We've stayed here before and find it an ideal starting off point for trips into Central London. The bus journey is about an hour each way, but the No 3 isn't generally too crowded and it's a good way to view the suburbs as well as unwinding at the end of a day in town. We haven't used the local shops, but they aren't far.... and we aren't able to judge whether this is a good site for families. During a "quiet day" we strolled to the Horniman Museum along the Green Chain walk and were surprised by the delightful path (and the chance to get a bus back up the hill!) The reception team were both welcoming and helpful with practical matters (there was a bus strike on during our visit). Our only regret is the uncertainty about the future of this site. It's a valuable assset for the club. We do hope the local council can be persuaded to continuue to make it available.