Aglow

Situated on the top floor of a period townhouse in quiet Kensington, this pocket-sized flat is a cosy base for a trip to London. Bright and snug, we love the original wooden floors and the pops of yellow on the dining chairs and throw cushions. We think it's perfectly suited to a couple or a small family. The bathroom is sleek and modern, with a rainfall shower and underfloor heating to keep chilly toes at bay. Though it's small, the kitchen is stylish and still has enough cookware and counter space to rustle up a quick bite to eat. Plan your route around the dining table, using the helpful Tube map above the sofa as a guide. Then, set off and explore. This is a residential neighbourhood, right down the street from Olympia London. A seven-minute stroll will take you to Kensington High Street, where you'll find cosy coffee shops, international eateries and stores ripe for browsing. Kensington Palace and Hyde Park are about a thirty-minute walk away, or just hop on the tube at Shepard's Bush Station – ten minutes on foot – and be in central London in no time.

Home truths:
*The maximum occupancy is two adults and one child, with the one child sleeping on a sofa-bed
*On-street paid parking is available and can be arranged by the host – that said, we don't think a car is necessary here
*There is no lift in this building and this flat is on the third floor – the staircases are wide, carpeted and reasonably easy to climb, but we suggest packing light