WHERE TO STAY

Getting around in the Old Country is one thing - finding somewhere to stop is something else. Choosing that place to lay your weary head of an evening is a bit more complex this side of the Pond.

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Hotels

Hideously expensive, and mainly for businessmen and rich tourists. Not worth the sky-high prices. Note that lots of places call themselves 'hotels', if only as an excuse for a 50% price rise.

Motels

Not a common term in England. 'Roadside hotels' are increasing in popularity, but are pricier than their equivalents in the USA. Still, they offer better value than hotels. But beware special offers that claim things like 'From £29 per night'. This will turn out something like £29, providing you book three consecutive nights not including weekends in February.

Guest Houses/Bed & Breakfasts

The best place to stay, most are small converted houses. Not only cheaper, but it puts you at the heart of the community. Note that these establishments in tourist traps like London or Stratford-upon-Avon are often hideously overpriced, yet you can stay just a few miles outside them at normal rates. One particularly pleasant variant is staying on a farm.

Self-catering

Get your own cottage for the holiday! The only downside of this is that some places' locals frown on outsiders pushing up house prices.

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