A travel expert has shared three insider tips to help families slash the cost of UK holiday cottages, potentially saving thousands of pounds. Mark Hutchins, founder of Beach Stays, explained that many holidaymakers overpay by booking through large platforms during peak times.
Firstly, Hutchins advises booking six to eight weeks before the stay date, when owners often reduce prices by 20 to 30 per cent to avoid empty properties. He calls this the 'flexibility window', noting that some of the best cottages become available at a discount during this period.
Secondly, he recommends using specialist providers who work directly with property owners, rather than large booking sites. Specialists can identify recently discounted properties and better value options that may not appear on mainstream platforms.
Finally, Hutchins suggests avoiding August, the most expensive month, and instead booking in late May, September, or early October. He notes that September on the Cornish coast offers warm seas, fewer crowds, and up to 30 per cent lower prices compared to August.
For those seeking quieter alternatives to popular destinations like Cornwall, Hutchins highlights West Wales and Northumberland as excellent options with beautiful landscapes and beaches at a fraction of the price.
