FOUR CASTLES
We are not quality graded but believe that we offer the equivalent of THREE to FOUR STAR self-catering accommodation as defined by the National Standards (our cottages were last graded in 2005 as THREE STAR)
THREE STAR: "Quality of décor and furnishings will demonstrate greater attention to co-ordination and practicality. More spacious accommodation offering greater levels of comfort and freedom of movement, e.g. access to both sides of double beds. Good lighting provision, with each occupant provided with bedside table and lamp. Controlled heating. Wider range of appliances, including microwave oven and access to vacuum cleaner. Some leisure facilities e.g. boxed games, toys, barbecue, as appropriate."*
FOUR STAR: "Comfortable accommodation, decorated to a high standard. Usually more spacious with very good quality furniture, soft furnishings, beds and floorings. Bed linen and towels provided, with or without an additional charge. More extensive range of appliances, including access to washing machine and tumble dryer (or 24 hour laundry service). Additional separate WC available if more than six guests can be accommodated."*
Anyone who has been 'Graded' has their own funny story about the grading system. We once went from a Four to Five Star Holiday Park by eliminating our Reception (which when shared with a laundry caused both elements to be marked down, but when it was removed then it couldn't be marked at all!).
The idea of displaying a 'Four Castles' logo began as a joke, but when we tried to rejoin the grading system, we became more determined to try and do without it. See what you think:-
1. The only grading system for self-catering is run by VisitBritain, which is a monopoly.
2. It is rare to find accommodation that is graded less than three stars, so what are one and two stars for?
3. In 2006 some inspections were missed, but owners still had to pay the full fee for the year.
4. Grading ceases when a property is sold and there is no refund for any part of the year remaining.*
5. The fee for a new owner is OVER 50% MORE than for an existing owner. The whole fee is payable even though there may be only a few months of the current year remaining.*
6. A new owner has to wait until they have been inspected before they can advertise their grading. They cannot advertise the grading of the previous owner.*
7. The new owner fee for four self-catering cottages is £419 and the new owner fee for 250 units in a holiday village is £415!*
* From www.qualityintourism.com (2006 prices)
Is Visitbritain Quality Grading important to you? If you feel that we should be graded then we would be most interested to hear from you. We would also like to hear from you if you think that grading is unimportant. Please email John and Melanie and express your view.
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