The Very Best Airbnb’s In The UK

I’m about to let you guys into one of my ultimate lists, this is my dream UK airbnb list. My ‘best Airbnb UK’ list as it is officially filed under but in my head I refer to it as my dream hotel list. A list I’ve saved full of all the places I am most desperate to stay at! From castles, to manor houses, to thatched cottages, to windmills. This list is packed full of the most amazing places to stay here in the UK, places that are truly unique and special. In the spirit of sharing all the best places I know with you all to help you create wonderful memories and have magical stays of your own here in my home country, here is my list of all the best Airbnb’s the UK has to offer.

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Crayke Manor

Crayke Manor is an original Jacobean manor house built back in 1620, complete with mullion windows, wood panelled walls, thick oak beams and yorkstone flag floors. It really fits the epitome of everything you think of in an English country manor. The manor has been lovingly restored and is kitted out with all the mod cons to make your stay relaxing and enjoyable. The manor sits in 17 acres of private land so you will be completely sheltered and surrounded in privacy during your stay and you can even spend the week pretending you’re lord and lady of the manor. This place will really knock your socks off!

Spend a morning exploring the 1 acre garden before a leisurely stroll into the village of Crayke to enjoy lunch and a pint at the award winning The Durham Ox pub.  There are an abundance of historical sites to visit close by including Rievaulx Abbey and Ampleforth Abbey. Less than a half hour drive away you will also find one of my favourite cities in the whole of England, York. This is one of the places I visit on a yearly basis purely because of how much I love it there and I recommend it to all of my friends when they come to visit.

Further reading: 18 Of The Best Things To Do In York.

Airbnb Listing: Crayke Manor Near York

Price: From £1257 per night

Sleeps: 16 people, 9 bedrooms, 10 beds

What guests say: “Crayke Manor was a perfect place to spend a big family Christmas. it’s a really special and unique place. so huge you can get lost in it! the quirky children’s bedrooms went down a storm with the younger family members, as did the well stocked playroom, trampoline, and log cabin! all the beds were so comfortable everyone slept well. Paula and Justin were great with communication before we arrived and there was 24 hour housekeeping support during our stay. Despite the age of the house and original features, it was still warm and cosy. we enjoyed a Christmas Eve hot tub, as well as trying out all the features on the indoor showers! We would have been happy just spending the days in the gorgeous kitchen, but dragged ourselves out for walks in the grounds and to the Durham Ox in Crayke too. Highly recommended and we can’t wait to return! Thank you so much for a wonderful holiday”

Classical Apartment In Edinburgh

No trip to the UK is complete without a visit to Edinburgh and this is one of the most beautiful apartments I’ve found for my next trip to the city. Located in the heart of Old Edinburgh, just off the Royal Mile, you won’t find many places better situated. With this apartment you will have the castle, grassmarket, Princes Street Gardens, multiple museums, historic pubs and restaurants right on your doorstep. I have visited the city multiple times and only wish I had found this apartment beforehand! With oak panelled walls, classical portraits, wooden window shutters and warm parquet floors, this is a super stylish place to stay.

Airbnb Listing: Classical Apartment On The Royal Mile

Price: From £144 per night

Sleeps: 2 people, 1 studio bedroom

What guests say: “Everything about our stay at Calim’s dreamy place was exceptional. He has gone above and beyond to consider all the details to make sure your stay is perfect- before and during you’re stay. I loved opening my eyes each morning to the magnificent paintings, the chandelier and the sounds of bag pipes from the street. Hours passed one evening whilst flicking through Calim’s vast bookshelves with the Robert’s radio going in the background. Just perfect.”

Best Airbnb Castles and Abbeys

A 12th Century Former Abbey

Butley Priory is one of the most atmospheric and unusual houses in England. A former Augustinian monastery, with its fabulous stone vaulted arches, huge fireplaces and enormous bedrooms, the very fabric of the building is steeped in romance and history. It has been lovingly converted over the years to become a truly comfortable family house. Deep in the beautiful countryside of the Suffolk coast, it now makes the perfect oasis to relax in the company of your loved ones. Set in 8 acres of private parkland in the Suffolk countryside, this really is a place to escape from the world. There are plenty of beautiful places to visit close by so you will never be short of something to do. Visit the historic nearby town of Orford where you can enjoy a selection of great pubs and pay a visit to the castle. You can also explore the ancient Saxon burial ground at Sutton Hoo. If you’re driving, you could also pay a visit to Willy Lott’s Cottage, made famous in John Constables painting The Hay Wain.

