Looking for an unforgettable stay in the UK? I’ve handpicked 16 incredible Airbnbs that range from charming cottages to grand castles, each with its own unique vibe and cozy touches. Whether you’re dreaming of a countryside escape in the Cotswolds, a stone cottage in the Scottish Highlands, or a full-on castle experience in Wales, this list has something for every style and mood. From roaring fireplaces to breathtaking views, each stay offers the perfect blend of history, comfort, and charm. Ready to live like royalty or retreat to a cozy cottage? These UK gems are calling your name!
The Coolest Airbnbs in the UK: Top Vacation Rentals in 2025
Here are the best Airbnbs in the UK by category, taking into account different amenities, trip types, and budgets. The subsequent sections will cover each listing in more detail.
- Top Airbnb in the UK: Skypod Tiny House Rental
- Best Luxury Vacation Rental UK: Leicester Square London Penthouse
- Top Romantic Airbnb in the UK: Glamping Pod with a View
- Best UK Airbnb for Large Groups: Tower Bridge Home on the River Thames
- Coolest Cheap Airbnb in the United Kingdom: Incredible Castle in Wales
- Best Castle Airbnb in the UK: Balintore Castle Rental
- Best United Kingdom Airbnb with a View: Lighthouse Rental in Scotland
- Most Unique Airbnb in the UK: London Houseboat Rental
16 Best Airbnbs in the UK
If romantic condos, houses for rent, and luxury vacation rentals in the UK all sound good to you, get excited! Below are some of the most unique stays in the UK.
1. Tower Bridge UK Houseboat Airbnb: Best Views in London
Location: London, England, UK
Rates from: $1,067 per night
Accommodates: 10 guests
Experience the UK in style from this amazing Airbnb for rent in London. Offering a rare mix of one of the best views in London and a unique stay, “The Harpy” is moored near the Tower Bridge, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, along the south bank of the River Thames. It once served as an Edwardian base for customs and excise officers, but today it offers visitors an extraordinary historic space with easy access to hot spots.
You’ll need to stay a minimum of three nights but for a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience right on the water with an incredible vista of the bridge, the city skyline, and the river stretching all the way to Canary Wharf, it’s worth it.
The exotic floating home for rent in the UK also boasts many luxurious touches like a four-poster bed with fine Egyptian linens, a kitchen with an espresso machine and all the essentials, a 4K TV, fast Wi-Fi, and a Sonos sound system. What more could you want in a top UK Airbnb?
2. Castle Combe Cottage Airbnb in the Cotswolds of the UK
Location: Castle Combe, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
Rates from: $232 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
You’ll feel as if you’re part of a fairytale with a stay at this beautiful Airbnb in the UK’s picturesque Cotswolds region. Located in the village of Castle Combe, the filming site for a long list of movies like “Stardust,” “War Horse,” and the original “Dr. Doolittle,” it blends perfectly with the enchanting streets that are lined with homes made of Cotswold stone.
This UK home for rent accommodates up to four guests with all the essentials and then some, like a washer/dryer and a large fireplace that holds a wood-burning stove. From the king-size bed in the master bedroom, you can wake up to a view of the ducks that float along the By Brook.
3. Door to the Shore
Location: Pitullie, SCT, United Kingdom
Rates from: $160 per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
Door to the Shore beckons travelers with its unparalleled glamping experience in the heart of Scotland. Nestled in Pitullie, SCT, this deluxe accommodation offers a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern amenities.
The cozy ambiance of the cabin is complemented by a comfortable double futon and an additional double bed, ensuring guests have a restful night’s sleep. The cabin’s kitchenette, equipped with essential appliances, provides convenience for preparing quick meals. Additionally, free Wi-Fi is available, ensuring guests stay connected during their stay. The highlight of the accommodation is undoubtedly the ocean view. Mornings can be spent on the balcony, enjoying the gentle sea breeze and the mesmerizing view.
Beyond the cabin, an outdoor play area and garden invite moments of relaxation and play. For those keen on exploring the local area, the proximity to the ocean offers a range of activities, from serene beach walks to exhilarating water sports.
