Attitudes towards B&Bs starting to change…

April 26th, 2012

A recent survey we carried out here at B+B Weymouth shows that increasing numbers of people see bed and breakfasts as worth paying a little more for.

A majority of people, however, said that they still view B&Bs are ‘cheap and cheerful’ alternatives to hotels, and that if they were to spend extra money, they would stay in a hotel. With cash very much an issue, very few were willing to pay more than £50 per night, associating B&Bs with eggs and sausage breakfasts!

1 in 5 said that they would pay a little extra, and interestingly it was the over-55s who said they were more likely to ‘splash out’ on luxury B&B lodgings, while 1 in 3 said a little more goes a long way.

Strangely, it was men who wanted boutique accommodation, while women said they would be on the lookout for ‘cheap and cheerful’ rooms. Those aged between 16 and 34 complained about B&B owners who talked too much at breakfast, which didn’t seem to be a problem for the chatty over-55s!

What does this research tell us? First of all, that there appears to be a growing distinction between the cheap and cheerful B&Bs and the boutique B&Bs – and a blurring of the lines between the top-end bed and breakfasts and hotels. Indeed, many would be prepared to make extra for boutique accommodation, so long as it provided the amenities and the benefits that they would usually expect: location, comfort and service.

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Belong & Benefit in 2012

April 12th, 2012

B+B Collection spans three grade-listed properties across the UK; London, Edinburgh and Weymouth and we are delighted to have two of our properties positioned in prime locations in this unique year. With just over a hundred days to go, the preparations for London 2012 Olympics & Paralympic Games and the sailing events in Weymouth & Portland are well underway and we have plenty of reasons for you to take advantage of staying in one or more of our properties this year.

If you are lucky enough to have tickets to some of the sporting events B+B Belgravia is located just a few minutes’ walk to Victoria Station which is a central transport hub to get to the Olympic venues.

Even if you are not particularly taken with sports events there is the huge array of celebrations to enjoy with the London 2012 Festival. The events start from the 21st June which is a whole month before the Games officially begin; a great time to take advantage of what London has to offer before the crowds!

Sailing in Olympic Waters

Sailing in Olympic Waters

Some of the London 2012 cultural events even stretch to the Dorset coast as part of Maritime Mix – London 2012 Cultural Olympiad by the Sea (9th March – 9th September 2012) . This is an ambitious creative celebration with 80 + events set to animate Weymouth, Portland and the Jurassic Coast in 2012. It will celebrate the area’s status as the 2nd largest Olympic venue after the capital as the host to the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic sailing events.

B+B Weymouth looks directly out onto Weymouth Beach, recently voted one of the Top 10 beaches      in the UK by TripAdvisor. It also plays host to a number of the Maritime Mix 2012 events taking place, notably the spectacular Battle for the Winds presented by acclaimed performance companies Cirque Bijou and Desperate Men.

Check the website for more up to date information on the events happening throughout the next six months, the majority of which is happening in Weymouth & Portland.

 

Not only will you be in the centre of all the action you can also Belong + Benefit from staying with us. This new offering offers members a range of discounts and special offers across the B+B Collection portfolio.

When you join Belong & Benefit you’ll receive a personal code to access regular accommodation offers via a secure membership site. In addition regular visitors will receive one free night for every six nights stay with us. Stays will be recorded in the member’s area, so you can check your status at any time.  Sign up today and start to enjoy the B+B experience in 2012.

Belong + Benefit Membership card

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The Olympic Countdown continues…

February 22nd, 2012
Preparing for the Olympics

Olympic Sailors dig in to help out

We are edging ever closer to the opening of the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games and plenty of exciting developments are happening here in Weymouth & Portland in preparation of hosting the Olympic sailing events.

Three Olympic sailors Kate Macgregor, Annie Lush and Lucy Macgregor helped mark the start of building work recently on a viewing tower at Weymouth seafront. The £3.5m tower will overlook the Olympic Festival Village and provide a 360 degree view of the town, the stunning Jurassic coastline, harbour and surrounding area. It will be a great addition to the area and you will be able to see it standing tall from our guest lounge once it’s completed in early July 2012.

