We are an American family of 4 (two preteens) and this was our first trip to London and first Airbnb experience. To use an American term, we feel like we hit a home run with Robert and this apartment/flat.
The great:
1) Robert - very responsive before and during the trip, met us personally to check in and give us various tips about the location, things to do, etc. Very thoughtful in terms of including things in the apartment (such as milk, butter, eggs, an amazing loaf of bread, cookies, crackers -all of which we devoured). Was extremely flexible in terms of check in and check out times for us. His Super Host title is well deserved.
2) Location of the flat - a 3 minute walk to a tube stop (Kensington High) as well as High St, which has everything you could possibly need for a stay (things mentioned in previous reviews like Whole Foods, Mark and Spencer’s grocery, Boots pharmacy, etc.). Can walk to Kensington Palace and Gardens. With the tube, all of the tourist destinations in central London are within 15-20 min away.
The good:
1) The flat was very quiet.
2) The flat space was perfect - beds were comfortable (note: there are two bedrooms, one with a good double bed and one with two twin size mattresses - one on the floor and one a “true bed” - our kids had no issues with them.
3) The flat had all the necessary appliances (microwave, fridge/freezer, electric range/oven, dishwasher, and washing machine.). The flat did not have a clothes dryer; we air dried our clothes.
4) The flat felt secure.
The bad:
Nothing major. If you are looking for an architecturally sophisticated exterior of the flat or its street, this is probably not the flat for you. It sits on a tiny cobblestones street in a two story row of flats. The “views”from the windows are of surrounding flats (and we often kept the shades down for privacy, as doing otherwise could allow a neighbor to see us and vice versa!). If you are looking for picturesque views, this flat is not for you. Other reviewers have already mentioned the narrow staircase which is only about 10 steps and might be difficult for those with very large suitcases. All this being said, the neighborhood is one of the most expensive in London if not the entire country, and it is incredibly diverse in terms of architecture. The street and flat are cozy and quaint.
To me, this flat is perfect for 2-4 people looking to be in a safe, secure, quiet area with easy access to all things London. We were delighted to find this (after another Airbnb host cancelled on us with 11 days before the trip - TIP: always book a backup hotel with free cancellation when using Airbnb). We really enjoyed our stay and cannot recommend Robert enough!