1. Start with where you will spend your days
For a city break, look for a hotel within walking distance of the centre or beside a rail or Underground station; London in particular is quicker by Tube than by car. For the countryside, decide whether you want a village inn close to the paths or a town with more choice of restaurants and parking. Airport hotels are practical for early flights, but check whether a shuttle runs and at what hours.
2. Compare the total, not just the room rate
- VAT. UK hotel rates normally include 20% VAT, but business and some corporate rates are quoted without it; confirm which one you are looking at.
- City taxes. The UK has no national tourist tax, though local schemes such as visitor levies are being introduced in parts of Scotland and Wales. Ask whether anything is added at check-in.
- Parking. In city centres overnight parking can cost as much as a budget room; London hotels often have none at all.
- Breakfast. A full cooked breakfast is common and may be priced separately.
3. Read the cancellation and deposit terms
Flexible rates cost more. In busy weeks, such as the Edinburgh festivals in August, school holidays on the coast or Christmas markets in York and Bath, hotels often take prepayment and allow cancellation only up to a set number of days before arrival. Ask for the terms in writing.
4. Match the facilities to your group
- Families. Look for family or interconnecting rooms and a pool. Occupancy on our pages is indicative; confirm the number of guests with the hotel.
- Dogs. “Dog friendly” rarely means unlimited: there is often a nightly charge, a limit of one or two dogs and rules about leaving them alone in the room.
- Walkers and cyclists. Ask about drying rooms, secure bike storage, packed lunches and an early breakfast.
- Accessibility. Many historic buildings have steps and narrow corridors. If you need step-free access or a wet room, ask for the specific room rather than relying on a general label.
- Air conditioning. Older hotels often have none, which matters in July and August; London summers can be warm at night.
5. Use stars as a rough guide only
UK star ratings are awarded by national schemes such as VisitBritain, VisitScotland and the AA, and in this catalogue the category recorded by the data supplier is shown. Use it together with the list of facilities, the photos and the location.
6. Questions worth asking the hotel
- What is the total price for my dates, including VAT and any fees?
- Is parking available, what does it cost and do I need to book it?
- What is the cancellation deadline and is a deposit taken?
- What are check-in and check-out times, and can bags be stored?
- Is the room on a quiet side, and is there any building work nearby?
This guide gives general information and is not a substitute for the hotel's own terms or an official source. Rules, prices and conditions change; confirm before you travel.