Why stay in an Independent Bed and Breakfast

20, Feb 2020 | Glendon

Have you ever stayed in a Bed and Breakfast?

This year from the 16th to 22nd March is national Bed and Breakfast week. The week is designed to celebrate the wonderful variety of independent accommodation providers throughout the United Kingdom. We have had Bed and Breakfasts for a long time in the UK. Today’s Bed and breakfasts are a world apart from what was offered many years ago.

Glendon Bed and Breakfast in the 1940s

There is a great insight into the early days of Glendon, as a Bed and Breakfast from some images of a holiday brochure from the late 1940s. Back then Glendon was referred to as a ‘Boarding Establishment’. An electric fire could be provided for a guest room, but this incurred an additional charge. Similarly, if a guest wanted a bath this needed to be prearranged ahead and again a charge was payable. Guests were also expected to bring their own towels and there were restrictions on the times that bathrooms could be accessed. And lights in the communal areas were switched off by 11pm. The domain was controlled by the landlady of each establishment!

How breakfasts have changed!

In the past breakfast was often basic and choice was limited. A full-English often being the only hot option/ After breakfast, there was an expectation that guests went out all day, no matter what the weather. Guest focused hospitality was often confined to top-class hotels. Fast forward to more recent times and that has all changed.

A hotel or Bed and Breakfast?

Bed and Breakfasts now offer many of the services once associated only with hotels. But with one big difference, a focus on personal hospitality. Whether it be providing advice about the local area and attractions, providing glasses to go with the bottle of prosecco in the fridge, leaving soya milk or helping to make a reservation for a local restaurant. It is these little touches that make the difference between somewhere to sleep or a place that is an important part of making a great break.

Over the past years there has been a massive expansion of chain hotels. There is a perception that they are often cheap. However, some charge for parking, most charge extra for breakfast, you usually have to queue and serve yourself breakfast, the extra touches are not usually there and it can be very impersonal. When all of this is considered a bed and breakfast often works out as a great alternative.

What is there to do in Matlock?

Glendon, a classic Victorian villa, is located in the very centre of Matlock. The high ceilings and large windows give a sense of space in light airy rooms. The guest sitting room, with views onto Knowleston Gardens, is a great space to relax. The front of Glendon overlooks the brook, feeding into the river Derwent. A few paces away is Hall Leys park, the stunning award-winning park. There is a great range of independent, antique and vintage shops. At the end of the day there are some great places for a drink or dinner.

What is there to do in Derbyshire?

In Derbyshire there are some great places to visit. Just a few miles away is Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall. A lesser-known attraction is Crich Tramway village. It is fascinating to see and ride the restored trams. The Heights of Abraham cable cars offer a great day out. After taking the ride to the top, explore the cave, grounds and enjoy the view from the cliffside restaurant. If you’re staying with us, we are able to offer discounted tickets to each of these local attractions.

Walking in Derbyshire and the Peak District

If you enjoy the outdoors Derbyshire has some great areas for walking. Close by is the wonderful Lumsdale Valley. These offer an insight into a nationally important historical site. Another site, which offers some great walking is Kinder Scout and again it is steeped in history. This is one of the things that has not altered over the passing of time We are also really pleased to tell our guests about the work with Walking the Peaks. They offer some great walks of the Peak District that can be purchased and downloaded for £2.49 each. And if you are looking for a specific walk, perhaps

The Peak District also has some great cycle ways. There are both off-road and on-road trails to suit all levels. Cycling offers a great way to see many of the stunning sights and views of the Peak District. We are also able to provide secure cycle storage if you decide to being your bike with you.

How about a stay in Derbyshire?

So why book Glendon? Well, each of the reasons above reflect what we do. Being there in the background, noticing what guests enjoy and helping when necessary. That sums up our approach. If it has been a while, or perhaps you have never, stopped in a Bed and Breakfast why not give it a try this year. You may be very pleasantly surprised. And if you decide on Derbyshire as a potential location it would be lovely to welcome you to Glendon. You can find out more about our room options, prices and availability on our booking page.