The mercury is set to climb in the coming days and, with half term and the Bank Holiday offering an extra incentive, numerous Britons will be arranging last-minute getaways within the UK. However, while holidaymakers frequently dedicate hours or even days to planning trips abroad, many, according to one holiday let specialist, neglect to conduct adequate research when reserving accommodation closer to home.

This oversight can leave them feeling deflated emotionally and potentially burned financially. To help you avoid such pitfalls, Kate Allen, owner at Kingsbridge-based Finest Stays in Devon, has shared her tips to ensure your British holiday break is one to remember, not one to forget.

Kate said: "To start with, location matters more than almost anything else, so don't assume that 'nearby' really does mean nearby. Using Google Maps or other maps on your phone, check actual walking distances to beaches, pubs, shops and attractions rather than relying on descriptions.

"Likewise, in coastal destinations, check what that 'sea view' actually means for the particular property you're interested in. It could be a jaw-dropping panorama or a tiny sliver of the brine that's just about visible if you lean dangerously far out of the bathroom window."

Location, Kate explained, proves particularly crucial for families with young children.

She added: "Ask yourself if you can walk into town or to the beach without enduring three separate tantrums before you've even thrown the crabbing line into the water."

Wherever feasible, Kate advises booking directly with a lettings agency that operates in the region you intend to visit.

She said: "This means that if something goes wrong, from a rogue hot water system to 'where on earth do I park?', you've got a real human on the end of the phone, and one who has plenty of local knowledge, which is worth its weight in gold."

With living costs elevated, finances will be a consideration for numerous Britons planning escapes. If that describes your situation, Kate suggests enquiring about mid-week breaks.

She said: "Mid-week breaks are often cheaper than weekends and can be much quieter too, as there are fewer tourists. Also, if a property is available for a week from Saturday to Saturday but you'd rather only stay from Tuesday to Friday, it doesn't hurt to ask. And never be shy to ask if there's a little wriggle room on the price."

Another factor worth considering, Kate noted, was if you are bringing dogs.

She said: "Woofers are more popular than ever, but if your dog happens to be an escape artist, ask exactly what 'enclosed garden' means so you can genuinely relax without them disappearing into next door's garden and eating someone's marinating barbecue meat. I'm looking at you, Labradors."

Finally, Kate advised adopting a philosophical attitude towards parking: "If you're visiting an old, or even current, fishing village, don't expect streets designed with modern SUVs in mind. Many weren't built for cars at all. If your holiday home comes with parking, count yourself lucky.

"If parking is in a village car park, embrace it as part of the experience. And let's be honest, it's still less hassle than airport security queues and luggage restrictions. We recommend sneaking in a beer, glass of wine or ice cream on the walk back from the car to the property as a little reward for your efforts."