The UK’s accommodation game has changed.
It used to be that hotels only had to worry about the place next door offering a slightly better breakfast or a fancier lobby.
Now, the competition is coming from everywhere—Airbnb, hostels that look more like boutique hotels, and serviced apartments that feel like a home away from home.
Traveller’s have more options than ever, and they’re taking them.
Take Airbnb, for example. Once just a way for people to rent out spare rooms, it’s now a major industry player with over 7.7 million listings worldwide.
Some people I know won’t stay anywhere else—they love the flexibility, the homey feel, and, quite frankly, the price.
Then there are hostels, which have completely shaken off their reputation for creaky bunk beds and noisy dorms.
My daughter recently travelled around Australia, staying in private hostel rooms that were just as modern and spotless as any hotel.
Some even had rooftop pools, trendy co-working spaces, and in-house bars—far from the budget backpacker digs of the past.
Despite this, hotels are not going anywhere.
In fact, they’re evolving.
The UK hotel industry is still going strong, with a market value of £20.7 billion in 2024 and a record-breaking £6.6 billion in hotel deals.
But to stay relevant, hotels need to do more than just keep up—they need to lead. That means understanding what modern travellers want and adapting quickly.
Whether it’s introducing co-working spaces for digital nomads, offering flexible check-in and check-out times, or creating experience-led stays that go beyond just a bed and breakfast, hotels need to be constantly improving.
The hospitality industry is about people, and people’s expectations are changing faster than ever. Those who innovate, who push the boundaries, and who consistently deliver something special will be the ones that thrive.
Ultimately, choice is a good thing. Whether you prefer a five-star hotel, an Airbnb in a historic townhouse, or a sleek private hostel room, it’s never been a better time to be a traveller.
And for those of us in hospitality, it’s an opportunity—a challenge to step up, stand out, and remind people why great hotels will always have a place in this ever-changing industry.
The best in hospitality are the ones who never settle, who see competition not as a threat but as a reason to be better.
Because in the end, those who adapt, innovate, and always strive to improve will be the ones that guests keep coming back to.
If you’re passionate about hospitality, business, or just enjoy a good behind-the-scenes look at the industry, follow me on socials to keep up with my journey. I share insights, experiences, and plenty of real talk about what it’s like to work in this fast-paced world. Let’s keep the conversation going!
