Check-in and Check-out Guide to UK Hotels 2024

Travellers to the UK must possess the knowledge of how to make an online hotel reservation, as failing to plan ahead may result in a lack of suitable accommodations. Furthermore, the cost of checking in on the day of arrival could be significantly higher compared to booking in advance. A satisfactory lodging experience not only allows you to recharge but also enhances your overall trip experience. Due to cultural disparities, many individuals are unfamiliar with the check-in procedures at UK hotels. This blog aims to introduce the process of hotel reservation, check-in, and check-out in the UK, along with some noteworthy considerations.

Types of hotels in the UK

In the UK, short-term accommodation is mainly divided into three categories: hotels, hostels and B&B.

Hotel

Hotels are the most common accommodation choice. Most hotels not only provide accommodation but also usually have a restaurant and room service, and depending on the star rating, there are many more extra services added.

Hostel

Hostels have long been a preferred choice among young individuals seeking autonomy and inclusivity. Originating in Germany, they have gained popularity throughout the UK and across Europe. Hostels are distinguished by their affordable rates, typically charged per bed. Accommodations can house anywhere from 4 to 16 occupants, with options available for both mixed-gender and women-only arrangements. Established initially as havens for adolescents from modest backgrounds to reside in while enjoying leisure activities outdoors, hostels have since transformed into cost-effective communal spaces that cater to DIY enthusiasts, social adventurers, as well as hiking and biking enthusiasts.

B&B

The term “Bed and Breakfast,” also known as B&B, is a prevalent form of accommodation in the UK. Initially referring to a small residential inn with limited rooms located in small European cities or rural suburbs, it earned its name due to the inclusive charge for lodging and breakfast. This type of hotel offers essential services without luxurious facilities, catering primarily to budget-conscious travellers such as backpackers and students.

British hotel booking website recommendation

Booking.com: The world’s largest online platform for booking accommodations, offering a wide selection of over 540,000 hotels in more than 200 countries. Our services include commission-free bookings, multilingual customer support, extensive room options, competitive prices, reliable customer reviews, and comprehensive information.

Expedia: The world’s largest online travel company holds a significant market share of approximately one-third of the global online travel industry. With over 3000 locations worldwide, it offers exclusive hotel deals and competitive prices. Detailed information about hotels can also be accessed online. Travellers can effortlessly obtain immediate and accurate quotations by simply inputting their desired price range and preferred region.

Airbnb: A renowned online platform that facilitates the connection between travellers and hosts who offer spare rooms for rent. It has gained significant popularity in Europe and has been referred to as the housing equivalent of eBay by Time magazine. The website offers accommodations, including vacation rentals, bed-and-breakfasts, and short-term rentals.

Agoda: A hotel booking platform that was developed in Asia, with a primary focus on China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, and Australia. This website is highly favoured by many tourists visiting Southeast Asia.

Hotel Reservation, Check-in and Check-out in the UK

Reservation

Once you have selected a suitable hotel, you can proceed with placing your order either by phone or online.
Upon receiving the booking information, the hotel will promptly confirm it in advance.
After receiving the confirmation, simply provide your name at the front desk during check-in.
During check-in, please ensure to bring along your passport and other necessary documents. Additionally, a certain deposit may be required (depending on the hotel).

Check-in

Upon arrival at the hotel reception desk and presenting the confirmation slip, the service staff may provide you with a registration form. This comprehensive form includes essential details such as the traveller’s name, gender, passport number, credit card type and number, and the duration of your stay. Once you have completed this form accurately, kindly return it to our attentive service staff along with your passport. After verifying and arranging your room reservation accordingly, they will promptly hand over both the room key and your passport to you. With these in hand, you are then able to proceed smoothly to check in to your designated accommodation.
When you arrive at your room, the bellman will promptly deliver your luggage. Upon verifying that everything is in order, it is customary to express gratitude and offer a gratuity.
Hotel rooms are typically equipped with telephones, televisions, refrigerators, minibars, safes and other amenities for guest convenience. Upon arrival in your room, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the operation of these facilities.

Check-out

When checking out, please ensure that you remove all of your luggage from the hotel.
Please proceed to the front desk to return your room card or key and inform them about your check-out.
The receptionist will notify the bellman to conduct a thorough room inspection and provide a detailed report to the receptionist. Any hotel-provided items utilized will incur additional charges, while any damaged items will be subject to compensation.
If all conditions are met, you may check out of the hotel once the front desk has refunded your deposit.

Tips for living in a hotel in the UK

Disposable toiletries: Including toothpaste, toothbrushes, slippers, and other amenities, are not typically provided by most hotels in the UK. There is no availability of toothpaste and toothbrushes for purchase either. While some hotels do offer basic shower gel and shampoo, it is advisable for travellers to bring their own.
Wifi：In the UK, many hotels either charge for Wifi or restrict its availability to the lobby area.
Check-In and Check-Out time: In the UK, the standard Check-In time is typically 3 pm, while Check-Out is scheduled for 12 pm. However, during non-peak seasons, it may be possible to arrange an earlier check-in.
Breakfast: Kindly verify availability before making a reservation, as some hotels may not offer complimentary breakfast.
Parking: Downtown hotels generally do not offer on-site parking facilities; therefore, guests are required to find alternative parking spaces. However, some hotels may provide discounted cards for nearby parking options.
Deposit: It is generally not required when booking a hotel on the above websites.
Price: The price of British hotels is divided into off-peak season and peak season, and the price varies greatly. In summer and Bank Holiday, the hotel is generally more expensive, so it is recommended to book in advance.
Identification: Many hotels check passport information upon check-in, so be sure to have your identification with you before you travel.
Tipping: In British hotels, you should tip the bellman about £2. If you think the room was cleaned well, you can leave a tip of £1-£2 at the end of the bed. But most hotels have a service charge included in the room price.

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FAQ

What is the largest hotel chain in the UK?

Premier Inn is often considered to be the largest hotel chain in the UK. With over 800 properties across the country, Premier Inn has become synonymous with reliable comfort and value.

What are the big four hotel chains?

The “Big Four” hotel chains encompass Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide, IHG, and Wyndham Worldwide. Each of these industry leaders offers a distinctive portfolio of properties catering to the diverse needs of various types of travellers, ranging from those in pursuit of opulent experiences to those seeking efficiency and practicality.

Is it cheaper to live in a hotel UK?

The design of hotels in the UK is tailored for short-term stays, resulting in pricing that accurately reflects the range of amenities and services provided. In terms of cost-effectiveness, hotels may not be the most economical choice as youth hostels, and B&Bs offer a more favourable price point.