Is this the scheme for me?

If your establishment has more of a homely atmosphere or less structured service than a traditional hotel, it may be more suited to the guest accommodation scheme than the hotel scheme. However, if you choose to include the word ‘hotel’ in the name of your establishment then you must be assessed under the hotel scheme.

Guest Accommodation designators

Within the scheme, there are a number of designators to allow you to obtain a rating which matches your type of business and give potential guests an idea of what to expect. At the time of your assessment, you will have the chance to discuss your designator with the assessor.

B&B: Accommodation in a private house, run by the owner. Breakfast must be offered

Guest house: Usually a larger property than a bed and breakfast, possibly employing additional staff

Guest accommodation: This designator is often chosen as an alternative to B&B or guest house

Farmhouse: B&B or guest house accommodation on a working farm or smallholding

Inn: This is an establishment with a full liquor licence. Given that it will be open to residents and non-residents, food and drink is a significant part of the operation, with a bar or restaurant available lunchtime and in the evening. The guest accommodation element will be a relatively minor part of the operation in comparison. The facilities and services provided for overnight guests are similar to those in a B&B. Inns which provide traditional hotel-style accommodation and service may prefer to be assessed under the hotel scheme and have a hotel star rating

Restaurant with rooms: A destination restaurant offering overnight accommodation, with the restaurant being the main business and open to non-residents. The restaurant will be open at least 5 nights per week and the food service will be of a high standard

Room only: Accommodation which generally does not offer breakfast. If breakfast is offered, it will usually be a continental self-service option, a breakfast left in a fridge in the bedroom or a separately purchased breakfast pack

How to apply

• Download the information pack and review the Quality Standards relating to your scheme to find out more about what the assessor will be looking at when they come to assess your business
• Call us to get a quote for joining the scheme
• Download and complete the application form, and return it to us with your complete payment. We accept payment by credit/debit card, BACS, cheque or direct debit