other attractions, is walkable from the flat! We try to get back to London as often as possible, and are planning to stay here whenever we can. It really is a case of location, location, location, and Barry's personal service is icing on the cake.
Owner response:You know, I always like guests to be surprised on the upside - finding out that it is better than they thought & more than I promised! The deck really is more than a deck - it is your own private garden right in the heart of London! These guests are serious travellers working with a serious American airline, so I really do appreciate their kind comments. The location is such a plus & helps to keep travel costs to a minimum. Really excited it worked for you guys & so pleased you made it to Borough Market. See you soon, you are always very welcome.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Moni
(Rhineland Germany)
Date of Stay: 02/18/11
Review Submitted: 02/22/11
We spend a lot of our free time traveling Europe and I always check VBRO for availability first. The first pleasing surprise of this property was actually being met by the owner, I normally find myself using a code or looking for a key under a rock. The second pleasing surprise was an upgrade. Everything was as advertised, a great location, free wi-fi and the safe atmosphere where a few of our favorite high points. Barry was very helpful with recommendations and insider tips. We loved the walk along the river on the way to the attractions. I would without a doubt recommend this property to friends and/or stay here on future trips.
Owner response:Delighted it worked out. This great couple didn't arrive until 10:30 pm so I think it was appreciated by them that I could meet them personally. I like it that not only do they acknowledge that the attractions are all within very easy walking distance, but also those walks by the river are beautiful in their own right. Thanks again for your visit - appreciated.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Brent B.
(Minneapolis)
Date of Stay: 12/02/10
Review Submitted: 12/27/10
My daughter and I stayed in the small apartment for a long weekend. Barry was helpful but the apartment was very cold and very, very small. I would definitely spend more money to get the larger apartment.
Owner response:As indicated on the site, the upstairs unit is a great 'small 1 bed/1 bath' ideal for those who want to be out site seeing. It is popular with guests on a limited budget who still demand a top location. I am delighted they found my assistance 'helpful' - & resolved the 1st night heating issue. As a gesture of goodwill & a thank you for their feedback, I offer them a 25% discount for their next visit.
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Guest: Joanna
(Chicago, IL USA)
Date of Stay: 11/19/10
Review Submitted: 12/30/10
As a travel planner, I am always looking for interesting locations to place clients who want to stay in apartments instead of hotels and this is quite a unique property on the Southbank with great options depending on your needs. It is close to everything and yet out of the hustle-bustle that can sometimes make London overwhelming. Great restaurants, Wateroo Station, OXO Tower, Tate Modern, Borough Market, National Theatre -- all within a few minutes walk from your front door! The view from the Thames, which is but a stone's throw from the apartment, is breathtaking. You can see up and down the river and walking along the quay is an easy way to get around London -- access to the bridges is easy. If you like to walk and want to feel like you are a London resident and not just a visitor -- then this is a perfect place to stay. The apartment is wonderful - we stayed in the bottom half but got to see the entire upstairs as well. Nicely furnished throughout with all the conveniences of home. Best part is the deck, which even in the winter, was still filled with flowers and plants -- this is rare to have this kind of space in the city and in the summer it's perfect for morning coffee on the terrace so to speak. It's a well-taken care of property and the owner lives in the neighborhood and knows it well. His introductory tour helped us settle right into the Southbank and our home away from home in London! As well, Waterloo Station is just three blocks from the apartment and you can get anywhere - we went to see tennis at the O2 and it was an easy ride on the tube there and back. Overall, we enjoyed our stay and hope to stay again when in London next!
Owner response:What can I say? Coming from a Travel Planner this is a great endorsement of what we do! Thanks guys.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Melissa
(New Jersey)
Date of Stay: 11/08/10
Review Submitted: 11/22/10
This flat has a wonderful location and made it easier for us with our one year old. We could walk to the major sites and stop back at the flat for our sons nap. The tour that Barry gave us helped us get acquainted with the area and show us where the locals eat. He was also very accommodating when we needed to store our bags on our last day. We hope to return soon.
Owner response:Great - nice to know the free tour is going down well. I bit of history on that... When I stay at places I often am asked to pick up keys in a box. It got me thinking...If I am travelling & in a strange place, what would I want to improve the experience? Well, I know I would like to meet someone local who can show me around briefly. So that's what I do for guests as a extra....show them around for an hour. Why not? I used to be a London Guide! Thanks for the kind words....
