Vandon House

I paid 99 pounds for a triple ... by far the best deal I found for our family trip to London. The room had 3 single beds, plenty of space and a large old-fashioned bath tub. No shower, however.

The breakfast was adequate and included fruit, cereal, yogurt, cheese, and basic bread and croissants.

They have easy to use and very efficient washing machines and dries for 3 pounds wash and less than a pound to dry. This was a real plus as we were in desparate need of clean clothes.

It would be hard to get any closer to Buckingham Palace. St. James tube station is very close, but Victoria Station is also easy to get to by foot.

They have internet, but they charge about a pound an hour for wifi or to use one of their computers.

Vandon house was mentioned in several guides (incl. R. Steves), so we decided to try it. We were a little hesitant because there were no recent TA reviews, so I'm adding our more recent experience. Traveling as two, but meeting a 3rd person for a portion of our stay, we wanted a triple room. The ensuite room we received at Vandon was huge. It is definitely a dorm, and furnishings were more like a dorm than a hotel (and likewise worn), but everything was very clean and comfortable.

No AC, which is normally not required, although our visit happened to coincide w/ a warm spell. The room cooled off nicely at night, but you cannot leave the windows open due to noise. It is not a particularly busy street, but due to the canyon-like effect, any noise is amplified. It is across the street from a major hotel, with limos, tour busses, and activity, during the early morning hours. With the windows closed, it is not a problem, but if it is hot, you will want the windows open.

Breakfast is good, but basic continental -- no hot breakfast as described in earlier reviews.

The majority of the staff appear to be college-age students, and changed a lot (Nearly each time we entered during the day or evening, there were different staff members). Most were very friendly and helpful., but communication may be lacking . Even in making reservations or asking questions via internet, we received answers (and sometimes different answers) from a different person each time. Example: We had to leave before breakfast was served on one of the mornings, and we were told to simply tell the night staff, and they would box a take-away breakfast for us. Night staff readily agreed. However, in the morning, the desk staff seemed surprised (and slightly upset), that we were told that, saying it is not policy, and they have no way to accommodate this. However, they then took the time to personally pack a breakfast for us. We discovered later that their written instructions found in each room, even suggest asking for a take-away breakfast for anyone leaving before serving times, so we were confused by the morning staff's reaction.

Fellow Vandon house guests appeared to be primarily college-age, with a few older. It was a very courteous (quiet) group, however.

3 computers (with printers) are available in the lounge for a nominal internet fee (2GBP per hour).

Value seemed average. Triple accommodations were 99GBP per night, including a continental breakfast. Better prices can be found especially with Priceline or Hotwire (usually excluding breakfast), but not if you need cancellation flexibility or want to know where you will be staying before paying. However, the location can't be beat for tourist activities. It is very close to Buckingham, Parliament, Victoria station, etc. Closet tube stop (St. James) is only 2 blocks away. Nightlife is limited on weekends, but there are plenty of pubs open during the week.