Top holiday rental trends for summer 2025: What UK hosts need to know

1. Demand is peaking later and staying longer

In 2025, we're seeing a noticeable shift in booking patterns. Guests are:

• Booking later than ever before, with many finalising stays just 2–3 weeks in advance
  
  

• Opting for longer getaways, often 5+ nights, especially in scenic and rural areas
  
  

• Prioritising flexible stays during shoulder weeks around July and August
  
  

This mirrors booking data from South West England, where 30% of bookings are made within four weeks of travel, and short breaks have increased by 4% year-on-year. Demand for large-group properties is also up 25%, reflecting longer, shared holidays.

Host tip: Make sure your calendar is fully up to date through Travelnest, and consider offering small discounts for stays over 4 nights to boost occupancy.

How Travelnest helps

Our dynamic pricing tools analyse booking trends and competitor data to recommend the best rates for every night of the summer. With our expert guidance, your availability stays optimised across 30+ booking sites including Airbnb, Booking.com and more.

2. Guests expect better digital connectivity and workspace options

“Workcations” are now mainstream. More than ever, guests are checking listings for reliable Wi-Fi, comfortable desks and spaces suitable for remote working, even during holidays.

Recent research shows a 28% rise in solo travel and a major spike in midweek breaks, driven by flexible working patterns (Sykes Pulse Report). City stays are now the most popular UK holiday type, especially for younger travellers (Hello Guest).

Host tip: If your property has fast broadband, highlight it. A strong Wi-Fi speed test image or desk photo can make your listing stand out.

How Travelnest helps

Our team reviews your property details and helps you showcase remote work amenities prominently across all channels. Our listing optimisation service ensures every feature that matters gets noticed.

3. Sustainability and local experiences are big drivers

Eco-conscious travel is on the rise. Guests are gravitating towards rentals that highlight:

• Green features like solar panels, recycling or EV chargers
  
  

• Local artisan products, produce or tips on nearby experiences
  
  

According to Visit South Devon, 65% of the public now prefer properties with eco-credentials. And 66% of UK holidaymakers say they’re actively seeking out quieter, less touristy destinations (Sykes Pulse Report).

Host tip: Add notes in your welcome pack or property description about how guests can travel responsibly and shop or eat locally.

How Travelnest helps

Our property experts can help you reword your listing descriptions to highlight sustainability credentials and “live like a local” features. This gives your property an edge with eco-conscious travellers.

4. Pet-friendly properties outperform

The demand for pet-friendly stays remains high in summer 2025. Properties that allow dogs and market this well can see up to 25% more bookings compared to those that don’t.

Recent data shows pet-friendly properties generate 7–18% more revenue and 10% more bookings (Cumberland Building Society). One in three UK bookings now includes pets, and 80% of dog owners are planning breaks with their pets this year (Sykes Cottages, Canine Cottages).

Host tip: If you allow pets, add clear details on house rules and any nearby pet-friendly amenities or walks.

How Travelnest helps

We ensure your pet-friendly features are visible and well-tagged across every channel. We can also help you set the right fees and policies to attract pet-loving guests while protecting your property.

5. Professional listings get more views and more bookings

With competition at an all-time high, properties with high-quality photos, detailed descriptions and consistent reviews rise to the top on every platform.

Sykes data shows average annual owner income is now £24,700 across UK holiday lets (Beyond Pricing). Owners using dynamic pricing tools in Devon saw 21% more revenue and six additional bookings per year (Coast & Country Cottages). Simple features like hot tubs, pet-friendliness and good kitchens continue to deliver high ROI (Cumberland).

Host tip: Review your listing’s visuals and language. Does it clearly convey the experience your property offers?

How Travelnest helps

Our team offers personalised listing audits, can arrange professional photography and provides expert advice on improvements. Many hosts see up to 60% increase in visibility after listing optimisations.

Let Travelnest be your summer 2025 advantage

As guest expectations evolve, so should your holiday rental strategy. At Travelnest, we don’t just distribute your listing. We act as your behind-the-scenes partner, helping you attract more guests, reduce admin and maximise earnings.

Our property experts are here to:

• Recommend pricing strategies
  
  

• Optimise listing performance
  
  

• Highlight trends specific to your region
  
  

• Handle your multi-channel presence end-to-end
  
  

Ready to unlock your property's full potential this summer? Get in touch with our team today.