First impressions of this flat and its owner were very encouraging, and I can happily say these perceptions continued throughout my stay at Terry’s London flat.

This ground floor flat is a quiet respite from the bustling activity of central London. Both the armchair and sofa are comfortable to watch TV from, or read a book (of which there are a few dozen on the shelves). The sofa bed has a double mattress, and is comfortable and easy to pull from/put back into the sofa.

The double bedroom is a sizable room with a high ceiling. You’ll find a comfy mattress with a plush duvet and pillows that encourages late sleeping and ample storage for clothes in a dresser and small closet. There’s an electric heater in the closet, if needed, and an ironing board and a vacuum are effectively stored under the bed.

The bathroom is a lovely blue green tiled affair with a full-sized shower/tub. Upon arriving at the flat, I was greeted with the lovely surprise of hotel sized toiletries above the sink. This is just another example of how perfectly Terry has prepared this flat for visitors.

The kitchen was, by far, my favorite room in the flat. The pictures in the ad do not do it justice; it is far more spacious than in the photos. The kitchen is full of appliances that (as a former London dweller) are quite luxurious. There’s an oven and hob, clothes washer (no dryer), full-sized fridge, and a dishwasher. Terry has thoughtfully put salt and pepper shakers and olive oil near the oven, and washing tablets under the sink. The cabinets are stocked with all manner of kitchen things. If it’s not there, you probably don’t need it.

The flat is a short 10-minute walk to Vauxhall Station, where you can take the Victoria line into central London. Bus stops for the 2 and 88 lines are a short walk away. The surrounding neighborhood is full of restaurants. I can only vouch for the Portugal Restaurant (great food and atmosphere), as I cooked most nights. There is a giant Sainsbury’s market, a 6-minute walk from the flat on Wandsworth Road, which is great for a through shopping trip. If you’re tired after a long day of sightseeing, there is also a Sainsbury’s Local grocery right at the top of the stairs leaving Vauxhall station.

From the first contact to last goodbyes, Terry and Peter were consummate and considerate hosts. The location is very central and a quiet retreat in a lively neighborhood. I would rent this property again, and I recommend you should too.