If you’re worried you’ve left it too late to book a well-deserved summer holiday, here’s some good news. You haven’t!
Here’s some even better news: you don’t have to cram yourselves into a bog-standard hotel room, or rough it in a flimsy tent with no facilities to speak of. Simply take your pick from our glorious roll-call of unusual places to stay, each of which has at least a week’s availability in July or August (or if you’re lucky, both).
Whether you’re travelling as a couple, a family, a group of friends, or even on your own, there’s something here for you. You could choose to go glamping in nature, bed down in a historic Amazing Space, hole up in a romantic eco-cottage, or stay in a retro-themed vehicle… and that’s just to start with!
So, what are you waiting for? We’re in the swing of summer, the skies are blue, and it’s time to make the most of those carefree days of sunshine while they last.
(Grab your favourite quick, as once the dates are gone, they’re gone!)
Main image: The Windmill Suffolk
Author: Nina Jervis-Green
Nr Lavenham, Suffolk, England
You'll be swept away to the height of luxury at The Windmill Suffolk - a glorious towering bolthole as seen on George Clarke's 'Amazing Spaces' and overlooking idyllic countryside, just two miles north of historic Lavenham.
A rare full weeks availability over summer at The Windmill Suffolk from 8th-19th August (and also 23rd- 30th June for a last minute break, plus rare weekend availability 18th-21st July and 25th-28th July too!)
Glenshee, Perthshire, Scotland
Two sumptuous, architect-designed treehouses secluded on the edge of Scotland's stunning Cairngorms National Park.
Bedrooms: Open plan
Sleeps: 2
Scots Pine Treehouse has availability for 7 night breaks on 4th July - 11th July and 18th July - 25th July * Silver Birch has availability for 7 night breaks on 4th July - 11th July, 12th July - 19th July, 8th August - 15th August and 23rd August - 30th August * Shepherds View also has good availability for week stays, just visit our online booking.
Calstock, Cornwall, England
Beauty, peace and calm combine in two romantic Cornish riverside retreats: the former Smithy and Captain's Office of a Victorian tin mine.
Bedrooms: 1 per cottage
Sleeps:
Okel Tor Mine has the following full-week summer availability: 18-25 July, 25 July – 1 August and 15-27 August. We’re currently running a summer special offer of 25% discount on all bookings before 31 August. Use the discount code GET25 when booking.
Lewis, Outer Hebrides, Scotland
An award-winning, eco-friendly haven that's rich in home comforts and attention to detail, with breathtaking views of the Hebridean Isle of Lewis.
Relax mid-July 19-26, with 10% discount for up to 4 people for the week, in this spacious, light island home, with long days and short but starry nights! You have a whole island to explore but a local beach just a few minutes’ walk away. Late August, 16 – 31st is also available for a later summer escape.
Wroxham, Norfolk, England
A timber framed, architect-designed scenic haven that provides total immersion in the serene beauty of the Norfolk Broads.
We currently have availability at Backwater from 15th August till 1st September, it's one of the nicest times of year to lounge by the lagoon!
Cilgerran, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Simplicity, adventure, and beautiful outdoor living - that's what you'll find at fforest farm.
Bedrooms: Varies
Sleeps: Varies
We have availability for week-long stays between 11th-29th August. Monday or Friday check-in days,
Castle Cary, Somerset, England
Sumptuous, family-sized safari lodges with five-star facilities and private hot tubs, soothingly off-grid and secluded in a vast, private field in the heart of Somerset countryside.
Bedrooms: 2 or 3 per lodge
Sleeps: 7
Horsecombe Lodge has availability for 7 night stays from Monday 4th August, Friday 8th August, Monday 11th August, Friday 15th August * Lime Kiln Lodge from Friday 25th August * Grisway Lodge from Monday 25th August. Our luxury safari tents sleep up to 7 and come with private hot tubs, spacious kitchens, and cosy living areas – all set within safe, open countryside perfect for kids to roam.
Bude, Cornwall, England
An original glamping concept, lovingly created by a family who fell in love with glamping and the Great Outdoors...and set about creating a luxury en-suite glamping alternative for their guests.
