How we choose
How we build a shortlist
We want you to trust these lists, so here is exactly what they are, how we put them together, and what the numbers do and do not mean.
Red Mum is an editorial publication. Every shortlist is researched and written by a person, using information anyone could look up. We are not a directory and we are not a ranking engine. We do not claim to have tested, scored or inspected the places we feature.
The process
Research
We start with the topic and the location, then find genuine places that are currently open and clearly relevant, using public sources like official sites, listings and maps.
Verify
We check that each place is real and operating, and confirm details like name, address, phone and website before anything is published.
Shortlist
We keep around ten worth considering and describe who each one tends to suit, including age suitability where it is publicly stated, so the list is genuinely useful.
Order
We place them in an order that reflects our editorial judgement of relevance and fit for the typical reader, not a measured score.
What the numbers mean
The positions on our lists are editorial and indicative, not official. A place at number three is not, by some objective measure, better than the one at number four. The order reflects our reading of publicly available information and how well each one fits the typical family reading that guide.
What can influence where something appears includes how relevant it is, its location, the facilities and services it offers, any clear speciality, and the public information available about it. What never influences it is payment.
What we do not do
We do not invent details. We do not publish prices, complaints, awards or claims we cannot support from public information. We do not write fake reviews or made-up quotes, and we do not use a pretend scoring system to make editorial choices look scientific. If we cannot verify something, we leave it out.
Ratings and reviews
Where you see a rating on Red Mum, it will be shown with its source and review count. We do not publish star ratings we cannot stand over, so if a rating is not shown, it is because we could not verify one, not because a place scored badly.
Sponsorship and disclosure
At the moment, nobody pays to appear on a shortlist or to be placed higher on one. Number one has not bought the spot. Red Mum may introduce clearly labelled options in future, such as featured placements. If we do, they will be marked on the page, kept separate from the editorial order, and never allowed to change what the shortlist honestly recommends.
Corrections
We get things wrong sometimes, and places change. If a detail is out of date, or you think a business has been described unfairly, tell us and we will review it. You can also ask to have your business removed. Just get in touch.
Start with a shortlist
Skip the two hundred search results. Pick a Red Mum guide, get the useful part, and get on with your day.