The 25 best Airbnbs in the UK: the weird and the wonderful

Very few people can say they've stayed inside of a cow. Who would have even thought that was ever an option? Apparently, it is. The cow shed Airbnb in Woodbridge, East Suffolk, is a unique take on glamping, mixing caravan life and camping together for something that looks like it could only be designed in a child's imagination. And of course, it's situated on a farm to provide the full experience. A great little trip away for families, the Airbnb sleeps up to four guests, with the interior giving you warm, rustic vibes and toilet and shower facilities are located on the grounds

What’s the budget range? The pocket-friendly glamping trip for a unique couple's stay. 

What’s it like to stay here? Just as cosy as it is a-moo-sing. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath (on-site). Sleeps 2.

Time Out tip: Hire a BBQ for those warm summer evenings – but maybe leave the beef burgers out this time.

Your inner child may be thrilled by the idea of staying in a treehouse. But rest assured, these interiors are very much made for grown-ups. This circular cedarwood den can be found perched among the trees, warmed by a wood-burning stove. Inside, you’ve got mod-cons like solar-powered lighting, fluffy bathrobes and a widescreen TV, plus a DVD player and Bluetooth speakers. Fill your days with walks through ancient woodland, or just chill out like a bougie Tarzan, watching over the first with a cuppa to hand from a pretty deck area. Bonus points for it being just a 45-minute drive away from the M25.

What’s the budget range? A luxury escape for two or a moderately-priced stay for four.

What’s it like to stay here? A charmingly rustic and tiny abode surrounded by private woodland with access to a deer sanctuary. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1.5 baths. Sleeps 4. 

Channel your inner Samwise Gamgee with a trip to this luxurious hobbit-style underground cave house built into a secluded hillside on Loch Tay. The charming hideout is called The Warren, and along with being built in a unique way, there's also a host of features including a duck pond, circular windows and curved doors. Also, in one of the few departures from the authentic hobbit lifestyle, you'll also get to enjoy a private river pool and a hot tub with beautiful views of the sweet sweet countryside. One Airbnb to rule them all? Possibly!

What’s the budget range? A rural luxury escape for couples and families. 

What’s it like to stay here? A cave paved with modern luxury. 

Rooms: 2 beds, 2 baths. Sleeps 4.

Time Out Tip: Explore the ancient oak forest, enchanting meadow and loch frontage. 

If you really fancy going off-grid, this badger pod Airbnb in Achiltibuie, Scotland, is the place for you. A small, remote village on the North-West coast of the Scottish Highlands, you'll be far away from all your day-to-day stresses. The Airbnb is a self-contained luxury pod, sleeping two guests in a king-sized bed, perfect for a couple's retreat away from the family. It features a kitchenette, three-seater sofa, ensuite bathroom, and a dining area - not too bad for a small pod. There are also modern touches like the underfloor heating (great for Scottish weather), a smart TV, and free Wi-Fi, so not totally off-grid then. 

What’s the budget range? A moderately-priced stay for a romantic trip to the Summer Isles. 

What’s it like to stay here? It's one of the most gorgeous coastline escapes. Seriously, add it to your bucket list. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1.5 baths. Sleeps 2. 

Time Out tip: Want to bask in the ocean views? Follow the path leading to the coastline down to the pebble beach. 

Not a property you see every day in the UK, this Airbnb yurt in Lydstep, Wales, is ideal for a romantic trip for two. Bringing a new vibe to luxury, the interior is modern, with hints of rustic countryside, not too far-fetched from its surroundings of nature. Plus, the gorgeous Pembrokeshire coastline is only a stone's throw away. You'll be sleeping in a plush, king-sized bed and can look up through the star-gazing ceiling lantern and marvel at the night sky. There's a log-burning stove to make the chillier evenings cosy, or for an ultra-relaxing evening you can take a dip in your bubbling hot tub. Head outside and you'll find your own cook shack with basic kitchen facilities. Bathroom facilities are also outside of the yurt but you'll have access to your own private allocated shower and WC. Perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. 

What’s the budget range? A breathtaking and affordable steal for two or four. 

What’s it like to stay here? The epitome of the scenic route – just a short drive from Tenby's stunning beaches, the harbour and a string of pubs and restaurants to enjoy.

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 4.

Fancy sleeping inside what appears to be a giant football? This super unique Moon Conker Airbnb is definitely one of the most unusual ones in the UK. Located in a small rural village in Wales, this Airbnb is the perfect place to unwind and rest away from busy day-to-day life and be at one with nature. Sleeping two guests in a super king-sized bed for ultra comfort, you can observe the night sky through one of the many skylights in the conker. Cook meals and marshmallows on one of the many firepits and unplug from digital life, there's no Wi-FI!

What’s the budget range? An affordable romantic weekend for two.