We have some space in the Summer holidays in our Roundhouses for 7 night stays from Monday 18th Aug / Friday 22nd Aug
Hatherleigh, Devon, England
An enchanting collection of five unique hand-crafted wooden ‘Truffles’, spaciously dotted around 15 acres of ancient oak woodland in the heart of Devon.
Bedrooms: 1
Sleeps: 2 or 2 (+2)
Across our five spaces we have lots of week-long stays available over the summer hols. All stays of seven nights or more get 10% off.
Launceston, Cornwall, England
Embrace the natural life and get some literary inspiration under clear starry skies, with the scenic backdrop of Cornwall's ‘Peaceful Valley' to keep you company.
Bedrooms: Varies
Sleeps: 2/4/8 per unit
We have week long stays available in Kemper safari tent on August 15th and August 22nd. In Peswara geodome on August 1st and Kensa geodome on August 8th.
Tintagel, Cornwall, England
For a true escape to pure wilderness, come to Kudhva - an incredible wild camping experience in stunning Tintagel, Cornwall.
Bedrooms: Studio
Sleeps: 2 per unit
Availability in K2 Saturday 12th July for 7 nights, and also in the Danish Cabin Sunday 13th July for 7 nights
Hayle, Cornwall, England
A TV-featured, award-winning vintage railway coach with quirky interiors and ample outdoor space, dog-and-eco-friendly, and peacefully set on the Cornish main line just one stop from the branch line to St. Ives.
Bedrooms: 2 (+1)
Sleeps: 10
Harvey of Hayle has four summer weeks available; the weeks beginning Saturday June 28th, July 12th, July the 26th and the 30th August. Perfect for extended families, as it is divided into two self-contained holiday lets, and has a large half acre garden with fire pit, children’s playhouse and table tennis table. Pets are welcome. £50 low-carbon discount for anyone who arrives by train or lives in Cornwall or Devon.
Little Bentley, Essex, England
A small and idyllic escape, secluded on a 300-acre family-run farm in North Essex, you will find three oak-framed cabin retreats with private hot tubs, that offer a little something for everyone.
Otters Lodge cabin is available for 10 days from 1st July until 11th July * Hare’s Hideaway cabin is available for one week from 18th July until 25th July and one week from 28th July until 4th August * Our four glamping bell tents have availability from 28th July until 11th August, and also from 22nd until 29th August.
Builth Wells, Powys, Wales
Live upside-down in a rustic 19th century Welsh barn with a naturally luxurious difference, set in 80 tranquil acres of private, wildlife-filled woodland.
Excellent availability for 7 night stays throughout August - book now!
Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire, Wales
A cwtch-infused cabin with an indulgent bathtub, nestled in its very own four-acre, river-fronted wildflower meadow and beautifully secluded in the “garden of Wales”.
We have a number of week-long and longer stays between 1st July - 31st August and offer a 10% discount when booking a 7-night getaway!
Presteigne, Radnorshire, Wales
Welcome to Wild Meadow - a heavenly spot of orchards and meadows on the English-Welsh border, home to the eco-friendly Meadow Cottage and Shepherd's Hut.
Wild Meadow Cottage – Sleeps 7 | Available for a week from Friday 8th August * Wild Meadow Cottage offers an opportunity for a week-long stay in August. Nestled within three acres of wildflower meadows and orchards, this newly built eco-cottage sleeps up to seven guests. Whether you're planning to explore the characterful local towns, ramble through scenic countryside, or simply unwind amid birdsong and flowers, Wild Meadow Cottage offers a very special setting for your summer break.
Scarborough, North Yorkshire, England
Family-friendly wild west-themed holiday park with a range of quirky accommodation just 2 miles from the centre of Scarborough.
We have some whole weeks left this summer - including our Half Price Huts - which are even on offer during the school holidays - meaning a family of 4 can stay for £15 per night per person!
Southwold, Suffolk, England
Lovingly custom-created havens, rich in holiday luxuries and peacefully secluded on a private estate just minutes away from the beach.
