UK breaks are popular with a variety of different holiday makers. Small touches in your property can enhance the guests experience, so read our tips and advice on how to equip a holiday cottage.
46%* of holiday makers say that a holiday cottage is in their top 3 preferred accommodation types when on holiday. Self-catering holidays are as popular as ever and The Lake District is also a top destination for holidays this year.
So, what are these holiday makers looking for when they visit your property?
The Lake District is known for amazing hiking opportunities, quaint villages and also a unique coastline. It is important to consider what type of activities your guests will be partaking in. The property should reflect the location and the activities available.
41%* of Brits want to try new experiences when on holiday. People are eager to experience activities such as walking, water sports and cycling.
A boot room:
- The boot room is perfect for people to kick off muddy walking boots, hang up wet coats and shake off all the Lakes weather before getting cosy in the cottage.
- By offering a dedicated space for guests visiting your property to leave boots and coats, it conveys that the property is well suited to the location.
Birkwray Barn Ref 1162435
Bike storage:
- If space allows, offer a bike rack or storage and also bike locks. This will showcase your property as offering extra security and may be a factor for cycling enthusiasts when booking.
Family equipment:
- You could provide some spades, buckets and beach equipment to help families and guests who want to visit the local coastline.
- Offering play equipment such as a ball or tennis racquets will improve the guests experience. This also helps them to utilise the outdoor space available.
- Small touches like this make the guests feel very welcomed into the property.
Local knowledge:
- Offer maps of the local area to help guests visiting your property navigate their surroundings.
- Activity guides such as local brochures are useful. These inform guests of available experiences and excursions in the area.
- Information on distance to local walks, parking options nearby, dog friendly pubs etc. is appreciated by guests who aren’t local.
- Personalised guide book with your recommendations for local pubs, restaurants, cafes etc. This is the ‘personal touch’ which is often received well by guests.
Technology:
- WIFI has become increasingly important for guests on holiday with some guests wanting to be able to work from the property. Investing in a good wi-fi connection will improve the guests stay and make the property more bookable.
- Smart TVs offer guests the ability to maintain their regular TV viewing if they desire. They can include streaming apps so guests can log in to their own accounts.
- Bluetooth speakers or Sonos through the home appeals to friend groups and couples when booking.
- An EV charging point will also give the property an edge for bookings.
Hot tubs:
- Hot tubs have become very popular with UK holidays as people are eager to warm up after a day exploring.
- You can increase bookings and generate more income by an extra 35% in Winter and an extra 25% in Summer*.
- If you decide to install a hot tub some small touches can make a large difference. Towel hooks close to the hot tub, a drinks shelf for glasses, a safe pathway to and from the hot tub, lighting and also a step if the hot tub is not lowered.
Paddock House Ref 1115519
Pet friendly:
- We recommend that properties are pet friendly as it makes it much more bookable for our guests visiting your property.
- If the property is pet friendly, considering installing an outdoor tap or hose so owners can hose their dogs off outside after a day out walking.
- Space for a dog bed to be easily placed is important so guests can easily find somewhere for their four legged friend to sleep.
- A container of dog treats is also a nice touch. These must be kept in the original packet so dog owners can be aware of the ingredients in case the dog has allergies.
Gate House Ref 1143496
We understand some of the property changes we have listed above require an investment to implement however some are small changes that would have a big impact to a potential guest looking and booking your property. Our advice is make the most out of your property!
Interested in setting up a holiday let with Lakelovers?
Request your FREE owner pack which will provide you with more information and guide you in the right direction. Call us on 015394 88855 or drop us an email on newowners@lakelovers.co.uk and we’ll get right back to you. Alternatively, complete the form below to request contact from our team, including a copy of our FREE Owner Guide.
*All data is from our parent company Sykes Holiday Cottages.