Self-catering in London

Q: We are a family of three - two adults and a 12-year-old. We will be looking preferably for self-catering apartment in London, for 4-5 nights. We would want a place that is reputable, clean, comfortable and close to a tube station. Please recommend a website or any places I can contact. - Hilary Wilmott

A: An increasing number of people are opting for self-catering accommodation in London, as it represents great value for money and gives one freedom when it comes to meals. As a result, availability has soared in recent years and there are many companies offering accommodation for rental. If you are looking for something special, try the www.boutiquelondonlets.com website. You will find some great two-bedroomed apartments in prime locations, averaging around 180 GBP per night. This may sound expensive, but it works out cheaper per person than similar hotel accommodation. And you have the freedom of a self-catering kitchen. For a wider selection or properties and some real bargains, have a look at www.holidaylettings.co.uk. Choose the area you would like to stay in and you will get an extensive list of available properties, You don't have to specify a suburb - you can use a general area such as "central-london-zone-1". Rates are given for daily and weekly rentals. Some apartments are only rented weekly. However, even if you only stay five nights, it may even pay you to pay for the full week if you intend to arrive early on your first day and leave late on your last day. One of the bargains I spotted was a house in Newham, London (zone 3) which sleeps seven people and goes for only 65 GBP per day. Or you coe uld opt for a very upmarket two-bedroomed apartment in Knightsbridge for 1275 GBP per week. Another website you can try is /www.shortstay-london.com, which is particularly good for last-minute deals. (13/3/11)