Last updated on December 21, 2023
From castles to cottages to cabins, the UK has an abundance of amazing Airbnbs. I’ve been creating my ultimate UK Airbnb wish list for years, finding all the best places to stay from Scotland down to the South.
There are different things that make each of these UK Airbnbs special, be it hot tubs beneath the stars, or impeccable interiors that rival boutique hotels. Some have historical interest, others have appeared in films, and all are exciting places to stay. So here is my guide to the best of Airbnb UK.
We also have individual guides to Bath, Brighton, Bristol, Cornwall, Devon, the Lake District, Liverpool, Norfolk and York.
These stays would e great to include with one of these gorgeous UK road trips.
The Best UK Airbnbs
Best of Airbnb UK: London and South East England
Secluded treehouse retreat, Kent
Nesting between three sturdy oak trees, this treehouse made of recycled timbers has uninterrupted views across the glorious north downs AONB. It’s a cosy and private setting on the edge of a barley field with the only sounds being the wind through the trees and birdsong.
A heater and double glazing make it ideal for both a winter or summer stay, and a chemical loo in the cabin at ground level adds a creature comfort. There’s also an induction hob, cool box, electric kettle, Nespresso machine and music system.
What the guests say: “This place is really something special. I don’t remember the last time I saw the stars so clearly. The hosts were extremely accommodating and the breakfast was a really nice touch. On our way out we even got to pick pears and apples from the garden. The perfect little getaway.”
Hoots Treehouse, Sussex
This picture-perfect, romantic, luxurious treehouse with all mod cons is in an area of outstanding natural beauty in Sussex. Clad in aromatic cedar wood and beautifully furnished, it’s an ideal private, woodland retreat for couples.
It can also comfortably sleep two children (from 6 years) on single mattresses in a loft area accessed by a ladder and hatch. It’s a wonderful place to chill-out and lose yourself.
What the guests say: “A wonderfully cosy yet spacious wooden house at the edge of a large woods, suspended over a pond! The space is warm and inviting, well designed and laid out, with almost all the amenities of a small apartment.
“The BBQ on the balcony is easy to use and effective. The mezzanine area for children to sleep that overlooks the main area is quite special, and it’s even stocked with games and books!”
Airbnb listing: Hoot Treehouse
Price: From £249 per night
Sleeps: 4 people (1 double bedroom and 2 single mattresses in living area)
Old Smock Windmill, Kent
Everything at the Old Smock Mill is designed to unwind you from the moment you walk in. It is surrounded by the lovely Kent countryside where you can ramble and refresh yourselves, perhaps ending the day in one of the great local pubs.
It’s been beautifully restored and retains many original features, including massive beams that span each floor, carrying the original upright shaft giant spur wheel and sack hoist. A welcome basket including the owners’ chickens’ organic eggs is provided on arrival.
What the guests say: “The windmill is absolutely incredible! The amount of thought and effort that they’ve put into the refurb is stunning. Clare left us freshly laid eggs, freshly baked bread, homemade apple juice and some locally grown produce.
“We were surprised how an old timber building could be so clean and spotless and feel so homely. The bed was really comfortable and really we couldn’t find fault anywhere.“
Airbnb listing: Old Smock Windmill in rural Kent
Price: From £189 per night
Sleeps: 2 people (1 bedroom)
The Blue House, Camber Sands
On the miles of sandy beach in Camber, close to Rye, is the Blue House, a gorgeous luxury beach house for up to 8 guests. It’s finished to the highest standards with a bespoke kitchen, Apple TV, and luxurious beds and sofas.
Things to do include water activities, jaunts in the dunes, relaxing on the deck, or simply snuggling up by the log burner and enjoying the stunning view.
What the guests say: “The location of the Blue House right on the beach is incredible. Uninterrupted views and you can walk out straight onto the beach. We cooked and ate a lot of meals in and the kitchen is fully stocked for this! The beds were also super comfy. It was perfect!”
Spice World Bus, Isle of Wight
Children or teens of the nineties (like me) will love this one – it’s none other than the actual Spice Girls’ tour bus that featured in the movie Spice World! It still looks the same on the outside, but the interior has had a makeover with design nods to each of the different Spice Girls. As such, it has some pretty bold designs.
