Ancient B&B Goes Viral: Humor and Gen Z Slang Bring New Life to Historic Manor

In a delightful twist of fate, an 880-year-old bed and breakfast in Oxfordshire has taken the social media world by storm, thanks to a fresh marketing approach rooted in Gen Z’s vibrant vernacular. Fyfield Manor, located near Wallingford, recently posted a TikTok video that has since garnered an astonishing 9.4 million views, captivating a younger audience with its humorous and relatable content. The brainchild behind this viral moment is a collaboration between Frannie Brown, 26, and her mother Christine, who has managed the family-run B&B for the past 25 years. Frannie, inspired by the success of similar lighthearted videos showcasing generational differences, decided to infuse a dose of Gen Z slang into the promotion of their historic establishment. The video opens with the playful confession: "When you ask your Gen Z daughter to write the marketing script," immediately setting the tone for a humorous yet engaging narrative. In the video, Christine describes the B&B in phrases that might baffle a more traditional audience but resonate deeply with younger viewers. Phrases like “giving zen,” “very demure,” and “understood the assignment” roll off her tongue as she introduces viewers to the unique charm of Fyfield Manor. As she showcases the medieval dining room, she quips that it has “so much rizz,” a term that highlights its appeal and character. Christine’s willingness to embrace a new style of marketing speaks volumes about her approach to business. “I’m open to anything,” she said, recognizing the need to diversify her clientele. Historically, Fyfield Manor has attracted an older demographic, but Christine's willingness to try something different stems from a desire to engage a younger audience. “It felt like I needed to try something new,” she explained, reflecting on her long tenure in the hospitality industry. The mother-daughter duo's effort has already begun to pay off, with younger guests starting to book stays after seeing similar content on TikTok. "They love it," Christine remarked, highlighting the positive response they've received from this new audience. As the video concludes, Christine delivers a closing line that’s sure to resonate with young viewers: “Whether you need to recover from a brat summer or menty b - this is the place for you. Slay!” It’s a phrase that encapsulates the lighthearted and trendy approach they’ve adopted, certainly a far cry from the conventional advertisements often associated with the hospitality sector. The success of Fyfield Manor’s TikTok venture not only highlights the power of social media in reaching diverse audiences but also illustrates how traditional businesses can innovate and adapt in the digital age. As Christine and Frannie continue to navigate this new landscape, they serve as a reminder that sometimes, a little humor and a willingness to step outside of one’s comfort zone can lead to delightful and unexpected success.