eviivo Awards 2019
Budget With A Twist Award
2019 Winner
York Holiday & Cycle Stop
York, North Yorkshire
About the Property
Originally targeted at cyclists, these budget glamping pods have become surprisingly popular with holidaymakers arriving by any means. The property is situated in the countryside surrounding York and offers an affordable and peaceful retreat from the city. The eco pods are kitted out with all the amenities for a comfortable stay and retain a relaxed rustic feel.
The Judges Said
“This property has mastered the art of providing a high standard of accommodation at affordable prices – and the frequent returning guests can vouch for their success.
The low nightly rates mean that guests are often surprised on arrival and comment on how attractive and cute the accommodation is.
The judges especially liked that this budget choice was cosy and special at an attractive price.”
Shortlisted Properties
Red Lion Hotel
Ystrad Meurig, Dyfed
A warm welcome awaits all guests who stay here, at this cosy little Welsh pub. Rooms are a decent size, have en suite facilities, and charming views of the surrounding countryside. The pub overlooks the beautifully scenic Teifi River, so guests can enjoy a delicious home cooked breakfast with a view for a bargain price.
The Chymes Holiday Flats
Lytham St Annes, Lancashire
Following a recent renovation, the holiday flats at this property are looking their best but the prices have stayed the same to delight repeat customers and the budget-conscious. The accommodation is well-equipped and spotless, in an excellent location close to the beach and town centre, and there’s even free onsite parking – it’s a no brainer really!
Dartmouth Chalet Holidays
Dartmouth, Devon
Set amongst other chalets within 22 acres of beautiful parkland, Happy Days Chalet is the perfect place to stay if you want to enjoy the Devon countryside, the exquisite town of Dartmouth or the ‘après-sea’ culture of the local beaches, such as Blackpool Sands. The chalet is newly-refurbished and reasonably priced – a home away from home for the savvy traveller.
Sheaf of Arrows
Cranborne, Dorset
This delightful pub with rooms is a dream come true for lovers of good pub grub at affordable prices. All rooms are en suite and the reasonable rates include breakfast – even if a guest has to leave early they’re provided with a breakfast baguette to go. Extras are hosted for guests, such as bingo nights and guest chefs, to really enhance their stay.
Bute House Hotel
Rothesay, Argyll and Bute
Situated on the picturesque Isle of Bute, this independent hotel is the perfect stop-off for travellers weary from hiking the gorgeous surrounding landscape. The hotel is cheap and cheerful with views of the harbour and is walking distance to Rothesay Castle and the ferry terminal. Four-legged guests are also welcome at no extra charge.
The Village Inn
Liddington, Wiltshire
Ideal for walkers on the Ridgeway and those enjoying the beautiful Wiltshire countryside, this welcoming, affordable, country pub in the village of Liddington is popular with overnight guests as well as regulars. The freshly-decorated rooms provide all facilities a guest could want, and include a full English or continental breakfast to start the day.
Z Home Apartment
Leicester, West Midlands
In the heart of Leicester, this holiday flat offers guests the winning combination of convenience and comfort, close to amenities and transport links. This spacious apartment is almost too good to be true, with comfortable beds and a lounge to relax in, along with interior design throughout to give the place a stylish feel, all for an unbeatable price.
The Old Post Office Bed & Breakfast
Birch Vale, Derbyshire
Situated in the picturesque Peak District, the Old Post Office B&B was once the centre of village life, but now is a small, warm and friendly bed and breakfast in beautiful surroundings. With three cosy rooms to choose from, this B&B does what it says on the tin; offering high quality beds and solid breakfasts at good honest prices.
Oakleigh Guest House
Blackpool, Lancashire
The goal of this guest house is to raise the standard of affordable accommodation and they have fulfilled that promise by keeping their rates competitive whilst including lots of extras in the price, and constantly making improvements. For budget-conscious travellers, they also offer tips on how to enjoy Blackpool on a shoestring.
Before we created the eviivo Awards, we were shocked at how many awards existed for super-luxurious, five-star, premium properties but how few honoured the budget end of the spectrum. Every year thousands of budget-conscious guests rely on good quality, well-priced, clean and comfortable accommodation and we felt that needed to be championed too, so we created the Budget With A Twist Award. This award recognises properties that offer great value rooms at an average daily rate of circa £50 and under, and still manage to provide comfortable beds, spotless bathrooms and delicious breakfasts, which keep guests coming back time and again for a Licence to Chill.
Budget With A Twist Award judging criteria
- The property will have great reviews, guest testimonials and/or repeat guests.
- The property could be unique or may have a ‘twist’.
- A high level of cleanliness and good quality facilities (bathroom, beds etc) are provided for the price.
- The accommodation may have a star rating from the AA, tourist board or other body.
Meet the expert helping judge this category
Giselle Wainwright
Sun Savers Editor at The Sun