The bus can sleep up to three people, with two sharing a double bed and one on a single day bed.
What the guests say: “If you want to be transported back to a time when all you argued about was which Spice Girl you were going to be in your group of friends, dancing around to 90’s music and reading Smash Hits magazine, then this is the place for you. It’s truly amazing!
“Very easy to find, spotlessly clean and lots of lovely touches! Bed was really comfy too! If you need a good girly laugh, don’t hesitate, it is well worth the trip!”
Airbnb listing: Spice World Bus, Isle of Wight
Price: From £138 per night
Sleeps: 3 people (1 double, 1 single)
Victoria Era Chapel, Brighton
This gorgeous Victorian-era chapel turned townhouse takes full advantage of its past with dramatic decor and a stunning stained glass window above the bathtub. Wind your way up a grand staircase, beneath an antique glass chandelier, to the lofty studio apartment. This Brighton Airbnb is well located for the best of the city’s sites.
Discover more in our guide to Brighton’s best Airbnbs.
What the guests say: “Amazing quirky space that made our trip very memorable. Well located close to bars and independent shops but it felt surprisingly quiet and very safe with gated access to the mews. Would definitely recommend for couples looking for a romantic but fun location.”
The Pigsty, Winchester
This luxury woodland hideaway, with beautiful views of Vale Farm, is a peaceful retreat, perfect for a romantic escape. It’s just 2.5 miles from the city centre – 30 minutes by foot. The domed design with wooden interiors includes a roll top bath, cosy open-plan living space, and decking area to enjoy dinner with sunset views.
What the guests say: “One of the best stays across the UK by miles! If you’re looking for a unique experience then you’ve got to stay here. Naomi’s property is absolutely stunning! Super cosy, impeccably clean, comfy bedding, super kitchen utensils and the location is breathtakingly beautiful. The fresh crumpets, farm fresh eggs, freshly squeezed orange juice and freshly ground coffee were such a thoughtful extra touch!”
Tower Bridge Houseboat, London
Stay on a luxury houseboat with views of Tower Bridge. Built in 1904, the world’s first floating Customs House, HMS Harpy, is an exceptional four-bed, super-luxury boat home. It includes classic 1920’s oak furniture, a giant sofa, comfy beds, fine Egyptian linen, big tub baths, quirky art and fast WiFi. One of London’s most unique stays.
What the guests say: “See the pictures, read the reviews and you will still be impressed by the real thing. The location is amazing with wonderful views over tower bridge. At night the lights of London beyond the bridge to one side and to the other the lights of Canary Wharf.
“The gentle swaying of the boat is very relaxing. Very well equipped with everything you could possibly need. The beds are soooooo comfortable. The decor and furnishings are fabulous. You will not be disappointed.”
Best of Airbnb UK: South West England
Riverside Cabin, Cornwall
This charming rustic retreat is a perfect Cornish getaway, entirely hand built from the woodland that surrounds it. It’s an ideal place to connect with nature, enjoying the sounds of the fire, stream and trees. There’s a compost loo and outdoor hot-water shower. It’s just 15 minutes from Falmouth with great access to creeks, cliffs and beaches.
See more of the best Airbnbs in Cornwall and the best Cornwall hot tub lodges.
What the guests say: “The cabin is a fabulous space. We are a family of 4 that wanted a simple escape to unwind and get in the mood for Christmas. No TV, just board games for entertainment, books aplenty for quiet by time. Log burner for cosying up.
“There is good WiFi so our teenager didn’t feel disconnected from the world. Local information was great. We explored the Helford passage and Falmouth. Can highly recommend Boo Koo’s, the Ferry Boat Inn and Slice Pizza.”
Huxham Hideaway, Devon
The Huxham Hideaway is the perfect destination for complete relaxation and privacy. The lovingly converted bespoke shipping container is set in a beautiful meadow with far-reaching views over the rolling Devon countryside. From bespoke 150-year-old pine topped stools to the Portuguese inspired bathroom floor and the handmade reading chair, every effort has been made to curate a welcoming space.
In the heart of the countryside but just 10 minutes from the city center, the hideaway offers a luxury packed base to explore the beauty of Exeter and Devon.
