The UK is packed with so many stunning destinations to explore, from built-up cites such as Manchester and London, to small countryside towns packed with historic culture and famous for featuring in films. Take the town of Alnwick, located in Northumberland for example; it’s quite famous for being featured in the Harry Potter films. You couldn’t look at Alnwick without picturing the school of Hogwarts. There is also an excellent selection of pubs in Alnwick, such as The Hog’s Head inn, which is recognisable as one of the pubs from the fictional town of Hogsmeade.
With a wide range of places to visit, it can be difficult to find an equally great place to stay. Sure, there are a great range of hotels available, but securing a room can be challenging, especially during peak seasons. Fortunately, American Billionaire Brian Clesky has introduced a new type of accommodation to the UK. Airbnb was introduced in 2010 and has since become popular with those seeking unique travel experiences. With this in mind, we’ve teamed up with bottled gas provider Flogas to compile a list of the UK’s most unusual Airbnb destinations.
Yurts in Madely
If you ever find yourself exploring the Ironbridge Gorge Heritage site, you’ll be sure to find this 4-berth yurt which combines both privacy and luxury. The indoor fireplace, exterior pizza oven, hot-tub, and brick surround campfire would almost convince you that you were staying in a Disney inspired fantasy. The host, who offers various meals delivered right to the yurt, including Thai curry, tagine, and a breakfast hamper, describes the location as ‘a rustic space set under a canopy of woodland trees.’ The area, which lies in the shadows of the bridge built in 1781, offers unlimited options in the way of things to do, so you’ll never find yourself lacking in entertainment.
Let’s Go Hydro Boathouse found in Carryduff
Let’s Go Hydro is located in Northern Ireland and is a popular attraction which can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Modelled on BBC hit series Total Wipeout, the water park allows you to take part in aqua rugby, an assault course, and a whole host of water sports. Thankfully, if this doesn’t sound like your thing, the resort’s stunning boathouse has a rooftop terrace with a wrap-around balcony, meaning you can kick back and soak up the rays while the kids do their own thing. Enter the property and you’ll be greeted by two full size bedrooms, one of which is a master, and a brand-new kitchen/diner. Of course, the pièce de résistance is the hot tub, where relaxation is guaranteed.
The Wee Whisky Barrel of Findhorn
Nothing says ‘Scotland’ quite like a whisky barrel themed Airbnb. Findhorn is an ecovillage, and one of the UK’s largest intentional communities. The accommodation features a big barrel and a ‘wee’ barrel which are fully fitted with double and single beds. These quirky additions offer you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a truly unique experience — the owners have mentioned you may feel just like ‘a hobbit living in the Shire’. Only a ten-minute walk from the barrel and you’ll find yourself in the middle of the beautiful Moray sand dunes.
The Oak Studio Pod, near Fort William
This unusual pod is located at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. The pod is approximately two miles from the foot of the summit and a mile and a half from the town centre of Fort William. A full-size doubled bed, kitchen facilities, television, and WiFi certainly provide enough mod cons to trick you into thinking you haven’t left the city centre! The view over Loch Linnhe serves as a picturesque reminder that you are frequenting perhaps one of the UK’s best hidden gems. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking to tackle one, if not a handful of the Munros.
Gorestown Glamping in Dungannon
Situated an hour away from Belfast in a place called Moy, this two-bed glamping pod is great if you’re looking to get away from it all. Classic meets modern in this shepherd’s hut, which features an inbuilt cinema and surround sound entertainment system. Gaze out onto the five-acre fishing lake safe in the knowledge that you aren’t contributing to carbon emissions during your stay in this solar powered lodge.
That concludes our article! These are only a select few of the many Airbnb you can explore around the UK. The possibilities are endless – where do you think you’ll end up?