A Seasonal Guide for North Wales Holiday Providers
As the summer crowds start to fade and the leaves begin to turn, autumn presents a golden opportunity for North Wales holiday providers to attract new guests — and maximise direct bookings.
While OTA (Online Travel Agency) platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb offer visibility, they often come with high commission fees and limited brand control. Increasing your direct bookings not only protects your margins but also allows you to build stronger relationships with guests.
Here’s how you can make the most of the autumn season and encourage more guests to book directly with you.
1. Embrace the Beauty of Autumn in Your Marketing
North Wales is stunning in autumn. The mountains blaze with autumn colours, coastal walks are quieter, and cosy evenings by the fire become a major draw.
Tips:
- Update your website and social media with seasonal imagery: think rust-coloured hills, misty lakes, and local wildlife.
- Create blog posts or guides like “Top 5 Autumn Walks in Snowdonia” or “Best Pubs with Fires Near Llandudno”.
- Share real-time content on Instagram and Facebook Stories to highlight the current beauty of the region.
2. Offer Exclusive Autumn Packages
Give potential guests a reason to book directly by offering value they can’t find on OTAs.
Ideas include:
- 3 for 2 midweek stays
- Free welcome hamper with local autumn treats
- Discounted attraction passes or guided walks
- Late checkout for a slower, more relaxing break
Use these packages to promote “book direct for the best deals” messaging across your website and emails.
3. Optimise Your Website for Conversions
Your website is your most powerful tool for capturing direct bookings — but only if it’s easy to use and trust.
Essentials to check:
- Mobile-friendly design
- Fast loading speeds
- Clear, secure online booking system
- Prominent “Book Now” buttons on every page
- Visible contact details and guest reviews
Bonus: Use autumn-themed banners and offers on your homepage to keep seasonal content front and centre.
4. Leverage Email Marketing
Email remains one of the most cost-effective tools for generating direct bookings — especially if you have a list of past guests.
Try this:
- Send a targeted email campaign with subject lines like:
- “Cosy up in North Wales this Autumn – Exclusive Offers Inside”
- “Escape the Crowds: Your Autumn Getaway Awaits”
- Highlight your best offers, seasonal activities, and booking incentives.
Include a clear CTA and direct booking link.
5. Encourage Repeat Bookings Before Winter
Autumn is a great time to re-engage guests who stayed over the summer or last year.
Top strategies:
- Send a “We miss you!” email with a loyalty discount
- Offer an early winter booking bonus
- Personalise communications with guest names and stay details
People are more likely to book direct if they’ve had a positive previous experience with you.
6. Use Social Proof and Guest Content
Nothing builds trust like seeing real people enjoying their stay.
Tactics:
- Ask guests for Google reviews and testimonials
- Re-share guests’ photos or videos on Instagram (with permission)
- Add a “Guest Autumn Highlights” section to your website or newsletter
Positive guest experiences can be the final push someone needs to book directly.
Final Thoughts
Autumn in North Wales is a special time, full of natural beauty, peace, and authentic local experiences. By tapping into seasonal trends, optimising your direct booking strategy, and offering compelling reasons to book direct, you can fill your calendar — without giving away your profits to third-party platforms.
🍁 Start now and make this autumn your most successful shoulder season yet.