With the cost of living crisis forcing us all to tighten our purse strings, why not explore the very best that the UK has to offer this summer instead? Forget your usual bed and breakfasts, we have rounded up the quirkiest holiday homes you can stay in for a truly unforgettable trip.
From a quaint windmill in Wales to a restored railway carriage in Dorset, these Instagram-worthy rentals are the perfect spots for a getaway, whether you're travelling solo, with your other half or as a family.
Llancayo Windmill, Abergavenny
© VrboIf it's a quirky stay you’re after, the Llancayo Windmill certainly delivers. Located in picturesque Abergavenny in Wales, Llancayo boasts six bedrooms and multiple reception rooms spread across four floors and sleeps up to 12 people. With a spacious kitchen and dining room, as well as living room with balcony access, plus a cute snug at the very top of the windmill, it’s perfect for families or friends looking for a quaint and quirky holiday. The cool abode has been voted one of Vrbo’s 2023 Holiday Homes of the Year. From £459 per night, book via vrbo.com.
High Cross Camping Coach, Dorset
© holiduThis restored railway carriage is the perfect romantic getaway. Nestled in an enclosed garden with views of the rolling meadow fields, it is a breath of fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is also located just five miles from the Jurassic Coast, with lots of beaches to explore. Prices start from just £110 per night, find out more at holidu.co.uk.
MORE: What to pack for a stylish staycation: 10 things every family needs
Enchanted Manor, Isle of Wight
© booking.comThe Enchanted Manor is not your usual bed and breakfast. This five-star hotel features a range of quirky and quaint decorations, which will make you feel like you've just stepped into a magical land, far, far away. Think dolphins, cherubs and angels, complete with four-poster beds and breakfast served in a greenhouse. Find out more at booking.com.
The Rockhouse Retreat, Worchestershire
© coolstays.comWhy not spend a week at Britain's first 21st century cave house? The Rockhouse Retreat is situated within three acres of private woodland and features underfloor heating, a wood fire and a unique 'cave oasis' rainforest shower. Find out more at coolstays.com.
Luxury Shepherd Hut, Lympstone Manor, Devon
© Lympstone ManorLympstone Manor is set in 28 acres of Devon countryside with unrivalled views of the Exe estuary. Nestled in the woodland of the hotel grounds, the Shepherd Huts are cosy and comfortable living spaces in the midst of nature, hence why they are named after woodland creatures! With a king-sized bed, lounge area and choice of outdoor bath or wood-fire hot tub, couples will most definitely not want to leave. Find out more at lympstonemanor.co.uk.
Apple Glamping, Pembrokeshire
© applecamping.co.ukIf you are looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, Apple Glamping will certainly deliver. The alternative camping site is located in South Pembrokeshire and the accommodation options include The UFO, the JetStar private jet, an Airbus commercial aircraft and the Witch's Hat. Find out more at applecamping.co.uk.
Crazy Bear Hotel, Stadhampton
© Crazy BearHave you ever seen a hotel have a double-decker bus as its reception? The Crazy Bear Hotel near Oxford has all sorts of weird and wonderful features, not to mention an amazing Thai restaurant, clay shooting and a massage room. There is truly something for everyone. Find out more at wowcher.co.uk.
Sunborn London Yacht Hotel, Royal Victoria Dock
© booking.comCruises may be looking unlikely, but the Sunborn London Yacht Hotel will have you feeling like you are ready to set sail in no time. This floating hotel is situated in Royal Victoria Dock, and has a lounge bar, sun deck and restaurant. The interiors are stunning, however, if you fancy some time on land, it is minutes away from the ExCeL centre and the Emirates Royal Docks Skyline. Find out more at booking.com.
Cantick Head Lighthouse Cottage, Orkney Islands
To help find the ultimate holiday destination, South Western Railway looked into the quirkiest places to stay in the UK. One of the top places was the Cantick Head Lighthouse Cottage, which is perched on top of a cliff on the red sandstone Scottish island of South Walls. Adjacent to the lighthouse itself, the cosy cottage will make you feel like you've been magically transported to another world. Find out more at hostunusual.com and read all about the other top destinations at southwesternrailway.com.
DISCOVER: 27 of the best luxury spa breaks in the UK
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