Airbnb Listing: Magical 12th Century Abbey

Price: From £750 per night

Sleeps: 16 people, 8 Bedrooms, 12 Beds

What guests say: “What a fantastic house in a great location. It was even more impressive in the ‘flesh’ than the pictures suggested. Dining in a vaulted Hall was a real treat. There were some lovely touches – fresh flowers around the house, log fires made up in the hall and the sitting room, soap and hand lotion in all the bedrooms, plenty of tea, coffee and sugar in the kitchen. All in all a wonderful weekend in Suffolk made special because of the house.”

Romantic Pink Scottish Castle

Just over twenty miles south of Edinburgh lies an authentic medieval castle with roaring log fires and all modern comforts – and a pink one at that! The castle dates back to 1488 and will provide you with a luxurious escape surrounded by picturesque landscape perfect for leisurely strolls. This beautiful castle is ideal for exploring the Scottish Borders which has some incredible hidden gems! My favourite from last year was Abbotsford, home of Sir Walter Scott which is just over a half hour drive away. You may have seen me share this stunner a fair few times if you follow me on Instagram! If you haven’t you can find one of my many posts on Abbotsford here.

Airbnb Listing: Romantic Medieval Castle

Price: From £130 per night

Sleeps: 4 people, 1 bedrooms, 3 beds

What guests say: “We absolutely LOVED our stay – it was so magical! lulu & katarina went above & beyond expectations! It was such a warm & welcoming space with lots of little added touches, including a lovely castle tour & there was so much warmth & hospitality in all our communications! Already recommending friends to stay here! Magical family memories for a lifetime! (But be sure you can climb stairs – kids counted… there’s 50 in total lol) I’d give it 10 stars if I could!”

Dairsie Castle

25 minutes out of St Andrews in Scotland you will find Dairsie Castle, a unique self-catered property which sleeps 14. Dating back to the 12th century, this is a castle that has a long history! From secret Scottish parliaments to military sieges, you can’t fail to be impressed by this place. In the 19th century the castle fell into a state of disrepair and it wasn’t until its current owner purchased the property in the early 1990’s that it once again became inhabitable. The castle contains much of its old medieval character with all the modern comforts you would expect to find. If you stay here make sure to spend a day visiting St. Andrews, the place where Prince William attended university. You won’t be short of history here. To start with pay a visit to the old Cathedral and the castle.

Airbnb Listing: Dairsie Castle

Price: From £1021 per night

Sleeps: 14 people, 6 bedrooms, 10 beds

What guests say: “Dairsie castle was by far the best air Bnb we have stayed in, the castle was absolutely breath taking. The description and pictures are accurate and you will be in awe of the castle from the minute you arrive. The castle is really cosy and warm and has heating throughout especially being it is a large building. The scenery surrounding is so beautiful. Etsuko was an amazing host from start to finish and informative and not over bearing in any way. We would love to return to Dairsie castle sometime in the future as a family. Some amazing memories have been made in Dairsie”

Former Abbey At Loch Ness

St. Benedict’s Abbey is one of the finest old buildings in the north of Scotland with a fascinating history. It now provides a most exclusive holiday home in Scotland, known as The Highland Club. Surrounded on three sides by water, the abbey is set on the southern end of Loch Ness in 20 acres of beautiful mature garden grounds which extend right down to the shoreline of Loch Ness. This particular airbnb is a self-catering apartment for 2, one of the very few in the abbey totally detached from other apartments.

Airbnb Listing: Former Abbey At Loch Ness

Price: From £211 per night

Sleeps: 2 people, 1 bedroom, 1 bed

What guests say: “We came for a long weekend in January and were not disappointed! The Scriptorium was chic and comfortably furnished. We loved all the original features. The apartment was just a little skip away from the pool in the chapel. The pool was lovely and warm, quiet and super clean. Lovely view from in the pool too. The grounds and surroundings alone were stunning, so we took a Loch Ness cruise while the weather was good to take it all in, which we picked up from just outside the grounds. We had great communication and a really helpful welcome and tour. There was info on the history of the abbey and ideas of what to do locally in the apartment. Would highly recommend a stay at the Scriptorium without hesitation and would love to go again!”

Best Airbnb UK Cottages

Traditional Welsh Cottage

Bryn Eglur is an authentic traditional Welsh Cottage with one of the best preserved Welsh cottage interiors and comes fully furnished with Welsh country antiques. This little beauty is a wonderful place to hide away in the Welsh countryside. Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy a romantic retreat in this rustic cottage, complete with all its oldy worldy charm. Set in the peace and tranquility of rural Carmarthenshire within easy reach of both Pembrokeshire & Cardiganshire beaches, this cottage sleeps four so is ideal to bring the little ones along too!

