Every year the National Tourist Boards inspect more than 11,000 self-catering units. VisitBritain’s star ratings will help you choose the accommodation that’s right for you. Assessors have been visiting flats, houses, cottages and serviced apartments on your behalf assessing quality, including comfort, space, facilities and most important of all, cleanliness. The quality rating system is easy to use and is based on extensive research. So when you choose a star-rated property you can rest assured that your expectations will be met or even exceeded.

Quite simply, the more Stars, the higher the overall level of quality you can expect to find.

All properties have to meet an extensive list of minimum requirements, and must provide the following before they can be considered for a Star rating:

• High standard of cleanliness throughout
• Pricing and conditions of booking made clear
• Local information to help you make the best of your stay
• Comfortable accommodation with a range of furniture to meet your needs
  
• Colour television (where signal available) at no extra charge
• Kitchen equipment to meet all essential requirements

Establishments at higher rating levels also have to meet some additional requirements for facilities. For each extra star, increased levels of quality apply. For instance, you'll find acceptable quality at One Star, good to very good quality at Three Star and exceptional quality at Five Star:

At you will find:

• Acceptable overall level of quality.
• Adequate provision of furniture, furnishings and fittings.
  

At you will find: (In addition to what is provided at One Star)

• Good overall level of quality.

At you will find: (In addition to what is provided at Two Star)

• Good to very good overall level of quality.
• Good standard of maintenance and decoration.
• Ample space and good quality furniture.
• All double beds with access from both sides.
• Microwaves.

At you will find: (In addition to what is provided at Three Star)

• Excellent overall level of quality.
• Very good care and attention to detail will be obvious
  throughout.
  
• Either access to washing machine and drier, if not provided in
  the unit, or a 24 hour laundry service.
  

At you will find: (In addition to what is provided at Four Star)

• Exceptional overall level of quality.
• High levels of decor, fixtures and fittings, together with excellent
  standards of management efficiency and guest services.
  
• Excellent range of accessories and personal touches.
  

Star-rated properties will often have many additional features to those identified by their star rating. Look for the list of advertised features to see if they meet your requirements.