A data‑driven look at why more travellers are choosing flexible, independent stays over hotels.

Self-catering holidays in the UK have seen a dramatic rise in popularity over the past decade — and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. From coastal escapes in East Sussex to countryside retreats in Devon and Cornwall, travellers are increasingly choosing independence, flexibility and comfort over traditional hotel stays.

But what’s driving this shift? And why is the South Coast — especially places like Hastings — becoming one of the most desirable regions for self‑catering breaks?

This data‑driven guide explores the reasons behind the boom, the changing habits of UK travellers, and why self‑catering is becoming the preferred way to holiday.

1. The Rise of Flexible Travel

According to VisitBritain’s latest domestic travel insights, more than 60% of UK travellers now prefer flexible accommodation that allows them to set their own pace. Self‑catering fits this perfectly:

• No fixed meal times
• No crowded dining rooms
• No rigid schedules
• Freedom to explore local food, markets and independent shops

On the South Coast — especially in towns like Hastings — this flexibility is a major draw. Travellers can pick up fresh fish from the Stade, artisan bread from Old Town bakeries, or enjoy sunset picnics overlooking the sea.

2. A Desire for Space, Privacy & Comfort

Post‑pandemic travel trends show a clear shift: people want more space, more privacy, and more control over their environment. Self Catering Holidays UK offer:

• Private living areas
• Full kitchens
• Outdoor spaces
• Quiet surroundings
• No shared hallways or dining rooms

This is especially appealing in East Sussex, where properties often sit beside nature reserves, coastal paths and woodland — offering a peaceful retreat from busy urban life.

3. Food Freedom: A Major Motivator

One of the biggest drivers behind the boom is food freedom. Travellers increasingly want:

• The ability to cook their own meals
• Access to local produce
• Flexibility to eat when they want
• A break from expensive hotel dining

In Hastings, this is a huge advantage. Guests can shop at:

• Hastings Old Town markets
• Independent grocers
• Local fishmongers
• Farm shops across East Sussex

Self‑catering turns food into part of the adventure — not an inconvenience.

4. The Pull of Nature & Coastal Landscapes

Data from the National Coastal Tourism Academy shows that coastal destinations are outperforming inland breaks, with the South Coast leading the way. East Sussex, with its dramatic cliffs, rolling hills and protected landscapes, is a prime example.

Self‑catering properties near:

• Hastings Country Park
• The Firehills
• Fairlight Glen
• The East Hill and West Hill

offer instant access to walking routes, wildlife, sea views and peaceful outdoor spaces — something hotels often can’t match.

5. Value for Money

With rising hotel prices, travellers are turning to self‑catering for better value. A 2025 UK Travel Cost Report found that self‑catering holidays can be up to 40% cheaper than equivalent hotel stays, especially for longer breaks.

Savings come from:

• Cooking your own meals
• Avoiding hotel surcharges
• Flexible arrival/departure times
• No parking or resort fees

For South Coast travellers, this makes destinations like Hastings even more appealing — offering affordability without sacrificing experience.

6. Perfect for Creative, Slow & Wellness Travel

Self Catering Holidays UK align beautifully with emerging travel styles:

• Slow travel
• Creative retreats
• Wellness escapes
• Digital detox breaks

Hastings, with its artistic Old Town, coastal light, twittens, galleries and peaceful viewpoints, is a natural fit. Many visitors come specifically to write, paint, photograph or simply unwind by the sea.

7. Why Hastings Is Leading the Trend

Hastings has become one of the South Coast’s most popular self‑catering destinations because it offers:

• A walkable Old Town
• Independent shops and food producers
• A working fishing beach
• Historic twittens and medieval lanes
• Coastal paths and country park access
• A vibrant creative scene
• Year‑round events and festivals

It’s a place where self‑catering feels effortless — everything you need is within walking distance.

8. And Why Rocklands Is the Perfect Base

For travellers seeking Self Catering Holidays UK with sea views, woodland tranquillity and easy access to Hastings Old Town, Rocklands Holiday Park offers an ideal blend of comfort, privacy and location.

Set beside Hastings Country Park, Rocklands provides:

• Peaceful, adult‑only self‑catering apartments
• Beautiful views over the English Channel
• Woodland surroundings
• Direct access to walking routes
• A short stroll to the Old Town and seafront

It’s exactly the kind of accommodation modern travellers are choosing — flexible, independent, scenic and deeply relaxing.

Final Thoughts

The boom in Self Catering Holidays UK is no accident. It reflects a wider shift in how people want to travel: with freedom, comfort, space, nature and authenticity.

And nowhere captures this better than the South Coast — especially East Sussex and Hastings.

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer coastal retreat, self‑catering offers a richer, more personal way to experience the UK’s most beautiful destinations.