The Mitre House Hotel has all the charm one would expect in a historic family-run hotel. The hotel was originally built as a Regency townhouse in the 1860s, and the feeling of faded glamor is definitely evident today. Unlike the hotel's imposing facade, interiors feel dated and a little bland. Expect old-fashioned fabrics and a muted color palette in the bedrooms. The artwork -- collected by the owner himself -- is a redeeming feature. The bold prints and paintings add some much-needed personality and flair. An unpretentious ethos is championed here, which feels entirely appropriate for a family-run business. The vibe is comfortable and laid-back, which appeals to the tourists, couples, and young families who stay here. This is a traditional and personable property in a part of town where chain hotels and pretense can often be all that’s on offer. While it won’t be to everyone’s taste, it’s clear that the service, location, and value for money, are what draw loyal guests back time and time again.

The hotel’s location -- on a busy street in bustling Paddington -- is ideal for sightseers looking to explore central London’s major landmarks and tourist attractions. Flanked on all sides by tube stations, restaurants, and beautiful green spaces, it’s hard to find fault with this hotel’s location. It’s a five-minute walk to Hyde Park, which often hosts events and concerts, as well as boating, tennis, and horse riding. A pleasant 20-minute stroll through the park will take you to The Royal Albert Hall, Science Museum, and the Natural History Museum. The immediate surroundings are incredibly attractive, as you’d expect from this kind of exclusive postal code, with plenty of bars and restaurants dotted around. For guests without a car, Paddington Station and the tubs are a five-minute walk (or less). From the train station, you can reach Heathrow Airport via the Heathrow Express in less than 20 minutes. 

The rooms here are a simple affair, but all are clean and functional. The wicker chairs, dark wood desks, and plain bathrooms are in keeping with the hotel’s traditional approach, but unfortunately it has all of the charm of a budget motel. There’s nothing sophisticated or slick about the styling, though an injection of interest comes in the form of varied pieces of eye-catching artwork. Sourced by the owner himself, it’s these personal touches which add some sparkle and color to otherwise nondescript rooms. All rooms include basics like free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with Sky Sports, while some add generous seating areas, writing desks, and jetted tubs. However, there is no air-conditioning, For business travelers, the Junior Suites may be the best option, as these have desks and trouser presses. All bathrooms come with hairdryers and free toiletries. Don’t be fooled by the decor, though, as out of style doesn’t necessarily mean fraying carpets and dusty shelves. During our 2017 visit, the rooms were freshly painted and bathrooms newly grouted and tiled.

The features at this hotel are fairly basic compared with other properties in the area, though rates are significantly cheaper here. The highlight is the generous lobby area that spills out to the pub and lounge. Drinks are available in the bar, which stocks all the usual options as well as some local craft beers. Breakfast is usually a crowded affair, with plenty of the guests choosing to make the most of the free cooked breakfasts, especially as there's no room service. For those with dietary requirements check ahead as the menu can be somewhat limited. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and worked well during our 2017 visit. Parking is free and there are spaces located at the front of the hotel.