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: RMT
(Sonoma Co. California)
Date of Stay: 09/24/10
Review Submitted: 10/22/10
Everything you read about this little flat is true. The location just can't be beat; Barry is very attentive and responsive to needs that might come up. I was there on my own for a week and felt very safe walking to and from the flat in the evening with lots of dining options within a block of the flat. Close to trains, tube, shops, etc.
Owner response:Appreciate the comments - thanks for the reference to the location. It is just great here!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.
Guest: Sonya and Jack
(Vancouver, Canada)
Date of Stay: 07/31/10
Review Submitted: 09/22/10
This London flat was exactly what we were looking for in location and convenience. We loved it for these reasons alone! But there were other positive features as well. Besides being conveniently located to major attractions, tube and bus links, and basic amenities, the area itself is just beautiful, especially the Thames at night. It's really the perfect home base while visiting London. Barry, the owner, helped get us settled, and was available if needed. We (my 5 year old and I!) appreciated the peace of mind that this gave us. We'd recommend this property to anyone, and hope to have an opportunity to stay there again ourselves!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: Jim H.
(Philadelphia, PA USA)
Date of Stay: 07/25/10
Review Submitted: 08/27/10
We had such a great week in London, and having such an ideal home base was the foundation. I think every traveller expects an owner to boast and use only favorable angles, but all the descriptions and photos listed here are accurate. We were surrounded by accessible transportation, but we were able to walk more than anything else. The unit is ideally located in the heart of everything we wanted to do all week. Very few of our friends could believe we found such a great spot, and they were more amazed at the price we paid. The owner met us at the door and gave us a tour of the unit and the surrounding area. That little touch made us feel instantly at home. I'd also accept his tips at local shopping and dining, we saved some time and money and found some great food with his help. I also was glad to know that the owner was available through the week, even if we never had any need for his help. Maybe a lack of unexpected problems is the best sign of a great renter's experience. I don't know when my next trip to London will be, but I know where I'm staying when it is time.
Owner response:Thanks Jim for picking up on this. I am proud of this great city & love telling guests about it. I do think meeting the guests makes such a difference - thanks again.
Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.
Guest: Scott
(Bend, Oregon US)
Date of Stay: 07/05/10
Review Submitted: 07/28/10
For years our family has wanted to visit London. It has been difficult, though, as London is a very expensive city. It was made possible because of this wonderful property. For a Central London apartment, the price is great. We rented the whole apartment. Also, the Location was marvelous. We were right in the heart of London, and walked to all the great attractions, including Big Ben, The London Eye, and Piccadilly Circus! The property was well-kept and perfect for a family. Includes everything you need. The spacious deck with the outside table was great for evenings in, too! We hope to return soon. Thanks again, Barry!
Owner response:Again, so pleased the location worked out. You really can walk everywhere, but the tube is next door if you prefer. Glad the deck got use - it is almost unique in Central London - Scott, you are welcome anytime!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.
Guest: Marlene
(Canada)
Date of Stay: 07/02/10
Review Submitted: 07/12/10
We just got back from our trip to London and stayed in this flat we rented the whole apartment and it was great for the 4 of us, lts of room and very clean .The location is fanastic as we could walk everywhere so no taking taxi or buses. If your in London to do the sites its a great place to stay.The outside garden area was great after the days acttivites just to sit out and relax and eat outside if you didn't want to stay in the flat.
Owner response:Marlene, thanks for that. I know you like to walk & glad you did so. Its location means you get to save money by not needing public transport, & it sounds like you got to drink some of those savings on the deck! Fantastic!
Recommended for:Families with teenagers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.
Guest: Rosie
(Locust Grove, GA USA)
Date of Stay: 06/26/10
Review Submitted: 07/12/10
We cannot thank you enough for sharing your wonderful property. We walked to almost every sight! The outdoor patio was a lifesaver; such a great space. Also, thanks so much for meeting us and giving us a tour of the area. It really helped us to "get our bearings." The Thames walk was amazing. The South Bank has changed so much. It is definitely the place to stay.
Owner response:Meeting these people is the real pleasure of this. I hope it comes across - the guests are a true pleasure to host. Thanks for the comments Rosie.
Recommended for:Families with young children, sightseeing.
Guest: tannyb
(Atlanta, GA, USA)
Date of Stay: 04/24/10
Review Submitted: 05/05/10
I have to agree with Bryan's review. It really is about location, location, location! We've been to London before but stayed far out at a friend's place (Croydon). This was MUCH better! Clean and tidy place with WiFi. We just stayed in the upstairs room and it proved to be more than we had hoped for, for myself and my wife. Bathroom and bedroom were impeccably clean. All the amenities we needed were provided. Granted we didn't spend much time in the place because we were out and about in London (which staying in this place made MUCH easier). Whether you're trying to go to the Tate Museum, the London Eye, etc., this place is walkable to all of them. If not, it's close to several underground tube stops so you can get where you're going quickly. I would definitely stay here again next time we're in London and have already recommended it to my father-in-law if he decides to visit. Thanks again!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.
