Got a wedding or party coming up? Not sure you have room to put up all 40 relatives in your three-bedroom semi? Why don’t you book them into one of Stamford’s great guesthouses? Hannah Warner has checked out some of the best
Stamford’s only five star guest accommodation, Rock Lodge has also been awarded the prestigious ‘Gold’ award from Visit Britain for its quality of service and attention to detail. The 1900 Town House is owned and run by Philip and Jane Sagar, who each have more than 35 years experience in the luxury leisure business. Jane was previously an executive housekeeper in several large hotels, whilst Philip spent many years with Swallow Hotels, where he was responsible for turning around under performing parts of the business. In fact, as well as running Rock Lodge, they are still in demand as consultants to the leisure and tourism industry around the country.
Rock Lodge itself has six ensuite bedrooms, all of which are decorated and equipped to the same standard as a four star hotel. There is also off-street parking.
Empingham Road, Stamford, PE9 2RH Tel: 01780 481758 www.rock-lodge.co.uk
Judy and Francis Williams only launched The Elm as a guesthouse last year, but have already been awarded four stars by Visit Britain. Having been refurbished for the opening, the light and airy rooms are newly decorated with sparkling bathrooms (three of which are ensuite, the other an adjacent private bathroom), and flat screen televisions with Freeview. There is a large, communal lounge on the same floor as the bedrooms, allowing parents to enjoy a drink after putting any children to bed, but still being close enough to hear them. Expect local produce for breakfast, with all bread coming from Askers and sausages and bacon from Nelsons. Judy and Francis are great hosts and made me feel relaxed and very welcome.
New Cross Road, Stamford, PE9 1AJ Tel: 01780 764210 www.elmguesthouse.co.uk
Joan Wade has been offering Bed and Breakfast in Stamford since her early 20s, when she ran what was then one of only two guesthouses in the town, so she knows more than a thing or two about good service. When she and her late husband first bought The Old Village Hall in Tinwell 13 years ago, it was still a hall, although it had previously been Joan’s village school. After a year of complete renovation, inside and out, it became the lovely four star cottage it is today. The double and twin rooms both have ensuites, whilst downstairs expect a roaring fire in the guest lounge area. Joan will cook whatever you desire for breakfast, which is served in the conservatory. It overlooks both the Welland Valley and the Hall’s large gardens, which were beautiful and immaculate – even though it was the middle of winter, and are well worth a visit on their own.
Main Road, Tinwell, Stamford, PE9 3UD Tel: 01780 763900
If you are looking for accommodation that is close to the town centre, 5 Rock Terrace is great. The guesthouse is run by Tanera Averdieck, who originally rented out rooms during the Burghley Horse Trials ten years ago. She enjoyed meeting different people and telling them all about Stamford and the surrounding area so much that she decided to do it throughout the whole year. She was awarded four stars by inspectors on their first visit, and has held them ever since. She has one twin room with a private bathroom and one double with an ensuite, both of which come complete with toiletries, tea-making facilities and even flowers. Expect fresh fruit from their allotment for breakfast!
Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YJ Tel: 01780 755475
What makes The Garden Room special is that the guestroom is situated in a separate building behind the main cottage. This makes it very private and quiet, and overlooks a beautiful garden originally designed by Bunny Guinness. The room is warm and spacious and has been renovated and decorated to a high standard, with great finishing touches such as flowers on the pillow, homemade biscuits, and fresh milk in the fridge. Eggs for breakfast come from the farm next door. As owners Anna and Richard Martin said “We wouldn’t like to stay anywhere that isn’t as nice as our own home!” A little bit out of town, Richard is kind enough to take guests into Stamford at night.
4 Camphill Cottages, Little Casterton, Stamford, PE9 4BE Tel: 01780 763661
This list is not comprehensive. Do tell us about any we may have missed.