When you are alone in a strange town, spending a few nights there can seem a little, lonely. So on a recent budget trip to Worcester, I shied away from the faceless chain hotels, opting instead for a bed and breakfast.
I found one in the village of Ladywood, a few minutes drive from town and noisy local pubs. At the every least, I reasoned, I would be in pleasant surroundings.
It turned out to be an excellent decision. Buttermilk is a rather large house with a driveway that winds around flowers and greenery. It is the home of Martyn and Caroline Jones who were waiting as I pulled up.
There are just three rooms, all en-suite with generous proportions and decorated with antiques and olde worlde nick-nacks. The largest has exclusive access to one-acre garden. The space is separated into a working/relaxing area with free wi fi and TV, various teas and free bottled water because “Worcester water doesn’t taste that nice”.
The bathrooms are fully tiled with fluffy towels, bath, power shower and with various lotions and potions.
Once settled in my room, Caroline brought me a cup of tea and some home-made chocolate cake. I turned on the radio — it had been pre-tuned to Classic FM — and relaxed.
Breakfast was taken in the front room, which is decorated and trimmed with old-style paintings, antiques and pretty ceramics. The views are of the countryside beyond and I could see horses ambling in the field.
While I waited for my cooked breakfast I was served real coffee, and a feast of fruit comprising melons, papaya, grapes, strawberries, passion fruit and kiwi. Martyn had put on music — classical — a favourite of his.
They were worried: was I okay for lunch? Would I like a packed lunch? Feeling thoroughly nurtured, I would leave each day knowing I had a lovely, quiet place to come home to.
Rates: Rooms from £50 per night including breakfast
www.buttermilk-bandb.co.uk
SHARRON LIVINGSTON
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