Weymouth Esplanade has also been a focus of redevelopment of late. A £2.5 Million rejuvenation of the area has been well underway this past year including the Victorian shelters being restored, the historic Jubilee Clock has been repainted, and the pavements widened to make attractive sitting out areas to soak up the ambience along the beach front.

Weymouth

Weymouth

And it doesn’t finish there. The planned improvements for the front will also include world class artists Vong Phaophanit & Claire Obussier contributing to contemporary lighting columns resulting in impressive laser illuminations that will span across the sands and Weymouth Bay at night.

In celebration of Weymouth & Portland hosting the London 2012 Olympic Sailing events, Maritime Mix – London 2012 Cultural Olympiad by the Sea will be animating the area with a full array of cultural delights; from world class outdoor theatre by the likes of Cirque Bijou, open-air mass choir performances, visual arts, multi-media arts festivals, to panoramic video projections, participative music, dance & celebrations there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

This will be Dorset’s largest creative celebration producing over 80 inspirational events spanning across 6 months, with the majority of the activity happening right here in Weymouth. The celebrations kick off as early as March 9th so why not book your stay at BB Weymouth with us today to make the most of your next coastal getaway during this unique festival period.

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Weymouth Wetlands Visitor Centre set for refurbishment

January 13th, 2012
Otter

A Radipole otter at the Wetlands Centre

One of Weymouth’s leading tourist attractions, the RSPB’s Wetlands Visitor Centre at Radipole Lake, is undergoing refurbishment, and will close to the public from January 16th. The reserve itself will remain open using temporary premises.

When the centre re-opens later this year, there will be a new visitor centre which showcases the amazing wildlife of the nature reserves of Weymouth and Portland.

The refurbishment will bring new boardwalk trails, viewing platforms with bird’s eye views into previously hidden areas of reedbeds, ditches and open water. A media wall with live nest cams and footage from underwater cameras and night cameras will bring the visitor centre well and truly into the 21st century.

The centre will also receive a newly thatched roof, indoor seating, as well as improved facilities for visitors.

RSPB Weymouth Wetlands Information Officer Luke Phillips said that “people will be able to get much better views of wildlife, such as the beautiful Kingfisher and maybe even the Radipole otters. We’ll also be able to hold more in-depth events including educational sessions for schools and community groups.”

Previous projects include duck-feeding and pond-dipping platforms, as well as a wheelchair accessible gate form the footpath alongside Weymouth Way.

If you’re keen to see the reserve while the centre is closed, you still can, and if you need a place to stay during your visit, why not try Bed and Breakfast Weymouth?

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Weymouth welcomes Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall

January 13th, 2012
Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall visits Weymouth

Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall visits Weymouth

The seaside town of Weymouth had the pleasure of welcoming celebrity chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall to its shores recently. As if that wasn’t enough, the historic harbour was then shown on prime-time television for a Christmas special of The River Cottage.

Hugh and his team filmed scenes with one of the chef’s old friends which showed them prawn netting in Weymouth Harbour during an evening in November. Great fun was had by all and they even managed to catch a good haul of prawns. Even after the cameras stopped rolling the crew continued to enjoy their night and feasted on a dinner of mackerel baps at a local fish and chip shop.

Hugh is said to have loved the time he spent in Weymouth and commented, “It was a memorable and very festive evening – a great way to kick off our River Cottage Christmas.”

This isn’t the first time Weymouth has been in the limelight recently as it has been the setting for several other high profile television programmes. Irish twins from X Factor fame, John and Edward filmed their CBBC show ‘Jedward’s Big Adventure’ and BBC1 primetime show ‘The Magicians’ which features Arlene Phillips was recently filmed there too.

All this publicity has been a massive boost for the town, especially just before the 2012 Olympic Games. It is a well known fact that any exposure on popular TV shows which are aired around the UK and internationally has the same benefits of broadcasting an advert around the world. It is hoped that the positive feedback the town received from River Cottage and other recent shows will alert people to Weymouth and show them how nice it is. There is absolutely no doubt that this will draw visitors in, increase tourism and help the town continue to thrive.

