Planning a trip to the UK? You're probably looking for a good deal on where to stay. Finding cheap hotel websites can feel like a bit of a maze, right? There are so many options out there, it's hard to know where to start. But don't worry, we've done some digging to help you find the best spots to book your next UK getaway without breaking the bank. We'll walk you through some of the most popular sites, so you can find a great place to rest your head for less.
Key Takeaways
- Booking directly with a hotel can often get you the best price, especially if you call them up.
- Comparison sites like Kayak, Trivago, and Skyscanner are great for seeing lots of options at once, but always check the actual booking site's reputation.
- Some booking sites might have deals or loyalty programmes that make them cheaper for frequent users.
- Don't just stick to one website; prices can change a lot between different platforms for the same room.
- Look out for hidden fees or charges when you're comparing prices – sometimes the cheapest headline price isn't the final one.
1. Booking.com
Booking.com is a popular choice when you're trying to find a place to stay. It's generally easy to use, with a wide selection of hotels, apartments, and even unique accommodations.
Booking.com got a decent score for how well it works and how clear it is about extra costs. However, it didn't do so well when it came to prices in some tests. It shows that a site that's easy to use isn't always the cheapest. But, if you join their Genius programme, which is free, you can get 10% off properties at many places.
Booking.com is a solid option, but it's always worth checking prices directly with the hotel or accommodation provider to see if you can get a better deal. You might be surprised!
Here are some things to consider:
- They have a huge range of options, from budget-friendly to luxury.
- The site is generally easy to navigate and philtre your search.
- Keep an eye out for Genius discounts to save some money.
- Always compare prices with other sites and directly with the accommodation provider.
Booking.com can be a good starting point for your search for affordable hotels, but don't rely on it exclusively. Do your homework to make sure you're getting the best possible deal for your UK getaway. You might even find one-night hotel deals if you're flexible with your dates and destination. Remember to check guest reviews to get an idea of what to expect from your stay.
2. Airbnb
Airbnb is a great option if you're after something a bit different from a standard hotel. Think apartments, quirky lodges, entire villas, and even shepherd's huts! You'll find a massive range of properties, and it's especially good if you're travelling as a group or want a self-catering option.
The philtres are really helpful for narrowing down your search, especially if you need flexible cancellation options.
One thing to bear in mind is to always read the reviews carefully. While Airbnb has improved its verification processes, it's still important to do your research to ensure the property meets your expectations. Look out for the ‘description matching reality' rating to get an idea of how accurate the listing is.
Here's a quick rundown of why you might choose Airbnb:
- More space and privacy compared to a hotel room.
- Kitchen facilities for cooking your own meals, which can save you money.
- Unique and interesting properties in various locations.
Airbnb's popularity means you'll find options in most UK destinations. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a family holiday, there's likely to be something that suits your needs. Just remember to factor in cleaning fees and potential service charges when comparing prices with hotels. You can also find cheap hotel prices on Airbnb, so it's worth comparing.
Customer reviews are key. Airbnb's rating system helps you gauge the quality and accuracy of listings. Properties with high ratings and lots of positive feedback are generally a safer bet. Don't hesitate to contact the host before booking if you have any questions or specific requirements. This can help avoid any surprises upon arrival. You can also use booking websites to compare prices.
3. Hotels.com
Hotels.com is another big player in the hotel booking game, and it's definitely worth checking out. One of the best things about Hotels.com is its rewards programme. It's pretty straightforward: collect nights, get rewards. If you're the kind of person who travels a fair bit, this could really pay off. They also have a price-match guarantee, which is always reassuring.
If you have a Hotels.com account, make sure you log in to access member pricing, which can save you an average of 15%. That's a decent chunk of change, especially if you're booking a longer stay. Plus, they often have exclusive deals and discounts for members, so it's worth creating an account even if you don't travel all the time.
Finding a cheap hotel can be a bit of a mission, but Hotels.com is a good place to start. Just remember to compare prices across different sites to make sure you're getting the best deal. And don't forget to factor in those reward nights!
Hotels.com is part of the Expedia Group, so you'll often see similar properties listed on both sites. However, Hotels.com sometimes has slightly different deals or promotions, so it's always worth checking both. Plus, with Hotels.com's rewards programme, you can find hotels in the UK and earn free nights, which is a nice bonus. Just be aware that booking through Hotels.com means you won't earn loyalty points or elite night credits with the hotel's own rewards programme. So, if you're chasing status with a particular hotel chain, you might want to book direct. But if you're just looking for the best deal, Hotels.com is a solid option. Remember to compare prices and read reviews before you book, and you should be able to find a great place to stay without breaking the bank. Don't forget to explore options in different areas to find the best deals!
4. Expedia
Expedia is another big player when it comes to booking accommodation, and it's worth checking out to see if you can snag a good deal. You might already use Expedia to book flights, but how does it stack up for hotels? Let's have a look.
