Interim Accommodation can be a great alternative to expensive and soulless Hotels or B&Bs when a new job or assignment requires relocation The choice in interim accommodation is usually:

Flat/House share (cheaper and more socible than B&B)

http://www.gumtree.com/
http://uk.easyroommate.com/
http://www1.flatmateclick.co.uk/ http://www.spareroom.co.uk/
http://www.housepals.co.uk/
http://www.intolondon.com/

or

Serviced Apartments (more expensive than flatshare but usually good quality,
highly convenient, and still cheaper than a hotel)

http://www.cityapart.com/
http://www.lfca.co.uk/p_newcourt.htm
http://www.deepblue-apartments.com/