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This article will explain how B&B's work, and what to expect as well as weighing up any positives and negatives compared to a hotel.
In the UK, inns and B&B's are popular alternatives to hotels and often located in beautiful historic houses filled with antiques and unique furnishings.
Some B&B's are more basic and simply a cost effective place to get a good night's sleep.
What's the difference between a B&B and an Inn? The accommodation at an Inn and a B&B can be very similar.
Both a B&B and an Inn will frequently have fantastic character, due to the superb charm of the old buildings they are often in.
The difference between the two is usually the meals.
At a B&B that is what you would expect as standard (however many these days offer additional meals, at a reasonable cost).
At an Inn the evening meal is often included (Although it's always best to check).
In the UK B&Bs and Inn are also called Guest houses.
If you're planning to visit a specific area it worth having a look on the internet before you leave and finding a guest house that will suit your needs.
Are B&Bs suitable for Children? Some B&B's don't allow young children, although most do.
It's best to check with the B&B before visiting.
It usually depends on the type of B&B you are planning on visiting, for example a lovely old farm house is likely to accept children where as an old house that's full of antiques or an Inn that sales alcohol may not.
If you are a couple looking for a quiet and relaxing break away from the children then you will probably be best to check whether a B&B allows children or whether there will be any staying there when you are before you visit.
What Service can I expect in a Bed & Breakfast? When you stay at a B&B you are staying in someone's home and they are also the staff.
They probably run a B&B because they like people and enjoy being a host.
Therefore you will usually be very well looked after; however you won't have dozens of staff at your beck and call like you may in a large hotel.
As with a hotel you should respect other guests and your hosts, so things like playing loud music or having your TV on very loud until late is not polite and won't make you very popular.
What time can I check in or out? Because you are staying in someone's house they are usually very accommodating with regards checking in and checking out times.
However they may have some standards times they prefer to work to if possible.
Of course if you're going to be arriving late then its good manners to inform your hosts as early as possible, also they can ensure there is somebody up to let you in and show you to your room.
Is the price negotiable? Any B&B will have standard set fees for a room.
If you call to book a room then the chances are you will be talking to the owner, if you wish to try and negotiate and the fee and ask nicely then they may or may not be agreeable to it.
In the same vain if you have a fantastic stay and are particularly well looked after by the hosts you may wish to leave a tip (although this isn't expected).
Many people will book a whole B&B for a weekend away with friends or a hen weekend is this scenario as you are booking all the rooms there is more chance of negotiating some discount.
Is there anything else to know? When you stay at a B&B as the owners are local they will often know great places to visit in the area and frequently places that you wouldn't find in the guide books.
Don't hesitate to ask their advice as they will probably be more than happy to help.
Visit Bed and Breakfasts in Bath for a fantastic place to stay near the beautiful City of Bath
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