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Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage - Complete Review

4.3

Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage is a comfy and friendly place to stay in London. It's a hostel that keeps things simple but thoughtful, offering both dormitories and private rooms.

The atmosphere is pretty relaxed, with a bar and social area where you can meet other travelers. The Victorian architecture gives it a unique feel, and the place is kept really clean. One thing that stands out is the privacy curtains in the dorms, which is a nice touch if you want some personal space. It's also really convenient with 24-hour reception, so you can check in whenever you arrive. While the evening meals could be better, the overall experience is really positive, making it a solid choice for anyone visiting London.

Location

40 College Cres, South Hampstead, London NW3 5LB, UK

Contact

Opening Hours

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible

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Why We Recommend It

  • The hostel's Victorian architecture adds a unique and charming atmosphere to your stay.
  • There is a convenient lift available, so you don't have to carry your luggage up the stairs.
  • The hostel offers a small but handy laundrette, making it easy to do laundry during your stay.
  • The hostel's lounge area with a fireplace provides a cozy spot to relax and unwind.

Downsides

  • The evening pub meals could be improved, as some guests found them to be a downside compared to the overall experience.

Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage Rating Breakdown

Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage has earned a solid 4.3-star rating because it offers a great mix of comfort, convenience, and a welcoming atmosphere. The hostel's Victorian architecture adds a nice touch, making the stay feel special. The privacy curtains in the dorms are a real plus, giving you some personal space. The staff is friendly and helpful, which makes a big difference when you're traveling. The only small downside is that the pub meals in the evening could be better, but overall, it's a pretty good place to stay in London.

Our Review of Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage

When you stay at Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage, you'll find the location really handy. It's close to both the Finchley Road and Swiss Cottage stations, so getting around London is pretty straightforward. There's even a nearby grocery store, which is perfect for picking up snacks or essentials during your stay. The neighborhood feels safe, and the hostel itself is open 24 hours, which is great for late arrivals.

The hostel's Victorian architecture adds a bit of charm to the place. The common areas like the historic lounge with a fireplace give you a cozy spot to unwind. The bar area is another highlight, where you can enjoy a drink and meet other travelers. It's a social environment, but if you need some quiet time, the privacy curtains in the dorms are a nice touch.

Cleanliness is a big plus here, with cleaning done daily to keep everything in top shape. The bathrooms and showers are spacious, which is a relief in a hostel setting. There's also a small laundrette and kitchenette, which are convenient for longer stays. The staff is friendly and available around the clock, making you feel well taken care of.

One minor downside is the evening pub meals, which could be improved. With all the dining options in London, it's not really a big deal. Overall, Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage offers a really good mix of comfort, location, and a social atmosphere. This place has a lot of charm and is in a convenient spot, so it might be worth checking out for your next London visit.

Services Offered by Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage

  • 24-hour reception for convenient check-in and security
  • Shared dormitories and private rooms available
  • Social area and bar for relaxation
  • Privacy curtains in dormitories for comfort
  • Close to Finchley Road and Swiss Cottage stations

Experiences to check out in London

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When to Visit

Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage is open 24 hours a day, so it's really convenient if you're arriving late or have an early morning. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be less busy, making it a good time to check out the common areas without too much hustle. If you prefer a lively atmosphere, evenings are great, especially if you want to hang out at the bar and meet other travelers.

Who It's Best For

Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage is a really good fit for solo travelers and backpackers who want a social environment. The bar is a great place to meet other travelers and have a chat with the friendly staff. It's also ideal for people who appreciate a historic setting with modern comforts, like the privacy curtains and 24-hour reception.

Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage Review Wrap Up

Finally, Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage offers a comfortable and welcoming stay in London. The location is practical, with easy access to public transport, making it simple to explore the city. The hostel's Victorian charm adds a unique touch, and the facilities are kept clean and tidy. The social areas, especially the bar, provide a great opportunity to meet fellow travelers and enjoy some downtime. The privacy curtains in the dorms are a thoughtful addition, ensuring guests can have personal space when needed. While the evening meals might not be the highlight, the overall experience is positive and offers great value.

For those looking for a friendly and convenient place to stay, Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

The private rooms at Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage are definitely more expensive than the dorms, but they offer a bit more comfort and privacy. If you're on a tighter budget, the dorms are a great value, especially with the privacy curtains. For those who prefer a quieter space, spending a bit more on a private room might be worth it. Overall, both options provide good quality for the price you pay.

The breakfast at Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage is a solid continental spread. With a variety of options like cereals, croissants, and fresh fruit. It's a convenient way to start your day without having to wander far for a meal. While it's not a full English breakfast, it does the job, especially for the price.

The best months to visit London for good weather are usually from May to September. During these months, you'll likely experience milder temperatures and less rain, making it more comfortable for sightseeing. Keep in mind that summer can be a bit crowded, but the pleasant weather makes it worth it.

Anyone who loves history or has an interest in architecture would enjoy staying at Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage. The building itself is a great example of Victorian style, and it gives the place a unique character. It's also a plus for those who appreciate staying somewhere with a bit more personality than your average hostel.

Finding parking near Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage can be a bit tricky. The area can get quite busy, and parking spaces are limited. If you're driving, it might be easier to use public transport during your stay.

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