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Delight in Dorset this Winter

November 28th, 2011

The days might be getting shorter here along the Dorset coast but it certainly doesn’t make the views any less spectacular. There’s no surprise the Jurassic Coast is lauded as a photographer’s dream.

Whether it’s capturing the sunrise over Ringstead Bay, or the crashing waves at Portland Bill you’re bound to achieve a wonderful shot. We will be running more photography weekends with a Dorset based photographer soon so keep an eye out for more detail on our Facebook page as they tend to book up fast!

As we gear up to the end of 2011, we are also delighted to announce that we have retained our 4* accreditation by Visit Britain recently. Our B+B brand offers a modern, contemporary environment at affordable rates. Design, service, quality and comfort are all part of the philosophy.

 

And with Christmas just around the corner how does this tickle your fancy?  Jugged Dorset beef in local beer, traditional roast turkey, golden roast potatoes, farmhouse pate, cheeky individual Christmas puddings dripping in local cream & zingy lemon tart. We will be serving a 3 course Christmas Menu with some of the best local produce for groups of 5-20 this Christmas for just £20 per head!

You and your colleagues can dine in style, then it’s just brief stroll into town for those that want to party the night away! We are also offering rooms at £50* for those of you who do wish to stay the night. *Subject to availability.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

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Holiday Happenings at B+B Weymouth to involve the whole family

October 25th, 2011

Holiday  Happenings at B+B Weymouth to involve the whole family…Half Term now in full swing!

Weymouth is the Daily Mirror’s ‘No.1 family destination in Britain’ and we want to share it with everyone !!  With miles of way marked walking routes, water sports galore and nature reserves on our doorstep, what is stopping you?!

The B+B Team are dressing up and preparing for the spectacular spooky events taking place in Weymouth and Portland over the Holiday period…..

The Nothe Fort is flinging open it’s ancient doors for a whole day of spooky happenings for children  – dress up as witches and wizards and join in with apple bobbing, spell making and ghoulish  adventures  through the tunnels and dungeons . Booking is essential for this  s Bedlam & Broomsticks!
Event – it is extremely popular with locals and visitors alike.

For adults…the ever popular Old Town Ghost Walks take place at the  Nothe Fort on Friday 28th October; interactive  paranormal experiments and ghost hunts …only if you dare……!

And to celebrate Weymouth’s Famous Beach Guy Fawkes Event – we are inviting all our friends to watch the Fireworks from the warm comfort of our Guest Lounge. For £10 each – enjoy a Banger and Chips Tea with plenty of relish and a good local ale whilst the kids ooh and aah at the spectacular outside our windows. Fun starts at 6.30pm with the fireworks launching at 7.30 from a barge in the Bay. Contact Emma to reserve your space and benefit from the Best Spot in Town.

When Booking your stay for this weekend – please quote B+B Banger Rate to the Reservations Team.

We look forward to Welcoming You!

Call us today 01305 761 190

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Guided walks on Portland with Jurassic Jaunts

October 6th, 2011

Stay at B+B Weymouth and enjoy a gentle walk around the coastal paths of Portland Bill and the Lighthouse, passing by one of the two old lighthouses and the Portland Bill Coastguard station.

 

 

 

 

Up the east side of Portland through the old quarries to Church Ope Cove before reaching Grove Point and Verne Prison with fantastic views across Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour and along the Jurassic Coast to St Albans / St Aldhelm’s head. We finish with a well earned lunch! www.jurassicjaunts.co.uk works in partnership with B+B Weymouth offering our guests a wonderful insight into England’s first natural World Heritage site – The Jurassic Coast! Heading to the capital? Check out B+B Belgravia, London and B+B Edinburgh.

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Top 5 things to see in Weymouth

September 30th, 2011

If you are looking for a holiday destination within the UK, then Weymouth is the place to go. With beautiful scenery and plenty to keep you busy, there is something for absolutely everyone.

When there is so much to do it can be hard to decide where to start. Below is our guide to what we think is definitely worth seeing when visiting Weymouth.


