The Ultimate Gen-Z Stay: Generator London is affordable, safe, and super fun!

Author: Mix Cacho-Negrete

London is one of the best cities in the world – the sights, the history, the shopping, the theatre. But there’s always been a stressful thought in the back of my head when I start planning a trip there: “Where will I stay that’s actually affordable AND safe?” As a Gen-Z woman who often travels alone, safety and affordability are essential to me – and I never want to compromise on location or cleanliness either.

Enter: Generator London (@staygenerator)

Generator offered to host me during a recent trip to London, in exchange for an honest review. I was curious about their rooms as they’re just five minutes from Russell Square tube station and very close to King’s Cross – such a central location. They describe themselves as a “boutique hotel and urban hostel”, offering both traditional hostel-style dorm rooms and private rooms. On top of that, the rates are incredibly affordable, from just $15 for a shared room (and from $66 for a private one!). But beyond the price, Generator promises a fun – yet safe – atmosphere.

I arrived around 11 PM on a Wednesday, and the place was bursting with energy. There were young people playing games, a shuffleboard table, a photo booth, and a lively bar serving late-night food. There’s something to do at all hours – but crucially, there was also a security presence at the door. The staff were both kind and alert, which made me appreciate the perfect balance of freedom and safety.

I headed up to my room – a Superior King, their most luxurious offering. It featured a king-sized bed, a private bathroom, and plenty of natural light. While I think some of the bedding and furniture could use an update, I was genuinely impressed by the cleanliness. The bathroom was newly renovated (and yes, the water was HOT!), and in the morning, the room was filled with sunlight.

I genuinely loved my room. It was spacious – with a desk, a clothes rail, and a full-length mirror. My only wish would be for more storage (like a wardrobe or dresser), but there was more than enough space to organise my things.

Throughout my stay, I explored other areas of Generator. There’s a laundry room, a locker room, and I even toured one of the private “dorm” rooms – which also have a private bathroom, mirror, and clothes rail. I tried the unlimited buffet breakfast, available for a few extra pounds – definitely worth it.

And yes, the location is unbeatable. It’s tucked just off the main street, so it’s quiet at night, yet only a few minutes’ walk to the nearest tube or bus stop – making my city travels incredibly straightforward.

Overall, staying at Generator was a fantastic experience. The price, the safety, the spaciousness of the room, and the unbeatable location were like nothing I’ve experienced in London before. If you’re looking for a safe, fun place to meet fellow travellers, I couldn’t recommend it more.

Staying at Generator renewed my hope in finding a place to stay in London that doesn’t break the bank – but more importantly, feels like a home away from home.