Ashfield House is a real find. Tucked away down a little road off the village centre, this beautifully converted guest house has consitently achieved 5 stars. I'm pleased to say that this is down to an obsession with quality, cleanliness and outstanding customer service by owners Joe and Elizabeth. Joe is also passionate about food and his approach to cooking is both unique and undoubtedly a real tastefest.

David and Gill have got this achingly attractive listed building looking fantastic. They've got their five star gold award from VB and have won 'Guest Accommodation of the year 2007' from Cumbria Tourism; what's more is they've achieved this with not a hint of stuffiness and just a mild addiction to wine. Perhaps best to call it 'passion'.

Alan and Kath are among the friendliest people I've ever met. You can be sure of a great value break here, and the three star rating undoubtedly gives customers confidence among a sea of non or locally inspected guest houses. The location is great, as its just off the promenade and only a short walk to the pleasure beach. Consider it postmodern to ride the 'Pepsi Max'.

Sue came to Holmside House and had quite a job to make the accommodation respectable. New windows and boiler were merely the start of the project, but things are now looking up and customers are enjoying the fruits of her labour. Sue also works closely with other businesses on the Avenue and together they recently won the 'Tourism team of the Year' award, demonstrating that it's always better to work together than see each other purely as competition.

Chris and Sue are young for the Guest House business, but their energy and youthful approach makes them stand out from many of the others on Albert Road. Their recent 3 star rating has also given them a boost in the same way as their guests get a boost from the traditional [or continenta]l breakfast. Somewhat unusually for a small Guest House, evening meals are freshed prepared and every attempt is made to source produce locally.

Barry and Andrea, as young parents themselves, have set up the Hurstmere as a family holiday accommodation. This understanding of kids is demonstrated by their knowledge of how to keep kids entertained not just at the Guest House, but in and around Blackpool itself. Out of school holidays, couples are catered for with bar, pool table and importantly, private parking in a secure garage [very unusual for Blackpool].

The Highgrove is ten bedroom purpose built guest house, ideal for people visiting Bolton for work or pleasure. They have single, double, twin and family rooms, all en-suite, clean and comfortable and not terribly expensive. The location is great for walking into the town centre and is only a short taxi ride to anywhere in the city. An excellent breakfast is offered by very friendly staff, but don't trust me, just look at the comments on www.laterooms.co.uk.