You might not think of bed and breakfasts (or B&Bs, as the cool kids call ’em) as particularly luxurious, but they certainly can be. In fact, there’s quite a bit of competition between B&Bs to be named the best of the best, with AA’s annual national B&B awards coming with a tonne of prestige.
AA has been running its B&B awards for 28 years now, so it knows what it’s talking about. The AA recognises the best in the industry in Scotland, England, and Wales, and has just announced its winners for 2024.
So where should you be heading on your next English staycation? According to AA, Mallard Grange in Ripon, Yorkshire. It’s a converted 16th century farmhouse where, ‘a genuine welcome is always guaranteed.’ The judges were impressed by its ‘quality furnishings and tasteful decor,’ as well as its breakfast where you can enjoy both ‘home-reared and local produce’. If that all sounds as delightful to you as it does to us, you can book your stay at Mallard Grange here.
For Scottish holidaymakers, The Auld Kirk in Aberdeenshire triumphed. This ex-church has maintained some original Victorian features, many of which have been ‘restored and incorporated in the design’ of the refurb. Its owners, Helen and Kevin, also got a shoutout for being particularly welcoming hoteliers. You can book your stay here.
If you fancy a break in Wales, apparently you must try Bryn Derwen in Llandudno, which won thanks to its proximity to nearby shops and restaurants, and its maintenance of nineteenth century stained glass windows and tiled floors. It’s not even just the bedrooms that are nice at Bryn Derwen, there are multiple ‘sumptuous’ lounges you can use to chill out or play a game of Scrabble, if that's your sort of thing. You can book your stay here.
Enjoy your B&B adventures everyone! Until next year.
Staycations according to Time Out
AA aren’t the only ones who can recommend a great place to stay. Here’s our favourite family friendly holiday digs, and some tree houses you can rent out for something a little different. We’ve also got guides to the country's cosiest cabins, and the coolest castles you can stay overnight in.
Did you see that one of Europe’s most beautiful vineyards is in the UK?
Plus: This seaside boozer has just been crowned England’s official ‘pub of the year’.
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