Uncover the latest short-term letting trends of the UK: soaring supply, shifting demand, and why winter stays and "leisure" work-travel are changing the game. Learn how Leeds Luxurious Stays offers the perfect home-away-from-home.

A Changing Travel Landscape

Ever wondered why more people are opting to stay in short-term rentals even for business trips or quiet winter weekends? It's more than just a boom in tourism. In 2025, the way we travel is changing: work, rest, and play are combining in new, unexpected ways.

At Leeds Luxurious Stays, we've noticed something special. Guests who once booked short stays for a few nights are now extending them. Some come for a project; others mix in weekend sightseeing. What’s clear is this: today’s traveler seeks flexibility, comfort, and a sense of belonging — even when they're only staying for a little while.

What's Really Happening in the UK Short-Term Rental Space

In order to understand why properties like ours matter now more than ever, let's dive into the key trends driving the UK short-term rental market.

Supply is growing but occupancy is changing

According to the latest Lighthouse report from VisitBritain, in recent months there was an increase of 7% across the UK in STR supply. VisitBritain.org+1

While more properties are now being listed, in some areas the number of nights reserved has fallen - which means occupancy rates are softening. VisitBritain.org

Interestingly, while occupancy is down, ADR has gone up significantly. According to VisitBritain, ADR rose by ~20% and average revenue per property increased notably.

This suggests demand is still there, but it's becoming more selective: people will pay more, but only for places that deliver real value.

Seasonality Still Matters — But Trends Are Changing

According to the Office for National Statistics, there were about 90.1 million guest nights in short-term lets across the UK in 2024. Office for National Statistics

As might be expected, August is the busiest month - some 12.8 million guest nights, whereas January is the quietest - only ~3.65 million. Office for National Statistics+1

The decline in occupancy, though, is not as sharp for certain regions in off-peak months, per VisitBritain's data. Combined with an increasing ADR, this is a good signal of a maturing market: more properties now compete for a more stable but dispersed demand. VisitBritain.org

At the same time, a 7% increase in supply in April 2025 was matched by a more moderate increase in nights reserved. The average occupancy rate stayed at around 43%, even as ADR and revenues increased. VisitBritain.org

 "Leisure" Travel and Workcations Are Fueling Demand

The concept of "leisure" (business + leisure) travel is seriously gaining traction. With remote and hybrid working, travelers are no longer strictly separating work and rest. Many people are extending business trips into mini getaways. AP News

These travelers want home-like accommodation, not just a place to sleep, but a base from which they can work, relax, and explore. Short-term rentals are uniquely positioned for that: offering space, privacy, and flexibility that traditional hotels often can't match.

Data from sector analysis indicates that STRs are growing much faster than traditional hotels. According to Hotel Speak, the UK short-term rental sector has grown 16 times faster than hotels in recent years, highlighting the shift in travel preferences. Hotel Speak.

Regional Differences Are Becoming More Pronounced

Growth in STR supply is not uniform. According to VisitBritain/Lighthouse, some regions — like the East Midlands and North East — are experiencing particularly strong listing growth. VisitBritain.org

On the other hand, some large cities face softer demand, which may be driven by local economic factors or just increased competition.

There's also a variation in the country of guest origin: international guest data is being tracked, and some quarters show changing country-of-origin patterns, which could impact how and when properties are booked. Office for National Statistics

Why This Matters for Leeds Luxurious Stays

So, what do these macro trends mean for us — and for you, our guest?

A Strategic Opportunity for Quality, Flexible Accommodation

With greater supply but selective demand, quality really matters. Increasingly, guests want more than a bed; they want a place to live in, work from, and hang out in. Our fully furnished, well-managed short-term lets are exactly what modern travelers need.

 Off-Peak and Winter Advantage

As the market matures, the value of staying in winter or mid-week increases. For business travelers or project-based guests, this means excellent opportunities: fewer crowds, potential price negotiation, and a more personal and calmer environment.

Leisure Travel Is Here to Stay

Many of our guests combine business with pleasure: stay for business and turn the evening or weekend into a mini break. That trend means longer stays, but also more meaningful ones. For us, it's not just about turnover; it is about building relationships and trust.

