We run a guest house in Blackpool, we know how important it is to have your channel manager integrated into your website to get those commission free direct bookings.
We use freetobook.com as they are the most cost-effective solution for us, but WordPress also works with other channel managers too.
With the right theme, you can display lots of stunning photos and make an eye catching website.
Our website uses the Response Slider plugin for the photo slideshow on the home page, which showcases our guest house. The great thing is that many of these plugins are also free.