Last Updated: 1st January 2026
Version: 1.0
1. Introduction
This Cookie Policy explains how RYM Property Limited trading as Short Stay Houses (“we”, “us”, “our”) uses cookies and similar technologies on our website (shortstayhouses.co.uk) and Platform.
This policy should be read alongside our Privacy Policy, which provides more information about how we handle personal data.
2. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are placed on your computer, smartphone, or other device when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently, provide a better user experience, and give website owners useful information.
2.1 Types of Cookies
Session Cookies
Temporary cookies that are deleted when you close your browser. They are essential for the website to function.
Persistent Cookies
Cookies that remain on your device for a set period or until you delete them. They remember your preferences and settings.
First-Party Cookies
Cookies set by the website you are visiting (shortstayhouses.co.uk).
Third-Party Cookies
Cookies set by other organisations whose services we use (e.g., analytics providers).
3. How We Use Cookies
3.1 Essential Cookies
These cookies are necessary for the Platform to function and cannot be switched off. They are usually set in response to actions you take, such as logging in or filling in forms.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| wordpress_logged_in_* | Authentication | Session |
| wordpress_sec_* | Security | Session |
| wp-settings-* | User preferences | 1 year |
| PHPSESSID | Session management | Session |
| shortstay_session | Platform session | Session |
Legal Basis: Necessary for contract performance and legitimate interests.
3.2 Functional Cookies
These cookies enable enhanced functionality and personalisation, such as remembering your preferences.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| shortstay_theme | Theme preference | 1 year |
| shortstay_dashboard | Dashboard settings | 1 year |
| cookie_consent | Records consent choice | 1 year |
Legal Basis: Consent or legitimate interests.
3.3 Analytics Cookies
These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our Platform by collecting anonymous information.
| Cookie Name | Provider | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| _ga | Google Analytics | Distinguishes users | 2 years |
| ga* | Google Analytics | Stores session state | 2 years |
| _gid | Google Analytics | Distinguishes users | 24 hours |
| _gat | Google Analytics | Throttle request rate | 1 minute |
Legal Basis: Consent.
Opt-Out: You can opt out of Google Analytics by installing the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on.
3.4 Marketing Cookies
These cookies are used to deliver relevant advertisements and track campaign effectiveness. They are only used on our main marketing website, not within the Platform dashboard.
| Cookie Name | Provider | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| _fbp | Advertising | 3 months | |
| _gcl_au | Google Ads | Conversion tracking | 3 months |
Legal Basis: Consent.
4. Similar Technologies
4.1 Local Storage
We may use local storage (similar to cookies but stored differently) for:
- Saving draft content
- Caching data for performance
- Storing non-sensitive preferences
4.2 Pixels and Beacons
We may use tracking pixels in emails to understand:
- Whether emails are opened
- Which links are clicked
- This helps us improve our communications
You can disable image loading in your email client to prevent this.
5. Customer Websites
5.1 Cookies on Your Booking Website
If you operate a booking website through Short Stay Houses, your website will use essential cookies for:
- Session management
- Booking functionality
- Security purposes
5.2 Your Responsibility
As a website owner, you are responsible for:
- Your own cookie policy for guests
- Implementing appropriate cookie consent mechanisms
- Informing guests about cookie usage
The cookies set by our Platform on your website are essential for functionality and do not require consent under PECR.
6. Managing Cookies
6.1 Cookie Consent Banner
When you first visit our website, you will see a cookie consent banner that allows you to:
- Accept all cookies
- Accept only essential cookies
- Customise your preferences
You can change your preferences at any time by clicking “Cookie Settings” in the website footer.
6.2 Browser Settings
Most web browsers allow you to control cookies through their settings. Common options include:
- Block all cookies
- Block third-party cookies
- Delete cookies when you close the browser
- Receive a warning before cookies are stored
How to manage cookies in popular browsers:
6.3 Impact of Blocking Cookies
If you block or delete cookies:
- Essential cookies: The Platform may not function correctly. You may not be able to log in or use core features.
- Functional cookies: Your preferences may not be saved between sessions.
- Analytics cookies: Your visits will not be counted in our analytics, but this won’t affect your experience.
- Marketing cookies: You may still see ads, but they won’t be personalised.
7. Do Not Track
Some browsers offer a “Do Not Track” (DNT) setting. We respect DNT signals where technically feasible and will treat them as opting out of non-essential cookies.
8. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in technology, legislation, or our practices. We will notify you of significant changes via:
- Banner on our website
- Update to the “Last Updated” date
We encourage you to review this policy periodically.
9. Contact Us
If you have questions about our use of cookies:
Email: privacy@shortstayhouses.co.uk
Post:
Short Stay Houses
RYM Property Limited
17 Palmerston Avenue
St Georges Wood
Morpeth, Northumberland
NE61 2GF
United Kingdom
Company Number: 15613602
10. More Information
For more information about cookies and how to manage them, visit:
This Cookie Policy was last updated on 1st January 2026.