Foreign travel may be back on the menu this summer, but with so much faff around coloured lists, testing and isolating, it’s no wonder many are choosing to stick to the good old UK staycation. Yet after 18-months (eek) of UK holidays, it seems many are looking to spice things up in the form of a ‘quirky’ holiday.
What do we mean by quirky holidays? Well, according to Google Trends, people are searching for ‘barge and canal holidays’ and ‘treehouse holidays’ in droves – as well as the equally fun but potentially less quirky ‘caravan holidays’ and ‘cabin holidays’.
Essentially, the UK public have realised there’s only so many times you can stay at the same old hotel in Cornwall before you fancy something different, particularly if you have a family to entertain. Well, we’re here to help you – we’ve compiled a list of the absolute best quirky holiday options in the UK…
From barge and canal holidays to treehouse rentals, here's the best quirky holiday ideas in the UK...
The Best Quirky Holiday Ideas UK - Grazia
Albion Nights, Norfolk
Going off-grid doesn't have to mean forgoing luxuries, Albion Nights glamping eco cabin is filled with modern and comfortable furnishings for cosy nights in. A highlight of the cabin is the outdoor bath, cleverly designed and installed by Sarah Moore of BBC's Money for Nothing! From £135 per night, this gorgeous wanderlust cabin sleeps up to two guests.
Dolly Blue, Hampshire
This hand-crafted hut is full of charm and lovingly furnished, making it a stylish glamping option for your next trip. With a complimentary continental breakfast hamper each morning, containing freshly baked pastries and other delights, the hut is also within walking distance from the nearest pub and shop. Prices start from £99 per night and the hut sleeps two people.
High Cross Camping Coach, Dorset
This restored railway carriage and living van combination is a hidden gem, not to be missed! The carriage is nestled in a small, enclosed garden, belonging to the owner, and has been restored with care in order to retain many authentic carriage details. The rental is located five miles from the gorgeous Jurassic Coast, where you can find many wonderful beaches and country walks. This coach is pet friendly and suitable for up to four guests for prices starting from £111 per night
Highland Lassie, Scottish Highlands
Another rental on the water, the Highland Lassie fishing boat can be found on the Caledonian Canal in the stunning Scottish Highlands. There is an onboard restaurant that serves the best Scottish delicacies for lunch and dinner, with prices start at £492 per night! The boat accommodates up to four people.
Lynher Hut, Cornwall
The adorable hut lies within the historic 865-acre Mount Edgcumbe Country Park and has an incredible view of the coast. Beside the hut, guests will find a movable kitchen pod fit with all the cooking equipment required. There is plenty of outdoor space to sit and enjoy a morning coffee with an unrivalled view, as well as a larger bench and fire pit area for evenings under the stars. The bathroom block is located a mere 150 metres away from the hut, offering a private shower room with an entry code provided on arrival. Lynher Hut sleeps up to four people and prices start at £104 per night.
Seren Mawr, Powys
Escape reality and head to this fabulous glamping Geodome in the Brecon Beacons National Park! An 8-metre property with an open living plan, consisting of a double bed, dining area and a wood burner. A highlight of this property is the private wood-fired hot tub, the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring the surrounding area. From £46 per night, up to two people can sleep here and pets are allowed too
The Railway Carriage, Loch Awe
Another transportation inspired rental is the beautiful Railway Carriage. Perched on a slight hill with incredible views of Loch Awe, this rental has all the quirks and charm for an unforgettable holiday. When active, the carriage originally ran on the London to Edinburgh main line and a train enthusiast converted it to provide a delightful and unusual holiday home! Just metres away from Scotland's largest inland loch, there is plenty of exploring to be done in the nearby area. From £134 per night for up to five people.
The Water Tower, Warwickshire
The Water Tower at Long Meadow Farm is located on the edge of an orchard and offers spectacular views of the Warwickshire countryside. The property has been carefully restored in order to preserve the original water tower components as much as possible, making this a very unique rental. From up to £151 a night, you can stay here as a party of four.
Tree Top Hideaway, Lincolnshire
Fulfil your childhood dreams and book a stay at Tree Top Hideaway. This treehouse can be found in Lincolnshire and is perfect for holiday-makers looking for some tranquillity and to wind down in nature. The chic interiors mean you don't have to give up comfort and style in order to enjoy a rustic experience. This rental even has an outdoor bathtub! You can stay here from £205 per night and the treehouse sleeps two people.
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