The 50 Best British B&B's

2. Allt-y-bela  
Alastair Sawday, publisher of the Special Places to Stay series of guides, says that Allt-y-bela is “a beautiful and ancient house, built between 1420 and 1599 and now perfectly restored for the 21st century. There’s a log-warmed dining room with private meals delivered by two clever chefs, and a super kitchen if you’d rather cook. Bedrooms soothe with limewashed walls, fabulous beds, no TV, stunning art, and proper bathrooms that glow in wood.”
Where: Usk, Monmouthshire (07892 403103; www.alltybela.co.uk)
How much: singles from £150

3. Ocklynge Manor  
The site of Ocklynge Manor was once a monastery with 40 acres of farm land, as well as a Commandery for the Knights of St John of Jerusalem. Now it’s an award-winning B&B, says Peter Birnie, the AA’s chief hotel inspector. “An air of peace and relaxation is evident in the delightful public rooms and well tended gardens.” The bedrooms are “spacious yet homely and filled with useful extras.”
Where: Eastbourne, East Sussex (01323 734121; www.ocklyngemanor.co.uk)
How much: singles from £35

4. Duke of Wellington
“At the heart of the Yorkshire moors, the Duke of Wellington is perfect for walkers,” say Jill and Susan, the authors of Beer, Bed & Breakfast, a guide to accommodation in over 500 UK pubs. Dating back to 1765, the inn was used as a recruiting post by local regiments during the Napoleonic Wars, and a cast iron plaque of the Duke of Wellington has pride of place over the open fireplace. “Several bedrooms enjoy fine views of the Danby Dale and surrounding moorland and a full English breakfast is included in the tariff.”
Where: Danby, North Yorkshire (01287 660351; www.danby-dukeofwellington.co.uk)
How much: singles from £35

5. Old Country Farm
“The landlady Ella’s passion for this remote, tranquil place – and the environment in general – is infectious,” explains Alastair. “Her house has beams dating from 1400; now it’s a rambling mix of russet stone and colourwashed brick, with a delightfully cluttered kitchen. Low-ceilinged bedrooms are simple and rustic. The garden is full of hellebores and snowdrops; roe deer and barn owls flit about in the surrounding woods. A wonderful retreat for nature lovers."
Where: Mathon, Malvern, Worcestershire (01886 880867; www.oldcountryhouse.co.uk)
How much: singles £35-£55

6. Greenwood Lodge City Guest House
“The house and gardens were divided at the turn of the 20th century and in 1987 it was converted into a guest house,” explains Jeremy. “Over the years the house has been completely transformed into a high-class establishment with individually decorated rooms, and is situated close to central Nottingham. It’s a fine late-Regency/early Victorian house that’s set in a beautiful courtyard garden.”
Where: Nottingham (0115-962 1206; www.greenwoodlodgecityguesthouse.co.uk)
How much: singles from £45

7. Soughton Hall & Stables Bar
This beautiful country house hotel was built as a bishop’s palace in 1714. “Accommodation is high priced,” warn Jill and Susan, “but for a special occasion the location and facilities are well worth the expense, and a two-night mid-week break with breakfast and dinner is offered at a reduced rate. The spacious guest rooms are all decorated in an individual style. Many have four-poster beds and wireless broadband access is also available.”
Where: Northop, Flintshire (01352 840811; www.soughtonhall.co.uk)
How much: doubles from £130

8. Victoria Inn
“The Victoria Inn is an authentic, unspoiled, immaculately kept brick-built local,” say Jill and Susan. “The overnight accommodation is up to date and high quality; delightful bedrooms are all en-suite with TV and tea-andcoffee- making facilities, plus free off-street   parking for guests – invaluable in central Durham. The hearty breakfast includes local sausages, black pudding and free-range eggs.”   
Where: Durham (0191-386 5269;   www.victoriainn-durhamcity.co.uk)
How much: singles from £45

