A new survey commissioned by Tourism South East (TSE) suggest the future of the region’s pub accommodation and bed and breakfast (B&B) industries is under threat from the emergence of budget hotels.

The survey revealed that, while visitors are quick to recognise strong brands, only around 35 per cent of the region’s pubs are assessed under the National Quality Assurance Scheme.

Paul Jeffries, TSE’s development manager, said: “There are around 1,000 pubs in the region offering overnight accommodation but there is a lack of consumer awareness about how to find and book accommodation in a good pub.

“Meanwhile, many face stiff competition from branded budget hotels which often offer opportunities to drink in an adjacent pub owned by the company.”

The survey also claims that while the region’s 3,000 B&B properties generate around £280m in revenue each year, many are struggling to market their product against the large chains.

Leanne Marr, TSE development officer, said: “B&B’s strength is their ability to offer great value plus a warm and homely product. But many face competition from budget hotels employing aggressive price discounting to boost occupancy levels, especially among business travellers.”

Other obstacles often faced by accommodation providers in the region are the limitations caused by listed buildings, lack of training of landlords and staff and the want for a central source of advice – including help in marketing.