First Impressions
The Lily Aparts sits on a busy stretch of Walworth Road, and honestly, you might walk past it if you’re not paying attention. It’s one of those converted Victorian buildings that London does so well — the kind where the original architecture still peeks through modern renovations. The entrance is modest, but once you’re inside, there’s this immediate sense that someone actually thought about what travelers need rather than just cramming beds into spaces.
Location & Getting Around
Southwark isn’t exactly tourist central, but that’s actually what I like about staying here. You’re in real London — the kind where locals grab their morning coffee and kids walk to school. Elephant & Castle tube station is about a 10-minute walk, which gets you into central London quickly enough. The area has this interesting mix of Caribbean shops, traditional pubs, and new developments that somehow work together without feeling forced.
The Apartment Experience
Here’s what sold me on this place — each apartment actually feels like someone could live here, not just crash for a few nights. The kitchenette isn’t just for show; it’s got a proper fridge, microwave, and enough counter space to actually prepare meals if you want to save money or just fancy staying in. My room had these tall windows that let in surprising amounts of light, and the bed was firmer than I expected — in a good way. The whole setup feels more grown-up than your typical hotel room.
Practical Details
The four-star rating feels about right for what you get here. There’s no fancy restaurant downstairs or elaborate lobby, but the basics are solid. WiFi actually works throughout the building (you know how hit-or-miss that can be in older London buildings), and the heating responds quickly — something you’ll appreciate if you’re visiting between October and April. Parking is street parking, which means you’ll be feeding meters or hunting for resident spots, so I’d honestly recommend just using public transport.
Why Guests Love It
What really works about The Lily Aparts is that it doesn’t try to be something it’s not. It’s straightforward, well-maintained, and priced fairly for what London apartment-style accommodation typically costs. The 8.6 rating makes sense when you consider that people aren’t expecting luxury — they want clean, functional space with a bit more room to spread out than a standard hotel offers. You get that here, plus the bonus of being in a neighborhood where you can actually see how Londoners live day-to-day.
You'll need to let the property know in advance what time you'll arrive.
