15 of the Best Unique Hotels in the UK

Whilst many of us still want to book a summer holiday, with Covid-19 at play, we may not have the option (or feel safe) to travel abroad for the foreseeable future.

Therefore, a stay at one of the best unique hotels in the UK will be the next best thing.  So let that wanderlust take hold and dive into all of these exclusive hotels which are just on your doorstep.  Best of all, they don’t require a passport or plane trip to visit them.

#1: The Boathouse London

If you’ve always fancied staying on a boat but are not brave enough to try the open seas, then this is your perfect solution. A stay at The Boathouse London will be totally indulgent and completely unique.  This hotel was launched in partnership with MADE.COM, meaning there is incredible attention to detail in their Scandi design and fit-out.  Just quietly, its one of the most Instagrammable places in London.

This one-bedroom boutique hotel has been created from a 60ft wide beam barge and is moored on West London’s Floating Pocket Park. You will be spoilt with a complimentary Daylesford hamper on arrival and can expect all the home comforts onboard.  Spend your vacay relaxing on the roof terrace or exploring London on the bicycles and row boat provided.

#2: The Bus Stop

Just 30 minutes from Edinburgh in the glorious East Lothian countryside, you will find this unique accommodation.  Nine buses have been converted to offer luxurious accommodation for families and couples alike.  Each bus includes its own kitchen, bathroom and proper beds.  But the best bit is the wood-fired hot tub on the large private decking.

#3: Tin Can Camping

Located on a secluded woodland site in South Norfolk, Tin Can Camping is the perfect rural base for exploring all the beauty of the Norfolk Broads.  Home to four authentic American trailers, you will find each trailer lovingly renovated and packed with creature comforts, from a fully-equipped kitchen and a delicious locally-sourced breakfast hamper, to downy bedding, soft-glowing lanterns and cosy blankets.

There is a communal kitchen and cosy hangout space on site with sofas, a pool table and deluxe bathrooms.  Why not book the entire site for a relaxed get together with family and friends!

#4: Tawstock Castle

Create your very own fairy tale with a stay at this very unique hotel, Tawstock Castle.  Located in North Devon, this Grade II listed, motte-and-bailey castle, offers luxury self-catering accommodation.  You will feel like royalty in this castle which dates back to the 18th century, but which has been modernly renovated for your enjoyment.

This not so humble abode sleeps 8 between 4 bedrooms and has a large living and dining room with turret recesses and ornate ceiling.  Plus you can enjoy 360° views of glorious Devon from the third floor tower lookout and roof terrace.  Tawstock Castle is ideally located for quick access to Barnstaple, beaches and multiple walking routes.

And if you really want to feel like the king or queen of the castle, make an entrance and arrive by helicopter … because there is even a private helipad for your use!

#5: St Curig’s Church

Experience the heavenly sanctuary that is St Curig’s Church, tucked away in a quaint mountain village in Wales.  This converted 19^th century Grade II listed church sleeps up to sixteen people and is the perfect unique accommodation to get loved ones together and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Take a look out of the windows in any of the rooms, to view the marvelous, inspiring vista of Snowdonia’s famous mountains.  Enjoy a bottle of champagne in the hot tub whilst watching the sun set over the Snowdon Horseshoe.  Or play a game of table tennis beneath a spectacular 19th century mosaic ceiling!

The Snowdonia National Park is easily accessible, as well as an array of outdoor activities including biking, hiking, swimming, kayaking and horse riding.  If you prefer a more relaxing holiday, there are three pubs within walking distance.

#6: Craighead Hobbit Howfs

A quirky and authentic hobbit home built right into the windswept Scottish hillsides.  This unique hotel in the UK consists of two bespoke-crafted, off-grid Hobbit Howfs at Craighead Howf.  The adult’s only accommodations sleeps two and are self contained with kitchen and bathroom facilities.

Spend your days taking in the refreshing countryside views which are sprinkled with friendly goats and cows.  In the evening, fire up the barbecue, relax with a glass of wine and watch the sun sink over the horizon.  And for an extra special treat, enjoy the stargazing window set above the bed for you to enjoy the sunrise in all its glory

#7: Belle Tout Lighthouse

A former working lighthouse, the Belle Tout Lighthouse is steeped in history. In its time it has been a home, a tea-shop and a filming location for a cult TV classic.  Surrounded by heavenly views of the rolling South Downs, the English Channel and the legendary Seven Sisters, the lighthouse stands proudly atop the stunning white cliffs of Beachy Head.

This six bedroom B&B offers guests a quirky and relaxing experience.  Watch for ships in the original Lantern Room with a drink in hand, or relax and enjoy panoramic views of spectacular sunsets.  It’s the perfect location for discovering the south coast’s many gems.

#8: Galahad

#9: Driftwood Beach House

#10: Melin Mabes UFO

#11: The Oakey Koakey Treehouse

#12: The Bunker

Steeped in modern history, this former WWII operations bunker in West Cornwall has been beautifully renovated to offer a peaceful and luxurious holiday stay.  The exquisite and modern self-catering accommodation can sleep 6 and includes a large private garden with patio.  The property is entirely covered in grass and the distinct lack of windows is made up for with natural light tunnels fitted in the ceiling – it was a bunker after all.

#13: The Windmill Blackthorn Hill

#14: The Island, Cornwall

Is there anything more unique than staying on your own private island?  Access to this property is exclusively via cliff stairs and a suspension footbridge.  Here you will arrive at a private, elegantly restored boutique clifftop retreat for up to six guests.  It is surrounded by landscaped gardens and views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Island is an impeccably styled, totally private holiday haven.  Spend your days gazing at the sea or finding a quiet place to enjoy a good book. Below is Newquay’s family and year round dog-friendly Towan Beach, ideal for surfing and swimming.  Local pubs and shops can be accessed within minutes and further afield there are many of Cornwall’s most loved attractions.

#15: Lion Lodge