Local accommodation providers in and around Bath are working together to ensure that key workers, local residents and those visiting friends and family are supported.
StayInBath.org – run by Bath Independent Guest House and Hospitality Association (BIGHHA) – has compiled a list of local self-catering accommodation options available right now for short-term and longer stays in and around the city. Published on facebook.com/stayinbath the list highlights current availability amongst its members, comprising over 100 independently-run guesthouses, small hotels and self-contained holiday homes. The Facebook page will be updated frequently with new properties and the latest availability.
With the significant global decline in travel and tourism, local B&Bs, guest houses and self-catering properties are themselves facing major challenges amidst such unprecedented availability. Locally, an estimated 82% of advanced bookings have been cancelled up to the end of May 2020, whilst the rate of new bookings has plummeted by 98% for same period in 2019.
Local owners are trying to balance keeping their businesses afloat – and safeguarding local jobs – whilst ensuring that access to accommodation is straightforward, flexible and affordable, for those who need it most. Many business owners have slashed accommodation rates in order to fill vacant rooms and simply cover their running costs. They are encouraging those wishing to stay to contact properties directly to discuss rates and individual needs. Property owners are also informing potential guests of the additional steps they are taking in light of Government guidance from additional hygiene and cleaning measures to preparation for social distancing and self-isolation.
Harry Tedstone, Chair of BIGHHA, said:
“This is such a challenging time for everyone. We want to ensure that those who need high quality local accommodation can access it – quickly and affordably – from our amazing NHS workers, teachers and emergency services staff to all those working so hard in such difficult circumstances. We also want to help local people and their families, such as a local family needing to vacate their home shared with their elderly parents or those wishing to relocate temporarily to be nearer loved ones. We’ve had a growing number of requests from people looking for extended stays beyond the typical weekend or short-break stays and equally not wishing to tie themselves in to contracts lasting six months or more. We really hope the StayInBath.org community can do their bit to help.”
Latest availability will be updated at facebook.com/stayinbath and enquiries can be made via Facebook or by email to bighastayinbath@gmail.com
For more information, please email Harry Tedstone, Chair BIGHHA at hjbtedstone@gmail.com
Notes to editors
Accommodation providers play a significant role within Bath’s visitor economy, with an estimated 6.25m visitors contributing £470m to the local economy. In 2018, around half of the 1.2m staying visitors opted for serviced accommodation such as hotels or B&Bs. (Visitor Impact Report 2018).
Bath & North East Somerset’s tourism, leisure, culture and retail sectors accounts for 15,500 jobs, 25% of total employment in the city, and generates £315m of GVA annually (B&NES Economic Strategy Review 2014-2030).