How to Turn Your Cottage into a Five-Star Holiday Home
Expert tips to boost bookings and create a standout UK stay
If you own a charming holiday cottage in the UK, you’re sitting on serious earning potential. With the rising popularity of staycations, guests are searching for unique, high-quality homes in picturesque locations like Bath, the Cotswolds, Norfolk, and the South West of England.
But with more choice than ever on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, it’s no longer enough for your property to simply be well-located. To stand out — and command premium nightly rates — it needs to feel five-star.
Whether you're just getting started or looking to boost your cottage's performance, here’s how to transform your property into a five-star holiday home guests will love (and rebook).
1. Balance Charm with High-End Comfort
Your cottage’s original features — from flagstone floors to timber beams — are a huge draw. But to reach five-star status, you’ll need to marry that character with modern comfort. Think luxury mattresses, crisp white bed linen, plush cushions and throws, and blackout curtains for a hotel-quality sleep.
Guests booking in areas like Bath or the Cotswolds expect charm, but also convenience and comfort.
2. Upgrade Interiors to Stand Out in Search Results
Today’s guests are visual. A stylish, well-curated interior instantly makes your listing more click-worthy — and bookable.
Use a soft, neutral palette and layer with textures: linens, wool throws, rattan, and reclaimed wood. Add warm lighting, natural materials, and just a few standout pieces that reflect the area — like coastal artwork in Norfolk or countryside antiques in Somerset.
Want help styling your home? Curated Property works with hosts to design holiday lets that outperform on Airbnb.
3. Invest in Professional Photography
Even if your cottage is beautifully decorated, poor photos will hold you back. Book a professional photographer to capture wide angles, natural light, and key moments: the cosy log burner, the garden with a view, or the freestanding bath.
Properties we manage in Bath and Norfolk saw up to 30% more bookings after professional photography alone.
4. Offer More Than the Basics
To hit five-star review territory, go beyond the essentials. Add:
High-speed Wi-Fi and a smart TV
A Nespresso machine and quality cookware
A wood-burning stove (with a full log basket)
Board games, books, picnic baskets or dog-friendly touches
5. Deliver a Seamless Guest Experience
Guests in 2025 expect ease. Make check-in smooth with a key safe or smart lock, leave a printed house manual, and include local tips (from the best pubs to walks with a view).
Curated Property handles all guest communication and onboarding for our homeowners — so every guest feels looked after from the moment they book.
6. Keep Your Cottage Year-Round Ready
If your holiday let is in Bath, the Cotswolds, or North Norfolk, it’s likely to attract guests all year round. So style it accordingly:
Add soft lighting, blankets and indoor cosiness in winter
In summer, focus on fresh linen, outdoor dining and garden styling
Provide wellies, umbrellas and walking guides for countryside stays
7. Highlight the Location
Your cottage’s setting is a huge part of the appeal. Use your listing description and welcome guide to showcase nearby experiences:
In Bath: Visit the Roman Baths, Thermae Spa, and Royal Crescent
In the Cotswolds: Browse Stow-on-the-Wold or walk the Windrush Way
In Norfolk: Explore Holkham Beach, Wells-next-the-Sea or local vineyards
We've written a blog on the Top 10 Things to Do in Bath — perfect to share with your guests!
8. Partner with a Professional Management Company
Running a five-star holiday let takes time and consistency. From pricing strategy and guest messaging to cleaning and reviews, there’s a lot to juggle.
That’s where Curated Property comes in. We manage beautifully designed cottages and boutique holiday homes across:
Bath
The Cotswolds
Somerset
Norfolk
Devon
…and more
We help you turn your property into a high-performing holiday let — handling everything from styling and listing to bookings and maintenance.
Ready to transform your cottage into a five-star holiday home?
Let’s work together.
Discover our services at Curated Property
Whether your cottage is in Bath, the Cotswolds, Norfolk, or anywhere in the UK, we’ll help you earn more — without the hassle.