Holidaycottages.co.uk show confidence in Somerset’s tourism industry

Following the floods and bad weather which hit the Somerset levels particularly hard in the first couple of months of the year, the resounding response from individuals in the Somerset tourism industry has been that they are very much ‘open for business’.

For weeks it was impossible to watch the news or pick up a newspaper without being confronted by harrowing images of fields and streets submerged underwater. Lives were temporarily put on hold as everyone rallied together to help those in need.

Farmers across the country showed support for their compatriots in the south, loading up tractors and trailors with hay, straw and feed to help provide for displaced livestock and offer hope to desperate farmers.

The plight of those in need has touched the hearts of many UK businesses. Independent, family-run agency Holidaycottages.co.uk have pledged to donate £20 to the Somerset Flood Relief Fund from each holiday booked from the start of February and taken in the area before the end of April.

Although devastating for those affected, remarkably the flooding is relatively concentrated, affecting less than 2% of the county. Tourism inevitably suffered, however, but worries about long-term reductions in visitors seem to be dissipating. In fact, Holidaycottages.co.uk have reported a 10% increase in customer satisfaction scores for Somerset holidays taken in January and February this year compared to last year, despite the floods.

The company is confident in the future of Somerset tourism and it’s not just talk. With a healthy portfolio of over 150 properties in Somerset already, the respected company are now looking to broaden their collection by welcoming on board new Somerset holiday property owners to meet the demand that they are experiencing for cottages in the area.

Emerging from a dark period for Somerset tourism, owners of holiday properties can expect the highest standards of service from Holidaycottages.co.uk, ensuring that their property reaches its maximum potential going forward.

With a total collection of over 1,800 properties throughout the rest of the UK, the company has over 35 years experience in holiday lettings within Somerset.

Property Manager Catherine Bellew says: “The key to a profitable holiday let is exposure. If potential guests don’t come across your property during their search for accommodation, you’ve lost out. With over 4 million visitors to our website, 45,000 downloads of our app and a wide reaching television campaign, Holidaycottages.co.uk are well placed to ensure that your property reaches its full potential.”

The company were honoured to receive a Gold Trusted Merchant Award from independent review system Feefo, having achieved an outstanding overall customer service rating of 98%. Offering a personal and professional service to both owners and customers is, and always has been, a core value of the family-run agency.

As a Somerset property owner partnering with Holidaycottages.co.uk you can expect numerous benefits. You’ll be assigned a friendly, dedicated Property Manager who will carry out inspections and be your direct contact regarding your cottage.

Promotion of the Somerset area and your property will take place across all marketing channels, including the fully responsive website which works on all devices, printed brochures, social media, press and advertising. Access to a bespoke owner account online will make tracking reservations and financial information simple.

The outlook is extremely positive for Somerset tourism, even the weather looks set to cooperate this summer, with predicted record temperatures on the cards. The forecast is expected to draw in tourists looking to make the most of sun.

Now is the ideal time to be thinking about getting on board with Holidaycottages.co.uk to ensure that your property reaches its full potential in the wake of the floods. Contact Holidaycottages.co.uk’s friendly property team on 01237 426 284 to arrange a free, no obligations appraisal.