9. Penmachno Hall
“Set in over two acres of mature grounds, including a mountain stream and woodland, this impressive Victorian rectory has been lovingly restored to provide high standards of comfort,” says Peter Birnie. “Stylish décor and quality furnishings highlight the many original features and the bedrooms have a wealth of thoughtful extras.”
Where: Penmachno, Betws-y-Coed, North Wales (01690 760410; www.penmachnohall.co.uk)
How much: singles from £39 per person

10. Park Hall
Not only is Park Hall a 14th-century former monastery, it’s a 600-acre working farm set in beautiful countryside. “It has country-house   grandeur mixed with a feeling of homeliness,” says Jeremy. “The Hall is peppered with original oak beams and open fires, and there are spa treatments available, too. There are a number of luxurious suites available designed for romance and relaxation.”
Where: St Osyth, nr Clacton, Essex (01255 820922; www.parkhall.info)
How much: singles from £95

11. Dolvean House
“A traditional Victorian hotel that has old fashioned standards of care and hospitality,” says Jeremy of Dolvean House in Falmouth. “It offers all the modern amenities that one would expect from a B&B, while retaining the charm and décor of a Victorian home with fine china and carefully selected antiques and books. The English-breakfast menu uses the finest Cornish produce available, providing a relaxing stay while supporting local producers.”
Where: Falmouth, Cornwall (01326 313658; www.dolvean.co.uk)
How much: singles from £40

12. North Moreton House
Set next to a fine Norman church in an idyllic Oxfordshire village, this large country house dates back to the 16th century. “Guests enjoy spacious bedrooms with some original fixtures still in place,” says Jeremy. “There is plenty to do and see locally with walks from the village and a charming local pub just a stroll away. North Moreton House is close to the River Thames, and the famous Ridgeway Trail and the Oxfordshire Cycleway are nearby.”
Where: North Moreton, nr Didcot, Oxfordshire (01235 813283; www.northmoretonhouse.co.uk)
How much: singles from £48

13. Camilla House
Camilla House is a late-Georgian town house that was built in 1836 for a master mariner operating out of the port of Penzance. Now it offers five-star B&B for visitors to Cornwall. It’s a member of the Green Tourism Business Scheme and, according to Peter, has “friendly proprietors who do their utmost to ensure visitors have a pleasant stay.” All this plus stunning sea views.
Where: Penzance, Cornwall (01736 363771; www.camillahouse.co.uk)
How much: singles from £35

14. Abbotsford Guest House   
“Situated just off Leith Walk and within easy walking distance of the city centre, this charming and friendly guest house offers   individually decorated, pleasantly furnished   and thoughtfully equipped bedrooms,” says Peter. “There is an elegant ground-floor   dining room where hearty breakfasts are served at individual tables.”
Where: Edinburgh (0131-5542706; www.abbotsfordguesthouse.co.uk)
How much: singles from £30

15. Inn at Whitewell
"This inn is situated on the River Hodder, with seven mile of trout, salmon and sea-trout fishing, and six acres of grounds with views down the valley,” says Fiona Stapley, the editor of the Good Guide to Dog Friendly Pubs, Hotels and B&Bs. If you don’t fancy messing about on the river, watch it flow by from one of the comfortable bedrooms. “There’s an exceptionally good wine list, particularly good food and courteous, friendly staff,” adds Fiona.
Where: Whitewell, Clitheroe, Lancashire (01200 448222; www.innatwhitewell.com)
How much: singles from £70

16. The Old Forge
"Owners Tim and Lucy are tangibly happy in this beautifully restored forge,” says Alastair. “He has worked wonders on the cosy Gypsy   caravan, which has super views and a picnic table outside. The attic bedrooms are snug, with Lucy’s quilts, country antiques and sparkling bathrooms. Delicious Aga-cooked breakfasts include eggs from their own freestrutting hens, organic sausages and bacon, and apple juice straight from the orchard.”
Where: Chapel Hill, Compton Abbas, Dorset (01747 811881; www.theoldforgedorset.co.uk)
How much: singles from £50

17. The Crazy Bear
Forget the name, says Peter. “This popular and attractive venue combines modern chic with old-world character. Cuisine is extensive   and varied with award-winning Thai and   English restaurants under the same roof (both awarded two AA rosettes). The bedrooms   are presented to a very high standard and the opulent new ‘infinity suites’ have   state-of-the-art facilities including luxury   baths at the end of the beds.”
Where: Stadhampton, Oxfordshire (01865 890714; www.crazybeargroup.co.uk)
How much: singles from £80

