This was, I think, the ideal airbnb experience, and the first one in which I really felt at home — I could drape myself on the sofa with a book or camp out at the kitchen table to do a crafts project and feel totally welcome to do so. Ally is a truly delightful person, and I’m very glad to know she exists in this world. I frequently would show up in the kitchen late at night and have some tea and natter away about my day (I’ve just learned the word natter and intend to use it)—a much appreciated thing as a solo traveler—and Ally was also happy to talk about her fashion industry work, which I find fascinating, and she even invited me to a work party she was hosting in the garden. The room was just as pictured — large, clean, plenty of storage space, and a particularly beautiful bathroom. The room is right next to the entrance and check-in was super smooth with a key in a lockbox (I could also store my stuff for several hours after check-out, which was very appreciated). As has been noted, the room’s window looks onto the sidewalk, so if the shades are open it’s not the most private of spaces, but this didn’t bother me, and the bonus of its low level location is that it stayed miraculously cool despite the heat wave. The kitchen, living room, and garden are all gorgeous, with creative decor (I particularly liked the color themes in the living area); there are often art projects and a dish or two laying about, but this really wasn’t a bother and made me feel more comfortable to use the space as well (btw: I was welcome to do laundry; there’s a washing machine and clothesline). Hackney Downs is a 3-4 minute walk away, with a fast overground train to Liverpool, making it easy to get anywhere in central London. I also enjoyed Black Cat cafe, about an 8 minute walk away and a nice spot for fresh vegan food and some laptop/reading time. On Saturdays, Broadway Market is about a 22 minute walk away, and is definitely worth a visit as well. Stay here!