Pubs to be changed into Airbnbs in bid to ‘restore former character’
A selection of Britain’s much-loved boozers will become ‘quintessentially British’ Airbnbs full of ‘traditional charm’ as part of a new pilot programme.
An Airbnb and Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) initiative, the programme spells good news for punters who have had such a good night they just don’t want to go home and to the pubs who are feeling the strain of increasing monetary strains.
The pilot was launched in light of the 200 British pubs that were forced to close their doors for good over the last 12 months due to financial pressures, and aims to promote our puns as the ultimate cosy travel destination.
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(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
The pilot sees Airbnb offer three pubs in England and Wales support from the organisation’s Community Team and a makeover of their spare rooms valued at £10,000. The glow up will turn the space into a cosy, income-boosting and welcoming nook for guests.
Amanda Cupples, Airbnb General Manager for the UK and Northern Europe said the initiative will revitalise the pub’s role within the tourism landscape.
She said: “A fifth of UK guests choose Airbnb for a local experience, so we know there’s an appetite for travellers to have options for stays that are quintessentially British.
(Image: Airbnb)
“With pubs at the heart of local culture and communities, we’re hoping to help revitalise their role in the tourism landscape by integrating the traditional charm of pubs with the modern platform that Airbnb provides.”
Pub culture is at the heart of Britain’s charm, Amanda continued, serving as a “cornerstone of our culture and hospitality”. She said Airbnb will highlight a selection of pubs over winter, and encourage travellers to “experience the warmth and community spirit of ‘the local’”.
She added that she is “thrilled” to be working on the programme, saying: “This is just the beginning of our efforts to help pubs with rooms diversify their income in the UK.”
