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by Rob Hayes / Travel Tips
Planning your next UK getaway but unsure what to expect from your staycation? You’re not alone. With staycations on the rise, we’re on hand to ensure you have all the information to make your next getaway the best yet!
On average, holidaymakers are planning to take two breaks in the UK this year, with 23% of them choosing to stay in a holiday cottage, showing just how popular self-catering accommodation is. With this growing demand, it’s more important than ever to know exactly what’s included and how it all works.
From what you’ll find inside your property to what you might need to bring, this guide is here to answer the most common questions and clear up any uncertainty.
So, whether you’re booking your first break or already counting down the days, here’s everything you need to know about what to expect from a UK staycation…
Self-catering accommodation is a type of stay where you have everything you need to look after yourself during your break, much like you would at home. This usually includes a fully equipped kitchen, living space and private facilities, giving you the freedom to cook your own meals, plan your days at your own pace and enjoy a more flexible stay.
It’s a great option for couples, families and groups who value space and independence, especially when compared to more traditional options like hotels. Rather than fixed meal times, shared spaces or on-site staff, self-catering stays give you full control over how your holiday looks, from relaxed mornings to evenings spent unwinding in your own space.
It’s also worth noting that self-catering doesn’t just mean holiday cottages. At Sykes, there’s a wide range of property types to choose from, including lodges and log cabins, holiday parks, glamping breaks, apartments, caravans and even historic castles, each offering something slightly different depending on the kind of break you’re planning to have!
When booking a self-catering stay, most properties come equipped with everything you need to settle in and start enjoying your break from the moment you arrive. While exact features can vary, here’s what you can usually expect:
These are typically included in the cost of your stay, so you can keep warm and comfortable without worrying about extra charges.
Most properties provide fresh bed linen and towels, meaning that there’s no need to pack bulky essentials.
You’ll usually find key appliances such as an oven, fridge, kettle and microwave, making it easy to prepare meals during your stay.
From pots and pans to cutlery and crockery, you’ll have the tools you need to cook and dine just as you would at home.
Properties are prepared ahead of your arrival, so you can settle in straight away without any extra effort.
Many properties include internet access, although it’s always best to check the listing to confirm availability.
Clear instructions are provided ahead of your stay, covering everything from arrival times to when you need to leave and how to access the property.
Parking is often available, either on-site or nearby, but this can vary depending on the property, so it’s worth double-checking before you travel.
Above all, self-catering accommodation offers a comfortable and private space where you can relax, unwind and make lasting memories with your loved ones.
Many holiday cottage owners go the extra mile to create a memorable stay, which means you may find a range of additional features included during your break. These can vary from one property to another, so it’s always worth checking the listing to see exactly what’s provided.
If you’re bringing your dog along to a dog-friendly property, some may provide useful extras such as bowls, beds, towels or even a few toys to help them settle in. Always check the listing to see what’s available for your pet; it’s their holiday too!
For those travelling with little ones, certain properties may include items like a cot, highchair, cot linen or a stairgate, helping to make your stay that bit easier. It’s worth checking whether these things are available as it may mean you don’t have to bring your own! For more information on family holidays check out our guide to the best UK family holiday destinations.
Some owners may offer access to streaming services on smart TVs, but unless this is clearly stated in the listing, you should be prepared to log in using your own account.
You might find handy guides or welcome packs with recommendations for nearby attractions, walking routes, places to eat and useful local contacts such as taxis or transport links.
Certain properties may include a washing machine, tumble dryer or drying space, which can be especially helpful for longer stays or family breaks.
To help you get started, some owners may provide essentials such as washing up liquid, bin bags or a small supply of cleaning products, though you may need to top these up during your stay.
While self-catering stays offer plenty of flexibility and comfort, there are a few things that are not typically included, especially when compared to hotels. Here’s what you should be aware of before you travel:
Unlike hotels, meals and refreshments arent provided, so you’ll need to bring your own or plan where to shop and dine locally.
Properties are cleaned before your arrival, but there isn’t usually a daily housekeeping service during your stay. Please also ensure that the property is left as you found it.
Unlike hotels, items like shampoo, shower gel and other personal toiletries are not always included, so it’s best to pack your own.
Most self-catering properties don’t have a staffed reception, meaning you won’t have on-site assistance, though support is available if needed. You can find more information on this on our Support Hub.
Fresh linen and towels are typically provided at the start of your stay, but replacements aren’t usually offered during your visit.
Getting to and from the property, as well as travelling around during your stay, isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan this in advance.
When deciding where to stay, it often comes down to choosing between self-catering accommodation and a hotel. Both offer their own benefits, but the overall experience can be quite different depending on what you’re looking for.
With self-catering accommodation, you’ll have your own private space to enjoy throughout your stay. Unlike hotels, where you’ll share communal areas with other guests, you can relax, cook and unwind without interruptions, making it ideal for those who value peace and quiet.
One of the biggest advantages of self-catering stays is the freedom to plan your break your way. There are no set meal times or schedules to follow, so you can eat, explore and relax whenever it suits you, giving you full control over your holiday.
Hotels are often found in busy town or city centres, whereas self-catering properties can be found in a wide range of settings, from countryside retreats to coastal escapes. That said, there are also plenty of options for city breaks too, so you’re not limited when it comes to location, check out our guide to the best city breaks in the UK for more inspiration.
Hotels typically offer on-site services such as housekeeping, room service and staffed reception desks. In contrast, self-catering accommodation is more independent, with fewer on-site services, but support is still available if you need assistance during your stay.
Self-catering properties usually provide more space than a standard hotel room, often including separate living areas, kitchens and sometimes outdoor spaces. This makes them a great choice for family holidays, bigger groups or anyone looking for a bit more room to spread out and feel at home.
This article is informed by proprietary customer insight from Sykes Holiday Cottages’ Voice of the Customer research, an ongoing study designed to understand and monitor the perceptions, attitudes, motivations and frustrations of UK holidaymakers. This research surveys 1,000 UK holidaymakers who have either taken a UK break or are planning one.
Whether you’re still exploring your options or ready to secure your stay, there are plenty of ways to take the next step. For inspiration on where to go, take a look at our UK holiday destinations guide, or browse the full collection of self-catering cottages to find a property that suits your plans.
All that’s left to do now is start planning your next staycation and enjoy everything that self-catering accommodation has to offer!
by Rob Hayes / Travel Tips
I'm Rob and I joined the Sykes team in February 2024. I am a passionate writer and have always enjoyed holidays in the UK, especia...
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