Planning a family getaway often starts with one big question: should you book a hotel or a holiday let? Both have their perks, but for families who value space, privacy, and flexibility, one option often wins out. Whether you’re heading to the countryside or the coast, choosing the right type of accommodation sets the tone for your trip. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect – and why more families are leaning towards self-catered stays in 2025.
How Much Space Does Your Family Really Need?
Let’s be honest: sharing one hotel room as a family can test even the closest relationships. A single room rarely offers enough space for kids to play, parents to unwind, or anyone to have privacy. Holiday lets, on the other hand, are built for spreading out. You get multiple bedrooms, living areas, and often gardens or terraces. Kids can nap while adults relax nearby, and no one’s fighting over the TV remote. It’s the kind of comfort that makes a trip feel like an actual break rather than a logistical puzzle.
Are You Looking For Flexibility Around Meals?
Hotels may come with breakfast buffets and on-site restaurants, but that convenience can also mean rigid meal times and higher costs – especially for picky eaters or families with dietary needs. A holiday let gives you full control. You can cook your own meals, pack picnics, and eat whenever it suits your schedule. Stock the fridge, put a bottle of wine on ice, and you’re set. Many family-friendly rentals even include barbecues or outdoor dining areas. Here at Downwood Holidays, our countryside homes often feature fully equipped kitchens and open-plan living spaces – perfect for relaxed, family-style dinners.
How Important Is Privacy To You?
Privacy is where holiday lets shine. You’re not bumping into other guests in the hallway or worrying about noise from neighbouring rooms. Children can play freely without disturbing anyone, and adults can unwind in peace. Many of our holiday cottages also offer enclosed gardens, private terraces, and even hot tubs – ideal for family evenings under the stars. Choosing countryside escapes offering private tubs adds a touch of luxury you’ll never find in a standard hotel suite.
What About Value For Money?
At first glance, a hotel might look cheaper per night – but when you factor in meals, parking, and family extras, costs add up fast. Holiday lets often work out more economical, especially for larger groups. You pay a single rate for the whole property, not per person, and you can save on dining and entertainment by staying in. Plus, you get amenities – like hot tubs, games rooms, and gardens – that hotels charge extra for or don’t offer at all.
Are Holiday Lets More Comfortable For Kids And Pets?
Families with young children or dogs tend to find holiday lets far easier. There’s space for toys, nap schedules, and muddy paws, without the awkwardness of hotel corridors or shared facilities. Many UK lets, including those at Downwood Holidays, welcome dogs – so no one’s left behind. Add features like secure gardens and nearby walking trails, and it’s easy to see why self-catering has become the go-to option for family travel.
Do Hotels Offer The Same Sense Of Home?
Hotels are great for short city breaks or when you want to be pampered, but they can feel impersonal on longer stays. A holiday let gives your family room to settle in – spreading out, cooking your own food, and making the place yours for a week or two. Children adapt faster to familiar routines, and parents get to unwind without worrying about room service or cleaning staff knocking. That “home away from home” feeling is hard to beat once you’ve experienced it.
The Bottom Line
Both hotels and holiday lets have their place, but for families, holiday lets usually come out ahead. The freedom to cook, play, and relax in your own space makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Add in cost savings, comfort, and amenities like gardens, hot tubs, and pet-friendly options, and it’s easy to see why self-catering is becoming the family favourite. If you’re new to self-catering accommodation, it’s worth reading up on the do’s and don’ts of renting a holiday cottage to make sure your first experience is smooth and stress-free.
And if you’re planning your next getaway, consider Downwood Holidays – where you’ll find beautiful countryside properties designed for relaxation, space, and togetherness.
FAQs
Are holiday lets more expensive than hotels?
Not necessarily. While the nightly rate might seem higher, you’re paying for the entire property – often with multiple bedrooms, a full kitchen, and private facilities. When you factor in the savings on food, parking, and activities, it’s usually better value than booking several hotel rooms.
Do holiday lets provide the same comfort and cleanliness as hotels?
Yes, and in many cases, they exceed it. Reputable providers ensure properties are cleaned to a high standard and equipped with quality bedding, towels, and essentials. The difference is you get more privacy and personal space without compromising on comfort.
Can I still have luxury amenities like a hot tub or pool?
Absolutely. Many modern lets feature luxury touches you’d normally associate with high-end hotels – like hot tubs, outdoor pools, and private terraces. At Downwood Holidays, our properties offer exactly that, with rural seclusion and stylish interiors designed for families.
Are holiday lets suitable for families with babies or toddlers?
Yes. Most are more family-friendly than hotels because you can control the environment – cook baby meals, maintain sleep routines, and have easy access to washing facilities. Always check for stair gates, travel cots, or highchairs if you need them.
Can we bring our dog to a holiday let?
Many UK holiday lets are dog-friendly, but always confirm in advance. Ask about pet fees, fenced gardens, and local walking trails. At Downwood Holidays, we fully welcome well-behaved dogs, making family travel that bit easier.
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