What’s it like to stay here? It's a peaceful Celtic retreat, ideal for moon bathing and stargazing. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2. 

If an entire Scottish castle feels a bit much (or is out of budget because you know, that's a lot) but you like the royal old castle-y vibe generally, this might be more for you. A sixteenth-century stone dovecote has all the charming historical vibes, but on a less grand scale (it sleeps four). The conversion is perfectly cosy yet full of natural light, with hand-made cedarwood furniture, a spacious rain shower and a double bed surrounded by ancient coves that once hosted pigeons. Through the French doors lies a private and secluded stone patio and gorgeous rose garden. Topping it off, this priory is next to some of central Edinburgh’s coolest districts.

What’s the budget range? A moderately-priced short break for two.

What’s it like to stay here? An oh-so-serene countryside escape, conveniently close to Old Town where you'll find local shops, wine bars and restaurants. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2.

What's better than a stunning spot of land on a Scottish lakeside unhindered by light pollution, other people, and well pretty much anything? The same beautiful bit of land with a sort of glass-panelled airship popped on it, of course. It's sustainably made, don't worry. The architect-designed home features a stylish modular living space, compact kitchen and super-soft queen-sized bed. At either end of the Star Trek-style airship are heart-melting views of mountains and lochs, reaching as far as the Isle of Mull. The interior is a surprisingly chic blend of futuristic chromes and alpine woods to boot.

What’s the budget range? A little spenny for the perfect blend of nature and luxury – ideal for a romantic getaway or a solo trip.

What’s it like to stay here? Picture romantic walks through the woodlands and spectacular lakeside views.  

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2. 

Time Out tip: Head out on the lake to start your own Loch Ness story.

Fancy properly lording it up sometime soon? We’ve got just the spot. This incredible – and massive – Edwardian castle on the Scottish coast of Portpatrick is about as good as UK Airbnbs get. It’s got 25 bedrooms and can host up to 90 if you want to put on your very own party – your hosts can even sort out the catering if you like, too. The property itself is seriously luxe but wander off-site to explore the 2,000 acres of glen walks and forests full of Scottish wildlife, as well as a little trip out on the lochs courtesy of your own rowing boat. An incredible spot. 

What’s the budget range? You'll need the chequebook for this dazzling period home escape – ideal for wedding and corporate events.  

What’s it like to stay here? These gorgeous grounds boast ornate stately reception rooms, woodland gardens, a grand dining room and much more. 

Rooms: 25 beds, 22 baths. Sleeps 26 minimum. 

Situated just a quick drive from the historical town of Billericay (just 25 miles East of Central London), this Grade II listed church conversion is a sight to behold. With stunning original stained glass windows, huge wooden beams and carved marble slabs set into the floor. Though full of those lovely period features, this property also has a modern and vast open-plan layout, and it's bright with natural light. High ceilings and white-washed walls are pretty timeless, after all. This delightful property can sleep up to eight, making it the perfect excuse to round up the gang and make some new memories. Take us to church! 

What’s the budget range? An affordable choice for a group staycation in prime Essex territory.

What’s it like to stay here? Enjoy a serene country lane escape in Billericay with horseriding and fishing facilities, and children's activities. 

Rooms: 4 beds, 2 baths. Sleeps 8.

The weird and wonderful Wiltshire landscape should be on everyone’s UK travel wish list: a sweep of lush, green hills dotted with mind-bogglingly ancient monuments. And a weekend’s exploration is well spent at The Farm at Avebury. Its six stable conversions have mod cons galore and loft rooms reached via ladders. Fuel up with sausages made on the farm before a day wandering around the stone circles and market towns that dot the countryside round here, then retreat back to the floral overload of the communal courtyard for sundowners and an evening round the fire pit. Book ahead to bag Silbury Hill, the biggest and most deluxe of the six stables.

What’s the budget range? Enjoy a luxury family stay or an affordable break for three couples. 

What’s it like to stay here? An exceptional country stay with a beautifully landscaped garden, BBQing facilities and views of Silbury Hill. 

Rooms: 3 beds, 2 baths. Sleeps 6. 

Forget that windmill you normally kip in, this is a boutique affair. Inside this tall one-bed, Grade II-listed windmill, you'll find a charming hotch-potch of old wooden floors, huge original cogs from the mill and its machinery, along with chunky beams and modern-cottage decorated rooms that make it feel like some sort of Town and Country retreat. For those curious about the building's history, have a nosy up through the trap door which leads to the mill machinery preserved as it would have been 200 years ago. You'll get breath-taking views over the rooftops of Woodbridge and the River Deben from here too. Might be windy though. 

What’s the budget range? A moderately-priced weekend getaway ideal for couples.

What’s it like to stay here? It's full of original industrial charm with cosy interiors. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1.5 baths. Sleeps 2. 

