A guesthouse run according to the Rule of St Benedict has been listed as one of the best Bed and Breakfasts in the world. When Andrew and Sue Burrell set up Millgate Bed and Breakfast in Masham, North Yorkshire in March 2012, they decided they would follow the Rule of St Benedict- to welcome all visitors as they would welcome Christ.
Less than two years after its opening, Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice awards listed Millgate Bed and Breakfast as number 9, out of the top ten Bed and Breakfasts and Inns in the world.
Mrs Burrell told the Catholic Herald: “It’s a nice thing to keep in mind-it was something my husband Andrew suggested-what it means is that if Christ was to turn up you’d want to think you’d treated him the best you could.
“It’s so simple but it’s a very effective way of thinking about how to treat people you’ve never met before. I suppose it’s like a very refined customer service.”
To put the Rule of St Benedict into practice, the Burrells like to leave chocolates on their guests’ beds, add fresh flowers in the room, turn down the bed, buy them cards if it’s a special occasion, bid them “goodnight and God bless.”
On arrival, guests are also welcomed with a tray of warm scones and a cup of tea or coffee.