{"id":89745,"date":"2026-05-28T16:20:51","date_gmt":"2026-05-28T15:20:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/?p=89745"},"modified":"2026-05-28T16:20:51","modified_gmt":"2026-05-28T15:20:51","slug":"whats-included-self-catering-accommodation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/whats-included-self-catering-accommodation\/","title":{"rendered":"What&#8217;s Included in Self-Catering Accommodation: UK Staycation Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"89745\" class=\"elementor elementor-89745\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-1b533e5 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"1b533e5\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-47c4b1e\" data-id=\"47c4b1e\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-15a55fc elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"15a55fc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Planning your next UK getaway but unsure what to expect from your staycation? You\u2019re not alone. With staycations on the rise, we&#8217;re on hand to ensure you have all the information to make your next getaway the best yet!<\/p><p>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\u2019s more important than ever to know exactly what\u2019s included and how it all works.<\/p><p>From what you\u2019ll 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.<\/p><p><em><strong>So, whether you\u2019re booking your first break or already counting down the days, here\u2019s everything you need to know about what to expect from a UK staycation&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-384d8e0 elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"384d8e0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f981599 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"f981599\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Skip Ahead to:<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fcb8c20 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"fcb8c20\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul><li><span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"#what\">What Does Self-Catering Accommodation Mean?<\/a><\/span><\/li><li><a href=\"#included\">What&#8217;s Included in Self-Catering Holidays with Sykes?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#might\">What Might Be Included: Varies by Property<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#not-included\">What&#8217;s Not Included in Self-Catering Accommodation?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#vs-hotels\">Self-Catering Accommodation vs Hotels: What&#8217;s the Difference?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#methodology\">Methodology<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4274842 elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"4274842\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-9bef5fe elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"9bef5fe\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-b129e49\" data-id=\"b129e49\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-223f277 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"223f277\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id=\"what\">What Does Self-Catering Accommodation Mean?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1d04f66 elementor-arrows-position-inside elementor-widget elementor-widget-image-carousel\" data-id=\"1d04f66\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;slides_to_show&quot;:&quot;2&quot;,&quot;navigation&quot;:&quot;arrows&quot;,&quot;autoplay&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;pause_on_hover&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;pause_on_interaction&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;autoplay_speed&quot;:5000,&quot;infinite&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;speed&quot;:500}\" data-widget_type=\"image-carousel.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-image-carousel-wrapper swiper\" role=\"region\" aria-roledescription=\"carousel\" aria-label=\"Image Carousel\" dir=\"ltr\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-image-carousel swiper-wrapper swiper-image-stretch\" aria-live=\"off\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"1 of 5\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Little-Mornington.jpg\" alt=\"Little Mornington (Ref. 969225) | Malvern, Worcestershire\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Little Mornington (Ref. 969225) | Malvern, Worcestershire<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"2 of 5\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Y-Dderwen.jpg\" alt=\"Y Dderwen (Ref. 1116725) | Ruthin, Denbighshire\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Y Dderwen (Ref. 1116725) | Ruthin, Denbighshire<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"3 of 5\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Housekeepers-Rooms.jpg\" alt=\"Housekeeper&#039;s Rooms (Ref. 960267) | Pathhead, Midlothian\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Housekeeper's Rooms (Ref. 960267) | Pathhead, Midlothian<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"4 of 5\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/8-Lakes-View.jpg\" alt=\"Number 8 Lakes View (Ref. 1081562) | Brean, Somerset\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Number 8 Lakes View (Ref. 1081562) | Brean, Somerset<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"swiper-slide\" role=\"group\" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" aria-label=\"5 of 5\"><figure class=\"swiper-slide-inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"swiper-slide-image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Standby-Generator-Bunker.jpg\" alt=\"Standby Generator Bunker (Ref. 1137374) | Weymouth, Dorset\" \/><figcaption class=\"elementor-image-carousel-caption\">Standby Generator Bunker (Ref. 1137374) | Weymouth, Dorset<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-swiper-button elementor-swiper-button-prev\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<i aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"eicon-chevron-left\"><\/i>\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-swiper-button elementor-swiper-button-next\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<i aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"eicon-chevron-right\"><\/i>\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7946652 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7946652\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: 400;\">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.<\/span><\/p><p>It\u2019s 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.