Airbnb Listing: Cottage As Seen In World Of Interiors

Price: From £52 per night

Sleeps: 4 people, 2 bedrooms, 2 beds

What guests say: “A picture-postcard, traditional home in a beautiful part of Wales, complete with a very friendly feline. Dorian’s communication and support were excellent and the check-in process was fuss-free. The space is exactly as shown in the photos, preserved thoughtfully to provide an authentic Welsh country cottage experience. The underfloor heating and range cooker heat the place up well once going, but do be aware that this is a 250 year-old cottage and as such is not a “luxury” rental. Perfect for those looking to step back in time and experience real, rustic cottage life.”

Chocolate Box Thatched Cottage

If there is one property that sums up ‘chocolate box’ then it is this one. This picture perfect 500 year old thatched cottage in a beautiful setting in Kent, is surrounded by glorious countryside complete with a luxury 6 person hot tub so you can enjoy the scenery in style. Not only is this the most gorgeous cottage but it also has some of my all time favourite places to visit in Kent on its doorstep including Sissinghurst Castle, Scotney Castle, Great Dixter Gardens and the stunning old town of Rye. Not to mention a whole load of other gems!

Airbnb Listing: Detached Thatched Cottage In Kent With Hot Tub

Price: From £215 per night

Sleeps: 6 people, 3 bedrooms, 4 beds

What guests say: “These places are often too good to be true, but this cottage truly lived up to, and surpassed our expectations. We were able to completely switch off from the outside world and sit in the wonderfully looked after garden, drinking a glass of champagne looking over the countryside. Nothing beats the hot tub either, especially in the late evening when the multi coloured lights come on! Pauline was a fantastic host, and very quick to respond and made us feel extremely welcome. We would recommend this gorgeous little cottage to anyone, and we will be back to enjoy the house again!”

Romantic Welsh Cottage

I utterly adore the rustic look of this cottage. I’m a complete sucker for anything oldy worldy and this place has it in spades. There is something about it that brings out the romance. Built in the mid 18th century this delightful cottage appears to have seen little in the way of changes. The airbnb description is incredibly thorough on the details and if the description isn’t enough to make you fall for this place, just take a peek at the photos and if you’re anything like me you’ll be wanting to book a stay there immediately!

Airbnb Listing: Romantic Cottage As Featured On CH4TV

Price: From £69 per night

Sleeps: 2 people, 1 bedroom

What Guests Say: “We are so grateful that we got the chance to stay in this cottage. The architecture is truly outstanding and it was fascinating reading all about the history of the cottage in the information booklet. We really enjoyed the uniqueness of the cottage; the crogloffts, the fireplace and the clom walls to name a few! The cottage felt so calm, especially with the garden looking onto fields, and being able to look at the stars late at night. Colin and Melise were fantastic hosts and we would happily stay here again. Thank you for your hospitality!”

Best Unique Airbnb UK

Historic Windmill

Old Smock Mill is another truly romantic getaway. This old windmill is designed to unwind you from the moment you walk in. It is surrounded by the lovely Kent countryside where you can ramble around the garden of England by day and refresh yourselves  in one of the many cosy country pubs by evening, sat by a log fire in the winter time or out in the garden in the summer months. This place really is a treasure of a find. Close to some of my favourite gardens in Kent too! Click here to find out my favourite gardens in the county. It is also close to the charming little village of Biddenden where they make some incredible Kentish cider and not to mention the ancient Bodiam Castle.

Airbnb Listing: Old Smock Windmill In Rural Kent

Price: From £183 per night

Sleeps: 2 people, 1 bedroom, 1 bed

What guests say: “We wanted somewhere rural and private as a kind of ‘escape’ from the current situation… and what an escape it was… The location was amazing…. lovely views of the countryside and wildlife… to wake up to chickens and ducks playing in the pond opposite the mill was very cute……you can stay in the mill and see no one if you like, or drive 5 minutes into a lovely quaint town…perfect. The mill is beautifully finished and furnished… an absolute testament to Clare who project managed the mill’s restoration.. It was spotlessly & professionally cleaned before our arrival, the bath was amazing and the bed ridiculously comfortable. Clare was very generous & kind. The ‘perfect host’. Communication was excellent and all the extra touches on arrival ( I won’t ruin the surprise) made us feel special & welcome. If you don’t stay here, you really are missing out!! In this current climate of uncertainty and anxiety, this is really the perfect escape. We’d love to stay again in the future. Thank you Clare”

Restored Carriage In Norfolk Countryside

This is the first of two beautifully restored vintage rail coaches, which date from the mid twentieth century. Carriage No1 combines authentic original fixtures with luxurious detailing, such as Piglet in Bed linens, local artisan soaps, and seasonal handpicked flowers from Pond Meadow. The owners have really paid attention to the little details and it shows. When not enjoying this fabulously designed space, head outdoors to the decked area and enjoy time around the fire pit overlooking a serene lake. This place takes you back to nature in a beautiful way and I think this is possibly my favourite on this list of best airbnb UK.