One of the things that sets Expedia apart is its rewards programme. It's free to join, and you can earn points on travel. These points can then be used to get discounts on future bookings. It's a pretty good way to save a bit of money if you travel regularly. Plus, they often have member-only deals, which can bring the price down even further.
Just be aware that if you book through Expedia, you probably won't earn loyalty points or elite night credits with the hotel's own rewards programme. Also, while many bookings are refundable, some aren't, so always double-check the terms before you finalise your purchase.
Here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons:
- Pros:
- Rewards programme (which is also used by Hotels.com and Vrbo)
- Members-only deals
- Cons:
- You won't earn loyalty points with the hotel's programme
- Some bookings aren't refundable
Expedia can be a good option if you're looking for package deals that combine flights and hotels. Sometimes, booking everything together can work out cheaper than booking separately. It's always worth comparing prices to see what works best for you. You can also find homes, hotels, flights, car rentals and attractions on Expedia.
5. Agoda
Agoda is another site you should definitely check out when hunting for cheap hotels. It's particularly good if you're looking for accommodation beyond the usual hotels, like hostels, private houses, and even longer monthly stays. This can really open up your options, especially if you're on a tight budget or want a more unique experience.
Agoda has some really useful features that can help you find the perfect place. The filtering options are great, allowing you to narrow down your search based on your specific needs. Plus, the map feature is super handy for seeing all your options in a particular location. This is great if you want to be near certain attractions or in a specific part of town. Remember to be flexible with dates to find the best deals.
Agoda also has its own rewards programme called AgodaCash. You earn AgodaCash on eligible bookings, which you can then use to pay for future hotel stays. It's a nice little perk that can add up over time. They also have the AgodaVIP programme, which gives you extra discounts and benefits once you reach a certain level. It's worth checking out if you use Agoda regularly. You can find last-minute hotel deals here too.
Agoda is a solid option for finding budget-friendly accommodation, especially if you're open to different types of stays beyond traditional hotels. The rewards programme and VIP perks are a nice bonus, and the search functionality is easy to use. Just remember to compare prices with other sites to make sure you're getting the best deal.
6. Vrbo
Vrbo, or Vacation Rentals by Owner, is another great option if you're after something a bit different from a standard hotel room. Think entire houses, apartments, and even quirky options like boats or chalets! It's especially good if you're travelling with a larger group or family, as you can often find properties with multiple bedrooms and living spaces, working out cheaper than booking several hotel rooms. Plus, you get the added bonus of having a kitchen, so you can save money on eating out.
Vrbo can be a lifesaver for families or groups. Having a shared space to relax in the evenings, rather than being confined to separate hotel rooms, makes a huge difference to the overall experience. Plus, the ability to cook your own meals is a massive budget-friendly perk.
Here's what you can expect:
- A wide range of vacation rentals, from cosy cottages to sprawling villas.
- The ability to philtre by amenities, such as swimming pools, hot tubs, and pet-friendly options.
- Direct communication with property owners, which can be helpful for arranging check-in and getting local tips.
Vrbo is particularly useful for longer stays, where the cost per night can be significantly lower than a hotel. You can find some amazing deals, especially if you're willing to travel outside of peak season. It's worth checking out if you're planning a trip to the UK and want a home-away-from-home experience.
7. Kayak
Kayak is a bit different from the other sites we've looked at. It's not actually an online travel agency (OTA) itself; instead, it's a metasearch engine. Think of it as a search engine that checks all the other travel sites to find you the best deals. It's like having a personal assistant that scours the internet for the cheapest options.
One of the best things about Kayak is its map feature. It's super handy for figuring out where hotels are located in relation to everything else.
On the search results page, you'll spot a map in the top left corner. Click on it, and you'll get a detailed map of your destination, showing hotel locations, restaurants, attractions, shopping areas, and nightlife. Each dot represents a hotel, and you can click on any of them to see more details and compare prices. If you are looking for a stress-free getaway, this is a great feature.
Kayak's Pricebreaker deals can save you money if you're flexible about which hotel you stay in. You won't know the exact hotel until after you book, but if you're up for a bit of a gamble, it can be worth it.
Here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons:
- Pros:
- Pricebreaker deals offer potential savings.
- The map feature is excellent for location planning.
- Lots of filtering options to narrow down your search.
- Cons:
- Kayak doesn't always show the price directly from the hotel's website, which can sometimes be cheaper. It's always worth double-checking!
So, next time you're planning a trip, give Kayak a go. It might just help you find that perfect affordable accommodation without breaking the bank.
8. Trivago
Trivago is like that friend who knows everyone – it doesn't sell hotels directly, but it knows where to find them! It's a metasearch engine, meaning it pulls prices from loads of different booking sites so you can compare hotel prices in one place. Think of it as your personal hotel price detective.
It's pretty straightforward to use, but honestly, it doesn't have many unique features that make it stand out from the crowd. It does what it says on the tin, though. You search, it shows you prices from various sites. Simple.
