Terry was a great host. I didn't realize he would pick us up from the Tube stop and we were half-way to his flat, pulling our luggage down the high street when I heard my name called. He'd driven out to find us and recognized us by the fact we were pulling luggage and looking for our smartphones for directions. Once in his car he gave us a quick tour of the neighborhood and gave lots of info on things to see in do that are off the beaten path – the kinds of things locals do.

Hi flat is on a very quiet, lovely street in a great neighborhood with loads of restaurants and cafes. The flat is well-appointed and our room was separated from the rest of the flat by a short bit of stairs, meaning it's easy to have your privacy and never see Terry and his family if you prefer. On the other hand, if you like to chat, Terry is open and generous with lots of great tips and easy to talk to.

We found only two negatives, one of which Terry is in the process of doing something about, the other of which is simply a fact of old houses in London:

1) my wife and I are both 185cm and the antique bed was a bit tight for us. Terry told us he's looking to replace the bed.

2) it was quite cold in London when we were there and the room could get a bit chilly, but Terry provided a small electric heater, which did an excellent job. Unfortunately the bathroom was also quite chilly.

That said, I would stay at Terry's again and don't hesitate to recommend him as a great host!