18. Pen-y-Dyffryn Country Hotel
“This handsome Georgian stone-built rectory is set in five acres of land, with lovely views of the Shropshire and Welsh hills,” says Fiona. “On offer are trout fishing, hill-walking and riding (shooting can be arranged), while the log fires, good food using the best local ingredients, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere make this the perfect place for a weekend away. The nearby woodland is great for walks, too.”
Where: Rhydycroesau, Oswestry, Shropshire (01691 653700; www.peny.co.uk)
How much: singles from £55

19. Low Penhowe
“A traditional Yorkshire stone-built farmhouse, with stunning views overlooking the Howardian Hills, Yorkshire Wolds and across to the North Yorkshire Moors, Low Penhowe makes an idyllic spot for a few quiet nights away,” says Jeremy. Although conveniently close to York, this rural gem feels a world away from the urban hustle and bustle. Rooms are refurbished to a high standard, and the award winning breakfasts use entirely local produce.
Where: Burythorpe, Malton (01653 658 336; www.bedandbreakfastyorkshire.co.uk)
How much: singles from £60 for one night

20. The Gallery
The Gallery is a traditionally furnished retreat close to the heart of London. “This stylish property, near to Kensington and Knightsbridge,   offers friendly hospitality, attentive service   and sumptuous bedrooms, some of which have a private terrace,” says Peter. “Public areas include a choice of lounges (one with internet access) and an elegant bar. There is an option of English or continental breakfast, and 24-hour room service is available.”
Where: South Kensington, London, SW7 (020-7915 0000; www.eeh.co.uk)
How much: doubles from £145

21. The Mill Wheel
An 18th-century millhouse with working waterwheel, the Mill Wheel was converted into a pub in 1987, with the 23-foot water wheel restored and now a feature of both the traditional bar with open fire and the beamed restaurant. Luxury en-suite rooms were added in 2004. According to Jill and Susan, the Mill Wheel “offers quality accommodation, a traditional bar with an open fire and  mouth-watering food.”
Where: Hartshorne, Derbyshire (01283 550335; www.theoldmillwheel.co.uk)
How much: Doubles from £50

22. Drumkeerin
It’s not just the landscape that impresses Peter about Drumkeerin. “Mary and Joe McFadden provide the very highest standards of care and service to their guests. Their house nestles high above the village in rolling countryside, and this peaceful haven has unrivalled views of the Antrim coast and Irish Sea toward Scotland. Breakfasts are substantial and make excellent use of organic produce.”

23. Strines Inn
Although the Strines Inn has just three rooms, according to Jill and Susan it’s well worth a visit. “Situated high up on Snake Pass in the Peak District National Park, it is hard to believe that this inn so near to Sheffield. It stands exactly 1,000 feet above sea level in glorious walking country. The rooms are full of character, all with four-poster beds and patchwork quilts, beams and fireplaces.”
Where: Bradfield Dale, South Yorkshire (0114-285 1247)
How much: doubles £75

24. The Gardeners Rest
 “A warm welcome awaits at the Gardeners Rest,” promises Jeremy. Located on the edge of the famous white cliffs on the Kent coast, “the house and garden are set in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and each bedroom has its own balcony, enjoying views of the one-acre plantsman’s garden, English Channel, Walmer and Kingsdown Golf Course and open countryside.”
Where: Kingsdown, nr Deal, Kent (01304 371449; www.gardenersrest.me.uk)
How much: singles from £50

26. Tanglewood House
“Visitors head down a steep track through   stunning landscape to this modern, curved   house on the shore of Loch Broom,” says Alastair. “Slump in the huge sitting room   and take in views from the floor-to-ceiling   window. Bedrooms are delightful: bold colours, crisp linen, proper bath tubs with fluffy towels and once you’re up, explore the wild garden then stroll to the rocky private beach for a swim in the loch.”
Where: Ullapool, Ross-shire (01854 612059; www.tanglewoodhouse.co.uk)
How much: singles from £66

