Knowing the best Airbnbs in the UK will never steer you wrong when the time comes to use that annual leave. Why? Because while we love a beach holiday, sometimes a short and sweet getaway is just what our spirits (and pockets) need.
Traditional Airbnbs stays in the UK have all you need for a self-catering holiday – think: beachy Whitstable and the quaint Cotswolds – but a unique Airbnb is a great way to elevate your staycation.
Like the idea of sleeping in a treehouse? How about an old shipping container or a vintage horse box? Perhaps you’re itching for a night in a glass-fronted, luxury yurt? Whether you’re searching for hen party houses, planning a baecation or simply want a relaxing retreat where you can lounge in your cosy new pyjamas, we’ve curated an edit of the best unique, quirky and unusual Airbnb stays in 2025.
Think: everything from an adorable windmill for two in Suffolk and a boatel in Powys to a romantic Scottish castle, all with luxurious interiors and *heaps* of charm. Keep scrolling for the best UK holiday rentals to book now...
A glass-front cabin in Pembrokeshire
Structurally beautiful with inviting Japandi interiors, this luxury yurt is undoubtedly unique and definitively stunning. Cabin No 5 is one of six glass-front, A-frame cabins that comprise the charming Wilder Retreats on the edge of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
It’s practically catnip for a couples trip or a solo digital detox (there’s no TV). Imagine sitting in the mezzanine bedroom with a cup of hot chocolate and watching the sunset or sipping champers in the private hot tub. There’s also a kitchen, indoor fireplace and private parking. Sounds blissful, if you ask us.
An unusual yet pretty pub in Rye, East Sussex
As far as the best Airbnbs in the UK go, this one is up there as one of the most stylish quirky finds on England's south coast. The interiors are by House of Hackney, Abigail Ahern and Anthropologie, and you'll find eclectic armchairs, colourful wallpaper and a rocking horse. What makes this unusual Airbnb one of our top picks is that it's a converted pub. From the outside, you'd have no idea that the interior is so bright and beautifully designed.
Wagon in the Woods in Medstead, Hampshire
Three quirky spaces come together here. There's a covered saloon area with a pizza oven and barbecue, and there's a hot tub outside under a cherry tree barn too. Don't fancy the hot tub dash? There's a hidden bathtub under the floorboards of the main room too. Just lift up the slat, fill it up, and watch the world go by out of the huge octagonal window. Wagon in the Woods comes stocked with bubble bath, marshmallows for the fire and – of course – wagon wheels.
Chestnut Eco Lodge in Northamptonshire
The overlapping leaves of chestnut wood on the outside of this charming little lodge look like the feathers of an owl, and make it a true one-off. If the weather's a little uncooperative, there's a wood burner and stove inside, but if not the outdoor oven and barbecue pit are calling – as well as 2.5 acres of woodland with a covered outdoor eating area at its heart.
Faun Lodge in West Yorkshire
Hebden Bridge has always done things a bit differently, and this charmingly off-beam and arty eco-friendly woodland hideaway is a very Hebden Bridge kind of a place to stay. Outside, the roof is covered in turf and the River Calder and Hebden Beck meet; inside, there's a Gaudi-style mosaic floor, log-burner and art deco styled wooden bed. That's not to say there are no mod cons – the owner's own retro iPod and speakers are on hand to add some ambience.
The Millennium Tower in Suffolk
At first, this might look like an old folly or a forgotten water tower from years gone by. But look again: it's nearly new. Built to celebrate the year 2000, with seven sides to represent the days of the week and four floors for the four seasons. Head all the way up the spiral staircase and onto the roof terrace, and you'll find yourself in the tree canopy surrounded by chestnuts, oaks and birches. That woodland is for your exclusive use – all 14 acres of it – to play around in.
The Hangar in Hampshire
A unique Airbnb you really need to see, this rental in the village of Braishfield looks quirky from the outside and stunning once you step inside. With far-reaching views of the Hampshire countryside, it features a velvet sofa, a stylish bath with shower and reclaimed wood and brass fittings. Farm eggs are provided for your first breakfast and you'll find organic soap and luxe bedding. The name? It comes from the fact it's just next to a small private airstrip. You'll have to sort out your own private jet though.
