Useful Information
Where are the properties?
We aim to provide 100% national coverage so you can expect to find a property near to wherever you are wishing to stay. Some properties are conveniently located near airports or seaports should you wish to rest before heading out of, or back into, the country.
How are the properties graded?
We do not grade the properties ourselves. They are graded by a variety of organisations such as the AA, RAC and Tourist Board. We will include details of any grading where possible.
How much will I have to pay?
We have included details of the rates. Some properties such as Farmhouses, Private Homes, etc are priced on a per-person basis. Other, more commercial properties such as Hotels are priced on a per-room basis. We have included details were possible but would recommend that you confirm the details when booking.
Can I settle my bill by credit card?
Many of the providers can accept credit cards and we have included details where possible. We would however recommend that you confirm this when booking.
Will I need to book ahead?
Usually yes, especially around holiday periods such as Christmas, New Year and Easter as these dates can be booked well in advance. It's not worth being disappointed by turning up without a firm booking.
What happens if I need to cancel?
Each of the accommodation providers will have their own cancellation policy. You can usually expect them to try and relet the dates but if they cannot or there is insufficient time you may be charged up to the full amount for the accommodation. It is advisable to take out travel insurance which will provide cancellation cover. We would recommend that you contact your local insurance broker for impartial advice or we suggest you contact Smart and Cook Insurance Brokers on 01584 872322.
When should I arrive?
Most private homes expect you to arrive between 4.00pm and 7.00pm. Hotels usually expect you to arrive after 2.30pm. If you know you will be arriving late or are delayed then telephone to advise. Some providers may relet your room if you've not arrived as expected and haven't contacted them.
When should I depart?
You will usually be expected to depart after breakfast and before 10.30am. If you are staying for multiple nights most providers allow all day access to the rooms but please confirm this when booking, especially if you are staying in a private home.
What are the bathroom facilities like?
Bathrooms are either en-suite, private or shared.
- En-Suite means the bathroom is accessed directly from your bedroom.
- Private means the bathroom is exclusively for your use but does not connect directly with your bedroom.
- Shared means the bathroom is available to other guests and sometimes the family in a private home.
We have included extensive details about bath and shower facilities where possible so that you can ensure you find exactly what you want.
Are the properties suitable for the disabled?
This largely depends on the type and extent of the disability. Some providers have ground floor rooms and adapted facilities but we recommend that you check with the provider when booking.
Are children welcome?
Some providers offer special rates for children, especially in family rooms. If you require use of a highchair or cot please check that these are available when booking.
Will I be allowed to take my pet along?
Many private homes welcome dogs and occasionally cats. We have included details where possible but would recommend you confirm when booking. Hotels tend not to allow pets. It is also worth considering that many private homes have resident cats and dogs and you should consider this especially if you have an allergy.
Are evening meals available?
The availability of evening meals varies widely. Some providers offer evening meals and we have included details where possible. If you are staying in a private home you should expect to give your host at least 24-hours notice that you would like an evening meal. If evening meals are not offered you can expect all providers to point you in the direction of a good pub or restaurant.
Will tea/coffee be provided?
The vast majority of providers will have provided tea/coffee making facilities in the rooms. We have included details were possible.
Will I be able to get an alcoholic drink?
Very few private homes provide alcohol. If you are staying in a private home you should also seek permission from your host before bringing alcohol onto the premises. You can usually expect to be able to get an alcoholic drink in a hotel or other more commercial property.
Will I be allowed to smoke?
The majority of providers are now non-smoking in the bedrooms. Some providers have a guests lounge within which you may smoke but you should confirm this when booking.
What parking facilities are available?
We have included details were possible but availability varies widely. We would suggest you confirm when booking.
What if I have a complaint?
It's unlikely that you will have cause to complain but things can go wrong. You should try to resolve your complaint with your host or the manager. Most complaints can be resolved very quickly and with little fuss.
Everything else.
If you have any other queries then please ask the host or the manager. They are there to ensure your stay is as enjoyable as possible. Remember that if you are staying in a private home your can expect to have to "fit in" with the way things are done. It's all part of the fun!
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