Nearby, guests can explore iconic Scottish sights such as Dunnottar Castle, a dramatic and evocative ruined cliff-top fortress, Aberdeen Maritime Museum, which offers a deep dive into the city’s maritime history, and Duthie Park, a beautifully maintained park with botanical gardens.
4. Leicester Square Penthouse Airbnb in London, UK
Location: Greater London, England, United Kingdom
Rates from: $429 per night
Accommodates: 6 guests
Stay at this unique vacation rental in the UK and you’ll be in for a treat! Located in London’s vibrant West End within a 5-minute walk of the National Gallery and the Underground, this penthouse offers it all. Sparkling clean, very well-appointed, and spacious, it includes three bedrooms with king-size beds accommodating up to six. The highlight is arguably the fabulous rooftop garden that overlooks Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus.
Enjoy your morning coffee while watching the city come to life and a good night’s sleep in a quiet setting with comfortable beds. It’s jam-packed with amenities too, including a kitchen with a Nespresso machine and dishwasher, washer/dryer, fast Wi-Fi, and cable TVs with Netflix. With so much charm and personality, it’s no wonder why this is among the best UK Airbnbs.
5. Elm Park Barn – One of the Best Houses for Rent in the UK
Location: Keynsham, England, United Kingdom
Rates from: $196 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
Airbnb homes with private pools are rare in the UK, but the Elm Park Barn includes a large indoor swimming pool and an outdoor Jacuzzi. Accommodating up to four (adults only) in two bedrooms, it feels quite secluded and comes complete with stunning views of the countryside, but you’ll be close to multiple attractions. The popular city of Bath with its historic Roman baths and naturally hot spa waters for soaking is just a 20-minute drive away while Stonehenge can be reached in about an hour.
At this top UK vacation rental on Airbnb and VRBO, you’ll appreciate the hospitable hosts who will welcome you with complimentary extras like Prosecco and pastries. Enjoy other unique amenities, including a 55” TV with a DVD player, TVs in the bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, washing machine and more. If you’re looking for a top vacation rental in the UK, look no further!
6. Sunridge Cube 2 with Hot Tub & Giant Home Cinema
Location: Plymouth, England, United Kingdom
Rates from: $271 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
Sunridge Cube 2 offers a luxurious retreat for those looking to indulge in the best of both relaxation and entertainment. Situated in the scenic locale of Plymouth, England, this cabin is a haven for guests seeking a unique stay.
The accommodation boasts a spacious bedroom with a king bed and an additional room with two double futons, comfortably accommodating up to four guests. The modern bathroom ensures guests have all the conveniences they need. But it’s the outdoor amenities that truly shine – a hot tub for soothing soaks and a giant home cinema for movie nights under the stars.
For those keen on exploring the surrounding area, Sunridge Cube 2 is strategically located near some of the region’s top attractions. South Devon is just a 5-minute drive away, offering a plethora of coastal activities. The majestic Dartmoor National Park is a mere 13-minute drive, beckoning nature enthusiasts with its rugged landscapes and hiking trails. History buffs can take a 16-minute drive to Saltram House, a magnificent Georgian mansion with opulent interiors and lush gardens.
7. Lighthouse Airbnb for Rent in Scotland
Location: Isleornsay, Scotland, United Kingdom
Rates from: $723 per night
Accommodates: 8 guests
Many people have dreamed of having their own private island, and this one checks that box and more, at least temporarily. You’ll be able to experience what it would be like as long as you stay, with the entire island that sits off the coast of the Isle of Skye in the Scottish Highlands all yours. This Airbnb in the UK sleeps seven comfortably in four bedrooms and offers breathtaking views.
Take advantage of the outstanding beachcombing or just let stress melt away while you watch the waves and the wildlife pass by. When you want to do some socializing, dining and drinking, there’s a traditional Highland pub right across the shore. Is this one of the coolest vacation rentals in the UK? It sure is!
8. DeanVillage with Riverside Balcony Home for Rent in Scotland, UK
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
Rates from: $136 per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
If you plan on exploring Edinburgh, this riverside UK rental is ideal – and a steal. It sits in one of the prettiest and oldest areas of the city, with narrow, cobblestone streets, gardens, a tranquil stream and historic buildings in the heart of UNESCO-listed Dean Village.
