An excellent budget hotel

My husband and I stayed at the St. David's for eight nights in August, 2004.

Being our first trip to London, more seasoned travellers had warned us about the potential pitfalls at staying at "budget" accomodations (too small, not clean, too noisy, etc., etc.).

Although our room was small, it was not cramped, and the staff kept it extremely clean throughout our stay. The room was also reasonably quiet - no impact from adjoining rooms and minimal street noise.

The breakfast, however, was the biggest surprise to this newbie traveller. The staff was friendly and extremely efficient, and was very willing to accomodate two vegetarians. The food was plentiful, varied and tasty.

On a final note, if you're willing to spend the extra money to take the Heathrow Express, DO IT!! As advertised, the train ride is a mere 15 minutes from the airport to Paddington Station. The walk to the St. David's is (at most) an additional two minutes. Truly a stress-free way to arrive in London.

Dreadful. Try The Ashley Hotel instead

Stayed here July 2004. Although the staff is folksy and friendly, the accommodations were dreary. Things to know: lots and lots of stairs, very hot, very loud (subway ends at 1am and begins at 5am), dark & musty, plastic bathrooms (think a large version of an RV), dirty walls with cracks, hairs and stains on the sheets. Needless to say - we checked out the next morning. For a little bit more walk across Norfolk square and try the Ashley hotel - much, much better and worth the money.

A nice little place

A nice little place. More large b&b than hotel, the room I had was clean and tidy (it was a triple room but I only paid single price, £49, an excellent price for central London). The breakfast in the morning was plentiful and well-cooked. The hotel owners are very friendly people, always making a point of saying hello or good morning etc. when you see them. The location is perfect, just around the corner from Paddington station, but on a tree-lined side street so traffic noise isn't an issue. Highly recommended for a clean place to stay in London without spending too much money.

Outstanding hosts, accomodating, great location and reasonable price

Our family stayed 2 nights in June/2004. We caught an all night flight and showed up at the Hotel at 8:30 a.m. with next to no sleep. The hosts/owners were great - they let us check in early and also offered us that first breakfast (all at no extra cost).

If that were not enough, there are several other positives about this hotel. The room was clean. Price was very affordable by London standards ($90 pounds/night). Breakfast was large (yes a bit greasy) and could be ordered as you would like. The owner/cook made a point of stopping by all tables and saying Hi and asking how things were.

The location was perfect. You can catch the Heathrow express train to Paddington train/tube station which is literally 5 minute walk or less. We had never been to London and could very easily make our way there from the airport. The area was safe and has many hotels. There are numerous close restaurants and pubs, at least a few internet cafes and its virtually directly on a route for double decker bus. You can also walk to Hyde Park in a matter of a few minutes.

The decor was not outstanding and the basement room we stayed in had an outside light right outside the window that made the room bright all night long. Our room had 3 single beds and one double. All in all hospitality made up for any minor shortcomings in the room and for the price the location, hospitality and breakfasts more then made up for it.

Great staff, Family room

St. David's Hotel has a wonderful staff and great English breakfast. We had a family room for 5 which is hard to find anywhere in Europe. We were on the basement level so the room was a little musty. My parents had a room on another level that was fine. It is close to Paddington station which is convenient. I would go back because the staff make you feel like family.

Highly recommended

I stayed here twice, 3 days then a week in May and June 2004. Great hotel, basic but it's got all you need. Very friendly and helpful staff, great breakfasts, great location. No traffic noise. Highly recommended for the budget traveller

The St. David's Hotel is terrific in all respects

The hotel is wonderful and the owners/staff absolutely great..it is small, comfortable and very convenient. If one is looking for elegance, don't look here, but pleasant, warm, clean and a fabulous breakfast..look no further.

Jane Roland

Great Hotel, Great Price

I was very happy with my stay here! Although I was traveling alone, the owners/staff made me feel very comfortable and welcome. My room was on the small side but still ok (especially considering the price). The breakfasts are huge and delicious, and, in between cooking, the owner makes it a point to greet everyone in the dining room. The location is very convenient to Padington station. I recomend this hotel and would definitely stay there again.

Great value

Friendly staff, great proximity to amenities and transportation (bus, underground and rail) and overall cleanliness make this a good deal.

Norfolk Square Paddington is one of the more pleasant areas of London, generally quiet, convenient, and safe. As a travel agent I've stayed in a lot of B&B's in Britain over the years and this is one of the best I've found in its price range.

Great location

We stayed at the hotel in May 2003. It's only 2 short blocks from Paddington Station where you can catch the Heathrow Express to the airport. However, there is no elevator in the hotel which means you have to carry your luggage up several flights of stairs. The room is small and the bathroom tiny. However, everything is pretty clean and a good price for London (69 pounds). The English breakfast is only served until 9 am. Food is plenty and a bit greasy but good.