The best Airbnbs in the UK: the unusual, quirky and unique

Best for: a waterside getaway with the pals

Fancy yourself a bit of a music buff? Then a stay on Eel Pie Island has to be on your bucket list. Nestled on the Thames on the outskirts of Twickenham is the ultra-exclusive Eel Pie Retreat, one of 50 homes on the island. Steeped in history, the island is renowned for being the epicentre of British rock 'n' roll back in the 60s, with the likes of Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones and The Who playing some of their first gigs here. Today, it's just as artsy – but far more tranquil – and maintains its private yet luxurious edge. As for the Airbnb itself, interiors are eclectic and vibrant, with each room carrying its own sense of character. Outside, you're met with waterfront views and a porch to watch the sunset from. One thing's for sure: a stay here is nothing short of iconic. 

Time Out tip: One tiny catch... You'll need to use a footbridge to reach the property. Yes, really. It's all part of the charm, right?

Price: From £597 per two-night minimum stay

Location: Greater London, England

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps four guests. 

Best for: a romantic adventure in the English countryside

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.  

Time Out tip: In a nutshell, it's a cosy Scandi-style cabin surrounded by a tranquil private garden – and you're getting it for an absolute steal.

Price: From £99 per night

Location: Cumbria, Lake District, England

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.

Best for: a remote nature retreat for two

Get off the grid in this incredible boathouse in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. While the name's a bit of a giveaway, this Airbnb offers so much more than the private fishing Loch and boat – although that's pretty epic, too. Inside, the interiors are modern and minimalist, with stunning views over the remote landscape serving as the main backdrop. The outdoor hot tub is a delightful addition, offering a cosy respite from the unpredictable Scottish weather. Oh, and you'll definitely need a 4x4 to get here – but a sundowner under the night's sky will have you captivated in no time. 

Time Out tip: The property is fully off-grid, with no mains electricity connected here – just solar panels and good vibes. Keep this in mind when planning your trip.

Price: From £1,125 per three-night minimum stay

Location: Guisachan, Scottish Highlands

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests. 

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Best for: a solo getaway with a good book – or three

Step inside a storybook with a stay in this adorable cobbled cottage in the north of Norfolk, just outside Holt. The recently renovated boutique bolthole oozes charm and cosy vibes, thanks to its low ceilings, exposed brick walls and eclectic furnishings. Spend an idyllic evening around the wood-burning fireplace and make use of the rustic kitchen (featuring modern appliances from top brands) before getting tucked up in the cloud-like bed. You can also treat yourself to a bath for that extra level of comfort – and crank up the underfloor heating while you're at it. 

Time Out tip: Live out your best fairytale and potter about these adorable dwellings with their marshes and beaches ready for you to explore.

Price: From £410 per two-night minimum stay

Location: Hunworth, England

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests. 

Best for: a beachfront escape with the fam – and furry friends

This goes out to the holidaymakers who struggle to tear themselves away from the beach whenever they're visiting the coast – because with this place, you won't have to. This Airbnb in East Sussex is positioned right on the sand, with bifold doors across the whole back wall for when you want to bring the outside in. Luxurious window-facing beds also mean you never have to look away from the view. Amenity highlights include an Apple TV, Sonos system, a BBQ and air conditioning. It's close to Rye and within easy access of London, so you can tie it in with a trip to the capital. It's one of the best Airbnbs in the UK for couples and families, and even the pets can come along!

Time Out tip: It's a once-in-a-lifetime property that could probably only be afforded once in a lifetime – book well in advance.

Price: From £1,848 per two-night minimum stay 

Location: Camber, England

Rooms: Four bedrooms. Sleeps eight guests. 

Best for: frolicking in the forest with your partner

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 untouched natural beauty of your surroundings with a cuppa to hand from the pretty deck area. Bonus points for it being just a 45-minute drive away from the M25. There's parking 50 metres from the house, which is always handy, and nearby activities include walks through a scenic deer park and courts for a spot of tennis (own equipment required). 

