Why Hotels Are Losing to Short Stay Apartments in the UK

Table of Contents

Can You Cook in a Serviced Apartment?

For many travellers, being able to prepare their own meals is one of the biggest advantages of booking a serviced apartment. Whether you want to enjoy a quick breakfast before heading out, cook dinner after a busy day or simply make a cup of tea whenever you like, having your own kitchen gives you complete freedom. It’s a practical feature that helps make any stay feel more comfortable and convenient.

Everything You Need to Prepare Meals

Most serviced apartments include a fully equipped kitchen that is ready to use from the moment you arrive. Appliances usually include a hob, oven or microwave, fridge, kettle and toaster.

You’ll also find everyday cooking essentials such as saucepans, frying pans, chopping boards, knives, utensils and serving dishes.

Shop Like a Local

Instead of relying on expensive restaurants for every meal, you can visit nearby supermarkets, local bakeries or fresh food markets during your stay.

Buying local ingredients allows you to enjoy regional produce while keeping your food budget under control.

Ideal for Families

Travelling with children often means needing flexible meal times and familiar foods. Having your own kitchen makes this much easier than eating out several times a day.

Parents can prepare snacks, lunches and evening meals whenever it suits their family’s schedule.

Perfect for Special Diets

If you have food allergies, dietary requirements or simply prefer cooking your own meals, a serviced apartment offers complete control over what you eat.

Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or following another eating plan, preparing your own food removes much of the uncertainty that comes with dining out.

Enjoy Meals on Your Own Schedule

One of the best things about self-catering is not having to work around restaurant opening hours or hotel breakfast times.

You can eat whenever you’re ready, whether that’s an early breakfast before sightseeing or a late-night meal after returning from an event.

Save Leftovers for Another Day

Unlike hotel rooms, serviced apartments include refrigeration, allowing you to store fresh groceries and leftover meals safely.

This reduces food waste and makes it easy to prepare lunch or dinner in advance for the following day.

More Than Just Cooking

A kitchen isn’t only useful for preparing meals. It’s also perfect for making hot drinks, keeping drinks chilled, reheating takeaway food or enjoying a relaxed breakfast before heading out.

These everyday conveniences make your accommodation feel far more practical throughout your stay.

  • Do all serviced apartments have kitchens?

    Most do, although the size and appliances available can vary between properties. It's always worth checking the property description before booking.

  • Can I buy groceries during my stay?

    Yes. Serviced apartments are ideal for self-catering, allowing you to shop locally and prepare meals whenever you wish.

  • Is cooking equipment usually provided?

    Most serviced apartments include pots, pans, crockery, cutlery, cooking utensils and basic kitchen equipment needed for everyday cooking.

  • Can I reheat takeaway food in a serviced apartment?

    Yes. Most kitchens include either a microwave, oven or both, making it easy to warm up takeaway meals or leftovers.

Search

September 2026

  • M
  • T
  • W
  • T
  • F
  • S
  • S
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
  • 11
  • 12
  • 13
  • 14
  • 15
  • 16
  • 17
  • 18
  • 19
  • 20
  • 21
  • 22
  • 23
  • 24
  • 25
  • 26
  • 27
  • 28
  • 29
  • 30

October 2026

  • M
  • T
  • W
  • T
  • F
  • S
  • S
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10
  • 11
  • 12
  • 13
  • 14
  • 15
  • 16
  • 17
  • 18
  • 19
  • 20
  • 21
  • 22
  • 23
  • 24
  • 25
  • 26
  • 27
  • 28
  • 29
  • 30
  • 31
0 Adults
0 Children
Pets

Compare listings

Compare

Compare experiences

Compare

Finding properties that match your dates, please wait...