Accommodation

Hotels

These range from budget chain hotels to boutique city hotels to luxurious country manors. Hotels tend to be more expensive in large cities, especially London.

Grading: VisitBritain, the AA and RAC (as well as VisitWales and VisitScotland) have now agreed common standards for quality assessment. Hotels and guesthouses are classified by use of a star-rating system.

Bed and Breakfast

There are guest houses and bed and breakfast accommodation throughout the country. The quality, however, varies greatly and it is always worth seeing the rooms first.

Self Catering

Cottages and flats can be rented in many areas. For information, contact the local tourist board, or consult the relevant section in local and national papers.

Camping/Caravanning

There are camping and caravan sites throughout the UK, for short and long stays. Some sites hire out tents or caravans to those without their own equipment. Most sites offer basic facilities, while some have playgrounds, clubs, shops, phones and sports areas. The Camping and Caravanning Club (www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk) has a wide selection, although aimed more at caravanners than independent campers.

Holiday Camps/Centres

These offer accommodation, food and a full range of leisure activities generally at an all-inclusive price. They provide good holidays for families, and some run babysitting and children's clubs. Well-known names include Center Parcs (www.centerparcs.co.uk) and Butlins (www.butlinsonline.co.uk).

Youth Hostels

There are over 300 youth hostels in the UK. Standards vary greatly, from very basic night-time accommodation for hikers and cyclists, to modern hostels and motels which are often used by families and groups. Prices are very reasonable.

Accommodation Information

The Landmark Trust
Shottesbrooke, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 3SW, UK
Tel: (01628) 825 925.
Website: www.landmarktrust.org.uk

Youth Hostel Association of England and Wales
Trevelyan House, Dimple Road, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 3YH, UK
Tel: (01629) 592 600, UK only.
Website: www.yha.org.uk

VisitBritain's website has a comprehensive accommodation search facility (website: www.visitbritain.com).