Wardonia Hotel

Set across multiple terraced Georgian townhouses on a small side street just minutes from King's Cross St Pancras' multiple stations, the family-run Wardonia is a budget option with a touch of class. While it lacks some amenities, most notably breakfast, decor is sophisticated for a Central London hotel in this price range. The lobby's simple mix of original carved ceilings, tufted leather seating, and old-fashioned windows highlight its traditional side, while sleek chestnut-wood paneling and muted-gray accents in its striped wallpaper give a refined, modern edge. Guests should note there are no elevator for the steep, winding stairs or air-conditioning, although fans are provided. For proximity to some of London's best-connected stations, the Wardonia is ideal for both tourist and business travelers on the hunt for a value spot with a touch of charm.

Situated on a quiet residential street surrounded by other small hotels, the Wardonia's highlight is its proximity to the stations of King's Cross St Pancras. With the tube a three-minute walk and the mainland railway and St Pancras International just two minutes farther, its map pin is right on the money. A vibrant neighborhood, King's Cross has pubs, bars, and restaurants galore. Arts, music, and club venue Scala is a six-minute walk, as is the British Library. The shops of Oxford Street are 10 minutes away by tube and travelers can reach The City financial district in the same time. The unspoiled gem of Portobello Road -- with its quirky street market -- is 25 minutes by tube, while hip Soho with neighboring Chinatown is 17 minutes by tube or a half-hour walk.

Heathrow Airport is 55 minutes by taxi and slightly less by public transport. Gatwick is a good hour and a half by car or 50 minutes by public transit. The nearest airport of London City is 40 minutes both by car and train.

Though the steep, winding stairs can make reaching them a challenge, rooms are refreshingly modern and stylish for a value property. Though the hotel may have scrimped on room and bed space, it definitely hasn't on decor. All-around chestnut-wood paneling makes a sophisticated first impression, while tweed bed throws, gray leather headboards, and matching drapes add understated elegance. Surprising finishing touches here include patterned throw pillows, framed mirrors, and colorful contemporary artwork of European landmarks.

Unfortunately, like the rooms, everything is on the miniature side. A tiny stand holds a kettle alongside tea and coffee, closet space is limited to a few shelves and some hanging space, and only some rooms have a small desk and chair. All rooms, however, have a flat-screen TV with Freeview channels, a hairdryer, fan, and European adaptors. The hotel's free Wi-Fi extends to rooms and is reliable, although cell phone signals can be weak in basement rooms. While some rooms offer street views, guests should note that others directly face brick walls and some can be noisy. Bathrooms are small and modern with powerful showers, fresh towels, and a few toiletries provided. 

There's not much more to Wardonia than its rooms and location. The hotel doesn't serve breakfast and the only common area is the small assortment of leather seats by the lobby. A guest iPad is free to use here and the 24-hour front desk staff will hold luggage between check-out and departure. Free maps and brochures are also provided.