Beach Hut Rental vs. Buying by Heather Hilder on June 17, 2025 Beach Hut Rental vs. Buying Which Option Is Right for You? There’s something uniquely charming about a beach hut – a colourful hideaway just steps from the sea, offering shade, a cuppa, and a front-row seat to the rhythm of the tides. Whether you dream of weekend escapes or a place to store your paddleboard and deck chair, you may be wondering: should you rent or buy a beach hut? And ultimately, beach hut rental vs buying – which option is right for you? With Hove’s seafront a hotspot for these iconic huts, let’s break down the pros and cons of renting versus buying – using real-life examples from local businesses including Callaways Estate Agents and The New Meeting House café. Buying a Beach Hut in Hove Callaways Estate Agents currently have beach huts for sale in Hove priced between £25,000 and £34,000. While this is a significant upfront investment, ownership comes with a few perks: Pros of Buying: Long-Term Enjoyment: Once you own a hut, it’s yours to use year-round (within licensing terms). Personalisation: Paint, decorate, and furnish it to reflect your own coastal style. Potential Value Appreciation: Beach huts in prime locations like Hove Lawns, Hove Lagoon and Western Lawns can increase in value over time. No Booking Hassle: Your hut is always available to you – no need to book ahead. Costs to Consider: Annual Licence Fee: Around £517 per year paid to the council. Insurance: Required to protect against weather, theft, and damage. Maintenance: Weather can take its toll on wooden structures, so upkeep is essential. Renting a Beach Hut: A Flexible Option If buying sounds a bit steep, you’re not alone. That’s where daily rentals come in. The New Meeting House Café, for example, is working with an event company to rent out beach huts during Summer months starting from £60 per day. Pros of Renting: Lower Upfront Cost: No need to spend thousands – just pay for the days you use it. Great for Occasional Use: Ideal for tourists or locals who just want a day at the beach without commitment. No Maintenance Required: Insurance, upkeep, and licensing are all handled by the owners. Cons of Renting: Availability: High demand in summer means huts may be booked out. No Personal Touch: You can’t customise a rented hut. Recurring Cost: Frequent rentals can add up – a week’s rental could cost over £400. Which Option Is Best for You? Buy if: You live locally and plan to use your hut regularly. You want a long-term coastal base and can handle the upfront cost. You see it as a lifestyle investment or even a legacy to pass on. Rent if: You’re visiting Hove for a holiday or only use huts occasionally. You want to try the beach hut lifestyle before committing to buy. Flexibility is more important than ownership. Final Thoughts Whether you buy or rent, a beach hut on Hove’s seafront offers a unique way to enjoy our beautiful Sussex coastline. If you’re ready to make a long-term investment, Callaways Estate Agents can guide you through purchasing your perfect hut. Prefer a more spontaneous seaside experience? Grab a beach hut for the day from the team at The New Meeting House Café and soak up the sun in style. Whichever path you choose, there’s no better place to enjoy the British seaside than in your own little hut by the sea.
