I have a look at Expedia just now and about £2-£3 more than Avios hotels.
Direct price much the same as Expedia.
Did book a couple of nights at a Strawberry hotel recently through Avios hotels. Worked out a good £30+ cheaper than booking direct, the rewards for doing so being negligible compared to a potential 2100+ Avios.
Mostly use IHG hotels and try to book via the app when 6x Avios, or maybe through Monzo like the other day with 10% cashback (up to £30).