See more in our guide to the best of Devon Airbnb and the best hot tub lodges in Devon.
What the guests say: “Our stay was very memorable. The tiny house and location are spectacular. As remote as it is, the location is not at all far from the main town should you need anything. There’s plenty to do in the area but also a lot of fun and quirky things to do inside the container. Callum was a great host, always answered our calls and dealt with issues promptly and effectively. Overall would definitely recommend this stay!”
Jane Austen House, Bath
A dream for Jane Austen fans, here’s your chance to stay in a house that the author once lived in. It was here, during the period 1801-1805, that Austen started to pen her unfinished novella ‘The Watsons’. The house has been beautifully restored, retaining original period features alongside unique, modern design touches and an abundance of artwork. Original Georgian panelling, rosewood furniture, Victorian armchairs, a Louis IV double bed and much more, make staying in this Bath Airbnb a chance to step back in history.
What the guests say: “The building you are staying in is in of itself a beautiful place to be without the knowledge of its previous, famous, residents. When you learn that, it definitely bodes for a memorable trip with all the trimmings you could ask for. Unless you are going to pick the highest-end 5* hotel, I’d recommend this stay over any other local alternatives.”
See more in our guide to the best Airbnbs in Bath, UK.
Fingals Folly, Devon
This characterful cottage was designed by Hungarian artist-architect Andras Kaldor and owner Richard Johnston. From the hallway’s built-in Buddha to the array of sailing boats on the upstairs beams, it oozes character, while an upstairs balcony overlooks the grass tennis court.
Unwind in a boat seat on the deck over the babbling Barberry Brook — or lounge upstairs in the sitting room, listening to a vinyl played on your record player while the wood burner keeps you warm.
The cottage is part of Fingals, a collection of self-catering properties with shared facilities including a heated indoor swimming pool, gym, tennis court and sauna.
What the guests say: “The folly is completely magical. We were expecting it to be beautiful but it surpassed our expectations. The sound of the stream was delightful and we loved being able to see it from the bed! Every touch was full of unique charm.
“We used the pool every day and it was wonderful to swim about under such lush foliage. The sauna was excellent too. The kitchen was much better equipped than many Airbnb we’ve stayed in.
“Location wise you couldn’t get luckier. We walked into Dittisham along a pretty footpath – the easy going terrain was welcome as we are 8 months pregnant. Sheila and Richard were perfect hosts, really helpful and gave good advice about where to eat which we took up. There is also an extensive dvd library for rainy evenings which we made use of. All in all a real treasure. We shall return!”
Best of Airbnb UK: East England and the Midlands
Toad Hall, Norfolk
This luxury lodge/ treehouse has gorgeous views across open unspoilt countryside, which you can enjoy from the comfort of a private hot tub. Other features include cosy underfloor heating, full kitchen, two king bedrooms and outdoor terrace. It’s ideally located in north-west Norfolk close to Sandringham, Houghton and the North Norfolk coast.
What the guests say: “The lodge is beautifully positioned with the only traffic being hares, muntjacs and various birds, all of which were wonderful to watch and enjoy. It goes without saying the hot tub was a wonderfully warm delight—even in the pouring rain! We slept well, walked miles along the coastline and had a wonderful, peaceful weekend away from any real life demands. The place is exactly as the name suggests: Happy Valley. Many thanks.”
Temple Guiting Estate, North Gloucestershire
For the ultimate luxury group retreat (it sleeps up to 36 people), head to the magnificent Temple Guiting Estate. Set on 14.5 acres in the northern Cotswolds, the manor and barns has 15 bedrooms and absolutely everything you need for a luxury stay, including a pool, tennis court, huge dining areas and two hot tubs. It’s part of Airbnb’s luxury collection.
Best of Airbnb UK: Northern England
Far Boathouse, Lake District
Right on the water’s edge, this is a spectacular Lake District Airbnb, and you can see why it’s popular with honeymooners. Sit out on the deck and watch the sailboats pass, or get cosy in front of the fire. There are lots of little luxury touches, from the bedding to the bathrobes to the wine fridge, but none more so than the magnificence of that view.
