Whether you’re looking to explore the far flung areas across the UK or want to nab a little bit of the British culture in style away from the bustle of London, we have 10 of the wackiest and most wonderful places to stay. From treetop abodes (we hope you’re not afraid of heights) to historical castles, these stunning homes stand head and shoulders above any normal hotel…
1. Tree Sparrow House
Experience Britain’s coastal areas with a magical view across the sea at the Tree Sparrow House in Cornwall. The adventurous treetop accommodation is for the child-at-heart. Featuring a comfy double bed, bathroom and even a small kitchen area, the little house in the trees is an ideal resting place for hikers. Who wouldn’t love watching the sunset high up with the birds?
For more information visit www.airbnb.co.uk
2. House In The Clouds
If you’ve always got your head up in the clouds then you’ll easily find your feet and feel at home in the House in the Clouds in Thorpeness. Providing spacious family accommodation with five bedrooms in total, the house is well known for its stunning ‘room at the top’, which offers magnificent views over Suffolk. With one acre of private grounds too, the house is an ideal holiday home away from home.
For more information visit www.houseintheclouds.co.uk
3. West Usk Lighthouse
Not many people can say that they’ve stayed in a lighthouse but you can by booking yourself into West Usk Lighthouse in Newport. The unique bed and breakfast has four beautifully decorated rooms to choose from, but the highlight is the rooftop area where guests can enjoy a relaxing Jacuzzi and marvel at the coastal views. Did we mention there’s a Tardis changing room on the rooftop too?
For more information visit www.westusklighthouse.co.uk
4. British Castle
For those that have always dreamed of staying in a traditional British castle, Airbnb have the answer. The privately owned Victorian castle on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, once a gentleman’s folly, is now a family home. Built in 1841, the castle boasts 15 bedrooms, many of which have grand four-poster beds and real fireplaces. It’s the ideal venue for a celebration or wedding, bringing to life Britain’s rich history from the pages of Victorian literature.
For more information visit www.airbnb.co.uk
5. Jessie Canal Narrowboat, London
The idea of committing yourself to the simple life on a barge can seem rather a big step, but if you’re looking for time away from the bustle of the streets, Airbnb have a whole host of boating accommodation. The cosy Jessie narrowboat is docked on the banks of Little Venice (a name coined by poet Robert Browning). The pretty corner of London is known for its more chilled out atmosphere, giving you a chance to relax without fully leaving the city.
For more information visit www.airbnb.co.uk
6. Owl House
Although the Owl House is no longer available to stay in, visitor’s can make the most of the fascinating haven as a dayroom when they book a room at the adjoining bungalow in Hightown, Merseyside. The bungalow itself is full of cosy and rustic features with large wooden boards and panelling including a driftwood bed, making the home look like a magical log cabin tucked away on the edge of the coast.
For more information visit www.airbnb.co.uk
7. The Big Green Bus
Perhaps not what everyone has in mind when they think of unique accommodation, the Big Green Bus in Lewes, East Sussex is a converted 1982 West Midlands metro bus. Now offering an amazing space for six people, the bus takes the idea of the Knight Bus in Harry Potter up a notch, fit with a kitchen, lounge, log burner and bathroom. Guests can make the most of both floors of the double decker; a true alternative to glamping.
For more information visit www.biggreenbus.co.uk
8. The Witchery
Opening back in 1979, The Witchery by the Castle is a transformed 16th century building on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Offering a fine dining restaurant, there are also private suites that overflow with hedonistic extravagance. The boutique hotel and restaurant will delight any fan of gothic literature or renaissance art with its darkly theatrical and baroque splendour. Expect antique four-poster beds, roll-top baths and lavish drapes.
For more information visit www.thewitchery.com
9. Cley Windmill
You don’t have to travel to the Netherlands to stay in a windmill. Cley Windmill in Norfolk is full of character, with warm and spacious interiors. Guests to the BnB can enjoy the cosy circular rooms of the five-storey, 19th century tower mill and look out from the gallery over the views across the marshes and the sea.
For more information visit www.cleywindmill.co.uk
10. Romany Caravan
If you’re not a fan of caravans or camping but want to try something a bit different the Romany Caravan at Bush Meadows in Bude is just the thing. Furnished in the traditional Romany way with a few extra items for added comfort, the unique caravan has an air of romance to it, evoking images of life on the road. Its charming interiors are complemented by the peaceful meadow and woodland location, just a short walk from Cornwall’s famed coastline.
For more information visit www.airbnb.co.uk