B&B Style: Shabby Chic vs. Ultra Chic

Thankfully, the days when staying in a B&B meant musty duvets, greasy breakfasts and an overdose of doilies are now behind us, and many of today’s B&Bs, inns and guesthouses rival the chicest of boutique hotels. However, the words ‘bed and breakfast’ still conjure up an image of the house your Granny might have (granted, if your Granny was an interior designer). ‘Shabby chic’ is in, which is good news for the B&B owners who get it right.

But does this mean that properties have to conform to this B&B uniform to flourish? Bed and breakfasts are traditionally set up by someone who has a few rooms going spare in their home, so presumably the décor should be as individual as the person who runs it. So how would you feel if you stayed in an ultra-modern, minimalist bed and breakfast? Would you feel cheated of the authentic B&B experience or would you relish finding something unusual and unique? Would you feel like you’d stayed in a B&B at all?

Have a look at some of our favourite traditional and not-so traditional B&Bs then vote for your favourite in our poll. (Hover over the pictures for the B&B names or click them to be taken to the B&B page)