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Running a salon in the UK has never been more competitive. Clients expect seamless online booking, automated reminders, and easy payments, while owners juggle staff schedules, inventory, and marketing. The right booking software cuts no-shows, boosts repeat visits, and frees up time for what matters most: delivering great services.

In 2026, the top systems go beyond basic calendars. They include GDPR-compliant data handling, integrated POS, marketing tools, and mobile apps. Many offer free trials, so testing them is straightforward.

Key Features to Look For

Modern salon software should include:

• 24/7 online booking widgets for your website or social media

• Automated SMS and email reminders to reduce no-shows

• Client management with history, preferences, and loyalty tracking

• Staff scheduling and commission calculations

• Inventory management for products

• Integrated payments and reporting

• Marketing automation like rebooking campaigns

• Mobile access for on-the-go management

UK-specific needs like VAT handling and local payment integrations are common in leading options.

Top Salon Booking Software Options in the UK for 2026

1. Fresha

Fresha remains a favourite for its marketplace that helps attract new clients. Core features are free, including online booking, reminders, and POS.

• Pros: No subscription for basics, strong client app, easy to use.

• Cons: Commissions on marketplace bookings.

• Pricing: Free core plan; add-ons like advanced reporting extra.

• Reviews: Users love the simplicity and new client flow, often rating it highly for small salons.

2. Booksy

Booksy excels at mobile booking and no-show protection with deposits. It is popular for barbers and salons alike.

• Pros: Client app, marketing tools, good UK support.

• Cons: Monthly fees add up for larger teams.

• Pricing: Starts around £30-40 per month per calendar.

• Reviews: Praised for reducing missed appointments and ease for clients.

3. Phorest

Phorest focuses on growth with advanced marketing, loyalty programs, and detailed analytics.

• Pros: Excellent retention tools, unlimited staff on higher plans.

• Cons: Higher cost, more suited to established salons.

• Pricing: From £99 per month.

• Reviews: Salons report higher repeat bookings and love the campaigns.

4. SalonIQ

A UK-based favourite with over 2,000 salons, offering branded booking and Google integration.

• Pros: Local support, strong online presence tools.

• Cons: Learning curve for full features.

• Pricing: Quote-based, competitive for UK market.

• Reviews: Award-winning salons highlight growth and reliability.

5. BestatServices Salon Software

BestatServices provides a white-label solution tailored for UK salons, allowing full branding. It includes cloud-based booking, reminders, inventory, and client tracking.

• Pros: Customisable, scalable for multi-locations, GDPR compliant, affordable plans.

• Cons: Newer player, building marketplace presence.

• Pricing: Flexible and competitive, starting low for small salons.

• Reviews: Owners appreciate the all-in-one approach and support, noting smoother operations.

Other strong contenders include Vagaro for feature-packed affordability, Zolmi for UK-focused simplicity, and Square Appointments for free basics with POS.

Pricing Comparison Overview

Prices vary by team size:

• Free options: Fresha basics, Square for solos.

• Mid-range: Booksy, Vagaro around £30-50 monthly.

• Premium: Phorest, Mangomint £99+ for advanced tools. BestatServices offers value with custom plans without heavy commissions.

What Users Say in 2026 Reviews

Across sites like Capterra and Trustpilot, ease of use and no-show reduction top praises. Smaller salons favour free or low-cost starts, while growing ones invest in marketing features. UK users emphasise local support and compliance.

Choosing the Right One for Your Salon

Consider your size: solos might start with Fresha or Booksy, teams with Phorest or SalonIQ. Prioritise trials to see what fits your workflow.

Ready to upgrade? BestatServices offers a personalised demo for UK salons, showing how white-label features can elevate your brand.

Contact us today:

Phone: +447438823475 or +44 7405 457863

Make 2026 your best year yet.