Claire's house is located in a lovely neighbourhood, much closer to the centre of London than we expected (seems far on google maps, but tube is very fast and goes every 4 minutes!). Getting out of the craziness and touristy centre is actually a relief. The nieghbourhood is a better reflection of London than the centre. Close to her home is also a lovely park / forest, where you can walk and relax (and gasp at the huge houses in the large streets there). Supermarket just a 4 minute walk away.
Claire will leave you to your business and is not a pushy hip host, she's just very friendly and up for a chat if you are. The street is quiet, a family area, people walk their dogs or take their car and go to work. From our room we've heard nothing but church bells on sunday morning and occasionally the distant sound of an ambulance. The house is renovated, clean and neat, modestly decorated. Downstairs there's a breakfast room where you can sit in the morning to eat something. The room's upstairs, means no one passing by your door. Also, right next to the room, is a private very luxurious and comfortable decent bathroom. Included were soap, towels, toilet paper, water, breakfast. And a clean room with sheets.
Claire's children live at home, but they're not noisy or in the way at all. They have introduced themselves friendly, open and politely, and minded their own business during our stay. Although of course most of the day we were out in the city.
Over all a great stay, we'll be contacting Claire next time we are in London.