Greatest Expectations

East London is often stereotyped as a load of trendy areas with traditional boozers and industrial vibes, but Wanstead is far east enough to have a different feel. This village-like area is connected to the city, but feels more like a quaint town. With a tube station just six minutes from this cosy flat, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Let’s start outside, as this Georgian conversion building has quite an interesting history – literature fans will be thrilled to hear that it was once owned by Charles Dickens. But this is far from a ‘Bleak House’. Inside, the decor is bright, fresh, and modern. Dark wooden floors look sophisticated alongside white walls and glossy kitchen cabinets, with a pop of colour coming from regal purple cushions. A gilded mirror completes the elegant look, and extra luxury comes from a welcome hamper full of organic goodies from your host. While you’ve got a cute private patio for sitting outside, you might want to explore further afield. Take a fourteen-minute drive to the vast greens of Epping Forest. With nine nature reserves in the district, this 8000-acre landscape makes London feel like a world away.

Home truths:
*You'll have an allocated parking space on the street
*Self check-in with a lockbox is available if you're arriving late, but your host is happy to greet you if not
*There is room to sleep one adult or two kids on a sofa bed in the lounge
*Plenty of childcare facilities, from cots to changing tables, are available – just ask in advance
*Your host generously provides a welcome pack with some organic goodies
*You'll have a dedicated Home Manager available to contact throughout
*Your host kindly includes a pet welcome pack plus bowls, beds, and equipment
*The hosts manage several houses that can be booked together to accommodate larger groups – please ask for more information