What the guests say: “We stopped at Jayne’s lovely boathouse on the way to Scotland and it was totally worth the trip. The boathouse is well equipped with everything you need to cook and eat, with the most delightful view of the water. Special touches made the trip super special, including wine and chocolates, plenty of brochures and in-depth instructions to find the location. We’d love to come back into the summer months and sunbathe on the lovely balcony.”
Discover more in our guide the best Airbnbs in the Lake District and the best Lake District lodges with hot tubs.
Online listing: Far Boathouse on Airbnb and here it is on VRBO
Price: From £250 per night
Sleeps: 2 people (one bed)
Crayke Manor, near York
If not a castle, how about a manor? Another quintessential upper class British experience here with a stay at an original Jacobean manor built in 1620 with stone mullion windows, thick oak beams and yorkstone flags. It’s been lovingly restored as a family home where tradition meets mod cons, including quirky bedrooms and fun decor. Sitting in 17 meadowy acres, you’ll have an amazing sense of privacy and privilege when staying here. The manor comfortably sleeps 16 plus a couple of roll-aways, and the two optional cottages on-site can accommodate an extra 14.
What the guests say: “We had a wonderful stay at Crayke Manor to celebrate my 30th birthday. It’s in a beautiful location, close to the village and opposite a cute art cafe which sells Dutch pancakes and sandwiches. It was also great to be close to the north York moors. The property itself is wonderful and well presented with all manner of facilities to ensure a stress free stay. Justin was ever so helpful prior to the stay to clarify things. I would thoroughly recommend staying here!”
Online listing: Crayke Manor (no longer on Airbnb but available on Plum Guide)
Price: From £1,014 per night
Sleeps: 16 people (9 bedrooms)
Castle View Cottage, Lancaster
Snuggle up by the wood-burning fireplace in this cosy cottage nestled within a peaceful walled oasis, just a few minutes from Lancaster town centre. It’s light and airy inside, thanks to white paneling and skylights, and has spectacular views of Lancaster Castle. The huge copper tub, big enough for two, is a highlight, and the owners even provide some homemade lavender bubble bath.
What the guests say: “Castle View was hands down the best Air BnB we’d stayed in. The check-in and pre-booking information was fantastic, the cottage itself is just beautiful. So well thought out and unique, the little touches like a bottle of bubbly in the fridge and logs provided for the burner made the stay extra special.
“The bath was amazing and Jenny had provided handmade lavender bubble bath which made it so memorable. Location couldn’t have been better, secluded and peaceful yet a 3 minute walk from a flat white or pub lunch. We’ll definitely be recommending to family and friends!”
Online listing: Castle View Cottage, Lancaster (or on Airbnb)
Price: From £149 per night
Sleeps: 2 people (1 bedroom)
Characterful period house, York
This charming, historic home with ancient, exposed timberwork throughout, is part of a grade 2* listed building that dates back to the 16th century. The whole place is immaculately designed with contemporary touches that complement vintage furnishings and the building itself. The two-bedroom home is in the city centre, within walking distance of the major sights, including the Minster, Betty’s Tea Room and many museums and galleries. And there’s a private courtyard too.
See more in our guide to the best Airbnbs in York.
What the guests say: “Beautiful property and great host. The house is lovely, really thoughtfully decorated, very well equipped. We had an amazing stay. It’s a fantastic location right in the centre of town, the occasional need for the earplugs is well worth it! What a treat waking up to the Minster bells. Thank you for a wonderful stay!”
Best of Airbnb UK: Scotland
The Bridge House, Near Cairngorms
This unusual two-bedroom home is built on a bridge spanning the River Ardle, dating back to 1881. Charming original features include stone spiral stairs, traditional Scottish timber clad walls, stone/pine flooring and even a privy directly over the river below. The sauna is a highlight.
What the guests say: “We absolutely loved our stay at the bridge house! Absolutely everything exceeded our expectations, it is such a wonderful place to stay. The photos don’t do the place justice and the amount of space you have to yourself is wonderful. It’s such a peaceful home and a very easy place to relax and unwind. We went out to explore the Cairngorms but were actually sad to leave the accommodation for the day; but the sauna and fire were a dream to come back to.“
Romantic Medieval Castle, Scottish Borders
Make your fairytale dreams come true with a stay at this authentic medieval mini castle, ideal for exploring the Scottish Borders. With roaring log fires and all modern comforts, it’s a wonderfully atmospheric and comfortable place to stay. There is a luxurious double bed on the top floor and a possible two extra single beds in the sitting room.
