Originally built in 1857 as two private homes, the Windermere Hotel is a family-run property with a personal and homey feel. A blend of traditional etchings and contemporary artwork is dotted throughout the hotel and gives the place it's charming, bright character. The small lobby has a relaxed and quirky feel, with a traditional brown leather chesterfield sofa with union flag pillows, a marble floor, and a crystal chandelier. The quiet vibe is welcome in busy London, and guests are welcome to take books from the library during their stay. The hotel is geared toward tourists, corporate guests, and families who want a laid-back but sophisticated place to stay. The property draws guests from around the world.

The hotel is located on quiet corner lot in Pimlico, a five-minute walk from Victoria Station. It's a convenient spot for people who want to be close to a rail link, but want to feel like they're staying in a residential neighborhood. While the main tourist sights aren’t right at the property’s doorstep, many can be reached on foot and the closest tube station is at Victoria Station. It’s a 15-minute walk to the Saatchi Gallery, the Peter Jones department store, and the upscale shops and restaurants of Sloane Square. For those willing to walk a bit farther, it will take 20 minutes to reach Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Tate Britain, and Green Park. Heathrow International Airport is a 45-minute taxi or train/tube ride, while it takes 40 minutes to reach Gatwick Airport using public transport.

There are a wide range of room categories available at the Windermere Hotel -- Classic Single, Double, and Twin, Superior, Deluxe, Family (sleeping three), Family Suite, and also one-bedroom apartments which have a separate living room and kitchen. Each of the 19 guest rooms are individually decorated and have simple-but-elegant decor. The look is classic throughout, with striped or patterned curtains, carpeted floors, and color palettes that include softer shades of cream, mauve, green and gray. Some rooms have oak veneer furniture, while others -- like the Deluxe Double Room that we visited -- have dark wood furniture with antique lines. We did spot a bit of wear on some furniture. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, iPod docks, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, safes, and coffeemakers. Bathrooms are modern and stylish, with simple white tiling and contemporary fixtures and fittings. Some have a bath but most just have a shower. Toiletries and a hairdryer are provided. 

Room rates at the Windermere Hotel include a free daily English breakfast. This is served in the property’s Windermere Brasserie in the basement, which is a bright, homey space with eclectic artwork on the walls and comfortable brown leather seating. The brasserie is also open daily for dinner, and offers modern European cuisine using fresh ingredients from local suppliers. Room service is available from the brasserie during limited hours. There is also a bar within the restaurant that serves a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. A computer station is available in the corner for guests to use. The hotel has free Wi-Fi throughout. An airport shuttle service can be arranged for a fee, and parking is also available for a daily charge.