What comes to mind when picturing a typical Cumbrian tourist? A couple admiring the view from a scenic lay-by, or a family enjoying a gentle stroll by the lake. That picture is still true, but starting to change.
The reality is, the Cumbrian visitor is changing, with a greater focus on not just seeing the landscape, but getting active within it. Recent data shows that the visitor demographic is getting younger and more active. Under 50s rose from 52 to 74% of visitors in the space of 4 years! And crucially, they are spending more. These guests are looking for high-quality, experience-led holidays. Is your holiday let set up to meet their new expectations? Many properties are missing out on this high-value market simply because their offering hasn't kept pace. This guide is here to help, with plenty of small, strategic upgrades making your property irresistible to this new wave of modern guests, securing you more bookings, better reviews, and a healthier revenue stream.1. Cater to the "Adventure Market" (and their Equipment)
This new, active guest doesn't just go for a gentle walk; they come for an adventure. Mountain bikers, fell runners, kayakers, and climbers. Expensive hobbies with expensive gear. Secure Storage is the New Hot Tub A decade ago, a hot tub was the ultimate booking-winner. Today "secure bike storage" is one of the most powerful search filters. Guests with £3,000 bikes will choose a property with a lockable shed over one without, every single time. It's a non-negotiable. You don't need anything complicated: a secure, lockable Asgard shed, wall-mounted racks in a garage, or even just heavy-duty, concreted-in ground anchors can be enough to win that booking. Embrace the Mud! Cumbria is messy! These guests will come back caked in mud. Make it easy for them to clean up, and they will love you for it. An outdoor tap with hose attachment for washing down bikes and boots is a massive selling point. A dedicated "drying room" or "boot room", even if it's just a small utility space with a dehumidifier, some coat hooks, and a tiled floor.
2. Winning the "Pet-Friendly" Pound
"Pet-friendly" is a powerful and profitable search filter, but there's a huge difference between a property that allows dogs and one that welcomes them. High-value guests will happily pay more for the latter. This is easy to win. A simple "dog welcome pack" (bowls, a towel, a few treats) wins glowing reviews. Make guests feel at ease with a washable dog bed and a clean sofa throw with a polite note. If you have an enclosed garden or secure patio, make it a hero feature in your photos, it's a huge benefit for many.3. The New Essentials: "Eco-Luxe" & Connectivity
Today's guest wants to feel good about their stay, both ethically and practically. Sustainable touches without sacrificing comfort, and they demand good Wi-Fi. Connectivity is Non-Negotiable High-speed, reliable Wi-Fi is as essential as hot water. You may be hosting "work-from-anywhere" professionals looking for a longer, off-season stay (a huge revenue opportunity!), or families needing to stream films and entertain the kids on a rainy day. The #1 "Eco" Upgrade: EV Charging An EV charging point is rapidly becoming a top search filter. It puts your property in a different league and attracts affluent, eco-conscious guests used to planning their day around charging limitations.
- Using high-quality, eco-friendly cleaning products.
- Providing a "Shop Local" guide to local butchers, bakers, and farm shops.
- Curating a welcome hamper with local produce
We're here to help.
The Cumbrian holiday market is brimming with opportunity, but it's also more competitive. The properties that win are those that adapt to this new, high-value, and experience-hungry guest. Understanding these trends, implementing the right changes, and marketing these new features effectively takes time and expertise. This is where The Travel Fox comes in. Our team ensures your property is perfectly positioned to attract the best guests. If you're ready to elevate your property's appeal, see how our Cumbria holiday rental management service can transform your booking calendar.