I stayed at the Don Gratton House (the student dorm of the London Arts College) for the second time this year and was again pleased with what I got for very little money (for London, i.e.).
The rooms are very basic, as you'd expect from student accommodation (no TV e.g., no room service except new bedsheets and towels once a week), but clean and neat, and of course en suite.
The bathroom was acceptable too, on both occasions. Friendliness of the staff varies quite a bit: the students who work at the reception are usually nice, but don't expect a smile or hello from the security people.
The location is very good indeed considering the price: Whitechapel underground station is a five minute walk; from there you'll get to central London with the Central or Hammersmith & City lines within 15-20 minutes, with a train every few minutes. There's also an overground service from that station.
Don Gratton House, thanks to the heavy grid iron gate and the chip card system, is very safe for travellers.
As an area, Whitechapel is distinctly working class, and dominated by multi-ethnic people, mostly Arabs. There are many small shops and pubs close by for a final drink before checking in at night.
Overall, a pleasant enough experience on both visits for this budget traveller. Will probably come back soon. read more