Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the attraction of bed and breakfast accommodation?

The Bed and breakfast industry thrives today in large part because they provide an atmosphere of warmth and friendliness that traditional hotels simply can't match.

Bed and breakfasts are privately owned family homes and being run by locals naturally they bring a different perspective to the guest‘s experience  than someone who works a shift behind a hotel reception desk and then goes home to forget about the customers left behind.

At good B&BS, "customers" are truly guests, and it shows. The owners will gladly help you find the best restaurant in town, point you to the best of local shopping, ensure you connect with places and things you would not want to miss in this historic town. Many of the owners are golfers and will be delighted assist with all the information you require to make your visit to St Andrews, the Home of Golf, the experience of a lifetime.

Arrive as a guest and leave as a friend !

Q: What is the difference between a Bed and Breakfast and a Guest House

To help you choose the right accommodation, the following definitions describe what each type has to offer.
B&B Accommodation offering bed and breakfast, usually in a private house. B&Bs normally accommodate no more than 6 guests, and may or may not serve an evening meal

Guest House A guest house normally has at least 4 letting bedrooms, some with ensuite or private facilities. It is usually run as a commercial business. Breakfast is available and evening meals may be provided.

Q: What does the Star-grading scheme Mean?

VisitScotland (formerly known as the Scottish Tourist Board) uses a five-level star-grading system to indicate the standard of customer care and range of facilities on offer at assessed establishments. The awards focus on the standard of the welcome, hospitality and service they provide, as well as presentation and the standard of toilets. The number of stars awarded to a property indicate that it is:

Acceptable - 1 star
Good - 2 stars
Very good - 3 stars
Excellent - 4 stars
Exceptional - 5 stars

Q. Am I really going to be staying in someone’s home?

The answer is Yes! The owner will be living on the premises in their own private area. As well as providing spotlessly clean and comfortable accommodation the host will take a sincere interest in making their guest’s stay a success. Our B&Bs are an affordable choice but it’s not a question of being cheaper than a hotel- the B&B experience is a great way to get to know the local area, the local people, the local attractions with someone who knows what they are talking about. It’ a hands on thing.

Q. Do I require to inform the B&B the time I expect to check in?

There is no receptionist on duty. So to ensure that someone will be in to greet you, it is vital, that they know when to expect you, as they have daily family business and a social life

Q. What kind of payments are acceptable ?

Many members take major credit cards. But the costs are high for a small business and many only accept cash or cheques. Please check to avoid any embarrassment

Q. Why are only some members offering online booking?

Online booking is a choice for each individual member. Those members who do support online booking will have this clearly indicated on their own web page, which can be accessed from their listing. The online booking will also have instructions on how to use the feature.

Q. What is meant by En-Suite?

A room that has en-suite facility will have a toilet and shower/bath facilities within your bedroom

Q What is meant by Private facilities?

A room that has private facilities will have a toilet and shower/bath facilities close to your bedroom and will be for your exclusive use

Q. What is a twin room?

A twin room is a room with two single beds. Often these single beds can be put together to make a large double bed, if requested at the time of booking

Q. What happens if I have to cancel the booking?

Each member has their own cancellation policy and you should be informed at the time of confirming your booking . If the member has not told you at the time of booking please ask

Please contact the Association Chairman if your establishment has a KY16 postcode and a Visit Scotland star rating and you would like to join the St Andrews Bed & Breakfast Association