I book this kind of travel pretty much every year an I always choose an host family. It's like an immersion, staying with locals, having tea, sharing ideas, discovering new things, improving my english =) Well, 3 years ago, i've been in scotland and i'm still in touch with them, with emails and internet, everything is really easy.
For you to go out, it's not a big deal at all. Just be respectful and don't make noise if you are getting home late and then you'll join the family for breakfast on the next day