27. Bessiestown Farm Country House
This B&B is renowned for serving one of   the best breakfasts in Cumbria. And you’re sure to get a good night’s sleep, according to Jeremy. “Bessiestown offers five luxury bedrooms and each bedroom has a beautiful, newly refurbished en suite bathroom with all the extras you would come to expect from a luxury B&B. There’s also an indoor swimming pool.” Presumably to help work off those breakfasts
Where: Catlowyd, Longtown, Carlisle, Cumbria (01228 577219; www.bessietown.co.uk)
How much: rooms from £37.50

28. Nineteen
Nineteen is a contemporary B&B that lies at the heart of Brighton, only minutes from the pier. “Bedrooms are freshly decorated with white walls, wooden floors and stylish artworks,” says Peter. “The continental breakfast (served with champagne at the weekends) is superb, providing a fine start to the day. There is also a CD and DVD library for guests.” A great choice for a weekend in London-by-the-sea.
Where: Brighton (01273 675529; www.hotelnineteen.co.uk)
How much: singles from £60

29. Southcliffe Hall, Devon
Alastair is a big fan of Southcliffe Hall. “I love this gorgeous, grandly idiosyncratic house overlooking the sea. Vast bedrooms have rich carpets, big beds, antique flourishes. Bathrooms are fabulous one-offs – roll-top baths to porcelain loos. Tea in the drawing room or the terraces, dinner in the panelled dining room; at breakfast, local produce. Great fun.”
Where: Lee, North Devon (01271 867068; www.southcliffehall.co.uk)
How much: double room £100; singles by arrangement

30. Lochwood Farm Steading
“Built in the 18th-century, this immaculately maintained dairy and arable farm offers warm hospitality with delicious food,” says Peter. “The attractive bedrooms, in a converted traditional stone byre, are comfortably furnished and well-equipped. There is a choice of lounges, and a spacious dining room where hearty famous fare is served.” Best of all is the outdoor hot tub to relax in...
Where: Saltcoats, Ayrshire (01294 552529; www.lochwoodfarm.co.uk)
How much: singles from £35

32. Royal Oak
Situated opposite the village green and topped with a thick thatched roof, this inn was a farmhouse and dairy in the 12th century. “The Royal Oak is an unspoilt and interesting old pub in an idyllic spot that’s marvellous for exploring Exmoor,” says Fiona. “It’s full of inglenook fireplaces, beams and flagstones and serves good food and real ales. Dog-lovers take note – pooches are allowed in the bedrooms and bar areas.”
Where: Winsford, Somerset (01643 851455; www.royaloak-somerset.co.uk)
How much: singles from £75

33. Manor Farm
Guests can expect hearty Aga-cooked breakfasts at Manor Farm. “This 17th-century farmhouse has welcoming owners and three comfortable bedrooms. There are several very good local pubs and restaurants nearby, plus good walking, cycling and riding directly from the farm.” The adventurous should note that the farm has its own private airstrip “with aerial adventures on offer,” according to Fiona.
Where: Collingbourne Kingston, Marlborough, Wiltshire (01264 850859; www.manorfm.com)
How much: singles from £60

34. High Houses
“The hilltop views will take your breath away – as will the drive to get up here!” warns Alastair. “The wonderful old yeoman’s house is surrounded by farmland and fell, fitting backdrop to an interior that brims with stylish simplicity. Be charmed by bare walls, stone slabs, vast rugs, planked floors, roaring fires, painted four-poster, Jack Russells and a thrilling stairway to the loft where the chickens once roosted, now a bolthole for kids.”
Where: Snittlegarth, nr Ireby, Cumbria (016973 71549; www.highhouses.co.uk)
How much: singles £50

35. Holne Chase
“Marvellously peaceful, Holne Chase is the ex-hunting lodge of Buckfast Abbey,” says Fiona. “Surrounded by sweeping lawns and with plenty of woodland walks, it’s the ideal location for a holiday with your hound. The owners are cheerful and welcoming and there’s very good modern English cooking using homegrown vegetables.” Fiona also recommends trying the excellent afternoon teas.
Where: Ashburton, Devon (01364 631471; www.holne-chase.co.uk)
How much: singles from £120

