Basic B & B Etiquette

Depends on the B&B. Some have separate entrances for the guests, so you walk in (like you would at a hotel) and the owner will typically be in the check-in area. Others are like homes, so you'd ring the bell or knock (like a private residence).

Once you are checked in, you'll get a key to your room and a key to the front door (or guest entrance). You won't need to knock or ring the bell again.

The B&B owner will probably give you a quick tour or at least point towards the common rooms (generally a living room or tv lounge and a dining room). If they have a terrace or garden with seating for guests, they may also point you towards that. B&B owners that live on site typically have their private rooms sectioned off pretty well, so you aren't likely to accidentally walk into their personal space. Don't expect them to be out in the guest areas 24/7 like a hotel clerk. They might check you in, hand you some maps of the town, give you a few recommendations on where to eat, do a quick check to make sure you're satisfied with your room and then disappear until the morning when they serve breakfast.

Some B&B homes may be old, so if you return late at night, know that the walls could be thin and plumbing loud. Be respectful of guests and owners that could be sleeping - speak quietly in common areas when walking to your room, don't slam doors - just practice common courtesy.

In my experiences B&B owners will stay in a part of the house well away from the guest part (occasionally with their own front door) so you don't need to worry too much about intruding. Some B&Bs have a list of rules of the house in each room. Just behave as you would if you were staying at a relative's house. E.g. be quiet if coming in late etc.

One thing you need to remember to do is let the owner know if you want any adjustments made to the breakfast menu. If you hate bacon or only want cereal it's polite to let them know so they don't end up wasting food.

For a fun take on English B&Bs, and the rest of Britain, read Bill Bryson's "Notes from a Small Island." The reason he was forced to check out of one B&B is just priceless.

In my experience, B&B owners make it clear which areas are open to you. They will show you your room and the breakfast room. If there is a common room for you to share they will let you know. They may serve you tea in the afternoon or just have tea-makings in your room. I've always been given a key to the front door. If you treat the B&B as someone's home (which it usually is) with respect as to noise and messiness, you will be fine. Some hosts are chatty and some are not. They will probably be willing to help you with your tourist plans. In a small place, you may be asked the night before what you want for breakfast. Be sure you know in advance what time breakfast is available. You won't be expected to help with washing dishes. While tipping isn't expected, words of appreciation are in order. If they like you, they may even give you a lift to the train station. If you are driving, there is usually parking on-site.

"One thing you need to remember to do is let the owner know if you want any adjustments made to the breakfast menu."

Naw, all you have to remember is that when they say, "Will ya' be havin' the full English* breakfast?", the answer is always YES! ;-)

Whatever they bring you will be great!

*or Scottish breakfast, or Irish breakfast

Patrick, I have to disagree. I usually don't have the sausage and my hosts have always been grateful that I tell them so. The same with black pudding.

I have to agree will Laurel, they appreciate knowing if you don't everything. Kurt, full English breakfast (or fry up) includes juice, cereal, toast (they say brown for wheat or white), eggs, bacon which isn't like the bacon here it's more like our ham, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, susages and sometimes baked beans. They would whether know then fix everything and you don't eat it. Most B&B's are private homes especially the ones in small villages and out in the country. They will show you the rooms that you may use. Have a great trip.

Great information! Thanks for your help. I think I will be taking everything on the menu!

Exactly as all of the above, but, you have to try the full breakfast at least once.