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Why more business travellers are choosing serviced apartments over hotels in 2026

For years, booking a hotel was the default choice for business travel. Today, corporate travel habits are changing, and serviced apartments are becoming the preferred option for many professionals. The GBTA Business Travel Index Outlook forecasts an 8.1% increase in corporate travel spending on UK serviced apartments in 2026, while investor interest in the sector has also grown significantly. The trend reflects a shift towards accommodation that better supports longer stays, flexible working and employee wellbeing.

Here’s why more business travellers are making the switch.

Space That Supports the Way People Work

A hotel room is designed around a bed, while a serviced apartment is designed for everyday living. That difference becomes increasingly important during longer business trips. A separate living area creates a clear distinction between work and downtime, making it easier to switch off at the end of the day. A dedicated workspace also provides a far more comfortable and productive environment than working from a small desk beside the bed.

Corporate travel research has also found that serviced apartments reduce many of the everyday frustrations associated with hotels. Guests can avoid crowded breakfast areas, interruptions from housekeeping and busy reception spaces before important meetings.

Better Value for Longer Stays

Hotels can be good value for short overnight trips. However, as the length of stay increases, serviced apartments often become the more economical choice. Preparing meals in a fully equipped kitchen reduces daily dining costs, while in-apartment laundry facilities remove the need for expensive hotel laundry services.

For stays of more than 28 consecutive nights in the UK, VAT is also reduced on serviced accommodation, creating additional savings for businesses.

Privacy and Flexibility

Privacy has become increasingly important for corporate travellers. Serviced apartments allow guests to come and go without frequent staff interaction, while keyless self check-in makes late arrivals simple and convenient. With fewer shared spaces and greater independence, guests can enjoy a quieter, more flexible stay.

Supporting Employee Wellbeing

Comfort has a direct impact on productivity. Access to a proper kitchen, a comfortable living area and space to relax helps business travellers maintain healthier routines and reduce the stress that often comes with extended travel. Many organisations now see serviced apartments as an effective way to improve employee wellbeing during longer assignments.

Corporate Stays at Hiding Space

Both Westgate Apartments and Trim Street offer corporate rates, flexible billing, VAT invoices as standard and a dedicated point of contact for every booking. Located in the heart of Bath, both properties are within walking distance of Bath Spa railway station. If you’re arranging accommodation for a colleague or an entire team, contact us to discuss availability and the best options for your travel dates.

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Hiding Space Team

We're a small, independent team running two boutique serviced apartment properties in the heart of Bath. We've been welcoming guests since 2017 — couples on weekend breaks, solo travellers, families, corporate guests on long projects and everyone in between. We know Bath well, and we write about it honestly. Everything in the Hiding Space Journal comes from direct experience of the city and the people who visit it.