What the guests say: “This is a must stay place for anyone. The attention to detail is exemplary, sympathetically restored to an extremely high standard. The circular tweed walk (around 5 miles) is certainly worth doing as it’s on easy flat terrain. Roaring log fires in both the lounge and kitchen make for cosy evenings in. Highly recommend and will definitely return.”
Online listing: Romantic Medieval Castle (no longer on Airbnb but available on Booking.com)
Price: From £127 per night
Sleeps: 4 people (1 double bedroom, two singles in living area)
16th Century Dovecot, Edinburgh
This serene and secluded rustic-chic stay was a former home to doves, and has now made the old nesting boxes a beautiful design feature on the walls. There’s one bedroom in the tower, plus a sofa bed downstairs, and a full kitchen and private garden.
Heated floors and a wood burning stove make for a cosy stay. It’s in the Bruntsfield and Morningside area of the city, about a 20-minute walk from the centre.
What the guests say: “Sarah’s place is truly unique. The stone building is full of character with the interior designed with rustic, lodge-style features. My girlfriend and I stayed for two nights and cooked during our stay using the kitchen which has everything you need to self cater. The wood burning stove is great adding to the lodge/cottage feel and offers a lot of warmth to the living area once it’s going.
“The surrounding area is great for small shops and cafes, and it’s a short drive or 20-30 min walk into Edinburgh city centre. I would recommend this place to anyone looking for a place with bundles of character and close to good places to eat and shop.”
Airbnb listing: 16th Century Dovecot in Edinburgh
Price: From £147 per night
Sleeps: 4 people (1 bedroom and sofa bed)
Airship 2, Scottish Highlands
One of the most iconic Airbnbs in the UK is Airship 2, an insulated aluminum pod designed by Roderick James. Retreat to the deck of this sustainable getaway and gaze at the twinkling constellations under a cosy tartan blanket. There are sweeping views of the Sound of Mull from the striking dragonfly windows.
What the guests say: “A cosy and uniquely stylish abode set in a peaceful location with unspoilt stunning views all round! Comfortable, quality furnishings with everything you need for a relaxing break. Good WiFi, powerful hot shower & well heated throughout with log fire/fan heaters. A great find to get away from the stressors of busy life. Highly recommend!”
Airbnb listing: Airship 2, Scottish Highlands
Price: From £150 per night
Sleeps: 2 people (1 bedroom)
Ancient Castle, Scottish Borders
Mary Queen of Scot’s chamber at Neidpath Castle is one of the most romantic places to stay in the Scottish Borders. You’ll have your own suite as well as the opportunity to privately explore the whole castle. There’s a classic antique four poster bed, deep roll top bath and open fire, in fitting with the castle setting. An elegant table is set for breakfast. Peebles is a ten-minute walk away, with a host of shops and restaurants, as well as a museum and award winning chocolatier.
What the guests say: “A truly incredible stay. Having an entire castle to explore all to yourself is a surreal but fantastic experience, and the castle has the perfect blend of historic feel and modern touches. What could be better than waking up to exquisite surroundings with picturesque views, enjoying smoked salmon and fresh bread, fruit and pastries for breakfast, taking a luxurious bath in the roll-top tub, spending the day strolling through the surrounding woodlands and countryside, exploring the castle top to bottom and lighting the log fires in the evening.”
Airbnb listing: Ancient castle (no longer on Airbnb but available on Plum Guide)
Price: From £298 per night
Sleeps: 2 people (1 bedroom)
An Cala, Nethybridge
An Cala (The Haven, in gaelic) is a large 5-bedroom riverside retreat with log fires, a hot tub, and serene spaces for sharing with friends and family. Surrounded by trees and the sounds of the river, it a peaceful and relaxing place to escape.Nearby things to do include the Cairngorms, skiing, the Whisky Trail, walking, hiking, biking, golfing, RSPB bird watching, the river, fishing and forest, all on your doorstep.