Bedrooms: 1, 2 or 4
Sleeps:
Still Southwold has the following availability for week long summer stays - all have stunning sea views and access to beautiful, near private beach: The Warren House (sleeps8) 1-14 July and 16-30 August * The Listening Station (sleeps4) 4 -18 July * The Watch Room (sleeps 4) 30 June - 7 July and 16 - 28 August
Broxted, Essex, England
Indulge your wanderlust with an off-grid, self-drive adventure aboard your very own Land Rover Defender, complete with rooftop tent set-up, a cosy lounge, and all the equipment you could want!
Bedrooms: 1 or 2 roof tents
Sleeps: 2-7 guests
For week long stays, Landy Campers has availability June 30th - July 11th in their Defender 110 (up to 6 people) and Jul 11th onwards in their Defender 90 (up to 2 people)
Skegness, Lincolnshire, England
A unique collection of creatively-themed vehicles with private wood-fired hot tubs, peacefully nestled on a sustainable, adults-only site in the rolling Lincolnshire Wolds, just 15 minutes from the coast.
Bedrooms: 1 per vehicle
Sleeps: 2
At The Layby Lincs we have excellent availability for 2, 5 or even 7 night stays throughout July and August. We are a brand new themed vehicle glamping site (opened March this year) - adults only and pet friendly luxury retreat just off the southern edge of the Wolds AONB in Lincolnshire, and a short drive from 50 miles of beautiful sandy beaches and nature reserves. King size beds, AC for hot and cold, fast WiFi, covered outdoor kitchens, proper private bathroom cabins with giant rainfall showers and your own wood fired hot tub (which we can light and look after on your behalf).
Struy, Inverness-shire, Inverness-Shire, Scotland
Take a well-earned break in a master-crafted luxury cabin, surrounded by the very best breathtaking scenery, tranquillity and adventure the Scottish Highlands can provide.
Bedrooms: 1-2 per cabin
Sleeps: Up to 6 per cabin
We have some full weeks still available this July and August for cabins sleeping up to 2, 4 or 6 guests. Check the website for specific availability.
Craswall, Herefordshire, England
Lovingly-crafted, adults-only havens with luxurious private facilities (including dreamy outdoor bathing!) secluded amongst rolling Herefordshire countryside.
Bedrooms: 1 per unit
Sleeps: 2
We have the following availability for full week stays in July and August: 11-18th July in Sky House * 7th - 14th in The Nook * Lots of availability across both months for weeklong stays in Pumla. Come and soak up the best of the summer sun in our mountain home. There is so much to do locally that you will be delighted you have come for a week or more. Kayak the River Wye, take to the skies for some paragliding, enjoy one of the countless delicious food offerings or just stay onsite lazing around and making the most of our sumptuous wildlife haven. Hot tubs, dark skies, direct hiking in the Brecon Beacons and comfy beds, we've got it all.
Laid, The Highlands, Scotland
With awe-inspiring design, enviable eco-credentials, and even outdoor bathtubs overlooking Loch Eriboll, Croft 103 certainly has it all.
Bedrooms: 1 per cottage
Sleeps: 2 per cottage
Availability for 7 night stays from mid June through until 26th July: Hill Cottage 28th June - 4th July, 5th July -11th July and 19th July - 25th July * Shore Cottage 28th June - 4th July and 5th July -11th July
Aberporth, Ceredigion, Wales
A unique, award-winning architect designed ‘boat house’ with flexible accommodation options for families and friends, beautifully set right next to the invigorating Welsh Coast Path.
Bedrooms: 3
Sleeps: 12 (or 4 per cabin)
Availability between 6th and 28th July. Family Holiday Heaven-in a shipping container. It’s remote and wild, and if you are prepared to make the journey here, the beauty of this corner of west Wales will captivate you. Whether you book the whole place or just a cabin we're offering up to 25% discounts for longer stays and a price per person for exclusive use. That's a saving of £234 if there are four of you and over £800 for 12 people staying for seven days.
Castletown, Isle of Man
Immerse your souls in magic and mystery with a family-friendly stay in the Isle of Man’s oldest windmill, a major hub for witchcraft in times past and a short walk away from the medieval Castle Rushen.