 Revenue Potential with Stability

Increasing ADR suggests guests are okay with paying more, but only if it is the right experience. For us, this supports investments in things that truly matter: quality furnishings, high-quality Wi-Fi, and outstanding guest service. Over time, such qualities bring in more repeat bookings, better guest satisfaction.

How Our Guests Benefit — Practical Value

Let's break down what these market shifts mean for you, the guest, in practical terms:

More room for longer or mid-week bookings

You may find better availability and even more flexible pricing since occupancy softens in off-peak periods.

If you're staying a few nights or more, especially mid-week, let us know and we can discuss a personalized rate or extended-stay discount.

Comfort That Works

You don't need just a bed; you need a space to work. And all our properties come with high-speed Wi-Fi, workspaces, and relaxing common areas.

Whether you are here for a project, a short “workcation,” or combining business and leisure, we've designed for your dual needs.

A Home Away from Home

Unlike hotel rooms that are small, our apartments offer privacy, a fully functional kitchen, and common living areas.

These little comforts mean much more when you're staying longer or trying to balance work and downtime.

Strategic Booking

Use dynamic booking strategies. Sometimes last-minute deals or off-peak discounts are available.

Also, look for platforms or direct booking options that can offer more flexibility-and sometimes better value.

Local Experience

A stay with us is not just a transaction; it's part of a local experience. Ask our team for recommendations.

Spend your free evenings or weekends making a trip out of work in Leeds.

What Makes Leeds Luxury Stays Stand Out

Here's why Leeds Luxurious Stays remains a top choice in the shifting market:

Expertly Managed Properties: We operate serviced, short-term lets that feel like a home and not just a stopover.

Perfect locations: Leeds City Centre, Roundhay, Kirkstall & Moortown apartments perfectly situated for productivity and exploration.

Transparent & Flexible: We believe in clear pricing, flexible stays, and personalized service. We're not just hosts, we're partners in your stay.

Quality Over Quantity: While the supply is expanding, we focus on quality, namely well-furnished, well-maintained, and comfortable.

Sustainable Mindset: We are conscious about sustainability and comfort-travelers increasingly value eco-friendly, efficient stays.

Practical Tips for Guests in This New Landscape

Here are some tactical pointers to make the most of these current trends if you're planning a stay in Leeds or beyond:

Be Flexible with Dates: Instead of just searching for fixed "peak or off-peak", try mid-week or winter stays.

Request Special Discounts: For multi-night stays or if clients have flexibility, contact properties directly. Sometimes discounts can be negotiated, especially during non-peak travel times.

Platform filters: Using filters on Booking.com, Airbnb, or other platforms will help you find properties fitting for work/leisure. Example filters could be "business travel ready," "entire place," or "monthly stay".

Plan Like a Local: Treat your stay as a mix of business and break: ask for local food spots, weekend ideas, or coworking places.

Track market trends: Study reports from VisitBritain's Lighthouse and the ONS bulletins to keep yourself aware of demand cycles, which can help you plan wiser.

What's Next for Short-Term Rentals in the UK

Looking ahead, here are a few predictions and trends that could shape the STR market, and why Leeds Luxurious Stays is well-positioned:

More "Leisure" Travel: With remote and hybrid work continuing, the demand for these blended stays is likely to surge.

Sustainable & Experience-Driven Bookings: Guests will increasingly seek eco-conscious and locally authentic places.

Growth in Secondary Cities: Supply is on the rise, and traditional hotspots are becoming saturated, so regional cities like Leeds could become more attractive for longer stays.

Regulatory Pressure: With the growth of short-term rentals, regulation might tighten. We are keen on staying ahead of compliance to ensure operations are safe, lawful, and transparent.

Tech-Driven Bookings: The platforms and hosts will further use dynamic pricing, AI-driven marketing, and tools to personalize the stays of their guests.

 If you're planning your next trip to Leeds whether for work, relaxation, or a bit of both Leeds Luxurious Stays is here to offer you a space that really feels like home. Browse our full selection of properties, check availability, and book your next stay directly through our website. Longer stays or flexible plans: Just send a message-we can set up something just for you! Want to stay in the loop? Sign up for our newsletter to receive insider tips and early access to special offers