Holidaymakers search for 'Moditional' properties

Leading cottage letting agency English Country Cottages is reporting a growing trend among holidaymakers looking to book a new breed of holiday properties in Britain.

‘Moditional’ properties, those which combine the latest modern comforts with traditional styling are becoming increasingly popular when booking a UK break.

Recent research by the company has revealed that the classic features of an English country cottage; thatched roof, a real fire and blooming garden were considered the most desirable when choosing a holiday cottage. However, also featuring in the top ten were hot tubs, walk in wardrobes and fully equipped games rooms.

The nation’s top ten considerations when choosing a holiday property are:

1. Real open fire (91%)
2. Beautiful gardens (87%)
3. Thatched roof (73%)
4. Swimming pool or hot tub (64%)
5. Traditional roll top bath (63%)
6. Allotment/vegetable patch (55%)
7. Bar (54%)
8. Aga (52%)
9. Games room (48%)
10. Walk-in wardrobe (44%)

As a result, English Country Cottages has joined forces with interior designer Adrienne Chinn to offer advice to home owners wanting to let a successful holiday property.

Adrienne said: “A holiday home has to be cosy and comfortable as it’s somewhere we go to relax and spend quality time with family and friends.

“Holidaymakers increasingly want a picture perfect property which offers a home from home. We can help owners think about what features suit the style of their property and add traditional touches mixed with the contemporary chic to ensure they tick all the boxes and achieve the highest possible bookings.”

Respondents agreed that the most important room in a holiday property was the living room, which becomes the hub of activity where most time is spent. This was closely followed by the bedrooms, kitchen and the garden.

Geoff Cowley, managing director of English Country Cottages, said: “When choosing a holiday home, it seems holidaymakers are looking for the perfect combination of the traditional features of country cottage but with the comfort and style of a modern conversion.

“A self catering holiday can often involve evenings in so having comfortable surroundings you can relax in and enjoy are vital. Choosing a holiday cottage can be quite a daunting process – deciding the destination, the proximity to local amenities, the facilities within the property and getting it all at the right cost. English Country Cottages offers the finest selection of holiday properties with thousands of beautiful cottages, meaning there is something for every taste, budget and preference.”