Just a heads-up: the ‘featured price' isn't always the cheapest. Always double-check to make sure you're actually getting the best deal. Sometimes, those featured spots are just ads in disguise!
Here's a quick rundown:
- Pros:
- Pulls prices from loads of sites, saving you time. You can find cheap hotel bookings easily.
- Easy to use interface.
- Cons:
- Doesn't really offer anything special compared to other sites.
- The ‘featured price' might not be the lowest.
I remember one time, I booked a motel based on Trivago's info, and it said breakfast was included. Turns out, it wasn't! The location was great, but it seemed like a lot of long-term residents were staying there. So, yeah, always double-check the details on the actual booking site before you commit. You can find the top 5 cheap hotel booking sites on other pages, so make sure to check them out too.
Here's a little table showing how Trivago stacks up in terms of search results:
| Website | Number of Results |
|---|---|
| Trivago | 12 |
| Other Competitor | Varies |
9. Skyscanner
Skyscanner, primarily known as a flight search engine, also lets you hunt for hotels. It's pretty straightforward to see the pricing, but the filtering isn't amazing. If you like searching by location, the map feature is a nice touch.
Once you've spotted a hotel and price you like, you'll be redirected to another site to complete your booking. It's worth noting that comparison sites like Skyscanner, Kayak and Trivago can often find the cheapest prices, but it's always wise to check the reputation of the booking website they suggest. You might find a cheap one-night hotel, but make sure the site is trustworthy!
I've used Skyscanner a few times, and it's generally okay. The prices are competitive, but I always double-check with the hotel directly just to be sure I'm getting the best deal. It's a good starting point, but not the be-all and end-all.
Here's a quick rundown:
- Pros: Clearly displays the lowest price for each hotel.
- Cons: Limited filtering options.
- Good map feature for location-based searches.
10. Mercure Cardiff North
Okay, so the Mercure Cardiff North might not be the absolute cheapest option you'll find, but it often pops up with surprisingly good deals, especially if you book in advance or keep an eye out for special offers. It's a bit outside the city centre, which can be a plus if you're after a quieter stay, and it's generally well-regarded for its comfort and service. Plus, having a reliable hotel chain can give you some peace of mind.
If you're driving, the location is pretty convenient, with easy access to major roads. Just remember to factor in potential travel time if you're planning on spending a lot of time in the heart of Cardiff. Public transport is an option, but it might not be as frequent or direct as you'd like.
Here's what you might expect:
- Comfortable rooms with standard amenities.
- On-site dining options (restaurant and bar).
- Free parking (a definite bonus!).
If you are looking for a hotel with an excellent location city centre, this might not be the one for you. However, if you are looking for a hotel with coffee and tea facilities hotel's location, this might be a good option. To find the best deals, consider using mobile apps cheap hotel rooms for exclusive discounts.
Wrapping It Up: Your UK Getaway Awaits!
So there you have it! Finding a cheap hotel for your UK trip doesn't have to be a headache. Remember, a little bit of looking around on different sites, and maybe even picking up the phone, can really make a difference to your wallet. Don't forget to check out those direct hotel websites too, as they often have special deals you won't find anywhere else. With these tips, you're all set to find a great place to stay without spending a fortune. Happy travels, and enjoy your fantastic UK adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I call a hotel to get the best price?
When you're trying to find a good deal on hotels, it's often best to call the hotel directly. Sometimes, booking sites have rules that stop hotels from showing lower prices on their own websites. This is called a ‘parity clause'. Hotels get around this by offering special prices only to members or by giving better rates if you call them. Even if they don't lower the price, they might throw in something extra for free, like breakfast or a room upgrade.
Is it cheaper to book directly with the hotel for UK stays?
Yes, our research shows that booking directly with the hotel often gives you the cheapest price. After comparing prices on different websites, we then checked the hotel's own site. If we couldn't find a better price there, even after joining their free member programme, we gave them a call. This helped us get the best price at 15 out of 30 places we checked. It was the most reliable way to find a bargain on its own.
Are comparison websites useful for finding cheap hotels?
While calling hotels directly often gets you the best deal, comparison sites are super handy for finding lots of options quickly. Kayak, Trivago, and Skyscanner are great for this. They often found the cheapest prices when used together. But be careful, as these sites might suggest booking with websites you've never heard of, so it's a bit of a gamble.
How did you check the hotel prices?
We looked at prices for 10 different hotels, checking them six weeks and six months before the stay. This meant we did 30 price checks for each of the nine booking and comparison sites we looked at. We compared the cost for a one-night stay for two people sharing a room.
Which hotel booking site did customers rate the highest?
Booking.com was rated the best by customers, scoring 73%. People liked how easy it was to use and how clear it was about fees. However, when we compared prices for 30 overnight stays, Booking.com only found the cheapest price once.
Does Hotels.com offer good deals with its loyalty programme?
Hotels.com has a loyalty programme where you get one free night after booking 10 nights. They also offer member discounts. While this sounds good, our research found that Hotels.com didn't often have the cheapest rates upfront.
