The SMART Backpackers group aims to provide secure, attractive, comfortable and hygienic accommodation in the heart of London at unbeatable prices. There are two in Bayswater and one in Camden to choose from. The focus is on round-the-clock living here: coin-operated laundry facilities, lounge and games room/bar, pool tables and high-definition plasma TV screent with Sky satellite reception, drinks and hot water are available 24 hours a day.
Price examples (January 2008)
Camden Inn & Hyde Park Inn: -
10-14 bed dorm: £9.99 low season weekday, £12.99 low season weekend, £11.50 high season weekday, £15.50 high season weekend
4-Bed Dorm: £16.50 low season weekday, £17.50 low season weekend, £18.50 high season weekday, £21.50 high season weekend
Hyde Park View: -
6-bed dorm: £14.99 low season weekday, £16.99 low season weekend, £16.99 high season weekday, £18.99 high season weekend
Why is it a good choice for a budget traveller?
These hostels are some of the few open in London 24 hours - there's no curfew or lockout, meaning you can come and go as you please, or watch a movie at 5am on the state of the art entertainment system if it takes your fancy. If you want to be central but away from the tourist hubs, staying in funky Camden area may appeal, with its arts scene, funky markets, crazy fashion and small bars playing all kinds of music. Bayswater has a similarly bohemian vibe, yet is just a stone's throw from many of the sights you're likely to visit. As there are long happy hours, theme nights, book exchange tables, juke boxes, sports and movie evenings you won't be bored if you stay in. T he Hyde Park View is a partially converted three-star hotel and listed building, and claims to be the only hostel in London to offer en-suite bathrooms in every room - worth considering if you can stretch the budget at bit. You can get a discount at a couple of local eateries if you stay there too.
Where is the hostel?
SMART Camden Inn: 55-57 Bayham Street, Camden, London NW1 O55 - nearest tubes Camden Town and Mornington Crescent SMART Hyde Park Inn: 48-50 Inverness Terrace, Bayswater - nearest tubes Bayswater and Queensway
SMART Hyde Park View: 11 Craven Hill Gardens, London W2 3EU - nearest tubes Bayswater and Queensway
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