36. Sun Inn
“Piers Baker knew what he was doing when he acquired the rather unloved Sun Inn in 2003,” say Jill Adam and Susan. “The guest rooms have been beautifully equipped with huge beds. Rather than offer the usual full English breakfast, the Sun serves a continental version with a twist, including two different fruit salads, fruit bread and frittatas alongside the croissants and toast.”
Where: Dedham, Essex (01206 323351; www.thesuninndedham.com)
How much: rooms from £85

37. Lansdown House
“Nip down a side corridor of this 1600s townhouse and you could be in deep countryside; a delightfully long town garden and your own entrance give you independence,” says Alastair. “Fab breakfasts (in bed if you want) set you up for miles of sandy beaches, cycling, shooting, fly fishing, Alnwick Castle and horse riding.”
Where: Morpeth, Northumberland (01670 511129; www.lansdownhouse.co.uk)
How much: singles from £40

38. Leathermill Grange Country Guest House
“This attractive Victorian house is located in stunning rural surroundings and quality furnishings and décor enhance the many original features,” says Peter. “Imaginative dinners are served in an elegant dining room, and a spacious lounge with a conservatory is available. There are five acres of mature grounds with a well-stocked carp lake. Excellent hospitality is assured.”
Where: Caldecote, Nuneaton, Warwickshire (01827 716422; www.leathermillgrange.co.uk)
How much: Single from £60

39. Druidstone Hotel
“Alone on the coast above a fine beach with exhilarating cliff walks, this roomy and informally friendly hotel is run by a very nice family,” says Fiona. “It’s extremely winning and relaxing with a slightly fend-for-yourself approach amid elderly furniture, and glorious seaside surroundings with the resident dog and six cats.”
Where: Broad Haven, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire (01437 781221; www.druidstone.co.uk)
How much: singles from £39 per person

40. Tara Lodge
“Friendly staff and comfortable bedrooms make this establishment popular for tourists and business guests,” says Peter. “The dining room is the scene for memorable breakfasts, while the secure offroad parking is a bonus so near to the city centre.” Tara Lodge, managed by Nora Douds, is the first establishment in Belfast to achieve endorsement from the AA, the RAC and Les Routiers Ireland.
Where: Belfast (028-9059 0900; www.taralodge.com)
How much: singles from £65

41. Alstonefield Manor
“It’s definitely a country manor house, but it’s delightfully understated and cleverly designed to look natural,” says Alastair when describing Alstonefield Manor. “The bedroom soothes the soul with a painted wooden floor, antique iron bed, vintage linen, huge fluffy towels and a cool, quirky bathroom. Wake to birdsong – and a candlelit breakfast.”
Where: Alstonefield, Derbyshire (01335 310393; www.alstonefieldmanor.com
How much: singles from £50

42. White Horse
Jill and Susan recommend that “avid birdwatchers should book the ‘room at the top’ of the White Horse. It boasts a viewing telescope to the tidal marsh. All the rooms are spacious and modern, decorated in seascape colours. An extensive spread is offered at breakfast and the award-winning restaurant specialises in seafood and local seasonal produce.”
Where: Brancaster Staithe, Norfolk (01485 210262; www.whitehorsebrancaster.co.uk)
How much: Singles from £50

43. Old Granary Cottage
“A watery idyll of bobbing boats and weatherboarded buildings,” says Alastair. “Climb the stairs to a sun-filled sitting/dining room with limewashed cladding and stunning views of river and mill pond. Your bedroom is up again – white walls, French furniture, a grand bed with crisp linen, long views. For breakfast there’s traditional English as well as jugged kippers and homemade muesli.”
Where: Woodbridge, Suffolk (01394 383793; www.theoldgranarycottage.co.uk)
How much: singles from £55

