AA B&B winners 2008 named

The AA marked its 100th anniversary yesterday with its annual B&B Awards 2008 at London's Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park hotel.

The AA's friendliest Landlady of the year was won by Margaret Frost of Diggins Farm in Essex, a 16th century farmhouse, who beat 4,000 other entries.

Judges praised her for going "the extra mile for her guests", even offering a complimentary taxi service.

Funkiest B&B of the year went to the Enchanted Manor on the Isle of Wight, which won for its original stamp on hospitality operations, and was praised for being a "haven of tranquillity which was special and unique".

The first winner of the London B&B of the Year Award was 16-bedroom San Domenico House in London, which opened 10 years ago.

Owners Ric and Maggie Hilton were praised for creating an "intimate and private boutique establishment suited to the business and leisure tourist alike".

Janet MacPherson of The Stables Lodge, Tyne & Wear won Guest Accommodation of the Year in England, while AA Guest Accommodation of the Year, Scotland was won by Shelia Robson of Fauhope House, Melrose.

AA Guest Accommodation of the Year, Wales was picked up by Peter and Janet Pitman who run the six-bedroom Tan-Y-Foel Country House, Nr Betws y Coed.

Tourists urged to book only accredited London hotels >>

AA Housekeeper of the Year 2008 unveiled >>

New AA accolades for 13 top UK restaurants >>

AA reveals B&B Award winners 2007 >>

By Gemma Sharkey

E-mail your comments to Gemma Sharkey here.