Can I BARTER for a UK hotel room?

[WilfSell]

I've done my research, I've looked up best prices on Laterooms and Lastmniute.com.

DH and I have a night on our own VERY soon, and it doesn't matter where we go, as long as it is luxurious, has a great restaurant and within an hour's drive. There are at least 6-8 places that fit the bill.

So if I just emailed the general managers and said 'look, we're going to spend money and eat in your restaurant and use your spa: what's your best offer? Oh and by the way we're asking the same to 5 of your competitors'

Would they bite and negotiate? Or would they tell me to piss off because they don't care about one room for one night?

Pretend to be a secretary & getting prices for your boss.....that way you can gossip & get extra info as well

I'd say go for it, I always do this everytime I book a hotel (which recently has been pretty often) and always get a hefty discount. I usually ask what their cheapest price is and then when advised push back and say "oh I was hoping to spend xx" (say £40/£50 cheaper). Nine times out of ten I'll get a further reduction or maybe something extra thrown in instead (like full breakfasts or spa usage).

Thanks. I'm not sure I can pretend to be a secretary - I'd just giggle and lie really badly

I might ring round tomorrow.

How'd you get on?