If you’re planning a stay in Bath and deciding between a hotel and a serviced apartment, you’re asking an important question. The right choice depends on how long you’re staying, what you need from your accommodation and the type of experience you’re looking for.
Here’s an honest comparison, including the situations where a hotel may still be the better option.
Space
On average, a serviced apartment offers around 30% more space than a hotel room at a similar price. In practical terms, that means a separate living area, a comfortable place to relax and a fully equipped kitchen for preparing meals. By comparison, most hotel rooms provide a bed, a desk, a television and a bathroom.
If you’re only staying for one night, the additional space may not make much difference. However, for stays of two nights or more, having extra room can make your visit significantly more comfortable.
Cost
Hotels can appear more affordable on a nightly rate, especially for short stays. However, additional costs soon add up. Restaurant meals, hotel breakfasts, room service and laundry charges all increase the overall cost of your stay. With a serviced apartment, a fully equipped kitchen and in-apartment laundry facilities help keep those costs under control.
For longer stays in the UK, serviced apartments may also benefit from reduced VAT after 28 consecutive nights, providing additional savings where applicable.
Flexibility
Hotels generally operate to fixed schedules, with set check-in times, breakfast hours, housekeeping visits and check-out times. Serviced apartments offer greater flexibility. Keyless self check-in allows you to arrive whenever it suits you, while having your own kitchen means you can eat on your own schedule. Where available, flexible check-out adds even more convenience.
This flexibility is particularly valuable for business travellers, families, long-stay guests and anyone whose plans don’t fit around a typical hotel timetable.
Service
Some people assume serviced apartments offer less service than hotels, but that’s not always the case. At Hiding Space, both Westgate Apartments and Trim Street provide housekeeping, fresh linen and towels, and a dedicated point of contact throughout your stay. The main difference is that you won’t find facilities such as a hotel restaurant, lobby or concierge desk. Whether those are important depends on your personal travel style.
When a Hotel Is the Better Choice
Hotels are often the best option for a single overnight stay, particularly if you’re visiting Bath for a business meeting or event and simply need somewhere comfortable to sleep before moving on.
When a Serviced Apartment Is the Better Choice
For stays of two nights or more, serviced apartments are often the more practical option. They offer extra space, greater flexibility and better value for families, couples, business travellers and anyone who wants the freedom to come and go without the structure of a traditional hotel.
Both Westgate Apartments and Trim Street welcome guests for stays from one night onwards. If you’re unsure which option is best for your visit, get in touch and we’ll be happy to help you choose the right accommodation.
