We stayed in a Host and Stay property in Alnwick. The town is absolutely lovely and within easy access of the jaw droppingly beautiful Northumberland Coast. If you fancy a visit, do go to Alnwick, but please stay anywhere but this property. I was contacted prior to arrival to request that I pay either a £25 insurance policy or an additional £250 with a £10 admin fee (it has not be explained what this charge is for). The £250 was to cover damage. I was not provided with information about accessing the property and had to telephone the Host and Stay call centre on the day of arrival for instructions. I have stayed in many different places, with Air BnB and other booking sites, and have never been asked to make such a payment. The request seemed out of touch with the market and inappropriate. I did however pay £250. We did not cause any damage. The £250, which was in addition to the cost of the property, has not be refunded. As such, I would advise everyone to avoid booking with Host and Stay at all costs.