Airbnb Listing: No1 Restored Carriage with 30 Acre Parkland

Price: From £170 per night

Sleeps: 2 people, 1 bedroom

What guests say: “Carriage no. 1 at Settle is beautiful. Jo and John have gone to great lengths to create a space that manages to feel luxurious, cosy and characterful all at once. The attention to design and craftsmanship is unlike any other place we’ve stayed, made all the more special with the use of salvaged, original, and repurposed materials. Jo’s careful curation floored us; every detail considered, from the delicious and locally sourced breakfast hamper, to the delicate stems of dried flowers, perfectly placed in earthenware and right at home in their rustic surroundings. Jo and her family made us feel so welcome and we’re in awe of everything they’ve achieved in this quiet little corner of Norfolk. There was a long list of nearby places we intended to visit during our stay, but the magic of the cabin was such that we hardly ventured far at all! There is more than enough nature on the doorstep to keep you inspired. Surrounded by ancient trees, lakes and wildlife, it is really a get away from it all sort of place. At Jo’s suggestion we did make it to Wyken Vineyards. On a Saturday they put on a great farmer’s market, well worth a visit if you’re keen to cook in the carriage’s charming kitchen and eat by the glow of the fire. Thank you again Jo. We are already longing to return”

The Bridge House

If you’re looking for something a little different then The Bridge House might be just for you! I know it certainly is somewhere high up on my list of places to book. This stunning property straddles the River Ardle and sits watching over from the bridge above. Filled with tons of original features, this place oozes character. Think stone spiral staircases, traditional timber clad walls and even a historic privy directly over the river below! Not only are the interiors super cosy but they come complete with fantastic views.

Airbnb Listing: The Bridge House

Price: From £134 per night

Sleeps: 4 people, 2 bedrooms

What guests say: “The Bridge House is a unique property on a bridge over the river. It was a lovely place to stay for my birthday weekend. The surrounding area is beautiful and there are some great walks, especially along the Cateran Trail, which is right on the doorstep. The house is cosy, comfortable, nicely done out and has everything you could need. After getting wet and cold outside it was fab to heat up in the cute sauna and chill by the wood burning stove. Mimi was very responsive with our queries before we went and Frax (her co-host) was very welcoming and on hand if we need during our visit. Would definately recommend. Would also be great in warmer months, when the outside seating on the terrace would be a lovely spot for a glass of wine after a day outside.”

Treehouse In Kent

I’ve always wanted to stay in a treehouse and Hoots Treehouse fits the bill on what I’ve always had in mind! It has definite fairytale vibes – as our little Heidi would say, ‘princess tower’. The beauty of this airbnb is that it may be a treehouse in the woods but it comes complete with all the mod cons and sits in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The perfect escape from the city too as it is only 45 minutes south of the M25 so ideal to get away from London for a long weekend. A wonderful place to switch off  and lose yourself to nature – just my kind of place!

Airbnb Listing: Luxurious, picture-perfect, stunning treehouse

Price: From £300 per night

Sleeps: 4 people, 1 bedroom, 3 beds

What guests say: “Hoots tree house is absolutely amazing and words could not explain how good this place is. Lucinda the host and her family are really friendly and welcoming, they let us feed the goats with our little one and take fresh chicken eggs to take up to the tree house to cook….. yes they were also amazing eggs. The tree house itself is breathtaking and has everything you need, it was spotless/fun/exciting & the views are outstanding. Activities that are there are really fun too there’s an outside area in the woods for a little family camp fire/a top of the range bbq/Lucinda also let us use there tennis court/boat of the lake & trampoline:) obviously for our child ;). All I can say is this place and host is an all round winner being it’s great for kids/family’s and also would be great for a romantic break away. Thank you so much Lucinda we couldn’t praise this place anymore. We will be back very very soon.”