From this beautiful Airbnb rental in the UK, you’ll be within walking distance of the Haymarket train station, while the main shopping thoroughfare, Princes Street, is just a six-minute walk away and Edinburgh Castle is easily reached too. Enjoy picturesque river views from the living room and balcony, where wildlife like the “famous local heron” can be spotted.
9. The Hunting Tower – Two Bedroom Castle
Location: Chatsworth, England, United Kingdom
Rates from: $460 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
The Hunting Tower stands as a testament to timeless elegance and regal charm. Located in the historic region of Chatsworth, ENG, this two-bedroom castle offers guests a unique opportunity to experience royalty.
The castle boasts two well-appointed bedrooms, one with a double bed and the other with twin beds, ensuring a comfortable stay for up to four guests. The interiors exude a blend of classic architecture and modern amenities, ensuring guests feel both pampered and at home.
For those keen on exploring the surroundings, the castle‘s location is unparalleled. A mere 13-minute walk will lead guests to the iconic Chatsworth House, a stately home renowned for its art collection and scenic gardens. Just a few minutes further, the Chatsworth House Labyrinth awaits, offering a fun and intriguing maze experience. For nature enthusiasts, the Peak District National Park is a short 13-minute drive away, boasting breathtaking landscapes and numerous hiking trails.
10. Balintore Castle Rental in Angus, Scotland
Location: Angus, Scotland, United Kingdom
Rates from: $360 per night
Accommodates: 6 guests
Dreaming of staying at a castle Airbnb in the UK? Just wait until you see this enchanting place. Located northwest of Edinburgh near Dundee, Balintore Castle sits in a beautiful, remote glen. Built in 1860, it was left to ruin a hundred years later and stood empty for a half-century. But the restoration began with the kitchen wing impeccably restored, opened for guests as a way to fund the restoration of the rest of the castle. It comes at a relatively affordable cost for a castle stay.
Enjoy a mix of historic and modern, with many original Victorian-era features maintained while the necessary conveniences were added. Accommodating six in three bedrooms, highlights include a fireplace and bathroom with heated floors and a large Victorian soaking tub. What more could you look for in a top United Kingdom Airbnb for rent?
Read next: Best Airbnb Rentals in Scotland
11. Stunning Shepherds Hut Airbnb in UK with Hot Tub and Sea Views
Location: Gwynedd, Wales, United Kingdom
Rates from: $145 per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
Located just outside Snowdonia National Park, this Shepherds Hut vacation rental in the UK provides an ideal base for hikers and nature lovers. It overlooking both the mountains and the sea, and is just five minutes from the beach. Accommodating two, it’s perfect for a couples’ escape.
Relax in the hot tub after a long day of exploring, soothing sore muscles while surrounded by jaw-dropping views or gazing up at a brilliant night’s sky. Animal lovers will enjoy it too, as it sits on a property with friendly horses, cows, sheep, and dogs, although it’s fenced-in so encounters aren’t a necessity. There’s also a fire pit for roasting marshmallows (marshmallows and wood included) along with a BBQ grill and essentials like Wi-Fi and a kitchen. If you’re looking for a top UK vacation rental with epic views, this is it!
12. 8-Bed Lotus Belle Mahal Tent in The Wye Valley
Location: Ross-on-Wye, United Kingdom
Rates from: $558 per night
Accommodates: 8 guests
Nestled in the picturesque Wye Valley, the 8-Bed Lotus Belle Mahal Tent offers an unparalleled glamping experience. This luxurious tent, located in Ross-on-Wye, promises a blend of nature’s tranquility and modern comforts.
The tent boasts four spacious bedrooms, accommodating up to eight guests. With a mix of king, double, and twin beds, it ensures a comfortable stay for all. The tent’s interiors exude a rustic charm, complemented by modern amenities to ensure guests have a memorable stay.
