15 of the Best Unique Hotels in the UK

With the help of the good people at Host Unusual, I have put together a list of 15 of the best unique hotels in the UK. Think quirky, unusual and downright fabulous. There is an array of hotels on this list with something to suit everyone from couples, to families travelling with kids and those holidaying with friends.

There is every chance that people living in the UK will be holidaying in their backyards for the foreseeable future.

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.

The farm larder onsite sells essentials and local produce, and there is a small town just 5 minutes away. Fill your days with golf, cycling or a trip to the nearby beaches.

#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

Dunblane is located just 15 minutes away by car and there are also many walks and activities to be enjoyed in the surrounding area.

#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

The Galahad is one of the truly unique hotels in the UK. Its your opportunity to stay in a converted Westland Wessex helicopter at the Windmill Campersite on the Isle of Wight. The helicopter is located in an exclusive glamping site which is characterised by scenic views, rolling fields and roaming livestock.

An original masterpiece of aviation technology, the Galahad dates back to 1965 and was in active duty during the Falklands War. They have tried to retain as much of the original character and feel as possible when converting this Westland Wessex XT469.

The main double bed is situated off the main ‘copter‘ and there is a mini bedroom with foam mattress for an additional two small children. The fun and rustic ‘shower-shack‘ uses solar power to provide hot showers, yet Galahad even has its own kitchen, cloakroom and bathroom. Relax and spend your evenings watching the sunset over the surrounding countryside from the cockpit.

#9: Driftwood Beach House

Don’t be fooled – this is no ordinary beach house. Set within the heart of this holiday home is an original Victorian railway carriage. The 3 bedroom property is perfect for families and friends for a relaxing getaway by the sea. Located in West Sussex, the home is set directly on the beach, meaning you can spend your days enjoying the sea air.

It is beautifully decorated with a fresh and charming coastal style. Bring your own bikes and paddle boards, or there is a double kayak available at the retreat for guest use. There are plenty of pubs and cafes close by to enjoy your time in Pagham, plus yachting enthusiasts can attend the local yacht club.

#10: Melin Mabes UFO

Looking for accommodation that is out of this world? Then Melin Mabes UFO is the place for you. Located in the midst of rural Pembrokeshire, you can stay in an alien glamping pod Spodnic UFO. Housed in its own private paddock, it is the ideal unique hotel for families and their dogs.

It’s easy to imagine you’re charting your course amongst the stars, as you surround yourselves with colour-changing lights, zap-worthy ray guns…and of course, a light saber! You’ll also find a telescope that’s ideal for moon-gazing and plenty of space related entertainment. There is a covered kitchen area, your own private hot tub and shared luxury bathroom facilities.

If you are looking to explore the surrounding areas, there are many walking and cycling trails accessed directly from the site, and a pub within walking distance.

#11: The Oakey Koakey Treehouse

This gorgeous treehouse is a childhood dream come true, and is located just an hour from London in East Sussex. The woodland retreat is the perfect family getaway with room to sleep up to 4 people. The property boasts a modern Scandi design with family-friendly open plan living. The wooden decking is the perfect place to relax amongst the trees, whilst the kids can enjoy the private meadows below.

Whilst the treehouse provides every comfort you will need, if you prefer dining out, there is the nearby village of Ticehurst. It is home to a delicious bakery, and an award-winning country pub, plus there are several golf clubs close by.

#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.

There is a games room in the garage with a table tennis table plus an upright piano in the house for an old fashion sing-along. This property is just 2 miles from the beach and the infamous Lands End.

#13: The Windmill Blackthorn Hill

This former seventeenth century Oxfordshire windmill has been lovingly converted into a romantic adult’s only accommodation for two. The rural property is spaced over three floors and from the top floor there is outstanding panoramic views across three counties. It has been newly renovated for you comfort and offers all the modern day comforts. Can you think of any better place for relaxing!

The windmill is located close to a wealth of local attractions, including shopping haven Bicester Village, the city of Oxford, and Silverstone Race Track.

#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

Arguably we have kept the best unique hotel until last. A stay at the Lion Lodge will be a once in a lifetime experience, and like no hotel you have ever stayed at before. These 2 lodges are perfectly positioned within the lions’ habitat at Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve – a wildlife reserve in Hythe on the Kent coast.

A huge picture window in your lodge will showcase the lions and their cubs in their natural habitat. The loft-style accommodation is filled with opulent furnishings, and includes an outdoor Scandinavian bath.

Explore the park during your stay with use of a private golf buggy. You will have access to the hotel facilities and restaurants, and receive free unlimited entry to Port Lympne and Howletts Wild Animal Park during your stay. There is a wide selection of additional activities to get involved with during your holiday at the Lion Lodge, from animal experiences to photography and afternoon tea.

And that is a wrap on 15 of the best unique hotels in the UK. Wow, what an impressive list! Personally I am very keen to get started on planning my post lockdown holiday. And several of these boutique hotels are at the top of my list. Make sure you let me know which one would be your ideal place to travel to and why in the comments section below. Its so good to think about travelling again – I hope you have enjoyed it too!! Shell x