Secluded Airship in Scottish Highlands

This place was the first place I added to my dream airbnb list. Just look at it! It’s so unique, super stylish and offers incredible views of the surrounding Scottish landscape. I love all the windows which really allow you to immerse yourself in the scenery and the views. Retreat to the deck of this sustainable getaway in an evening and gaze at the twinkling constellations under a cosy tartan blanket. This is a place you’ll need to book well in advance, it gets booked out months ahead!

Airbnb Listing: Unique And Secluded Airship With Breathtaking Highland Views

Price: From £150 per night

Sleeps: 2 people, 1 bedroom, 1 bed

What guests say: “The Airship 002 is everything the photos portray it to be. We happened to stay there a stormy weekend in February and were more than happy to hibernate in such a beautiful place. The windows really make you feel like you’re in the landscape and every aspect of the design works seamlessly. I’d recommend it to anyone and would go back in a heartbeat.”

Riverside Cabin

I’ve included this place in my list of the Best Airbnb In Cornwall but I wanted to share it here too as it is also on my list of dream stays. This charming, rustic retreat is set in the Cornish woodland, just a short drive from Falmouth. The woodland cabin is a truly hand-built home, made by the owner himself. You can enjoy an evening by the firepit, cooking in the great outdoors (or use the indoor kitchen if you prefer) and wander down to the stream in the morning to dip your feet in the refreshing waters. This one of a kind cabin is sure to leave you with plenty of memories.

Airbnb Listing: The Riverside Cabin

Price: From £125 per night

Sleeps: 4 people, 1 bedroom, 2 single beds in common space

What guests say: “The most beautiful cabin in the woods, with everything you need and nothing more. Romantic, peaceful and simplistic joy. We would highly recommend for anyone wanting to get away from all the noise of everyday life and live in a fairytale for a few days surrounded by nothing but the crackle of the fire, rustle of the trees and the warmth of each other. A happily ever after escape.”

Further Reading: my list of all the Best Airbnb In Cornwall

The Beach House

The Blue House is not only a gorgeous house but it’s location is spectacular! Located on Camber Sands, one of the most beautiful white sandy beaches on the south coast of England and just a ten minute drive to Rye which is one of my favourite towns in East Sussex. Not to mention that it is incredibly easy to get to from London, making it a great choice for a weekend escape. Imagine waking up in this space, or enjoying a soak in the tub as evening begins to settle in!

Airbnb Listing: Blue House On The Beach In Camber

Price: From £541 per night

Sleeps: 8 people, 4 bedrooms, 4 beds

What guests say: “Absolutely stunning! The photographs don’t do it justice at all. The most beautiful, modern, clean beachside home I have ever stayed in. Such a gorgeous place and one I hope to visit again and again!”

Handcrafted Lakeside Cabin in Norfolk

The lakeside cabin is part of SETTLE, alongside the restored carriage I mentioned above. These properties are the epitome of a slow living retreat. Situated next to a lily pond lake, the cabin is effortlessly chic and stylish with warm woods and natural materials. I love the Scandi style. It is laid out in an open plan manner which is kept toasty with its wood burning stove and has a bathroom to die for! If you can manage to tear yourself away from the cabin during your stay, there are numerous picturesque villages surrounding it and it’s only a half hour drive to the city of Norwich which is well worth a visit.

Airbnb Listing: A handcrafted lakeside cabin within private park

Price: From £290 per night

Sleeps: 2 people, 1 bedroom

What guests say: “We thoroughly enjoyed our two night stay at Settle. It is a fantastic place to chill out. The cabin is unbelievably picturesque and kitted out with lots of thoughtful touches. Everything down to the soap is premium and therefore we cannot fault this one bit. The place was impeccably clean and well stocked for breakfast. Whilst it isn’t positioned perfectly in Norfolk for the classic Norfolk getaway, it is excellent if you want to light the fire and relax in the cabin which is an excellent getaway all on its own.”

Floating Tree Sphere

This place is one of my novelty stay locations. It is completely unique and I haven’t seen anywhere else like it! It should win an award for most unique Airbnb uk. This floating tree house set in the beautiful Dorset countryside. Tastefully decorated with everything you need for a cosy, romantic break. Mains power, heating, stereo, hot and cold water, outdoor toilet and showers. A basic kitchen with a double hob, and everything you need, a fire-pit, BBQ and a bed with far reaching views. A truly unique space for a romantic getaway.

Airbnb Listing: Floating Tree Sphere For Two With Views

Price: From £69 per night

Sleeps: 2 people, 1 bedroom, 1 bed

What guests say: “The treehouse was much bigger than expected and the outdoor furniture was perfect for an evening bonfire. Amazing stay for anyone who loves the great outdoors”

All images courtesy of Airbnb.

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