44. Sandhollow Farm
“The converted farmhouse has spectacular views of the Cheshire plain and Welsh hills,” says Peter. “The bedrooms have been carefully renovated and there is a comfortable lounge with a log fire. Substantial breakfasts using organic, home-made and local produce are served in the adjoining dining room with views across the garden and surrounding countryside.”
Where: Burwardsley, nr Tattenhall, Chester (01829 770894; www.sandhollow.co.uk)
How much: singles £45

45. Driftwood Spars
“This family-owned hotel was once amine warehouse and its huge beams are said to have come from shipwrecks,” say Jill and Susan. “The oldest parts are dark and mysterious, the newer areas light and airy. It has its own micro-brewery and its seafood restaurant is highly recommended. At breakfast local ingredients, including sausages or smoked fish, accompany the hotel’s own free-range eggs.”
Where: St Agnes, Cornwall (01872 552428; www.driftwoodspars.com)
How much: singles from £43

46. Haworth Old Hall
“The Old Hall has just two letting rooms, a double and a twin, but they are quite beautiful and good value for high-quality accommodation,” say Jill and Susan. “This imposing 16th-century Tudor manor house was Yorkshire Pub of the Year 2006. One of the oldest buildings in the village, it was formerly known as Emmott Hall, and is entered by a formidable , studded-oak front door.”
Where: Haworth, West Yorkshire (01535 642709; www.hawortholdhall. co.uk)
How much: twin room £65

47. Stone House
“This lovely house is set in 1,000 acres of pretty countryside and surrounded by an 18th-century walled garden,” says Fiona. “As well as four-poster beds, there are open log fires, antiques and family heirlooms in the drawing room, a library, plus an antique full-sized table in the mahogany-paneled billiard room.” And, according to Fiona, the food is wonderful, too.
Where: Rushlake Green, Heathfield, East Sussex (01435 830553; www.stonehousesussex.co.uk)
How much: singles from £80

48. Willowburn
“Willowburn is a simple little white hotel on the shore of Clachan Sound,” says Fiona. “It has enthusiastic, welcoming owners who serve imaginative food using local and home-grown produce and delicious breakfasts in airy dining room overlooking the water.” It’s also extremely pet-friendly. “Guests’ dogs get a letter from the hotel’s pets (two dogs and a cat).”
Where: Clachan Seil, Isle of Seil (01852 300276; www.willowburn.co.uk)

How much: singles from £82

49. Mayflower Hotel
This smart property is a short walk from Earls Court, is close to Olympia and west London’s museums and attractions and comes highly recommended by Peter. “The attractive, individually designed bedrooms vary in size but are extremely well-equipped and have modern en suites. There is a stylish lounge and breakfast is served in the airy dining room.”
Where: Earls Court, London SW5 (020-7370 0991; www.mayflowerhotel.co.uk)
How much: singles from £75

50. Kinmel Arms
“This former coaching inn is a stylish destination. The four luxury guest suites have elegant décor with super king-sized beds, televisions and DVD players. The bathrooms are equally luxurious and each room has a private balcony or patio,” say Jill and Susan. “Breakfasts are imaginative, with platters of fresh fruit.”
Where: St George, Conwy, North Wales (01745 832207; www.thekinmelarms.co.uk)
How much: doubles from £135 from £55

25. West Stoke House
Billed as “restaurant with rooms”, West Stoke House is a wonderful place to eat and stay the night. According to Peter, “the large 18th-century house lies on the edge of the South Downs, so the rooms have great country views, while a terrace leads to over five acres of lawns and gardens. The restaurant, open to non-residents, offers a relaxed atmosphere to dine in.
Where: West Stoke, Chichester, West Sussex (01243 575226; www.weststokehouse.co.uk)
How much: singles from £85 

31. The Old School
“This B&B received a Silver Award at the Enjoy England Excellence Awards in 2007,” says Jeremy. “The Old School is an 18th century stone property surrounded by woodland in the village of Newton on the Moor, near Alnwick. Rooms are tastefully decorated with beautiful views. Meals are specially prepared from the finest local ingredients.”
Where: Newton-on the-Moor, Alnwick, Northumberland (01665 575767; www.northumberlandbedandbreakfast.co.uk)
How much: singles from £70