Sleepovers are good, aren't they? Thing is, this is better than all the sleepovers you ever had... because you’ll be rooming with Basil the adorable miniature horse. Before you start worrying about how you’ll get the hay out of your hair, remember you won’t actually be sleeping in a barn. Rather, a barn conversion with a wall short enough that the horse can hang his head over to say hello. The ‘humans only’ side features a warming indoor fireplace and kitchen area. There's even an outdoor log fire, complete with a BBQ grill and tiki hut seating, ideal for late nights and al fresco drinks with Baz.

What’s the budget range? Pretty cheap family stay at the stables. 

What’s it like to stay here? Who wouldn't fancy staying in a cosy barn surrounded by a glorious 60-acre estate? 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 4. 

Pretty, pastoral and pleasingly austere, this cottage is as wholesome as a hug from your gran (or mamgu, as they'd say in Wales). The Grade II-listed thatched roof beauty is one of the best surviving examples in the entire country of Wales, dating back to the 18th century. Its limewash and oak beams have been untouched for over 250 years. The bathroom has been updated with a fancy double-ended bath and the kitchenette is stocked with tea and coffee, but the rest of the house is 100 per cent back-to-basic You can also cut the fresh roses and herbs from the garden to add some perfume to the place.

What’s the budget range? No breaking the piggy bank you'll be pleased to hear. 

What’s it like to stay here? It's best described as a quiet, picturesque location close to the beach. Bliss. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2. 

Combine the fun of camping with the comfort of a hotel by checking into this six-metre wide "geodesic dome" on the edge of the South Lakes of Cumbria's Lake District. It's situated in a secluded garden with its own log-burning stove, plush furnishings and a private deck area, from which you can enjoy the rolling hills and breathtaking views. You can just saunter around the dome taking in the wonderful scenery, but Windermere (and its nice lake) are just a mere 10 minutes away. We reckon old William Wordsworth himself would have gone mad for this place. One thing, there's no shower there, but there is running water, you'll figure it out! 

What’s the budget range? A budget-friendly glamping experience for two – close to Dales Way walking path and Lake Windermere.

What’s it like to stay here? Enjoy the cosiest of cosy pods with golden sunset views.

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath (shared unit). Sleeps 2.

This flat is characteristically quaint, with those nice long windows, neutral colours and opulent features typical of show-home level aboded in Bath. And it's based in one of the city’s iconic Georgian townhouses, no less. It's not just the perfect base to explore the city from, but the envy-inducing pad also has a rooftop terrace offering glorious views over the city. Owned by an interior designer (no kidding) it comes decked out with handsome antique furniture, a deep roll-top bath and pretty chandeliers throughout. Super tasteful, not crazy expensive luxury accommodation. 

What’s the budget range? An affordable short stay for for families and couples. 

What’s it like to stay here? It's an alluring modern-antique apartment fit for a 19th-century tea party.  

Rooms: 2 beds, 1 bath. Sleeps 4. 

Picture a home called Riverside Cabin. Does it look like this? Yeah, we thought so. Found right on the edge of a stream in prime, picturesque Cornish countryside, it’s the kind of quaint escape many people dream of. A homemade fairytale home, this place is cosy yet airy, with an A-frame upstairs housing a snug double bed, while custom-built bunks fill the ground level. You’ve even got a firepit outdoors, perfect for unleashing your inner Hairy Biker (or Cornish equivalent). If you don’t feel like cooking, it's just a 20-minute drive to Falmouth, an artsy coastal town that's full of small independent bars and restaurants. 

What’s the budget range? A moderately-priced mini break. 

What’s it like to stay here? The idyllic Cornish countryside retreat you didn't know you needed – get a load of that beautiful woodland backdrop. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 4. 

You can't beat a good British BBQ... unless the weather has other ideas. Thing is, up in the Lake District, you're surrounded by such beautiful scenery that you'll have a hard time complaining about any drizzle on homemade burgers. To take those grilling goals to the next level, how about this awesome BBQ shack where you can flame-grill sausages from your own Scandi-style cabin? The central fire pit comes with charcoal and firelighters, so all you need to bring is the food (maybe raincoats too). And when you're done with the feast, simply take a long hike or a lakeside bike ride; there's a warren of cycle paths which can be started quite literally on your doorstep. So yes, have that extra sausage.  

What’s the budget range? A magical stay for two at affordable rates.

What’s it like to stay here? In a nutshell, it's cosy Scandi-style cabin surrounded by the tranquillity of a beautiful private garden.  

Rooms:  1 bed, 1 bath (shared facilities). Sleeps 2. 

Yeah, you read it right. it's a full-blown bloody castle. Back in the sixteenth century, that's even pre-Internet Explorer (RIP) Mary, Queen of Scots loved staying in this regal residence with her husband. Of course, things have probably updated a little since then. Dating back to around 1190, Neidpath Castle is full of original features, so you'll be able to soak up legit history when toasting your votes by the original open-log fire, chilling in the antique four-poster bed and reclining in the roomy rolltop bath. You're also just a ten-minute walk to Peebles, a medium-sized town in the Scottish Borders, which has plenty of shops and restaurants, along with a museum and an award-winning chocolatier. 

