B&B Experience
Stratford’s B&B History
Stratford’s B&B history dates from 1953 and the inception of the Shakespearean Festival, when local residents literally opened their homes to the unexpected influx of visitors.
The conversion of many of our fine homes to B&B accommodations has contributed greatly to the preservation of the historic character of Stratford and environs, and provides visitors with a wide range of unique accommodation options.
Why Stay in a B&B?
For many visitors, the “Stratford experience” is synonymous with two things: world-class theatre and a stay in their favourite bed & breakfast.
Guests who have been returning for decades tell us it’s like coming home – which is not surprising, when you consider that every B&B is a home. What a bed & breakfast is not is a hotel, although many first-time guests are surprised to find that B&Bs often offer amenities that are comparable, if not superior to, many hotels and inns.
Because of their smaller size B&Bs offer a more intimate, personalized guest experience than most hotels. Add the allure of staying in a unique property and it’s not surprising that many travelers prefer B&Bs to hotels.
As anyone familiar with bed & breakfasts will attest, staying in a B&B means much, much more than a room and a meal. You’ll be the personal guest of an owner who is passionate about hospitality.
Planning Your B&B Stay
Here are some suggestions from Stratford & Area Bed & Breakfast Association hosts to ensure an enjoyable stay:
- Each B&B is unique. Take the time to review descriptions of the home, its features and amenities, and don’t hesitate to contact the host to ask questions.
- Be sure to review deposit, cancellation, check in and check out policies when confirming your reservation.
- Discuss any requirements you may have when booking. These might include allergies, dietary restrictions or special arrival or departure arrangements. Your host will be in a better position to accommodate requests with advance notice.
- If you are traveling with children be aware that while some B&Bs welcome families, others have age-specific requirements and some do not accommodate children of any age.
- Advise your host of your expected arrival time and any changes in your travel plans. B&Bs do not have front desk staff so your host will plan around you. And be sure to announce your arrival – until you check in, you haven’t become a guest!
- Familiarize yourself with guest policies and house rules: these exist for the convenience, comfort and security of you and your fellow guests.
- Note breakfast arrangements and service times. If you plan to skip breakfast or have special requests, your host will be grateful for the advance notice.
- An incredible amount of work goes into operating and maintaining a B&B. Your host will appreciate your cooperation in honoring check out times and respecting housekeeping requirements.
SABBA members have
agreed to adhere to
the Code of Conduct
and Standards of the
Association. However,
SABBA accepts no liability
whatsoever for members
adherence to these
standards or for any
service or safety provided
or for any changes
in rates by any members
to any guest at any
host residence.
Most of all, take
advantage of your host’s
knowledge. SABBA members
go above and beyond
to ensure their guests
enjoy the best that
Stratford and area
has to offer. They
willingly share their
knowledge of theatre
and Stratford and area’s
many attractions, restaurants,
and shops.
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