22 of the quirkiest Airbnbs in the UK for a dream staycation
Staycations offer the perfect escape and with our round up the best unusual and unique Airbnbs in the UK, you'll be on your way to holiday bliss - whether you're browsing for this spring, summer, autumn or winter.
While traditional Airbnbs, from beachy Whitstable to the quaint Cotswolds, have all you need for a self-catering holiday, a twist on the usual is a great way to up your holiday game.
That's why we've done the searching on Airbnb to bring you the most unusual, unique and quirky places to stay in 2024.
Like the idea of sleeping in a treehouse? We've got you covered. How about an old shipping container? There's one with a cosy interior in Devon. You'll also find a romantic Scottish castle, a hobbit hideaway and a vintage horse box - all with luxurious interiors, of course - in our list of unique and quirky Airbnbs in the UK.
From an adorable windmill for two in Suffolk to a boatel in Powys, check out these unusual Airbnbs up and down the country.
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.
Huge Safari Lodge with Swimming Lake in Cambridgeshire
Always wanted to go on safari? This unique Airbnb in Littleport is perfect for living out your wilderness dreams. There's enough space for 11 people inside, making it ideal for a stay with family or friends. If you like al fresco socialising, you can relax on the outdoor sofas and picnic tables. There are wonderful walks nearby, too.
Warm, cosy yurt near Perth
This gorgeous yurt sits in the Airbnb host's farmhouse garden in a rural setting close to the village of the Bridge of Earn. It's only 45 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh and an hour from Glasgow, making it ideal for a country getaway close to the city. The quirky Airbnb is filled with colourful cushions and outside, there's a kitchen with stove, BBQ and pizza oven for you to use.
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.
Black Nissen at HMS Owl NC500 route in Scottish Highlands
This quirky Airbnb is a Nissen hut at HMS Owl, the former Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm base, and was originally built in 1940 by the RAF. It's a pretty special spot, and its refreshed and surprising interiors are warm and stylish. There's a large living space and kitchen, plus an ensuite bedroom. Come winter, the brilliant log burners in the living room and bedrooms come in handy too.
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.
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