<\/p><p>It\u2019s also worth noting that self-catering doesn\u2019t just mean holiday cottages. At Sykes, there\u2019s a wide range of property types to choose from, including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/log-cabin-holiday-cottages.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">lodges and log cabins<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/holiday-parks.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">holiday parks<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/uk-glamping-breaks.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">glamping breaks<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/uk-holiday-apartments.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">apartments<\/a>, caravans and even <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/castle-accommodation.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">historic castles<\/a>, each offering something slightly different depending on the kind of break you\u2019re planning to have!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-17183ce elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"17183ce\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-800c155 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"800c155\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id=\"included\">What&#8217;s Included in Self-Catering Holidays with Sykes?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dfe1793 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"dfe1793\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: 400;\">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\u2019s what you can usually expect:<\/span><\/p><h3><strong>1. Heating and electricity<\/strong><\/h3><p>These are typically included in the cost of your stay, so you can keep warm and comfortable without worrying about extra charges.<\/p><h3><strong>2. Bedding and towels<\/strong><\/h3><p>Most properties provide fresh bed linen and towels, meaning that there\u2019s no need to pack bulky essentials.<\/p><h3><strong>3. Kitchen appliances<\/strong><\/h3><p>You\u2019ll usually find key appliances such as an oven, fridge, kettle and microwave, making it easy to prepare meals during your stay.<\/p><h3><strong>4. Utensils and cookware<\/strong><\/h3><p>From pots and pans to cutlery and crockery, you\u2019ll have the tools you need to cook and dine just as you would at home.<\/p><h3><strong>5. Clean, ready-to-use space<\/strong><\/h3><p>Properties are prepared ahead of your arrival, so you can settle in straight away without any extra effort.<\/p><h3><strong>6. Wi-Fi<\/strong><\/h3><p>Many properties include internet access, although it\u2019s always best to check the listing to confirm availability.<\/p><h3><strong>7. Check-in\/Check-out times and access information<\/strong><\/h3><p>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.<\/p><h3><strong>8. Parking<\/strong><\/h3><p>Parking is often available, either on-site or nearby, but this can vary depending on the property, so it\u2019s worth double-checking before you travel.<\/p><h3><strong>9. A home away from home<\/strong><\/h3><p>Above all, self-catering accommodation offers a comfortable and private space where you can relax, unwind and make lasting memories with your loved ones.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-722db18 elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"722db18\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-05f6687 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"05f6687\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id=\"might\">What Might Be Included: Varies by Property<\/h2>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5013c65 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"5013c65\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/dog-on-chair.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-90436\" alt=\"Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sitting comfortably on a plaid-patterned armchair.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/dog-on-chair.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/dog-on-chair-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e5beda9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e5beda9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: 400;\">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\u2019s always worth checking the listing to see exactly what&#8217;s provided.<\/span><\/p><h3><strong>1. Pet supplies<\/strong><\/h3><p>If you\u2019re bringing your dog along to a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/pet-friendly-cottages.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">dog-friendly property<\/a>, 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&#8217;s available for your pet; it&#8217;s their holiday too!<\/p><h3><strong>2. Child and baby equipment<\/strong><\/h3><p>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&#8217;s worth checking whether these things are available as it may mean you don&#8217;t have to bring your own! For more information on family holidays check out our guide to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/best-uk-holidays-for-families\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">best UK family holiday destinations<\/a>.<\/p><h3><strong>3. Entertainment subscriptions<\/strong><\/h3><p>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.<\/p><h3><strong>4. Local information<\/strong><\/h3><p>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.<\/p><h3><strong>5. Washing and drying facilities<\/strong><\/h3><p>Certain properties may include a washing machine, tumble dryer or drying space, which can be especially helpful for longer stays or family breaks.<\/p><h3><strong>6. Basic household and cleaning products<\/strong><\/h3><p>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.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b038a0c elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"b038a0c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dee84a0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"dee84a0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id=\"not-included\">What&#8217;s Not Included in Self-Catering Accommodation?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e8f7b98 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e8f7b98\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: 400;\">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&#8217;s what you should be aware of before you travel:<\/span><\/p><h3><strong>1. Food and drink<\/strong><\/h3><p>Unlike hotels, meals and refreshments arent provided, so you&#8217;ll need to bring your own or plan where to shop and dine locally.<\/p><h3><strong>2. Daily cleaning<\/strong><\/h3><p>Properties are cleaned before your arrival, but there isn&#8217;t usually a daily housekeeping service during your stay. Please also ensure that the property is left as you found it.