Suffolk's Bull Inn crowned Britain's 'funkiest B&B'
The Bull Inn at Barton Mills, Suffolk, which achieved an AA 5 Gold Star grading in February and won the PMA’s Best Freehouse in East Anglia award in 2012, was one of seven winners to collect an accolade at the London-based ceremony, which recognised excellent services in the sector and is now in its 21st year.
The quirky modern day coaching inn impressed judges with its 15 individually themed bedrooms – the AA said each room possessed a feature that ‘took your breath away’, whether it be an image of a licking cow in the shower, a silver leaf Versailles curved end bed, or zebra print tiles.
The pub toilets have also been recently been refurbished with a ‘tongue in cheek’ design - images of ladies with magnifying glasses overlook the men’s urinals.
“It is amazing to be awarded this prestigious award and one that shows that with hard work, dedication and an unfailing commitment you can achieve your dreams,” Cheryl Hickman, who took over the pub in 2007 with Wayne Starling, said. “We have a vision for the next seven years and awards such as this are the proof that we are pushing in the right direction – thank you to our amazing team.”
Simon Numphud, Head of AA Hotel Services added: "This 17th century coaching inn has benefited from a modern quirky makeover and is unique in character. Owner, Cheryl Hickman, who is passionate about quality, great service and good food, has a penchant for the slightly funky and wacky design that makes this property the perfect contender for this award."
