Ep 13. Layer Marney Tower

Four in a Bed season 9 episode 13 takes us to Layer Marney Tower, a historic Tudor mansion in Essex, England. The tower boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside and offers a unique experience for guests looking to step back in time.

In this episode, we meet the four competing B&B owners who will each spend a night at Layer Marney Tower and rate their experience based on factors such as cleanliness, hospitality, and value for money. The owners are Jo and Chris, who own a luxury guest house in Kent; Sandra and Paul, who run a B&B in Loughborough; Julie and Neil, who own a boutique hotel in Nottinghamshire; and finally, Anna and Paul, who run a B&B in the Cotswolds.

The owners waste no time in exploring the tower and admiring its historic features, including the grand entrance hall, the impressive staircase, and the ornate Tudor bedrooms. However, they soon discover that staying in a centuries-old building can come with its challenges. Some guests struggle with the steep spiral staircase, while others find the uneven floors and low beams a little daunting.

As the guests settle into their rooms, they begin to compare notes on their accommodations. Some praise the historic charm and character of the building, while others feel that the rooms are a little cramped and in need of updating. However, everyone agrees that the views from the tower are spectacular and make for an unforgettable experience.

The following day, the owners sit down to a breakfast feast, which includes a selection of freshly baked pastries, locally sourced bacon and eggs, and homemade jams and preserves. The owners rate the breakfast highly, with many commenting on the quality of the ingredients and the attention to detail in the presentation.

After breakfast, the owners take part in a range of activities, including archery, falconry, and a tour of the historic grounds. They also have a chance to explore the local area, with visits to nearby villages and country pubs.

As the episode draws to a close, the owners sit down to a final evening meal, where they discuss their experiences at Layer Marney Tower and reveal their final ratings. Tensions run high as each owner defends their scores, and there are a few surprises in store as the final results are revealed.

Overall, the episode showcases the beauty and history of Layer Marney Tower, and the challenging but rewarding experience of staying in a Tudor mansion. The owners' ratings reflect their different priorities and perspectives, and provide a fascinating insight into the world of B&B ownership and hospitality.