Where to stay in United Kingdom

Hotels

These range from budget chain hotels to boutique city hotels to luxurious country manors. Hotels tend to be more expensive in large cities, especially London.

Grading: VisitBritain, the AA and RAC (as well as VisitWales and VisitScotland) have now agreed common standards for quality assessment. Hotels and guesthouses are classified by use of a star-rating system.

Bed and breakfast

There are guest houses and bed and breakfast accommodation throughout the country. The quality, however, varies greatly and it is always worth seeing the rooms first.

Camping

There are camping and caravan sites throughout the UK, for short and long stays. Some sites hire out tents or caravans to those without their own equipment. Most sites offer basic facilities, while some have playgrounds, clubs, shops, phones and sports areas. The Camping and Caravanning Club (www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk) has a wide selection, although aimed more at caravanners than independent campers.

Other accomodation

There are over 300 youth hostels in the UK. Standards vary greatly, from very basic night-time accommodation for hikers and cyclists, to modern hostels and motels which are often used by families and groups. Prices are very reasonable.

Holiday parks offer accommodation, food and a full range of leisure activities generally at an all-inclusive price. They provide good holidays for families, and some run babysitting and children's clubs. Well-known names include Center Parcs (www.centerparcs.co.uk) and Butlins (www.butlinsonline.co.uk).

Cottages and flats to suit all budgets and tastes can be rented in areas around the country. Heritage charity The Landmark Trust (www.landmarktrust.org.uk) has almosty 200 unusual self-catering properties, ranging from cottages to castles. Local tourist boards, or relevant section in local and national papers can often be a good place to find this sort of accommodation.