First Impressions
The 2 Bedroom Appartment sits on Ripple Road in Barking — and honestly, you know what you’re getting from the name. It’s straightforward, no frills, but that’s actually part of its charm. This three-star place doesn’t pretend to be something it isn’t, which I found refreshing after dealing with hotels that oversell themselves.
The Space
What really works here is the apartment setup — you get proper breathing room that most hotel rooms just can’t match. The two bedrooms are decent-sized (not massive, but you’re not bumping into walls), and there’s a living area where you can actually spread out. The kitchen is basic but functional — I mean, it’s got everything you need if you want to grab groceries from the Tesco down the road instead of eating out every meal.
The furnishing is pretty standard stuff, but everything worked when I was there. The beds were comfortable enough, and there’s decent storage space if you’re staying more than just a night or two. The whole place feels lived-in rather than sterile, which some people love and others might find a bit too casual.
Location Reality Check
Barking gets a bad rap, but it’s actually not terrible if you know what you’re doing. You’re about 20 minutes to central London on the District line — the Barking station is a short walk away. The area around Ripple Road is pretty quiet, mostly residential, which means you’ll sleep well but won’t find much nightlife right outside your door.
There’s a big retail park nearby with all the usual suspects — Asda, McDonald’s, that sort of thing. It’s practical rather than picturesque, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need. Plus, parking here is way easier than anywhere closer to the city center.
Value Proposition
Look, this isn’t going to wow anyone with fancy amenities or Instagram-worthy interiors. What it does offer is space, functionality, and a price point that won’t make your wallet cry. For families or groups who need multiple rooms without paying London hotel prices, it actually makes a lot of sense.
The 7.1 rating feels about right — it’s solid without being spectacular. I’ve stayed in places that cost twice as much and offered half the space. The owner seems to keep things maintained, and the basics all work properly.
Why Guests Choose It
This place works best for people who prioritize space and budget over location and luxury. If you’re planning to spend most of your time exploring London anyway, having a comfortable base with actual room to move around beats cramming into a tiny central hotel room. Plus, you can cook your own breakfast instead of paying £15 for hotel toast and coffee.
It’s particularly good for longer stays — anything over three or four nights, and you’ll really appreciate having that extra space and kitchen access. Just don’t expect room service or a concierge, because that’s definitely not what you’re paying for here.
You'll need to let the property know in advance what time you'll arrive.