The Rising Trend of Day Rate Hotels in the UK: Everything You Need to Know

Day rate hotels, also known as “day use hotels” or “microstays,” are a burgeoning trend in the UK. These establishments offer both travellers and locals an affordable and convenient way to enjoy hotel amenities for a few hours during the day. If you’re curious about this novel concept, here’s everything you need to know.

The Perks of Opting for Day Rate Hotels

Day rate hotels come with a plethora of benefits that make them an attractive option for short stays:

• Significant savings: Day rates can be up to 75% cheaper than overnight rates, making them a budget-friendly choice.
• Flexibility: Whether you need a room for as little as 3 hours or up to the entire day, day rate hotels cater to your specific needs.
• Convenience: These hotels are perfect for layovers, business meetings, relaxing between activities, or simply enjoying a luxurious escape during the day.
• Amenities: Most day rate hotels offer access to all the usual amenities, including comfortable beds, working spaces, Wi-Fi, bathrooms, and sometimes even hotel facilities like pools, gyms, and spas.

Where to Find Day Rate Hotels

You can find day rate hotels through various platforms:

• Dedicated booking platforms: Websites like Dayuse.co.uk, HotelsByDay, and DayBreakHotels specialize in booking day rates at hotels across the UK.
• Hotel websites: Many hotels now offer day rates directly on their own websites. Look for a “Day Use” or “Short Stay” section.
• Travel apps: Some travel apps like HotelTonight and Hopper occasionally offer day rate deals.

Popular Day Rate Hotel Options in the UK

Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget-friendly, or unique options, there’s a day rate hotel for you:

• Luxury: The W14 Hotel Kensington in London, the Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge, and the Millennium Knightsbridge are all stylish hotels offering day rates on booking platforms.
• Budget-friendly: The Holiday Inn Express London – ExCel and the Ibis London Excel are excellent options for budget-conscious travelers.
• Unique: For a truly special experience, consider The Ned in London, a former Midland Bank building transformed into a luxurious hotel with stunning architecture and multiple restaurants.

Things to Keep in Mind

When booking a day rate hotel, keep these points in mind:

• Day rates typically have shorter booking windows compared to overnight stays, so book in advance, especially for popular hotels.
• Check the cancellation policy carefully as some hotels may have stricter policies for day rates.
• Be aware of any additional fees such as early check-in or late check-out charges.

Here’s why I think day rate hotels would be useful for families with children.

Firstly, day rate hotels provide the perfect space for rest and relaxation during a hectic day of sightseeing or travelling. Children, especially younger ones, often need breaks and naps throughout the day to recharge. Having a comfortable, private space for them to rest can make all the difference in their mood and energy levels. This also gives parents a chance to unwind and refresh before continuing with the day’s activities.

Secondly, day rate hotels often come equipped with various amenities that are beneficial for families. Access to facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, or game rooms can provide fun and entertainment for the kids. Moreover, these hotels usually offer Wi-Fi, allowing children to engage in some quiet time with their favourite shows or games on a tablet or laptop.

Additionally, day rate hotels can serve as a convenient base for feeding and changing young children. Many hotels have in-room dining options or restaurants on-site, making meal times easier to manage. For those with babies or toddlers, having a private space for diaper changes or breastfeeding can be invaluable.

Lastly, the flexibility of booking for just a few hours can align well with children’s routines. You can book a room for a short nap time, or for the entire day to break up a long journey. The convenience and comfort provided by day rate hotels can significantly enhance the travel experience for both parents and children alike.