Star Ratings Explained

The majority of the accommodation featured on the Discover the Garden of England website has been inspected and awarded a star rating (1 to 5 stars) by one of the UK accommodation ratings authorities – Quality in Tourism (on behalf of the national tourist board, VisitBritain) or the AA – or is part of a nationally recognised brand such as Holiday Inn and Premier Inn.

As a general guide the following descriptions apply for ratings given to all types of accommodation.

A Guide to Star Ratings

1 star Simple, practical, no frills
2 stars Well presented and well run
3 stars Good level of quality and comfort 
4 stars Excellent standard throughout
5 stars Exceptional with a degree of luxury

Some establishments listed may have recently applied to be graded are therefore awaiting assessment. These establishments will show 'Awaiting Grading'.

In addition, a Gold or Silver Award may be awarded which recognises those establishments assessed by the tourist board with exceptional quality in all areas, particularly in service and hospitality.

AA Red Stars are awarded to hotels and inns rated under the AA system with exceptional quality of accommodation and customer service. AA Yellow Stars are awarded to the best guest accommodation within the 3- 5 star rating.

Establishments which serve breakfast of an exceptional quality have been awarded the Breakfast Award and display the egg cup logo.



Accommodation which has not been star rated has either met the minimum standards set by the national tourist board VisitBritain and/or has been deemed to reach a standard appropriate to be accepted onto this website.

For further information on the national accommodation ratings scheme, click here.