Pandemic sparks surge in Northumberland holiday home rental market

Holiday rental firm Crabtree & Crabtree has reported a big increase in the number of people looking to cash in on Northumberland’s growth as a visitor destination.
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In 2020, Crabtree & Crabtree increased its portfolio of holiday homes in the north of England and south of Scotland by a staggering 25%.

Since March 2020 – and the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic - Crabtree & Crabtree have received nearly 200 new owner enquiries.

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Emma Crabtree, founder of Crabtree & Crabtree, sayid: “The growth of the portfolio is a direct result of the lockdowns and pandemic.

Crabtree & Crabtree properties in Northumberland.Crabtree & Crabtree properties in Northumberland.
Crabtree & Crabtree properties in Northumberland.

"Over the last nine months, we have seen an increase in two particular categories of owners - those who have re-evaluated their lives and have purchased second homes to meet their desire for more space and those who have spent the time physically doing up a property themselves, when in ordinary times they would have been too busy or working.”

She expects this flurry to continue for a little while yet with the domestic holiday market expected to prove popular once again when restrictions are lifted.

“Despite all that has happened over the past year, holiday homes remain an excellent investment, holidaying in the UK has never been more popular and Crabtree & Crabtree’s bookings for 2021 and beyond show that the staycation is certainly here to stay,” said Emma.

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"The south of Scotland and north of England are relatively undiscovered parts of the UK and are becoming increasingly appealing to those looking to escape the crowds, discover deserted beaches, mile upon mile of unspoilt countryside and rich and abundant history and wildlife.”

The view from the Clock Tower apartment at Bamburgh Castle.The view from the Clock Tower apartment at Bamburgh Castle.
The view from the Clock Tower apartment at Bamburgh Castle.

Recent arrivals in the Crabtree & Crabtree collection include the breath-taking new Clock Tower at Bamburgh Castle, lovingly restored by the Bamburgh Estate into a unique three-bedroom holiday apartment.

It also boasts Windley, a two-bedroom bijou cottage in Bamburgh, Lions House in Berwick and Honeystone House in Wall among recent additions to its Northumberland offer.

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