Heatwave threatens to cut hospitality bookings by up to 48%

New data from hospitality AI software provider Access Hospitality and DesignMyNight shows that extreme heat can significantly reduce demand across the UK hospitality sector, with bookings falling by up to 48% during recent heatwaves.

With Met Office forecasting temperatures of up to 30°C across parts of the UK in the next couple of weeks, analysis of the June 2026 heatwave shows that, in addition to a 48% drop in bookings, hospitality covers declined by 19% and walk-ins reduced by 11%.

Access Hospitality managing director Champa Magesh warned operators to prepare now to protect bookings and revenue during the hot weather.

“Our data shows that extreme heat can significantly change consumer behaviour, particularly in hospitality,” she said. “While summer is a key trading period for the sector, demand can shift rapidly when temperatures spike, leading to fewer bookings, reduced covers and lower footfall.

“This makes it essential for operators to anticipate these changes and respond quickly to protect revenue and maintain service levels.”

She advised operators to use historical data to spot patterns and plan ahead, which can be delivered by AI-powered hospitality solutions such as Access Evo.

With heatwaves able to cause sharp fluctuations in both advance bookings and walk-in traffic, optimising staffing based on demand can be achieved using forecasting and workforce management tools such as RotaReady to align rotas more closely with expected demand.

And as guests are more likely to make last-minute decisions or change plans altogether during periods of extreme heat, Magesh also urged operators to adapt marketing and promotions in real time. AI-powered solutions such as Acteol Evo CRM can help to achieve this by delivering timely, targeted campaigns such as weather-led offers or off-peak incentives.