Alan and Linda Stevens, who have been running The Fenland Gite for 13 years, say they are “ecstatic” to receive the national ROSE recognition.
Initially built for Linda’s mum when she was ill, the one-bedroom flat has since welcomed people from around the world.
“After her passing, the local council told us that they were desperate for holiday lets,” Linda said, adding that guests have travelled from as far as America, Australia and Spain.
She added that they have people coming back year after year, especially grandparents who stay so they have their own space.
Others have stayed during their visits to local RAF bases such as Witchford where they were stationed during the war.
Located at 83A Lynn Road and hailed as ‘a home from home’, Linda said that she and Alan found out about the award via email.
However, the couple were unfortunately not able to make the presentation in London as they were on holiday.
Nonetheless, she and Alan said they are” ecstatic” – and can now put a red rose on their publicity, which is “very exciting”.
She added that, because of The Fenland Gite’s size, “we can’t be five-star unfortunately – but most people rate us that anyway”.
The annual ROSE Awards spotlight accommodation providers across the country who ‘provide visitors with the warmest of welcomes.
Along with a four-star review, the assessor praised The Fenland Gite for its “well maintained and comfortable accommodation”.
They also commended its “caring owners” and praised the setting, calling it “an ideal location for exploring the local area”.
The Fenland Gite is described as “a delightful, compact but well-appointed self-contained ground-floor annexe with a small, private, fully enclosed patio area with outdoor table and chairs.
“There’s one double bedroom, a hall, bathroom (with shower over bath), kitchen with washer/dryer and lounge with two sofas, dining table and chairs.
“Both the lounge and the bedroom have TVs with Freeview. All bedding, towels, gas/electricity are included in price.”
In their assessment, VisitEngland said The Fenland Gite is “pleasantly situated and ideal for work or exploring Ely, Newmarket and Cambridge”.
They also noted the “peaceful location”, adding that it is “a short walk from the centre of Ely with very good roads links close by”.
They added that the “comfortable accommodation” is “tastefully decorated and furnished with all modern comforts”.
The assessor also highlighted the private patio, saying “guests can enjoy a private patio and also make use of a parking space”.
Finally, they said that the nearby Ely Cathedral is a “must visit whist in the area”.
