Hotel occupancy in London suffered in April as the volcanic ash cloud prevented visitors from travelling to the capital.
Overall room yield was down as hoteliers in the region reduced rates to tempt those stranded to stay on with them, according to monthly figures released today by PKF Hotel Consultancy Services.
Occupancy in London was down 7.6% to 76.3% this April over the same month last year.
In the regions the picture was slightly different. Occupancy was up by 1.7% from 66.9% to 68.1%, room rate was down 3.6% to £58.11 while rooms yield dropped by 2%, compared to the same time last year, to £39.54.
Increases in occupancy were seen in cities such as Manchester and Birmingham with hotels benefiting “slightly” from those stranded at regional airports at the last minute.
Robert Barnard, partner for Hotel Consultancy Services at PKF, said: “As expected, the ash cloud impact was both positive and negative for hoteliers.
“Overall, the effects have not been too dramatic with the capital suffering the most.
“The year to date figures for London remain positive, however, rooms yield is up 7.8% on the same period last year.
“Hopefully the negative impact will be short lived, however as the volcano continues to erupt, there is still a great deal of uncertainty for hoteliers and travellers.”
by Phil Davies
