What are the different accommodation options in the UK? Where can you stay to get some uniquely British experiences? We cover all different options – including accessible – from cozy inns and pubs with rooms, oh-so British B&Bs (Bed & Breakfast), luxurious country hotels, boutique city pads, budget-friendly hostels, and beautiful camping and Caravan Site. It’s time to get excited about where you’re going to be in the UK!
Staying in pubs and inns in the UK
Everyone loves a traditional British pub, but did you know you can stay in one, too? With pubs and inns all over the country – from beautiful country locations to city center locations – expect a warm and comfortable welcome.
What is an inn?
In the past, travelers from across Britain would stop at a coaching inn to eat and rest on long journeys – most taverns in Britain date back hundreds of years when everyone traveled by horse and stagecoach. This means that many boast original architecture and unique stories.
Why choose to stay in an inn or a pub?
You can drink, eat and sleep all under one roof, which is a great way to meet the locals! You’ll experience the true British pub and tavern lifestyle, and you’re sure to pick up some stories to share with your friends and family back home. The Stay In A Pub website helps you find pubs with accommodation around the UK.
Staying in hostels in the UK
Staying in youth hostels
If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodations and a chance to meet other travelers, staying in a youth or backpacker hostel could be a great option for you. You can find simple, clean, and good value hostels in most British cities and major tourist destinations. Accommodation isn’t just for backpackers – people of all ages and families are welcome. The Youth Hostel Association (YHA) is the UK national organization that runs reliable hostels across the country; In some really beautiful places.
What to expect?
- Dorm-style accommodation – shared rooms with 4, 6, 8, or 10 beds, often bunk beds.
- The rooms may be organized by gender, depending on the size of the hostel and the pricing options.
- Shared facilities such as bathrooms, kitchen with cooking equipment, communal dining room, and sitting room or area.
- Reception desk with help and advice on local attractions.
- Private rooms (doubles, family rooms) are increasingly available if you need that bit of extra privacy.
How to find a hostel
The Youth Hostel Association (YHA) is a great place to book hostels in the UK. Many independent and boutique hostels can also be booked through Hostel World.
Country-house hotels
As the saying goes, the UK countryside is ‘not just a pretty face’. Sure, it’s beautiful – there are plenty of places to see, from chocolate box villages in England’s The Cotswolds to spectacular movie-backdrop glens in Scotland to the ‘world’s best beaches in Wales. Open your mind to treehouses, windmills and, of course, cozy bed and breakfasts, and the countryside have an abundance of homes you’d love to live in.
Why should you choose the countryside?
- They’re the perfect destination to be located near outdoor activities
- They’re usually surrounded by stunning views and fresh, clean air
- You’ll enjoy a cozy atmosphere that will help you to relax at the end of the day
- You might enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, free WiFi, and the chance to eat al fresco!
Where could you stay?
- In a forest
- By the beach
- On a farm
- Next to a loch
Camping, caravanning, and motor homes
Why choose camping?
The UK is a great place to experience the various camping sites and caravan parks that are scattered up and down the country. Camping is affordable, great fun, and the perfect way to experience the unique and world-famous British countryside.
Why choose a motorhome?
Motorhomes give you more freedom to explore at your own pace and offer a wider choice of places to stay, including most campsites and caravan parks.
For a list of sites around Britain visit Pitchup, Cool Camping, Park Resorts, and the Forestry Commission. Also, check out The Camping and Caravanning Club for more details
Boutique and designer hotels
Design-conscious and innovative boutiques and designer hotels can be found all around the UK. Reveling in innovative architecture and funky decor, many exude an air of uncluttered minimalism, and some have excellent restaurants.
Where should you stay?
Stay in a hotel and there will be an option to suit every budget and taste! So if you choose a place that is in the heart of city activity or somewhere peaceful in the British countryside that helps you recharge your batteries, there will be a boutique hotel for you. There are plenty of boutique and designer hotels in the UK that will give you an extraordinary experience. Whether you want a hotel with a rooftop pool or a Michelin-star hotel restaurant and award-winning spa, you’re guaranteed to find what you need!
Accessible accommodation
There are many accessible accommodation options in the UK for visitors to choose from. From chic city center hotels to spa experiences and eco-friendly retreats, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
All of the UK’s regional tourism boards provide information about the use of the disabled in their accommodations and sightseeing guides. The National Accessible Scheme (NAS) rates housing accessibility in the UK and it is worth checking before that housing has been awarded a certificate.
Helpful tips for choosing accommodation
If you are struggling to choose accommodation for the duration of your Great Britain stays, the NAS will give you the information you need to make an educated decision. NAS covers three types of impairments: mobility, hearing, and visual. The assessed properties will have features like handrails, ramps, hearing loops, and color contrast, to name a few.
The Tourism for All Travel Planner lists all current NAS members and includes their ratings.
Accommodation options in the UK
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