The Bedford at Braddon – 2BR with Free parking & Wifi

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon The Bedford at Braddon during a quick trip to Canberra last spring – right when the Floriade festival was wrapping up and the city was still buzzing with that fresh, floral vibe. It’s tucked away on Ijong Street in the heart of Braddon, which, honestly, is one of those underrated suburbs that feels like Canberra’s cooler, more laid-back side. Not the sterile government hub you might picture – think trendy cafes and street art popping up everywhere. I drove in from Sydney, and finding free parking right there was a godsend; no circling blocks like in the city center, just a spot in their secure garage that saved me a headache (and probably 20 bucks a day). The place is a 2-bedroom apartment setup, nothing flashy for its 3-star rating, but it had that lived-in charm – you walk in, and there’s this faint, welcoming scent of fresh linen mixed with whatever coffee the previous guests brewed. Check-in was a breeze via a key code they emailed ahead – no front desk drama, which suited my late arrival after dodging kangaroos on the highway.

What really won me over was how it felt like a proper home base without trying too hard. The two bedrooms are spacious enough for a small group or family – I mean, I was solo but appreciated the extra room to spread out my work stuff. The wifi was solid, not the spotty kind you get in some budget spots; I streamed a movie without a hitch while prepping for a meeting. And location-wise, it’s genius – a short stroll down to Lonsdale Street for brekkie at places like Barrio Collective Coffee, where the flat whites are killer and the vibe is all locals chatting about politics or whatever’s on at the National Gallery (which is just a 10-minute drive away, by the way). The kitchenette came stocked with basics, so I whipped up eggs one morning instead of splurging out – though, fair warning, the appliances are a bit dated, like the microwave that hums louder than you’d like at 7 a.m. It’s quiet at night, surprisingly, even with Braddon picking up on weekends; I only heard the occasional tram rumble from nearby Northbourne Avenue. Oh, and the beds? Firm but comfy, with those crisp white sheets that make you sink in after a day exploring Lake Burley Griffin – though the pillows could use a fluff-up, if I’m being picky.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra for work or a chill getaway – say, during the quieter winter months when the crowds thin out and you can snag deals – this spot’s a smart pick. It’s not luxury, but that 8.5 rating feels spot-on; practical, affordable, and way more character than a chain hotel. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially for the freebies like parking and wifi that actually make life easier. Just pack your own coffee if you’re a snob about it – otherwise, dive into the local scene and thank me later.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $184. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Comfy apartment in a great location – Sophie from Australia – 7 December 2024 (9/10)

  Comfy beds, great location within walking distance to restaurants. Easy carpark for one car included.
  Host responded very quickly when booking.com made an error.

• a very pleasant stay experience – Kaniz from Australia – 28 November 2024 (10/10)

  kitchen set up was very welcoming & thoughtful. location was very nice ,quite street yet close to all amenities and close to city& restaurents
  
  What could be improved: small toilet but no big deal, it was neat & clean

• Very good – Eileen67 from New Zealand – 25 October 2024 (8/10)

  Great location.

• Efficient and easy. Thanks hosts. – Libby from Australia – 27 May 2025 (8/10)

  Very convenient and comfortable for a short stay
  
  What could be improved: Lights outside were very bright all night

• Lovely stay and good value for money – Linda from Australia – 5 April 2025 (9/10)

  Great location with cafes and restaurants a 5 min walk away and fairly quiet around the apartment block. The plumbing was a bit noisy but probably just due to age.

• Very comfortable for a family of four and close to all main sites. – Celeste from Australia – 31 December 2024 (7/10)

  The location was great, the lounge and dining area was very spacious and the beds very comfy. A bonus to have a washing machine too.
  
  What could be improved: It needs quite a bit of maintenance, e.g. the fly screen door and is in need of a deep clean.

• Superb – Wayne from Australia – 17 January 2025 (9/10)

• Superb – Gabrielle from Australia – 16 November 2024 (9/10)

• Great spot to stay in Canberra. Has everything you need. Would definitely stay again – Rebekah from Australia – 10 October 2024 (10/10)

• Superb – Daud from Australia – 10 October 2024 (9/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities