Meal plans explained

Self Catering

The host will not provide you with food. You will instead be given some storage space in the host’s kitchen and have access to the kitchen to cook your own meals, in accordance with household rules and times.

  • Meals provided: None
  • Use of kitchen: Full use

Bed & Breakfast

A continental breakfast will be provided (but not served) by your host. This usually includes toast, jam, cereal, tea/coffee/fruit juice. You are not generally permitted to use the kitchen to cook or store your own food. However, some hosts permit light cooking if specifically arranged when booking.

Important: Be sure to check our guidance regarding food allergies here.

  • Meals provided: Breakfast (provided, not served)
  • Use of kitchen: None or Light use

Half Board

The host will provide you with breakfast (continental) and dinner. Where possible, you will usually eat dinner together with the host. You will not be given any access to the kitchen (at any time) as meals are provided. Snacks are not included, but these can be purchased fairly cheaply and hosts usually can provide some storage space if requested.

Important: Be sure to check our guidance regarding food allergies here.

  • Meals provided: Breakfast (provided, not served) and Evening Meal (served)
  • Use of kitchen: No use

Full Board

Please note this is only usually required for short stay group bookings, but can possibly be arranged for an individual booking as a one-off. The host will provide you with breakfast (continental) and dinner, as per Half Board, but will also include a packed lunch. This will carry a small supplement to the Half Board price. You will not be given any access to the kitchen (at any time) as meals are provided.

Important: Be sure to check our guidance regarding food allergies here.

  • Meals provided: Breakfast (provided, not served), Packed Lunch and Evening Meal (served)
  • Use of kitchen: No use

Testimonials

Latest From the BLOG

21st Nov, 2025

London Pickpocketing Videos on TikTok: Tourist Areas vs Where You’ll Actually Live

Your parents have been sending you viral videos. Phone thefts on Oxford Street. Pickpockets on the…

Read More
1st Nov, 2025

How to Book Legitimate Homestays in London

Understanding what proper providers do helps you spot the fakes immediately. Here at London Homestays we…

Read More
16th Oct, 2025

How to Spot Fake London Accommodation (And Book Legitimate Homestays)

Students lose more money to accommodation scams than any other type of fraud when moving to…

Read More
1st Sep, 2025

Is South London Dangerous? Why Old Online Posts About London Areas Are Wrong

This happens almost every week: a student is placed in Balham, Brixton or Clapham. Everything’s confirmed.…

Read More
20th Jun, 2025

Free Things to Do in London on a Student Budget

From world-class museums to hidden parks, here’s how to experience the best of London without spending…

Read More
17th Mar, 2025

10 Brilliant Walks Near London You’ll Love

Photo by Iliana Nurmohamed on Unsplash From seaside strolls along white cliffs to beautiful woodland treks,…

Read More
19th Dec, 2024

Mayfair at Christmas: A Guide to London’s Most Spectacular Festive Lights

We love Christmas lights! If you do too, please read on.. ✨ There’s something truly magical…

Read More
12th Dec, 2024

Smart Student Living: Why Homestays Are Your Secret Weapon for University Housing in London

Great, you’ve been accepted at university and even better, it is in London – one of…

Read More
11th Dec, 2024

Guide for international students to set up banking in the UK

Hello! If you’re reading this, you’re probably getting ready for your studies in the UK. It’s…

Read More
Chat with Us