Quirk-ing from home: 10 of the UK’s most unique staycations
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As holidays abroad drift confusingly in and out of green, red and amber status, holidaymakers are turning their attention to finding a special getaway a little closer to home.
Searches for quirky alternatives to cottage breaks or pricy hotels have shot up, with the travel industry now offering accommodation for adventurous travellers who want something more memorable than a rain-lashed caravan for their much-anticipated break this year.
Treehouses are growing in popularity, while other unusual travel stays include lighthouses, shepherds' huts, and even castles, while those who want to take full advantage of their newfound freedom can relax under the stars in a bubble pod.
Nowadays, if you can imagine it, you can probably stay in it. But there's a lot to sort through out there - and some are better value than others.
For those who need inspiration for their next trip, whether it's a solo stay, couples getaway, family vacation, or group adventure, we've curated a variety of unique stays, for a trip you won't forget.
10 most unique UK stays to book now
Puckshipton Treehouse | Wiltshire
Looking to truly get away this year? There is no better option than a treehouse escape, which is off the beaten track and secluded from any distractions, so you can fully enjoy the greenery surrounding you.
Suspended above ground, with a sleeping pod as a bed, an outdoor shower, cooking hut and fire pit, you'll instantly feel zen and at one with nature. Swap your phone and internet connection for a good book, a companion for a heart to heart, and long forest walks to while away the hours.
Price: £82 per night
Dover Castle | Kent
Be the King or Queen of your own castle with a stay at this mini gothic castle situated in Dover, Kent.
For those who are fond of history, this stay is for you. The Grade II listed property is steeped in history as it dates back to 1850, and is located beside Dover Castle, as well as other historical sites nearby in Deal, Canterbury and Sandwich.
The accommodation is spread over two floors, with two double beds and an en suite, as well as a fully equipped modern kitchen, your own dressing room, a garden perfect for up to four people - and pets are allowed too.
Price: £100 - £250 per night (minimum stay two nights)
The Tree House | Devon
Embrace nature and channel your inner eco-warrior at this UK staycation, situated in Germansweek, near Bude.
This holiday home is jaw dropping, as the wooden treehouse is located on a platform in the Cornish forest, but with unrivalled lake views where guests can enjoy a whole host of water-sporting activities.
The accommodation has one bedroom, as well as a fully equipped kitchenette. Though you may not need it this summer, the accommodation has a wood burning stove and (fake) fur rugs, although we'll never say no to cosying up toasting marshmallows round the fire.
Price: average £120 per night
The Four Sisters Boatel Houseboat | Edinburgh
The Four Sisters Boatel Houseboat has been rated 10/10 for a two person trip by guests, and it's no surprise this one-off staycation has topped the charts.
The houseboat is moored in the Lochrin Basin, close to Edinburgh Castle, the perfect location to take in the sight, enjoy a spot of shopping, a gin-tasting tour, and plenty of fine dining.
The accommodation veers on the side of luxury as there's a fully equipped kitchen with a trendy breakfast bar, lounge area, as well as flat screen TV with streaming services, shower room, and wi-fi. It has two double bedrooms, as well as a children's bunk bed too - what's not to love?
Price: average £270 per night
Sea Breeze Ark 900 Boat | Hampshire
"Who built the ark?" Does it matter, if you can stay in one? The Sea Breeze Ark 900 Boat is located just over 500 yards away from Prinsted Beach, Emsworth.
Not only does it offer beautiful views from the porthole window and a great location, but the amenities on deck are second to none, with a decked patio, a flat screen TV, free WiFi, and air conditioning.
It also has a double bed, and mini kitchenette, complete with a microwave, kettle, toaster, fridge and coffee machine, for the perfect romantic night away.
Price: TBC on individual booking
Lavender Parc Luxury Dome | Cornwall
Sleeping under the stars is high on many travellers' bucket lists - including ours. This is the place to tick it off, without getting soaked or freezing.
This bubble dome is situated in Wendron, a village in Cornwall just a few miles from Falmouth and Newquay. This luxury dome has its own wooden terrace, with an outdoor table and chairs, and bath.
It has a double bed inside the dome so you can snuggle up when the sun sets, and wake up to a continental or vegetarian breakfast in the morning.
Price: Average £205 per night
Lighthouse Cottage | Cumbria
Ever wondered what it looks like inside a lighthouse? Now's your chance to find out.
The three-bedroom lighthouse cottage is based in South Walney Island Nature Reserve, which is run by the Cumbria Wildlife Trust, so you may well be introduced to other visitors in the form of local wildlife, including grey seals and wheeling seabirds.
It's a perfect spot to contemplate the sea views, but for those who like to explore, a walk or cycle to Barrow, or around nearby Furness Abbey is a must.
Price: From £375 for 3 night stay
Barge Inez | Suffolk
For those who like to be beside the seaside, you can't get much closer than on a barge.
This renovated Dutch Sailing Barge is a little bit of floating luxury moored on the River Deben in Woodbridge.
The accommodation spans two floors, with three bedrooms; one double bedroom and two singles, and can accommodate four people. It has a lavish family bathroom housing a roll top bath, plus an open plan kitchen and lounge area. Venture upstairs where you can sit back and enjoy the views, whether inside the wheelhouse or on the decking.
From: £238 per night (based on two night stay)
Find out more here
The Old Chapel | Lake District
"Going to the chapel and we're... just going to stay for the weekend". For those looking for a rural escape with a difference, a stay in The Old Chapel is exactly it.
It's located in the hamlet of Spark Bridge, close to Coniston in the Lake District, with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
While its exterior looks rustic, the interior has been renovated. When you step through the old chapel doors you notice the stunning pre-existing features, such as a vaulted ceiling and wooden beams. The bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen and living area spans over three floors - and did we mention all three bedrooms have their own en suites?
Price: £1574 (based on two night group stay)
Find out more here
Red Rescue Retreat | Lake District
Red Rescue Retreat is probably as unusual as it gets, as this former fire truck has been transformed into a unique family holiday accommodation.
This property is fun for everyone to enjoy. It boasts two bedrooms and sleeps four people, with the children's beds made to resemble fire engines. The open plan living area has a fully equipped kitchen, as well as a sauna room and outside terrace with decking for you to take in the views of Blencathra fells.
The extra special touch is the fireman's pole still existing in the fire engine for all the family to enjoy.
Price: £216 per night
Find out more here
