chevron_left Back to Owner advice
Attracting bookings in the off-peak season for a holiday cottage is a realistic concern for many prospective owners. However, there are many great ways you can help to extend your peak periods.
If you're wondering how to get more bookings, the key is ingenuity. So, as each let is unique, you can apply location, nearby bad-weather facilities and indoor appeal to increase interest in your property even more.
We’ve been busy compiling a short list of common factors which have helped other homeowners to increase their bookings throughout the year.
Mountain View Cottage
Create a cosy space
Sometimes couples and families go away simply to be together and to get away from it all. Setting up your holiday let with more home comforts that entice people to stay wrapped up inside, yet entertained, is a tactic that's definitely worth considering.
Cosy couches with snuggly throws, streaming services, books and DVDs are all things that encourage your guests to hunker down in the winter months and make your cottage extra cosy. In the bathroom, you could add soft dressing gowns and snuggly slippers too. You could also think of including a games room if space allows - a real selling point for families and larger groups making off-peak bookings.
Wood burners act as a natural hub for families to get cosy around; nothing evokes being away from home and in the countryside or by the sea like feeding a wood burner and watching its glow. The handy aspect is that their draw can extend the booking periods into the colder season.
Outside, the inclusion of an indoor or outdoor hot tub is also a great extra for all year round, but is especially temping in the winter months as it allows your guests to feel pampered while relaxing under the stars.
You could also invest in underfloor heating and zoned heating so the property is always toasty but only in the rooms needed - see our article on eco-friendly ideas for more information on how to save energy and the planet at the same time.
Top holiday home features
Tallet, Devon
Appeal to dog owners
Consider allowing visitors with dogs to stay at your property. We have over 4,000 dog-friendly holiday cottages across the UK and, from experience, our canine friends have presented very few problems for owners over the years.
In the autumn and winter, people are more inclined to invite their dog along on holiday because there is often a wider selection of open beaches in the off season. Some dog lovers really enjoy a crisp walk in the deep countryside too during the colder seasons; it’s a fun and universal pastime.
There are many ways you can entice dog owners to your holiday home – why not offer a kennel, or dog toys and treats on arrival? Click the button below for more tips on setting up a dog-friendly holiday let.
Make your property dog friendly
Add a few seasonal trimmings
The small things do count, so why not co-ordinate your ‘welcomes’ according to the season? For instance, during the winter time, you could leave the heating on in preparation for guest arrival, or offer some mince pies if Christmas is looming. Tasteful Christmas decorations from late November, or hot cross buns for spring visitors would also be popular.
Pine cones and autumnal window decorations complement outdoor surroundings and add to the holiday ambience.
Another small tip to consider is adding low-maintenance flowers and plants that bloom in different seasons, eg. daffodils, tulips and other bulbs. A well thought out, vibrant garden for all-seasons is a major plus for many. Kind gestures like these are always appreciated and could be the reason a family decides to come back another year.
Decorate your cottage for Christmas

Share your local knowledge
Local knowledge is invaluable. The internet and the Tourist Board can be great resources, but giving your guests a few ‘best kept secrets’ or ‘tips’ could make all the difference to a trip.
For instance, if you are by the sea, a tide timetable is an important guide that holiday makers rarely think about when preparing for a day on the beach. Even compiling a list of sunset times in the autumn and winter to pop in your welcome pack would come in handy for itinerary planning. Shared knowledge of a lesser known beauty spot or other ‘off the radar’ attractions that aren’t in the guidebook will also be seen of as thoughtful and shows you’re going that extra mile for your visitors.
Plus, there are many exciting events taking place all over the UK in the low season, such as autumn food fairs and Christmas markets. Providing your guests with an itinerary of what's on, or some handy local info about transportation or what to look out for can be a really lovely, personal touch.
Roseberry View (left) and Agra CottageShow off the local produce
Buy local, so for example if your let is in Devon and you welcome your visitors with a Devonshire cream tea, let them see that you’ve sourced the tea, scones, jam and cream close by. Or you could consider adding Scottish shortbread, Lake District gingerbread or Welsh cakes, depending on your location. This gives your guests something different to consume from the norm as opposed to all the predictable brands they buy when at home. It also makes a good impression that you care for your surroundings, your neighbours and giving your guests an authentic local experience. You will also forge useful community links with other small businesses this way. It may seem like a small thing but all added together they enhance the holiday experience.
You could also consider adding seasonal treats to your welcome hamper, such as warming hot chocolates and marshmallows, mince pies or spiced fruit teas to add an extra-special little touch.
Create the ultimate welcome hamper
Let with us
We’re always on the search for new owners to let their properties, whatever the style and appeal.
With an exceptional team who are dedicated to showcasing your property to help maximise its true potential, you get a simple, stress-free and successful letting experience that delivers you a healthy return.
If you are considering letting your holiday home, then we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch and let us help you on your journey. Call 01237 459991 or send us a message.
You can also download a free letting guide.