If you don't have time to read lots of reviews, then simply know that I will happily choose to stay in Olivene's place again.
I needed a place while working on a short-term contract in London. I said I would try it for a few weeks and if it didn't work out, I would find somewhere else. I ended up staying with Olivene and her family for three months.
Their approach to hospitality is perfect for me. They make checking-in and checking-out very easy. They ask you how you are. They make sure you know where everything is in the kitchen and how it works, and make space for you. The bed is comfy, great TV and ample storage. They make sure that you know how to get around and point you in the right direction for services. And they regularly check in as to whether you need anything - and if you do, they figure it out with you. But they also get on with their own lives, which means you never feel like you're intruding - just that you're sharing the space with them, and they are sharing the space with you. It is a very relaxed house and so it has that perfect blend for a homestay - you never feel like you are in the way, but there are also people there who are always happy to guide / to help / to answer questions / and happy to chat and to share.
Olivene's place is also in a great location. You can walk home Blackfriars / Millennium Bridge in about an hour, about 75% of that route is along the Thames path and you can avoid major traffic almost all the way. There are great transport connections within five minutes walk of the front door, there are good food / retail / services options nearby and Southwark Park is a great space and less than 10 minutes walk.