The Witches Mill on the magical Isle of Man still has whole-week availability from July 16 to 25 and August 22 to 31. Please book directly on our website or contact us via the links provided.
Exeter, Devon, England
An oak-clad, sumptuously furnished retreat with an al fresco bathtub and rolling Exe Valley views, privately secluded by a stream-fed wildlife pond on a 23-acre Devon farm.
At Perry Pond Cabin we have 2 whole weeks available: 28th July for a week and 9th August for a week
Galashiels, Scottish Borders, Scotland
A glorious, architect-designed bolthole for two, gently nestled into the magnificent Scottish Borders landscape with views that stretch out for miles.
We have a full week available at Rink Hill, checking in on Friday 1st August staying for 7 nights for £1750
Welshpool, Powys, Wales
A haven of adults-only, dog-friendly eco-luxury with private hot tubs, deliciously hidden away in the midst of magical woodland at the heart of mid-Wales countryside.
Bedrooms: Open plan
Sleeps: 2
At The Secret Yurts, in beautiful mid Wales near Llanfair Caereinion, we have many whole weeks available during July and August. Adult only luxurious glamping, with private wood-fired hot tub and lots of extras included. Each yurt sits in a secluded position on a raised deck amongst the trees with views of the rolling hills or the glorious night sky.
Wark, Northumberland, England
A globally-unique and ultra-luxurious Net Zero conversion of a 19th century church, in beautiful rural Northumberland close to Hadrian’s Wall and Kielder Water.
7 days stays available in JULY arriving 7th, 14th or 25th. Also available in AUGUST arriving 8th, or any day 19th to 25th Book a stay of 7 nights or longer and automatically receive 10% off the nightly rates shown.
Drumblade, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
Take a break from the strains of life at Boutique Farm Bothies in rural Aberdeenshire, comprising three hand-crafted, eco-friendly bothies and a charming farmhouse for large group holidays, set among spectacular rolling farmland.
Bedrooms: Varies
Sleeps: 2-8
Barley Bothy available from 1st July for a week * All three bothies are available for a week from Sunday 6th July * The Sheep Shed is available for a week from Sunday 13th July and from Saturday 2nd August * Barley Bothy is available for a week from Tuesday 5th August * The Sheep Shed and Barley Bothy are available for a week commencing 10th August and 17th August * The Dairy at Denend and The Sheep Shed are both available for a week from 23rd August!
Arthog, Gwynedd, Wales
A wild and wondrous glamping site, with eclectic, dog-friendly accommodation beautifully set within 45 private acres of Snowdonia National Park.
Bedrooms: Varies (8 units)
Sleeps: 1-5 guests
Monday 11th - Monday 18th August available in Blodeuwedd yurt - beautiful new yurt (sleeps 4) nestled in a glade of ancient oak trees. Dogs welcome * Friday 15th - Monday 25th August available in a gorgeous traditional large yurt (sleeps 5) overlooking the Mawddach Estuary in Eryri/Snowdonia National Park. Woodburning stove and fire pit outside * Monday 4th - Friday 15th August available in Idris yurt (sleeps 4) - wild and super secluded yurt deep in nature. Dogs welcome * Friday 1st - Monday 11th August available in Empress wagon - sleeps 4 - wagon with en suite shower and loo.
Sharrington, Norfolk, England
Experience a stylish set of barn conversions, ideal for exploring the unique beauty of North Norfolk.
Bedrooms: 1 or 2 per cottage
Sleeps: 2 or 4 per cottage
We have full weeks available across cottages, with flexible arrival days throughout the summer.
Bournemouth, Dorset, England
Bournemouth Beach Lodges provide the perfect setting for a refreshing coastal break, just a pebble skim away from seven miles of stunningly sandy beach.
Availability for week long stays Monday 7th – Monday 14th July * Monday 14th – Monday 21st July * Friday 15th August – Friday 22nd August * Monday 25th August – Monday 1st September
Paddington, London, England
A design-led boutique hotel barge, indulgently moored on the scenic waters of the capital's first floating park.
Bedrooms: 1
Sleeps: Up to 4
Availability in Paddington West Boutique Hotel from 4th August to the 22nd August!