Tiny House Hideaway in London
This adorable rental in East Dulwich has enough room for four and is a spacious yet cosy wooden cabin that sits at the back of a huge landscaped garden. You'll sleep in the mezzanine galleries, and there's a comfy living room, kitchenette and bijou bathroom, too. Little luxuries include underfloor heating and a private patio to lounge or eat in the sun. Think of it as camping with extra comfort!
The Silo in Powys
A newly converted grain silo, this is a rare and quirky space to rent on Airbnb. The cosy house is perfect for a romantic break and you'll find many walks to choose from on your doorstep. Inside, it's homely with a wood burner and comfy sitting area for relaxing after days out in the country. It's located near the village of Sarn, and the nearby local pub The Sarn has been given a refresh ready for your next Sunday lunch.
Boutique style windmill in Suffolk
As cosy as a windmill gets, this unique Airbnb in Woodbridge has its own private courtyard and is a romantic little retreat for two. Step inside the five-storey Grade II-listed Tower Windmill and you'll find the ground and first floors converted into a homely, modern space, with quirky features including the spiral staircase in the entrance hall.
Boatel in Powys
If you're not into luxurious surroundings and prefer a real and more rustic experience, this quirky boat in Wales is for you. Set among wildflowers, the Boatel is a unique space filled with antiques collected by the owner. You'll find a compost loo, basic cooking facilities and plenty of character at this unusual Airbnb.
Hobbit Hideaway in Moray
Transport yourself to a more magical place via this hobbit hideaway in Scotland that's as dreamy inside as it is out. The unique Airbnb for six people is a sanctuary of peace and calm nestled in the valley at the foot of the spectacular Ben Rinnes. Inside, there's excellent attention to detail, with a bamboo mattress, fireplace, space to hang your clothes and fairy lights.
The Hut in East Sussex
A place that redefines the word 'hut,' this unique Airbnb is not your average shepherd's hut. It runs off solar power and was designed with country lovers in mind, featuring blues and greys with floral furnishings. There's a comfy living room, fully-equipped kitchenette and wet room, plus two bedrooms for four people.
Romantic 16th Century Scottish Castle in The Glen in Argyll & Bute
Perfect for a big group getaway with your mates, a family get-together or chic hen party, this Scottish castle sleeps 10 for a quirky and authentic experience in the country. The unusual Airbnb comes with five en-suite rooms, wood burning stoves, walk-in showers, roll top baths and all the luxury bedding you need for a stylish stay.
Private secluded treehouse retreat in Kent
For a romantic escape to a treehouse, this lovely little spot in Elham is straight out of your childhood. It sits 20ft high between three sturdy oak trees and is made of recycled timbers. The treehouse for two has uninterrupted views across the glorious North Downs and is seriously cosy, with its bed, heater and gorgeous views from your own bolthole in the trees.
Unique and Secluded AirShip in Scottish Highlands
Set in a secluded location with views across the Sound of Mull, this spacious airship is like a work of art – and it's sustainable too. Like something out of space, the unique Airbnb has all the features you could hope for, from an espresso machine to an indoor fireplace. While you're there, grab a blanket and unwind on the deck.
Castle Gatehouse, Sudeley Castle in Cotswolds
A quirky Airbnb for four in the Cotswolds, this unique cottage in the town of Winchcombe sits at the entrance of historic Sudeley Castle (with complimentary access included). The Castle Gatehouse is dog-friendly and has two en-suite bedrooms, which are split into two wings and accessed by separate doors.
Spiral Straw Bale Studio near Canterbury in Kent
This unique hand-built straw bale studio overlooks open countryside and is close enough to Canterbury for you to have a day out in the city or head to Kent's beaches. Garden-lovers will be in their element as there's a beautiful outdoor space and a secluded patio for alfresco dining. A peaceful spot for couples, the unusual Airbnb for two is perfect for a romantic mini-break.
Vintage 1962 Airstream in Oxfordshire
Head for the market town of Banbury, near Bicester Village and Blenheim Palace, and you can stay in this cool 1960s Airstream trailer for a retro glamping break. Stylish inside and out, the quirky Airbnb has a double bed at the back, a sofa area at the front, two TVs, a hot shower and mood lighting. It's just the spot for two.
Converted Shipping Container Nestled in a Private Meadow in Devon
Step inside this converted shipping container and you'll feel like you're in a cosy cottage. Set in the rolling Devonshire countryside, this unusual Airbnb is one for enjoying peace and tranquility. You'll find quirky touches, like the penny-covered bathroom floor and some home comforts, such as the log burner and comfy sofa.
