The humble self-catering cottage doesn't always get the best press at this time of year. With adverts everywhere promoting far-flung destinations, all-inclusive hotels and luxurious cruises it can be easy to overlook the joys of a cottage holiday in the UK. And even easier to believe the myths that abound about taking a break in this country. Luckily you've got us here to tell you the truth. Here are 6 common myths about self-catering holidays in the UK and why you shouldn't believe them.
It's just as expensive as going abroad
It's not. Prices vary and with the rise in the cost of energy and, well, everything else in the past year, they have risen somewhat recently. But when you book a self-catering cottage you're pretty much done. You don’t have to factor in flights or a hire car. Travel insurance is a lot cheaper than for a single trip abroad and you'll still be covered on a multi-trip policy.
Plus, as you're in a self-catering property you will have the option to cook, saving you money vs. going out for every meal. And, as with going abroad, it's up to you whether you book a budget, mid-range or luxury property.
There's no service
Not exactly, just a different type of service. Yes, you are on your own in the property and you won't find a 24-hour concierge desk by the downstairs loo. But there should always be someone at the end of the phone should you need help, while you enjoy the independence and peace and quiet of having the whole property to yourselves. Any good holiday home owner will have plenty of information about local attractions and eateries in the property. Plus they will have done everything within their control to ensure that your break will go smoothly and will have a team on hand to come and help in the unlikely event that anything does go wrong.
There's nothing to do
This one is really up to you. Self-catering properties don't have organised activities or tours but there should be lots of information in the property about things to do locally, plus if you contact the holiday home owner ahead of time they should be able to recommend activities in the area and seasonal events. As an example, from Lock Cottage we have walks from the door, Dalby Forest, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Flamingo Land, The North Yorkshire Water Park, the Whitby Goth Festival, Dark Skies Festival, plus stunning countryside and beautiful villages and towns. A little planning before your trip and you'll be spoilt for choice!
It's never like it looks in the photos
Lock Cottage is exactly like it looks in the photos. Actually that's a fib - we've moved one of the sofas slightly since we took the pictures. On the whole though holiday cottages look just like the photos on the web. It's not worth our while to lie or put up false images - these are our shop window and we want guests to see what they're going to get. Also, you're going to leave a review and the last thing cottage owners want is for the reviews to say the property doesn't live up to the pictures. If you're feeling nervous always check out the guest reviews beforehand (here are ours https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g4473233-d23499772-Reviews-Lock_Cottage-Lockton_North_Yorkshire_England.html)
It's too difficult to book cottages
In the past booking a UK holiday home wasn't always straightforward, but not anymore. Self-catering cottages are well and truly in the 21st century - almost all have their own websites or are listed on agency websites. They show up-to-date availability and allow instant booking. It is much easier than trying to co-ordinate the booking of flights, hotels and hire cars! Want to see how easy it can be? Why not book a weekend break with us? https://www.lockcottageyorkshire.co.uk/booking (#shamelessplug)
You have to book for a whole week
Not at all. Most holiday homes now take weekend and short break bookings throughout the year. It's really easy to book a long weekend and if there's a group of you going it works out a lot more economical than a hotel. A tip that is worth noting - many properties charge the same for a two-night break as a three-night one. Even if you can't stay the extra night book it anyway so that you get an extra day to have a lie-in, enjoy the cottage and really relax. Much better than the rush to check out of a hotel!
If you have any questions about booking a break at Lock Cottage please get in touch https://www.lockcottageyorkshire.co.uk/contact-us or call us on 07918 400909.
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