How to invest in hotels (are they a good investment?)
In this article, we'll explore the benefits and risks of investing in hotels, as well as some strategies for investing in this industry.
If you're looking for an investment opportunity that combines the stability of real estate with the potential for high returns, investing in hotels may be worth considering.
Growth in the hotel sector has accelerated in recent years as the market bounced back from the pandemic.
The market size has reached £26-28 billion by 2025 thanks to trends such as ‘bleisure’, a mix of business and leisure that is seeing work travellers snap on a few extra tourism days at the end of business trips, as well as appetite for high-quality experiential stays.
This demand is reflected in the numbers, with UK occupancy rates holding steady at a resilient 79% throughout 2025.
In this article, we'll explore the benefits and risks of investing in hotels, as well as some strategies for investing in this industry.
How to invest in hotels in the UK
If you're interested in investing in hotels, here are some ways to get started:
1. Hotel REITs (real estate investment trusts)
You can invest in a hotel REIT, which is a type of security that owns and operates hotels.
By investing in a hotel REIT, you can earn a share of the profits from the hotel's operations without actually owning the property.
2. Hotel ownership
Owning a hotel can be a lucrative investment if you have the capital and expertise to manage it. You can either purchase an existing hotel or develop a new one.
3. Hotel crowdfunding
Crowdfunding platforms like Republic Europe and Crowdcube have become increasingly popular ways to invest in hotels.
By investing in a hotel crowdfunding campaign, you can help fund a hotel project and earn a return on your investment.
4. Hotel stocks
You can also invest in hotel stocks, which are shares in publicly traded hotel companies. This option may provide more liquidity than investing in a single hotel property, but it also comes with the risks associated with the stock market.
5. Aparthotels (fractional ownership)
One of the fastest-growing trends for 2026 is the aparthotel. These serviced apartments offer the space and kitchen facilities of a flat with the professional service of a hotel.
For investors, they’re a popular choice because you can buy an individual unit within a fully managed building.
Your investment is ‘hands off’, because a professional operator handles all bookings and maintenance.
These are available through crowdfunding sites such as Shojin as well as investment specialists such as RWInvest.
It’s vital to check any firms you buy serviced apartments through are properly regulated and you may wish to seek expert legal and financial advice before using one.
Are hotels a good investment?
Investing in hotels can be a good opportunity for those looking for a long-term investment.
The hotel industry is often linked to the broader economy, so when the economy is doing well, the hotel industry tends to do well too.
There are many factors to consider when investing in hotels, such as location, market demand, and hotel brand.
It's important to do your research and understand the risks involved before making any investment decisions.
With the right strategy and approach, investing in hotels can potentially provide a solid return on investment. Additionally, consider diversifying your investments to mitigate risks, such as economic downturns or changes in consumer preferences.
What are the risks of investing in hotels?
Investing in hotels can be a lucrative opportunity, but it is important to consider the risks involved.
Some potential risks of investing in hotels include:
Economic downturns
Hotels are often one of the first industries to be affected by a downturn in the economy.
If there is a decrease in consumer spending or business travel, it can result in a decrease in hotel occupancy rates and ultimately affect profits.
Location
The location of the hotel is critical to its success.
If the hotel is in an area that is experiencing a decline in tourism or if it is difficult to access, it could negatively impact occupancy rates and revenue.
Competition
The hotel industry is highly competitive, and the success of a hotel can be impacted by the number of competitors in the area.
New hotels opening nearby or a shift in consumer preferences can result in a decrease in occupancy rates and profits.
Hotel profitability can also be affected by taxation changes and environmental rule shifts, for example increases in business rates.
Other potential risks include regulation changes, increased operational costs, and unforeseen events (e.g., natural disasters or pandemics) that could impact the hotel's performance.
What are some of the best hotel stocks to invest in right now?
When it comes to investing in hotel stocks, it's important to do your research to find the best options.
Here are some of the top hotel stocks to consider:
1. Marriott International Inc: One of the largest hotel companies in the world, Marriott operates over 7,000 properties in 131 countries.
2. Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc: Another major player in the hotel industry, Hilton has over 6,400 properties in 119 countries.
3. InterContinental Hotels Group plc: This UK-based company owns popular hotel brands such as Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, and InterContinental.
4. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Inc. (WH): With over 9,000 hotels across 90 countries, Wyndham is one of the largest hotel franchisors in the world.
5. AccorHotels: A leading European hotel group with over 5,000 properties in 110 countries, AccorHotels features a diverse range of brands from luxury (Sofitel) to economy (Ibis).
6. Hyatt Hotels: Hyatt operates over 1,000 hotels in 68 countries and is known for its luxury and upscale brands, such as Park Hyatt and Hyatt Regency.
See also:
Before investing in any hotel stock, consider factors such as financial performance, market position, growth potential, and dividend policy.
It’s also advisable to consult a financial adviser to understand how these stocks fit into your overall investment strategy.
Get expert financial advice
Investing in hotels offers a blend of real estate stability and the potential for high returns driven by economic growth and rising travel demand.
By exploring various investment avenues, you can tailor your investment strategy to align with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
While the hotel industry presents promising opportunities, it's essential to carefully assess risks like economic downturns, location, and competition.
With thorough research and a strategic approach, investing in hotels can be a rewarding way to build wealth and benefit from the hospitality sector.
Unbiased will match you with a financial adviser for expert financial advice on navigating hotel investments and optimising your portfolio in the hospitality sector.
Disclaimer: the value of investments can go down as well as up, and you may not get back what you put in. If you're in any doubt about the suitability of an investment, you should seek the advice of an independent financial adviser
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