Our top tips for points of interest
While Points of interest is the section which sits at the bottom of your Sawday’s page, it’s by no means unimportant. The points of interest should include the best (not necessarily the most famous) things to do in your local area, to inspire guests and help them build an itinerary, making it more likely that they’ll book. What you put in this section is also helpful to our marketing team when researching marketing ideas or featuring your place on social media. You can include up to six recommendations, so read our tips below to make your points of interest as strong and enticing as possible.
How should I choose what to include?
If you’ve been running for a while, think about what your guests have said they enjoyed doing, no matter how big or small. Sometimes a stroll up a nearby hill for sunset is more attractive to guests than a famous hike. If you’re new to welcoming guests, then just think about what you love doing, even if they aren’t the sort of things you see in those leaflet racks at service stations. In fact, especially if they aren’t those things.
Hotspots vs hidden gems
That being said, include a mix of both the things you know people come to your area for and some they might not have heard of. Everyone knows, for example, that the Eden Project is down in Cornwall, but unless you’re right next door, it’s probably not worth including as an attraction.
How far is “local”?
Unless something is truly spectacular, then about an hour’s drive is probably the very maximum radius we’d advise, although there are exceptions. Guests might make an hour’s drive to a place where they’d spend all day, like a good beach or a nearby city, but probably not just to go for dinner. Think about how each thing would fit into a day, weekend or week away.
Be specific
Saying that there are, for example, “lots of walks in the area” or “loads of places to eat” doesn’t do much to inspire guests. Choose a favourite and explain it as briefly as you can. It’s much easier for guests to picture themselves doing the “one-hour forest walk that ends at the local riverside pub” than it is for them to conjure something similar from a general recommendation.
Things to consider including:
Food and drink
Details of your favourite local cafes, restaurants, markets and bakeries, with a little about why you love them, is a great way to encourage guests to support your local community and discover the flavours of the area. You might also include places that have delivery options or private chef experiences.
Outdoor activities
Secret beaches and coves, walking routes right from the door, natural beauty and wildlife are all popular with our guests, especially if it’s a good insider tip which means they escape the crowds. Details of what wildlife to look out for or places for refreshment help guests imagine the experience.
Cultural experiences
Taking part in a cooking class, visiting a museum or historic site, or attending a concert at a music venue all help guests to enjoy a more meaningful experience of your local culture.
Bookable extras
Include details of additional experiences you offer to make guests’ stay extra special. This might include pre-prepared meals, therapy treatments, courses or services. Some owners even offer stabling for horses, although we’re not yet aware of any guests who have arrived on the hoof.
…and finally, keep updating
You can make changes to this section at any time via the Member Area, so you can keep your recommendations up to date. If something closes, remove it to avoid guest disappointment. If somewhere new opens, add it in. If you’re really keen, you could even rotate your Points of interest seasonally!