At the Palace Hostel Hotel in London, you get what you pay for. That being said, 11 pounds per night in a mixed dorm isn't exactly a bargain elsewhere, but for central London it's not a bad deal at all.
The rooms are basic -- relatively clean, maybe a little dilapidated, and bunkbeds with mattresses that guarantee a slight backache in the morning. On the plus side, all rooms have a washbasin and, even better, a mini-refrigerator. If you are staying on the side facing the street, it can get a little loud at night, thanks to rowdy drunks cavorting in the street. Bring earplugs and you will be fine.
Bathrooms are scattered throughout the tall building that comprises the hostel. Some have showers, some don't, some are grimy and dysfunctional, some are pleasant and clean. Trekking up and down the long flights of stairs to find a free one can be a bit of a pain, especially when you realize it's shower free, but a little patience and persistence is all you need.
The common room is inviting, supplied with huge, comfortable couches (much better than the beds) and a giant flat-screen tv (needless to say a bit of an anomaly considering the surroundings). There's also a nice courtyard in the back.
Despite having heard mixed things about the staff, in all honesty, they seemed fine, but not overly friendly (except one older man -- he was a riot).
The most unfortunate thing about this hostel are its inconsistencies, yet it does have one salvaging factor -- location. Close to the Bayswater tube station, the area has everything you could possibly need; supermarkets, decent restaurants, shops, even Hyde Park. It has a very cosmopolitan feel, is minutes away from major attractions, and is a great base for exploring London.
— Exklusive Hostelz.com Übersicht
December 2004
Ort/Kontakt