The Hide Out in East Sussex
Set in the woods near Rye, this unusual shepherd's hut is a great spot to escape for a romantic weekend away. There's a living space, kitchenette, wet room and upstairs bedroom. You'll like the decking with outdoor furniture, plus a BBQ and fire pit to enjoy a little alfresco living.
The Helicopter in Preston
Yes, you read that right. This helicopter from 1982 has been converted into an Airbnb with space for four guests (two adults and two children) for a night to remember. There's a double 'bunk' in the tail plus a pull-out bed in the living area, plus a small sink, hot and cold water, mini fridge and microwave in the kitchen area. A tiny treat for kids and grown-ups alike.
Converted Boat near Cambridge
You wouldn't know it immediately, but this Airbnb is actually a beautifully converted 1945 boat, containing a bedroom with a king-sized bed that comfortably sleeps two, as well as an industrial-style kitchen and bathroom in the adjoining 'boat shack'. Perfect for couples or a pair of close friends this quirky Airbnb is a 30-minute drive from Cambridge.
The Tank in Lincolnshire
When you think 'quirky Airbnbs in Great Britain', you might not immediately think of a tank, but there's something kind of brilliant about this ex-military vehicle turned glamping pod. Inside, there's a bench seat that converts into a double bed, plus a small work space and cupboards with a kettle, toaster and double hob for cooking. Dig out your camo and get booking.
The Owl in the Cheshire Countryside
Ok, so, we never thought we'd sleep inside an owl, but this bespoke Airbnb not only looks quirky and cute, it's actually surprisingly comfy and cosy inside the fully insulated spcae. It also has a separate bathroom with shower, so you don't need to go fully feral with a break here. Just drink in the uninterrupted views of the rolling Cheshire countryside and relax...
Treehouse and Hot Tub Hidden in Herefordshire
Full of charm and character, this treehouse reminds us of the Burrow in Harry Potter. It's a beautiful little bolthole for two, with a private hot tub and outdoor shower for some extra luxe points, as well as gorgeous views over a wildflower meadow and mountains beyond. If you want a taste of off-grid camping with all the creature comforts, this is it.
Dreamy windmill in Kent
Like something out of a fairytale, this windmill is the ultimate quirky Airbnb, surrounded by Kent countryside and great pubs with gardens and cosy log fires for year-round appeal. Inside, everything is designed to help you switch off, spread across four storeys and featuring a cottagecore kitchen, bathroom with bath and dreamy bedroom.
Glamping pod in a plane in Lincolnshire
Sleeping in a plane takes on a whole new meaning at this quirky UK Airbnb. Forget trying to get comfy in a plane seat; this jetstream has been converted into a glamping pod that can sleep five (just about, though note it might be a bit of a squeeze at full capacity) in a king-size bed, a V-shaped double and a small pull-out single bed. There's also a loo and kitchen facilities.
What are the best Airbnbs in the UK for a group trip?
We’ve included a fair few amazing and group-friendly Airbnbs in this edit, but if you’re specifically looking for large holiday homes rather than couples retreats, we’ve got you covered.
Countryside houses, converted barns and multi-bedroom mansions are your best bet for finding luxury holiday accommodation with five or more bedrooms. Toggle Airbnb's filters to only show properties with your desired amount of bedrooms and look out for gems like this eight-bedroom mansion in Coventry or this stunning Oxfordshire barn conversion.
Can you book a castle on Airbnb?
You absolutely can. If you're keen to stay in a castle in the Scottish wilderness or a pigsty in Winchester, you can have it ticked off by the end of the year.
Roshina is a contributing editor to Hearst UK. She was previously Senior Travel Editor, where she covered titles including Country Living, Red, ELLE, Harper's Bazaar and Good Housekeeping.
When she's not scoping out the next destinations we should explore (Uzbekistan, the Austrian Alps, Tbilisi), she loves revisiting old favourites (Mauritius, the Dolomites, Istanbul) and spending summer in the mountains - especially when hiking or wrapped in a spa robe.
Shadé (pronounced sh-ah-day) is the Senior Fashion & Lifestyle Ecommerce Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. From what to shop in the latest Revolve flash sale to how to style the hottest new trends, she shares shopping advice, reports on new collabs and reviews your fave fashion brands.
