England Travel Guide

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Hotels

England's hotels have changed beyond recognition in recent years, with smart boutique hotels steadily replacing the grotty bed and breakfast. It is rare to find a town in England, however small, which does not have at least one hotel. Some grand London hotels, for example the Savoy, are famous the world over, and there is an increasing amount of stylish and modern accommodation across the country.

Grading: VisitBritain, the AA and RAC (as well as VisitWales and VisitScotland) have agreed common standards for quality assessment. Hotels and guesthouses are classified by use of a 1- to 5-star rating system.

Bed and Breakfast

There are guest houses and bed and breakfast facilities throughout England. Under the new quality standards, guest houses, inns and farmhouses providing bed and breakfast services are classified by a star-rating system. (The old diamond-rating system may still be in place in some areas while the new standards are being phased in.)

Self Catering

Cottages, flats and bungalows can be rented in many areas. Standards vary, but this is a quickly growing sector and some true bargains can be found, particularly if traveling with a family or in a group.

Camping/Caravanning

There are camping and caravan sites for short and long stays, in or near almost every village or town, especially in popular areas for walking and adventure sports. Some sites hire out tents or caravans. Most sites in England offer basic facilities, while some have playgrounds, clubs, shops, phones and sporting areas.

Holiday Camps/Centres

These offer accommodation, food and a full range of leisure activities generally at an all-inclusive price. Well-known names include Center Parcs (www.centerparcs.co.uk) and Butlins (www.butlinsonline.co.uk).

Youth Hostels

Standards vary greatly, from very basic night-time accommodation for hikers and cyclists, to modern hostels often used by families and groups. Prices are very reasonable.

Accommodation Information

VisitBritain has a comprehensive accommodation search facility online (www.visitbritain.com).

Youth Hostel Association of England and Wales
Trevelyan House, Dimple Road, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 3YH, UK
Tel: (01629) 592 700.
Website: www.yha.org.uk