About Us

I’m a transplanted Iowa ‘girl’ who married a Scotsman and have lived most of my married life in London. My relatives and friends are always asking me for good places to stay and eat. Through researching these, I have acquired substantial knowledge of the London scene.

When presented with guidebooks or lists of hotels and restaurants on the internet there is often SO MUCH CHOICE - but what is good? Where can I stay and eat that won’t cost a fortune? Or to celebrate that ‘special occasion’? What are the best areas for my interests? How can I fit in the most important sights or out of the way places?

This was the inspiration for the website Pat’s Picks. It recommends value for money Central London hotels and restaurants that have been personally vetted by us.

As a family, we go to hotels and restaurants as ordinary customers so that we can make an honest judgement of the experience - just as you would get.

We only pick those venues that meet our criteria for value for money. (See our hotel and restaurant pages).

Let us use our knowledge of London and exploration of the city to direct you to hotels where you can stay for no more than £200 per night, and restaurants where you can eat for £25 per person. Visit the web page ‘Hidden Gems’ to see sights off the beaten track and my blog to read about where you can find new information about London.

Pat’s Picks can help you experience London in a way that won’t ‘break the bank’.