My first trip to London was exponentially better than I expected because of the outstanding hospitality of Paul and Fiona and the coziness of their lovely home. If you're looking for a more genuine experience of London and a comfortable stay in a safe, convenient residential neighborhood, this is the perfect place. The area feels very much like certain American college towns along the east coast. If you have ever been to the residential areas of Georgetown near DC, it's a similar vibe with rows upon rows of stately townhouses. What's more, there are multiple tube lines all within a 15 minute walk and along the way there is a huge variety of places to eat and shop. They are located near a Westfields as well which is a behemoth of a mall where-if you are like me-you can knock out a signficant portion of your shopping list in one day. Westminster and all the sites nearby don't even require a transfer if you get on at Ravenscourt Park station. The location is perfect if you want easy access to central London without the swamps of tourists and crowds.
The room itself was tidy and charmingly decorated. You are supplied with an electric pad on the mattress so you are toasty warm when you sleep on chilly nights. I slept like a log each night. There was great wifi reception in the room and, even though I did not use it, a small tv as well.
As for the hosts, you could not find kinder, more knowledgeable or hospitable people than Paul and Fiona. Not only are they extremely helpful in getting you oriented in London, they also have an insatiable curiosity about the world (being well-traveled folk themselves) and you will find them excellent conversationalists. Paul is a delightful gentlemen who was my primary contact. His responses are always timely and he goes out of his way to make sure you have the best stay. On my last day, he even very graciously helped me lug my full suitcase to the tube. In addition, Fiona is a wellspring of information, particularly about museums and historical sites so if you are visiting any of London's fine museums or landmarks, she often can provide guidance on exhibitions and sightseeing. My only regret is I hadn't contacted Fiona and Paul beforehand and asked them to look over my itinerary. They are both invaluable and insightful travel resources and will make your London excursion the best that it can be so contact them before you do something overly ambitious like me (like booking Hampton Court Palace and Kew Gardens on the same day!).
If you are looking through AirBnB and find most of the places listed too sterile and want a richer experience of London, you will love staying with Paul and Fiona. Cheers!