Airbnb listing: An Cala, Nethybridge (no longer on Airbnb but available on VRBO)
Price: From £354 per night
Sleeps: 10 people (5 bedroom)
Best of Airbnb UK: Wales
Snowdonia Cabin
This secluded cabin in the heart of Snowdonia is surrounded by ancient oak tree forest and all the wildlife that comes with it. Set in 10 acres of land, it’s an ideal nature retreat and come with a private hot tub, wet room, underfloor heating, large deck with bbq, kingsize bed, kitchen, living and dining area. The cabin is a five-minute walk from the car.
What the guests say: “Can’t put into words how incredible our long weekend away was staying at the cabin. Couldn’t of asked for a more perfect cabin, star gazing in the hot tub, to having nature straight on your door step. Truly is dreamy! Made even better with having such a lovely family as hosts, Mark and Lindsay are so lovely, and always there to help no matter what. So excited to come back to paradise already. 100% reccomend!”
Traditional Gypsy Caravan, Powys
Stretch out in bed and look out for miles across peaceful rolling hills with nothing but sheep, trees, and birds. This gypsy vardo bow-topped caravan has been built and renovated by the artist owners on an original 1920s frame. It’s full of hand-carved and painted details, gold leaf, brocade and brass, with no expense spared. Step out into your own wild garden and relax, or wander further around car-free paths and roads in the surrounding landscape.
What the guests say: “We felt like we had found heaven on Earth and we didn’t want to leave. Absolutely stunning and amazing in every possible way imaginable. If you’re looking for peace, beautiful views, genuinely remote spot, lovely warm kind people, inspiring craftsman/womanship in the caravan, kitchen, sauna, everything…then this is the place to be! Absolutely will be returning. Thank you so much Pippa and Jony!”
Courtyard Cottage near Abergavenny
This stylishly renovated former coach house is in the grounds of a country house near Abergavenny and the beautiful Black Mountains. Beautifully designed, it retains its original stone walls, beams and arched windows. There’s a well-equipped kitchen, a cosy wood burner (with a basket of logs and kindling), a smart TV, wifi, lots of books, and luxury linens.
What the guests say: “A place we could switch off and unwind. If 5* hotels did self catering- this would be it! Every detail was thought over, you can tell Joanna is an interior designer. Everything is quality, the bathroom was luxury with hot baths and beautiful bed linen. We felt tucked away and chilled out in the countryside. The kitchen was very well equipped for everything from cake baking, soup making, roast dinner etc. Excellent induction hob too. Thank you for a wonderful stay.”
Airbnb listing: Courtyard Cottage near Abergavenny
Price: From £95 per night
Sleeps: 2 people (1 bedroom)
Seren Bach (Little Star), Brecon Beacons
Seren Bach is an idyllic luxury dome in Wales with sweeping views of the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons. Enjoy the Dark Sky Reserve status with a glass of bubbly in the hot tub or view the stars from bed through the ceiling window. It’s a place to get cosy and switch off.
What the guests say: “What a beautiful place to stay! Stunning views (worth the steep walk up from the car!). The dome has a skylight which was perfect for star gazing at night. Amanda left thoughtful touches like a homemade cake for us on arrival and even left dog treats, bowls and towels which was very helpful. After a long day exploring Wales, the hot tub is the perfect way to relax! Took about 1.5 hours to heat up, but stayed warm ready for the next day.”
Found this useful? Share it on Pinterest!
More UK travel guides
We have loads of UK travel guides. And oodles of tips for London and Bristol – where we lived/live now. Here are some of the highlights…
UK road trips: Best UK road trips | Best Scotland road trips
UK destination guides: Bristol | Isle of Mull | Frome | Liverpool | London | York
UK family travel guides: Birmingham with kids |Bristol with kids| Cornwall with kids | London with toddlers | Edinburgh with kids | Manchester with kids | Best UK family Christmas breaks | Travelling with a baby
And if you’re looking for somewhere special to stay in the UK, we have loads of UK Airbnb and hotel guides for destinations from the Lake District to Devon. See all our UK guides.
All photos courtesy of Airbnb and owners.
1 thought on “The 35 Best Airbnbs in the UK for 2024”