The Drayton Court Hotel, Ealing

Oh, what a gem The Drayton Court is, tucked away in one of Ealing's greener corners – it's got that perfect blend of a traditional pub feel with a bit of hotel charm that just draws you in. From what I've gathered from folks' experiences, the staff are the real stars here; they're so attentive and warm, sorting out early check-ins or helping with any little query like it's nothing at all. That enormous beer garden is a highlight – imagine sprawling out on a sunny afternoon with a cold drink in hand, surrounded by greenery, and it's accessible from ground level too, which is thoughtful for anyone with mobility needs. The rooms sound like a treat as well, all spotlessly clean with modern comforts and a solid breakfast to start your day, making it ideal if you're visiting London without the hassle of the city centre rush. On the flip side, it's a shame the opening times aren't more straightforward, as it can be a bit of a faff trying to plan around that. And while most chats about the place are full of praise, with great food and drinks on offer, there might be the odd noisy evening or something that doesn't quite live up to expectations, given it's a bustling spot. All in all, it's a solid choice for a casual meet-up or a comfy stay – I'd say give it a go if you're in the area, as the good bits really shine through.