Jurassic Safari

Sit back and relax while you are driven around the Jurassic Coast in a Land Rover. Explore the breathtaking sights and get up close to some of the most spectacular views and wildlife that the area has to offer.

Whether you prefer to enjoy a quick one hour tour or make a whole day of it, there are a number of options available to suit everyone. Prices vary and all tours are inclusive of tea, coffee and home-made cakes.

Nothe Fort

Nothe Fort is a unique and enjoyable excursion which is located at the entrance to Weymouth Harbour. Full of underground passageways and outdoor areas there is plenty to explore which makes it difficult for even the hardest to please to get bored.

The Fort is spread out over three levels and is filled with displays, guns, cinema areas and is surrounded by stunning views of the incredible Jurassic Coast. Various events take place throughout the year and opening times vary. This attraction is closed from 12th December until 5th February.

Weymouth Beach

Weymouth beach offers some of the finest sand and safest water in the whole of Great Britain and Europe. The views from the bay are out of this world and stretch across the Jurassic Coastline so it comes as no surprise that it is consistently recognised as one of the top 10 UK beach destinations.

There are deck chairs, sun loungers, toilets, baby changing facilities, cafes and kiosks scattered across the stretch of the beach. There is also plenty for children to do including taking a ride on the land train, visiting the donkeys and watching the Punch and Judy shows.

Sandworld

Sandworld is a unique attraction people can visit to admire the impressive sculptures which have been built entirely from sand and water. Experts from all around the world have created the pieces which range from 2 to 5 metres high.

Sandworld can be enjoyed regardless of whether the sun is shining or not as all the main exhibits are showcased in the all-weather marquee. Many are surprised to find that there is more to Sandworld than simply looking at sculptures. With an activity area, sandpit, picnic tables, coffee shop and small gift shop, there is plenty to keep everyone busy.

Weymouth Sea Life Park

Weymouth Sea Life Park is one of the top attractions that Weymouth has to offer. With thousands of animals, feeding demonstrations taking place all day, an interactive rock pool, underwater tunnel, children’s play area and much more, it’s not surprising that so many locals and tourists visit Sea Life every year.

The park is open from 10am until 5pm every day and ticket prices vary. Special web prices are available so if you want to save some money then make sure you book your tickets online.

With so much to do in Weymouth it’s unlikely that you will get bored, In fact, there’s a strong possibility that you will have to come back for another visit just to get everything done.

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Walking the Jurassic Coast in Weymouth

September 30th, 2011

If you are taking a trip to Weymouth then a walk along the Jurassic coast is essential as it’s England’s first and only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stretching from Orcombe Point near Exmouth in East Devon all the way to Old Harry Rocks near Swanage in East Dorset, this natural wonder covers a distance of 95 spectacular miles.

Consisting of Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous cliffs which document 180 million years of geological history, there is plenty to see if you decide to walk along the Jurassic Coast. Teamed with complete tranquility and impressive views, this walk is likely to be an unforgettable experience.

There are plenty of different routes to choose from which means that people of all ages and abilities can experience the Jurassic Coast. You can go for a short walks or long hikes and can chose to go on a guided walk or explore at your own leisure.

Although you can drive along the Jurassic Coast, walking is a great way to experience it first hand and you are sure to encounter some interesting walking routes, unusual features and stunning beaches which can’t be appreciated as much from the car.

Before embarking on your journey make sure that you consider the following points to ensure that you enjoy your trip as much as possible.

Make sure that you are wearing very comfortable shoes – you are likely to be walking for a long time so trainers are ideal because they are designed for this kind of exercise.

Take plenty of water with you. There are places to stop along the way and you will be able to stock up on supplies but going prepared is always the safer option.

When walking around and exploring a new area it can be very easy to lose track and get lost. Although it’s very likely that there will be people and signs around you, make sure you take a map just in case.

If you are staying at B+B Weymouth and want some more information or advice about walking along the Jurassic Coast, feel free to ask a member of our team who will be more than happy to offer you any guidance and assistance.

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