The pictures on this property's page set a very high standard for the property. It turns out the pictures understate the experience.
When we choose a city for holiday, our goal is to feel like we live in the city while we're visiting. This three-level Georgian is in a small residential area surrounded by all London has to offer. The convenience of bustling Waterloo Station belies the quiet neighborhood vibe. Everything - grocery, pharmacy, pubs, a plethora of restaurants, the Jubilee Walk on the Thames, beautiful parks, the new modern London skyline, access to England's vast train network - is a 10-minute walk away. Hip Bermondsey? 20 min walk. Westiminster? Just cross the Westminster or Waterloo bridges, maybe 15 min walk. There is no more central location from which to "live in London".
Then there's the house itself. Beautiful urban garden out back for taking breakfast, drinks, dinner. Wooden floors on the upper two levels, stone floor in the downstairs kitchen. We made soup and pancakes from scratch in the kitchen - every utensil we needed was in place. Washer/dryer, dishwasher, freezer, range, oven - all modern, fully functional.
We entertained two couples for overnights - the house is perfect for entertaining. Wonderful sound system for music.
And then there's the beds. We like to get out and walk London, every small area of the city holds wonders missed on the Tube. So it's nice to be able to get a good night's sleep. On these beds, sleep is wonderful. Windows open during a fabulous week of weather, no problem - not a sound from the streets below.
Shannon is extremely helpful, always available via text for silly questions like "where's the best Guinness in the area?" He was happy to have us drop our bags and clean up after a noon arrival, even though he was showing the house to a party before our scheduled arrival time.
If this house isn't the best value in London holiday travel, I cannot imagine what might be. There are properties worth stretching your budget a bit to enjoy. The experience that is this house defines one of those properties.