Guest: LoisB
(Lois Bramwell)
Date of Stay: 04/20/10
Review Submitted: 05/16/10
Best location to explore and enjoy "south of the river." The captions read 5 Minutes Walk and IT REALLY IS!!! National Theater, The Globe, The Old Vic, The Young Vic, Tate Modern, and the London Eye are all on your doorstep. Learn about buses!!! Buy an Oyster Card because the RV1 bus right in front of flat takes you to great places south along the river to places not within easy walking distance. Location could not be better!!!! The pictures on the site are just how it is. Compact and convenient. You ARE in the middle of a big city. It's fair to say space is limited but well used. Think New York, not Los Angeles. Barry was very helpful and made our stay really enjoyable. After driving into London from the West Country we had to get the rental car back with no time to spare and Barry solved all our problems right there and then. Easy to communicate with beforehand and by email. Have already recommended property to family. Activities/Acitivities/Restaurants: The Cut (5 minute walk, not to be missed), Borough Market, Courtauld Gallery (just across Waterloo Bridge). Eating Out...get away from the river. Eat out at Livebait or pick up an Indian take away. Want to go upmarket....try the Anchor and Hope. A find. Enjoy!!!
Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing.
Guest: Brian M.
(Long Island New York)
Date of Stay: 08/18/09
Review Submitted: 08/18/09
Location, location, location. You really are at the very centre of everything - Easy to walk everywhere, and so pleasant, and safe, to walk along the Thames, day or night. The apartment is well furnished, with a great outdoor space. We rented a car ( we had other places to visit as part of our trip ) and were able to drive ourselves to the apartment, park it for free in the underground parking garage, do our travelling, then drop the car back at the airport when we left - the car cost less than two taxi cab rides to and from the airport! Barry was very easy to work with and very helpful throughout - wouldn't hesitate to recommend the apartment.
Owner response:Thanks Brian. Appreciated. Again, I do make parking available when I can - do give me advanced notice however. Delighted to help.
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Guest: the Johnsons
Date of Stay: 09/07/08
Review Submitted: 09/06/08
Thank you for the hospitality. We appreciated your professional attitude & friendly advice. Your home is lovely - a warm & safe haven after the day's activities, not to mention the 'stonking' location! We never needed to use public transport at all. Thanks
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Guest: The Kirstens
Date of Stay: 08/07/08
Review Submitted: 08/06/08
Thank you for making your home so comfortable & inviting. We had great fun getting great food from Borough Market, then eating it on that deck! We enjoyed our morning jogs along the river bank. The pubs were fun too. We all loved the cast of characters performing under the London Eye. It is a wonderful, friendly part of London. Thank you.
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Guest: the Schafers
Date of Stay: 10/27/07
Review Submitted: 10/26/07
Many thanks for the magnificent place! Words cannot describe how perect the location was. Thank you for your advice. We will recommend your flat to everyone we know!
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Guest: The Juliens
Date of Stay: 06/18/07
Review Submitted: 06/17/07
Thanks for all your help & suggestions. We LOVED the flat. An oasis of green in the midst of a fantastic city. A truly terrific location! Every night we did the riverside walk & watch the city light up. Perfect!
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Guest: Lynn, Glen ,Spencer & Elliot
Date of Stay: 06/18/07
Review Submitted: 06/17/07
Great property, ideal location. Two great features were the great private deck & the free Guided tour of the area by our host! Delivered so much more than I can express in words. Loved the world class theater being less than a 10 minute walk by the river. On a Summer's night, nothing better. As Arnie says, "I'll be Back!"
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Guest: Jake O'Reilly
Date of Stay: 05/28/07
Review Submitted: 05/27/07
Thanks alot for your wonderful flat. Loved the deck & want to say it is really a great price for that location (we checked the price of nearby hotels). I'll be coming again soon.
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Guest: P Wise
Date of Stay: 05/27/07
Review Submitted: 05/26/07
Thanks -Our family had a wonderful 10 days - everything is REALLY close. The Globe was the highlight (Merchant of Venice) closely followed by Borough Market - great cheese. All in all a GREAT location - we felt at home! Many thanks!
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