The Easter holidays are one of those moments in the year that can quietly make a big difference for hospitality businesses.
With two bank holidays, school breaks, and (hopefully) a bit of sunshine, it’s often the time people start coming out of winter hibernation, looking for a change of scenery, a nice meal out, or a short break somewhere a bit greener.
For operators, it’s a solid chance to boost bookings and footfall—especially if you can tap into what guests are actually looking for this time of year.
Value’s a big one. With household budgets still being watched closely, families and couples alike are choosing more carefully.
The offers that tend to land best are the ones that feel like a good deal, without overcomplicating things.
A “kids stay free” deal, a weekend package that includes breakfast and a late check-out, or a small seasonal perk—like a chocolate-themed afternoon tea—can all help nudge someone towards a booking.
There’s evidence to back it up, too. STR reported an 11% rise in occupancy over Easter last year compared to the previous week, with rural and coastal areas doing especially well.
That’s not surprising—many people want a short, easy break without the hassle of flights or long travel. Making sure your offer is easy to find and clearly communicated online is half the battle.
Adding a bit of seasonal flair doesn’t hurt either. You don’t need to throw a big Easter event, but something as simple as an egg hunt in the garden, a kids’ craft station, or even chocolate tastings for adults can make a visit feel more memorable.
These little touches also give people something to talk about online—and a few extra mentions on social media can go a long way when everyone’s in planning mode.
Outdoor seating continues to be a big driver of spend, especially when the weather plays ball.
According to UKHospitality, around 39% of Brits say they’re more likely to dine out if there’s outdoor seating.
A few well-placed tables, a bit of greenery, maybe some heaters or blankets—it doesn’t have to be a full overhaul to make a space feel inviting. And for pubs and cafés in particular, this can be a straightforward way to increase covers and attract passers-by.
There’s also something to be said for teaming up with local businesses. Whether it’s a nearby chocolatier, a farm park, or a spring fair, partnerships like these can add value without adding workload.
Guests are actively looking for local, authentic experiences—so anything that feels curated or connected to the area is likely to be well received.
On the marketing front, now’s the time to keep things sharp and timely.
Easter falls mid-April this year, which means there’s a strong chance of last-minute searches and short-lead bookings.
A quick website refresh, a couple of emails, and some eye-catching social posts showing off your seasonal setup can help make sure your venue stays on people’s radar.
In short, Easter doesn’t need to be overdone—but a bit of planning, some simple value-adds, and a few thoughtful touches can help get the season off to a strong start.
If you work in hospitality and want more practical tips like this, follow me on socials —I’m always sharing ideas to help independent businesses get better results.
And if you’re up for learning more in person, my next Art Of Hospitality conference is happening in Liverpool this June
Get your tickets here – https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thehospitalityheroltd/1247488?