<\/p><h3><strong>3. Toiletries<\/strong><\/h3><p>Unlike hotels, items like shampoo, shower gel and other personal toiletries are not always included, so it&#8217;s best to pack your own.<\/p><h3><strong>4. On-site staff or reception<\/strong><\/h3><p>Most self-catering properties don&#8217;t have a staffed reception, meaning you won&#8217;t have on-site assistance, though support is available if needed. You can find more information on this on our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/support-hub\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Support Hub<\/a>.<\/p><h3><strong>5. Linen and towel changes<\/strong><\/h3><p>Fresh linen and towels are typically provided at the start of your stay, but replacements aren&#8217;t usually offered during your visit.<\/p><h3><strong>6. Travel and transport<\/strong><\/h3><p>Getting to and from the property, as well as travelling around during your stay, isn&#8217;t included, so you&#8217;ll need to plan this in advance.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-14e8655 elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"14e8655\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6ee2bdd elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6ee2bdd\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id=\"vs-hotels\">Self-Catering Accommodation vs Hotels: What&#8217;s the Difference?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e47dd12 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"e47dd12\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/family-holiday-cottage-bbq.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-90437\" alt=\"Family having a barbecue whilst staying at a holiday cottage next to a wooded area\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/family-holiday-cottage-bbq.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/family-holiday-cottage-bbq-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-89a7a9d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"89a7a9d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: 400;\">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\u2019re looking for.<\/span><\/p><h3>1. Privacy<\/h3><p>With self-catering accommodation, you\u2019ll have your own private space to enjoy throughout your stay. Unlike hotels, where you\u2019ll share communal areas with other guests, you can relax, cook and unwind without interruptions, making it ideal for those who value peace and quiet.<\/p><h3>2. Flexibility<\/h3><p>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.<\/p><h3>3. Location<\/h3><p>Hotels are often found in busy town or city centres, whereas self-catering properties can be found in a wide range of settings, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/countryside-cottages.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">countryside retreats<\/a> to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/coastal-cottages.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">coastal escapes<\/a>. That said, there are also plenty of options for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/uk-city-breaks.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">city breaks<\/a> too, so you\u2019re not limited when it comes to location, check out our guide to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/best-city-breaks-uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">best city breaks in the UK<\/a> for more inspiration.<\/p><h3>4. Services<\/h3><p>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.<\/p><h3>5. Space<\/h3><p>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 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/family-cottages.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">family holidays<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/large-cottages.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">bigger groups<\/a> or anyone looking for a bit more room to spread out and feel at home.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ff1cd51 elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"ff1cd51\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-e265ca2 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"e265ca2\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-2c41afc\" data-id=\"2c41afc\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0585e55 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"0585e55\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 id=\"methodology\">Methodology<\/h2><p>This article is informed by proprietary customer insight from Sykes Holiday Cottages&#8217; 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.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0ebc293 elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"0ebc293\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9b2d393 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"9b2d393\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Whether you\u2019re 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 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/uk-holiday-destinations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>UK holiday destinations guide<\/strong><\/a>, or browse the full collection of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/self-catering-cottages.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>self-catering cottages<\/strong><\/a> to find a property that suits your plans. <\/strong><\/span><\/p><p><strong>All that\u2019s left to do now is start planning your next staycation and enjoy everything that self-catering accommodation has to offer!<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Planning your next UK getaway but unsure what to expect from your staycation? You\u2019re not alone. With staycations on the rise, we&#8217;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% [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":183,"featured_media":89779,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-89745","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-tips"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/89745","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/183"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=89745"}],"version-history":[{"count":43,"href":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/89745\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":91114,"href":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/89745\/revisions\/91114"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/89779"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=89745"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=89745"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=89745"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}