The United Kingdom's hospitality sector is confronting a growing challenge as increasingly frequent heatwaves prompt guests to seek air-conditioned accommodations, leading some establishments to reconsider their cooling strategies. Britons have experienced temperatures exceeding 30C (86F) this summer, with forecasts indicating above-average warmth and the possibility of further heatwaves.
This shift in climate has altered guest expectations, with some booking hotel rooms solely for the comfort of air conditioning. Major hotel chains like Hilton and Marriott already offer such amenities. However, many smaller, independent businesses, including bed and breakfasts and glamping sites, lack these facilities.
Anthony Duffey, co-owner of Sunnyside Bed and Breakfast in Southport, acknowledged the inevitability of installing air conditioning in at least some rooms within the next decade. His establishment, recognized for its commitment to sustainable tourism, has historically avoided air conditioning due to environmental concerns. "The reason we've not done it in the past is because there's been this whole thing around air conditioning being very unsustainable," Duffey stated. However, recent "unprecedented levels of heat" have led to numerous requests from guests. Duffey is now researching more environmentally friendly cooling options, such as refrigerants like R290, which utilize natural gases.
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Duffey noted a significant change in guest expectations over his nearly two decades in the hospitality business. "The expectations of guests have become completely different to what we had 18 years ago," he said. The cost of running air conditioning is a major concern for his business, with an estimated expense of 25 pence per hour per unit, which could accumulate significantly. "We are a seaside bed and breakfast with tight margins, the money has got to come from somewhere to pay it," he added.
Currently, Sunnyside Bed and Breakfast relies on fans, ice machines, and electric towel warmers to help guests cool down. IMAGE5
James Barr, general manager at The Wesley hotels in Camden and Euston, reported a noticeable increase in guests inquiring about air conditioning before booking. "Since the heatwaves, Barr feels many guests see air conditioning as 'an essential requirement rather than a desirable extra, particularly during the summer months'," he explained. The Wesley's 100 rooms are all air-conditioned, a decision that represented a significant operational cost but was deemed essential for meeting guest expectations.
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While The Wesley finds the running costs manageable, Barr predicts that smaller independent hotels may struggle with both the initial installation and ongoing energy expenses. IMAGE7
In contrast, some businesses are choosing to adapt by working with the natural environment rather than installing cooling systems. Charlotte Cleveley Wood, owner of The Apple Farm glamping site, emphasizes an "all about being in the great outdoors" ethos. Her site offers shepherd huts and bell tents designed for natural ventilation, situated in shaded orchard areas.
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Cleveley Wood explained that guests are encouraged to "work with the summer and with the natural environment." Bell tents have dual doorways for airflow, and some accommodations feature outdoor baths and showers, which have proven popular. "We're not trying to create a hotel room out in a field. It's about embracing the summer and going with it," she said. The glamping site is exploring options like an outdoor swim pond to enhance the guest experience during warmer weather.
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As temperatures in the UK continue to rise, the hospitality industry faces a decision between investing in cooling technologies and embracing natural approaches to manage the heat.