UK Hotels, B&Bs Score 4.79 Average in Food Hygiene Ratings
New analysis of Food Standards Agency data shows accommodation providers outperform restaurants and takeaways, with more than 95% earning top marks for food safety.
Hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guesthouses across the United Kingdom achieved an average food hygiene rating of 4.79 out of 5, according to a recent report analyzing Food Standards Agency data. The findings, released by online training provider High Speed Training, indicate that nearly 85% of accommodation establishments received the highest possible score.
The study examined food safety records for more than 10,000 lodging establishments across England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. Of those reviewed, 8,914 properties—representing 84.90% of the sector—earned a perfect rating of 5. When combined with establishments scoring a 4, the proportion of highly-rated accommodations reached 95.53%.
The hospitality lodging sector demonstrated markedly stronger performance than food service businesses. Restaurants, cafes, and canteens averaged 4.59 in the analysis, with 10.56% scoring 3 or below—more than double the 4.47% rate seen among hotels and B&Bs. Just seven accommodation properties received a zero rating, compared to 278 restaurants, 166 takeaway establishments, and 50 pubs that earned the lowest mark.
Regional variations emerged across the country, with the South West leading all areas at 4.69 from more than 21,000 premises. The North East followed at 4.66, Northern Ireland at 4.65, and the East Midlands at 4.64. London recorded the lowest regional average of 4.39, though the capital contributed nearly 37,000 establishments to the dataset—significantly more than any other area.
At the local level, Ipswich and Southport tied for the highest ratings at 4.92, with Chichester close behind at 4.91. Walsall and Bolton shared the lowest scores at 4.03, with Wigan marginally higher at 4.06.
The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, launched in 2010 through a partnership with local authorities, evaluates establishments on food handling practices, facility conditions, and safety management systems. Ratings must be displayed by law in Wales and Northern Ireland, while participation remains voluntary in England and Scotland.