Staying at Tessa's apartment near the Barbican was a great experience. The apartment is exactly as described except for the fact that it has even better views over London rooftops and the Barbican towers themselves! The location is superb: an easy 5 minute walk from either Barbican, Moorgate or Old Street tubes, whilst also only a 20 minute brisk walk to Tate Modern for instance. The supermarket across the apartment was very convenient for buying groceries for longer stays, and there was always cheap eats around - especially the wonderful food stalls right outside on Whitecross St during weekdays. The room was cosy and always warm despite the oncoming winter weather during my stay, and the washing machine was very convenient for doing some laundry. Yes, no lift up to the 5th floor, but that only helped burn off the carbs from that inevitable extra pint of beer. The apartment itself was super quiet with no audible sound of traffic or noise from neighbours for the perfect night's sleep. Tessa was a very attentive host who obviously puts the comfort of her guests first. Relative to other places based in such a central part of London, the cost is quite a bargain. I would not hesitate to recommend Tessa's place!