Coastal Retreats cottages have been graded 5 star by VisitBritain for 2011/12 and are assessed annually. The following cottages in our collection have just been awarded a GOLD award for excellence with an average scoring of above 91%. These cottages include Moo House, Beadnell Beach House, Beach38, The Well House, The Lodge@Shirewater, The Granary, The Hemmel, Craster Retreat, Bamburgh Six, Bluegrass, Feathergrass and Pampas apartments and Mariner's.
To find out more about the VisitBritain grading system, please see the following........
STAR RATINGS FOR SELF CATERING HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION
Since the year 2000 you'll have noticed a big difference in VisitBritain's self-catering ratings. VisitBritain have researched visitor expectations and consulted with accommodation providers to come up with a brand new quality rating system that's easy to use. Now you can find the place to stay that suits you best and rest assured that it has been checked out beforehand. The new Star ratings reflect the quality that you're looking for when booking accommodation. All properties have to meet an extensive list of minimum requirements to take part in the scheme. From there, increased levels of quality apply.
For instance, you'll find acceptable quality at One Star, good quality at Three Star and excellent quality at Five Star.Quite simple, the more Stars, the higher the overall level of quality you can expect to find. Establishments at higher rating levels also have to meet some additional requirements for facilities.
Minimum entry requirements include the following:
- High standard of cleanliness throughout
- Pricing and conditions of booking made clear
- Local information to help make the best of your stay
- Comfortable accommodation with a range of furniture to meet your needs
- Colour television (where signal available) at no extra charge
- Kitchen equipped to meet all essential requirements
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Your quality guide:
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One Star Acceptable overall level of quality. Adequate provision of furniture, furnishing and fittings. |
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Two Star (In addition to what is provided at One Star). Improved overall level of quality. All units self- contained - two bathrooms where there are eight guests or more. |
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Three Star (In addition to what is provided at Two Star). Good overall level of quality. Good standard of maintenance and decoration. Ample space and good quality furniture. All double beds with access from both sides. Microwave. |
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Four Star (In addition to what is provided at Three Star). Very good overall level of quality. Very good care and attention to detail will be obvious throughout. Either access to washing machine and drier, if not provided in the unit or a 24 hour laundry service. |
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Five Star (In addition to what is provided at Four Star) Excellent overall level of quality. High levels of décor, fixtures and fittings, together with excellent standards of management efficiency and guest services. Excellent range of accessories and personal touches. Video player, telephone. Fully controllable heating.
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