For those looking to explore the surroundings, the tent‘s location is ideal. The breathtaking Wye Valley is just a 5-minute drive away, offering a plethora of outdoor activities and scenic views. History enthusiasts can take an 8-minute drive to Wilton Castle, a historic Norman castle with picturesque gardens. Additionally, St. Mary’s Kempley, a renowned historic church, is just a 9-minute drive away.
13. Boutique studio Escape Pod in Devon
Location: Beer, England, United Kingdom
Rates from: $149 per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
The Boutique studio Escape Pod is a haven for couples and solo travelers looking for a serene getaway. Located in the picturesque village of Beer, ENG, this studio is a perfect blend of modern design and natural beauty.
The studio is thoughtfully designed with a double bed, ensuring a comfortable stay for up to two guests. The kitchenette is equipped with essential amenities, allowing guests to prepare light meals during their stay. The outdoor space is complemented by a barbecue grill, perfect for alfresco dining and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
For beach lovers, the studio‘s location is ideal. It’s just a 5-minute journey to the beach, where guests can indulge in sunbathing, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the sea breeze. Additionally, the Beer Roads are a mere 10-minute walk away, offering scenic views and walking paths. Seaton Beach, known for its pristine sands and clear waters, is just a 17-minute walk from the studio. For those looking to explore more of the region, Hooken Beach is an 18-minute drive away, boasting stunning cliffs and panoramic ocean views.
14. Fair Head Glamping Pods for Rent in Northern Ireland
Location: Moyle, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
Rates from: $205 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
Enjoy a stay in a luxury glamping pod on Airbnb in the UK for up to four guests in the heart of Ballycastle overlooking Fair Head, the north coast and the sea. Game of Thrones fans will enjoy being close to many filming sites from the hit series, including the Dark Hedges, Ballintoy Harbour, and Dunluce Castle.
The pod itself is warm and welcoming, complete with electricity, heat, and running water. It’s fully furnished and includes kitchen basics like a fridge, cutlery, tea and coffee station, along with a fire pit. There is no Wi-Fi or TV but who needs that with views like this?
15. Belfast Hot-Tub House in the City Center, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
Rates from: $137 per night
Accommodates: 6 guests
Stay at this Northern Ireland Airbnb and you’ll be in for a treat.
Belfast is a fantastic city with a long list of attractions, including the famous Titanic Museum. A colorful blend of alluring landscapes, art, history, lively nightlife and plenty of mouthwatering fare, to make the most of the time you have, you’ll want to stay in a place where you’ll have easy access to it all.
This two-bedroom townhouse is ideal – not only does it come at a bargain price, but it includes a private six-person hot tub, a classic arcade games machine with more than 600 retro games, a complimentary fully-stocked minibar, and chilled champagne on arrival, among countless other amenities. If you’re looking for a unique Airbnb in the UK with a hot tub, say no more!
16. Relaxing UK Cottage Rental with Hot Tub and Spectacular Views
Location: Kircubbin, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
Rates from: $194 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
Last but not least on this round-up of the coolest Airbnb for rent in the UK is this unique cottage with a hot tub. It offers a relaxing retreat that’s just 40 minutes south of Belfast overlooking Strangford Lough and the Mourne Mountains. This UK vacation home for rent is a stone’s throw from the beach and a short walk to the village of Kircubbin with markets, pubs, and restaurants. Perfect for enjoying both city attractions and outdoor recreation, after a day of either, you’ll have a hot tub to with magnificent views, and a fire pit to gather around under the stars.
This UK Airbnb comes with all the usual necessities, including a TV with Netflix, but what makes it really a standout are the many special extras. The host knows how to treat her guests, providing breakfast items, and other complimentary treats like a bottle of Prosecco.
Coolest Airbnbs in UK: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales
Have you ever stayed in a unique vacation rental in the UK? Let me know in the comments or on Insta, as I’m always looking to add to this round-up of the best UK Airbnb rentals!
Looking for more unique destinations in Europe? Check out these places:
– Top Airbnb Accommodations in Scotland
– Best Vacation Rentals in Ireland
– Coolest Airbnb Stays in Europe
– Most Unique Hidden Gems in Europe
– Top Airbnbs in the South of France
– Best Airbnb Stays in Switzerland
– Top Unique Vacation Rentals in the World
