HOUR GLASS HOTEL, London

The hotel sits on the edge of the Heygate and Aylesbury estates, a neighbourhood described as rough but with easy access to the city. A bus stop is just outside (30 seconds' walk), with frequent services to central London - for example, a 55 bus towards Old Street Station or buses 343/136 to Elephant & Castle. The nearest tube stations are Elephant & Castle (15 minutes on foot, served by the Bakerloo and Northern lines) and Kennington (15 minutes, Northern line). Burgess Park with its playground and barbeque facilities is a 2-minute walk away. A 5-minute drive brings you to the Ministry of Sound clubs and restaurants in Elephant & Castle. The hotel is outside the London congestion charge zone, which is useful for those driving into the city.

Room types include single, double, twin, and family configurations. The family room features a bunk bed (double on bottom, single on top) plus an additional single bed, and it includes a microwave. Twin rooms with en-suite bathrooms offer a walk-in shower and soundproof walls. A double room with en-suite has a private shower and toilet. Rooms are described by some as compact and basic, with worn furniture and carpets. The bedding is bobbly, and mattress quality varies; some find the beds comfortable while others report springy or noisy metal frames. Road-facing rooms and rooms above the pub can be noisy from street traffic and pub activity. All rooms have a TV/DVD player, kettle, tea, coffee, biscuits, and a fridge. Towels and fresh linen are provided; ironing facilities, hairdryers, and plug converters are available on request. There is no balcony, and some rooms have windows that do not close properly.

The pub attached to the hotel is a local spot with a friendly atmosphere and reasonably priced drinks (around £4.30 a pint). It does not serve full meals, but you can order in or use the shared kitchen. The kitchen is equipped with all appliances, a washing machine, and a dryer, and is clean and free for guest use. Some guests have mentioned receiving free cereal and milk in their room as a simple breakfast option. For a fuller meal, the surrounding area offers takeaways and shops - a Tesco is about a 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, Burgess Park with its barbeque facilities is a 2-minute walk for a picnic.

On-site leisure is centred around the pub, which has a games room with darts and free live sports broadcasts. Happy hour is offered at an additional charge. For outdoor activities, the hotel is a short walk from Burgess Park, which has playgrounds and barbeque facilities. Fishing can be arranged off-site for an extra fee, and cycling is free but off-site. Indoor board games are available for families. The shared lounge/TV area provides a space to relax, and the pub's terrace and sun terrace offer outdoor seating. The hotel is not suitable for those seeking a spa, pool, or dedicated wellness facilities.

Wi-Fi is free in all areas. Luggage storage is free; you can leave bags from 9:30 AM. Reception is open from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM (weekdays) and 11:00 PM (weekends). Late arrivals after reception closes can still check in using a key safe after prior arrangement, though a fee may apply. The hotel offers express check-in/out and private check-in/out. Daily housekeeping is free, as are ironing and laundry services. Pets are not allowed (but pet bowls are available for guide dogs?). A shared kitchen with a washing machine and dryer is free for guests. Safety features include CCTV, smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and key-card access. The bar has a shared lounge/TV area and offers a welcome drink. The hotel is non-smoking throughout.