Per Person Rates for UK Holiday Cottages – What You Need to Know

If you’re scrolling through cottage listings, you’ll often see a price listed "per person" instead of a flat nightly rate. That number tells you how much each guest will add to the total cost. It sounds simple, but a few details can change the final bill dramatically.

What Does ‘Per Person’ Cost Mean?

A per‑person charge usually covers accommodation, basic utilities, and sometimes breakfast. The base price you see on the site is multiplied by the number of guests you bring. For example, a cottage might list £80 per night per person. With a family of four, the nightly cost becomes £320.

Most owners set a minimum occupancy – often two adults or a certain number of guests – to make the stay worthwhile. If you travel solo, you might still have to pay the minimum rate, which can feel pricey.

Extra fees can sneak in, too. Some owners add a cleaning surcharge, a pet fee, or a small charge for extra bedding. Those are usually listed separately, but they still affect your per‑person total.

Tips to Keep Your Per‑Person Cost Low

1. Book during off‑peak times. Prices drop 10‑30% outside school holidays and summer months. A cottage that’s £100 per person in July might be £70 in October.

2. Group up. If you’re traveling with friends, sharing a larger cottage can be cheaper per head than booking a small place for two.

3. Watch the minimum stay. Some owners require a 2‑night stay during peak weeks. If you can be flexible, a mid‑week stay often costs less per night.

4. Check what’s included. A higher per‑person rate might already cover meals, Wi‑Fi, and free parking. Compare the total package, not just the nightly figure.

5. Use discount codes or loyalty programs. A few sites offer a 5‑10% discount for repeat bookings or newsletter sign‑ups.

When you add up the numbers, you’ll see the real cost per guest. Write it down, compare a few cottages, and pick the one that gives you the best value for your group size.

Remember, the per‑person model helps you see exactly how many people you can afford without blowing your budget. Use the tips above, do a quick spreadsheet if you need to, and you’ll enjoy a cozy UK cottage without any nasty surprises at checkout.