What’s the budget range? An extraordinary, high-end couple's stay.

What’s it like to stay here? This place is  enchanting and rustic. You'll enjoy following the scenic path of River Tweed into town.

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2. 

Live out your ‘Bridgerton’ fantasies by frockling, sauntering, waltzing, and parading around the East Wing of this red brick Regency-style private estate in the lovely Norfolk countryside. Your new home goes by the name Wolterton Hall and was built by one Horatio Walpole in 1724, brother of the first British Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole (good one to remember for a pub quiz). The building has retained many a historical feature. From original artwork and crystal chandeliers to period furniture and marble bathrooms. It happens to be a Grade I listed building, which is pretty elite. What's more, you're a small drive away from some brilliant beaches. 

What’s the budget range? A luxury stay, ideal for large group bookings and special occasions. 

What’s it like to stay here? These mesmerising grounds will make you feel like you've entered a Jane Austin novel.

Rooms: 7 beds, 5.5 baths. Sleeps 14. 

It's you (hello!) and you're on holiday, waking up to the sound of water, right outside the French doors at the foot of the bed. When you open the door, a gentle gust of salty sea air fills the room better than any candle could. Pretty dreamy, right? Once the morning is over, gaze at the breathtaking views of the Mourne Mountains and Strangford Lough. From there, you have an honesty bar stocked with prosecco and a stash of good books (and a 42" Smart TV if preferred) there’s no need to leave this tiny waterside retreat – ever. Well, other than to take a dip in the big blue, perhaps.

What’s the budget range? An affordable off-grid getaway for two. 

What’s it like to stay here? It's light-filled, beachy and secluded. With lots of nearby coffee shops and restaurants. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleep 2. 

Looking for a rural hideaway? There are not many places better than the Howardian Hills. Located super remotely within them is this rustic, wooden shepherd’s hut. Pro for some and con for others: you will need to trek across fields to reach it, so good boots or wellies are required. When you do so though, you'll be greeted by a copper roll-top bath, cosy wood-burning stove, fire-pit and bubbling outdoor hot tub. It’s also perfectly situated for exploring the North Yorkshire countryside, the East coast’s beaches, and quaint villages around the North York Moors National Park.

What’s the budget range? A luxury couple's hideaway near Howard Castle.

What’s it like to stay here? Think of it like a rustic haven on a hilltop. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleep 2. 

Treehouses are always a great idea. Found 20ft in the air, this home is made of recycled timbers and boasts some pretty gag-worthy views across the North Downs. You'll get to go to sleep in total silence (as long as your partner doesn't snore) with the only sound being the wind through the trees and charming birdsong to wake you up. Make your way through a good book, hit the local countryside for a long-needed stroll through nature and make your way down to the local village pub if you're looking for a little entertainment. The main point of this place though? It's to just chill, man. 

What’s the budget range? An affordable, serene short break for two.

What’s it like to stay here? It's most definitely a quirky off-grid adventure – enjoy the smell of freshly baked bread each morning, courtesy of your host.

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath (on-site). Sleeps 2. 

Whimsy and romance are served up in abundance at this carefully restored windmill. Inside the one-bed tower it’s a charming hotch-potch of old wooden floors, huge original cogs and chunky beams. If you can pull yourself away from the double-ended roll-top bath and the snug king-sized bed, then a short stroll will be rewarded with proper Kent pubs. Pint next to an open fire, anyone? 

What’s the budget range? A moderately-priced romantic weekend for anniversaries or birthdays. 

What’s it like to stay here? Enjoy simple living by visiting the local butchers, fishmongers and farm shop. 

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2.

Time Out tip: For a Michelin-star dining experience, be sure to dine at Apicius and Biddenden.

Perched on the edge of some woodlands in Hattingley, is this magical hobbit-esque Wagon home, brimming with a unique rural charm that will make you feel miles away from it all. Along with cosy wooden stained glassed interiors, this stunning hut features a barrel hot tub, wood-fired pizza oven, BBQ grill, indoor chiminea to keep you toasty, and perhaps our favourite of all, the bathtub, stationed by the cartwheel window for beautiful views of the fields as you soak. Our idea of heaven. All the while, you'll be surrounded by scenic footpaths and a view overlooking Hattingley Valley Vineyards – and should you fancy, you're just a 20-minute stroll from the local pub and shop. 

What’s the budget range?  A moderately-priced romantic weekend away for two. 

What’s it like to stay here? Cosy cottage-core vibes through and through. This snug space benefits from lots of sunlight and has a real rustic flare.  

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 2.