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. 

Time Out tip: This charmingly rustic and tiny abode is surrounded by private woodland – and has access to a deer sanctuary. 

Price: From £690 per two-night minimum stay 

Location: Mayfield and Five Ashes, England

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps four guests. 

Best for: living out that 'Ideal Home' fantasy with your besties

Known as the 'Queen of the Cotswolds', the village of Painswick has beauty etched into its every stone surface. And this home is the perfect match. Dating back to the sixteenth century, it’s a historic property that wears its past proudly but also provides a fair bit of contemporary comfort (we hear rumours that things weren’t quite so cosy circa 1580). It’s in the centre of the chocolate box village and the interiors aren’t short on fairy tale charm – and that’s before you get to the gorgeous, tranquil garden. Would work well as a family abode (although small sticky fingers might need watching on all that off-white) or as a place to re-bond with old adult friends.

Time Out tip: Oh, it's a steal for a party of six, so book in advance.

Price: From £616 per two-night minimum stay 

Location: Painswick, England

Rooms: Three bedrooms. Sleeps six guests. 

Best for: a one-of-a-kind stay with your bae 

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.

Time Out tip: Plan your trip around a clear weather weekend for optimal stargazing and moon bathing.

Price: From £190 per night 

Location: Powys, Wales

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.  

Best for: a romantically historic stay in Scotland for two

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. 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.

Time Out tip: It's an oh-so-serene countryside escape conveniently close to Old Town, where you'll find local shops, wine bars and restaurants down the road. 

Price: From £556 per two-night minimum stay 

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.  

Best for: a grand stay for a large group and a very special occasion

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. A truly incredible spot.

Time Out tip: You'll certainly need the chequebook for this dazzling period home escape – these gorgeous grounds boast ornate, stately reception rooms, woodland gardens, a grand dining room, and so much more. 

Price: From £7,150 per three-night minimum stay 

Location: Portpatrick, Scotland

Rooms: 25 bedrooms. Sleeps 26 guests.  

Best for: a solo or romantic getaway (and bragging on IG stories)

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.

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

Price: From £597 per three-night minimum stay 

Location: Drimnin, Scotland

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.  

Best for: a charming stay with the family

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.

Time Out tip: You're walking distance from the beach in an ultra-picturesque location. Bliss.

Price: From £158 per two-night minimum stay 

Location: Felinfach, Wales

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps four guests.  

Best for: an extraordinary, high-end couple's stay

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. 

Time Out tip: Follow the scenic path of the River Tweed into town.

Price: From £456 per night

Location: Kings Muir, Scottish Borders

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.

Best for: a budget-friendly glamping experience for two

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! 

Time Out tip: Get here before sunset to enjoy golden views along the Dales Way walking path or with a sundowner at Lake Windermere.

Price: From £96 per two-night minimum stay 

Location: Cumbria, Lake District, England

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.

Best for: a bespoke couple's hideaway near Howard Castle

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.

Time Out tip: Get the fire going before the sun goes down – you'll thank us later.

Price: From £170 per night

Location: North Yorkshire, England

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.  

Best for: a moderately-priced mini break with your mates

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. 

Time Out tip: It's the idyllic Cornish countryside retreat you didn't know you needed. Get a load of that beautiful woodland backdrop – one for the 'gram, anyone?

Price: From £246 per two-night minimum stay 

Location: Constantine, England

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps four guests.  

Best for: a well-priced romantic weekend away for two

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 glass 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.

Time Out tip: You're just a 20-minute stroll from the local pub and shop, if you fancy it.

Price: From £229 per night

Location: Medstead, England

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.  

Best for: a great value-for-money weekend, ideal for anniversaries or birthdays

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? 

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

Price: From £480 per two-night minimum stay 

Location: Benenden, Kent, England

Rooms: One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.