Quality assurance
Good quality accommodation is an important part of the visitor experience in White Cliffs Country. In recognition of this and for the benefit of our visitors, properties marketed through our Visitor Information Centre and the White Cliffs Country website should either be assessed and graded by an approved national scheme, such as VisitEngland and the AA, or be part of an independent external assessment such as:
Both VisitEngland and the AA assess accommodation to the same standards and award 1 to 5 stars. The star ratings reflect the overall quality of the experience (see more information on accommodation star ratings and awards).
In addition, some schemes give supplementary Silver or Gold awards to recognise excellence. These independent assessments can provide valuable insight and excellent advice to help you run and develop your business.
White Cliffs Country Accommodation Charter
In addition to the above schemes, and in order to ensure quality is maintained by local accommodation businesses and recognised by our visitors, Dover District Council has developed an Accommodation Charter. Any non‐accredited accommodation businesses in the Dover district can sign up to this charter in order to be listed on the White Cliffs Country website and to be included in other promotional activities (advertising and PR activity) undertaken by us and our partners like Visit Kent and Tourism South East. Signing up to the charter also enables the district's Visitor Information Centres to book accommodation with businesses on behalf of visitors.
The Charter covers important areas such as legal considerations, health and safety and good customer care. There is also a complaints procedure which, together with the charter, will provide a feedback mechanism for visitors who may be unhappy with their chosen accommodation.
To sign up and enjoy free website please complete a copy of this online form.
If you have any questions or require any further information regarding the White Cliffs Country Accommodation Charter, please email: sandra.killick@dover.gov.uk
Accessible accommodation
For information and advice on how to make your accommodation fit for those with additional needs, please see our Accessible and inclusive page.
The Pink Book
The Pink Book: Legislation for tourist accommodation and attractions outlines the regulatory requirements for these business owners in England. Now in its 12th edition, the book provides guidance on a wide range of key topics: from food hygiene and health and safety, to business management and tax. New content in the 2023 edition includes:
- a section on recent environmental protection laws
- updated guidance on allergen labelling
- information on the upcoming tipping legislation
- guidance on the requirements when employing someone from outside the UK, including citizens of the European Union.
The Pink Book is sponsored by the Professional Association of Self-Caterers (PASC UK). You can buy a copy of the book via the VisitBritain website. It is also available digitally as The Pink Book Online, which is regularly updated.