At Host Unusual we go out of our way to find you the most unique, spectacular holiday properties to rent in the UK.
February might not be a time of the year when you’re typically thinking of a staycation. But what better way to show your partner how much you love them than by booking a surprise Valentine’s Day break for two at one of our featured romantic properties?
From Poldark country on the south coast of Cornwall to rural Ceredigion and five-star retreats in the rugged Scottish Highlands, we’ve got the entire UK covered.
So, if you’re stuck for an original, inspired Valentine’s Day gift this year, take a look at this little lot.
Main Image: Temple of Diana | Shropshire
Charlestown, Cornwall, England
Be the star of your very own atmospheric love story in this unique luxury sea sanctuary, set along the sweeping south coast of Cornwall.
This 18th century former fish and net cellar in Poldark country was known as the 'Loo with a View' when it was converted into public conveniences. After another, more dramatic recent transformation it is now a luxurious, pet-friendly two-bedroom holiday home. With spectacular views over the bay and harbour of picturesque Charlestown on the south Cornwall coast, reclaimed timber décor, and underfloor heating, it's a spectacular property to wow your loved one this Valentine's Day. Those in the know might remember seeing it featured on George Clarke's Amazing Spaces programme.
Ullapool, The Highlands, Scotland
Modern luxury, exceptional design and views to die for await at The Stonehouses - two truly unique holiday homes in the magnificent North West Highlands of Scotland.
Bedrooms: 2 per property
Sleeps: 3-4 per property
The Stonehouses - Curved Stone House and Treetop House - are a must for any couple looking for an eco break in beautiful countryside, but with all the comforts of home. Both feature saunas, under-floor heating and wood burning stoves, with solar power used to heat the water. Built out of stone, turf and glass as a labour of love by owners Gavin and Rachel and a team of local craftspeople, Highland breaks don't get more spectacular than this. And with Ullapool just a 10-minute walk away you're never far from local pubs, shops and restaurants.
Shifnal, Shropshire, England
For a truly unique escape, the Temple of Diana blends classical architecture and a heavenly location, making for a stay you'll treasure for a lifetime.
Properties don't get more romantic than this architectural gem, nestled in the thousand acres of Shropshire's Weston Park. It's hard not to feel humbled by the lavish surroundings as you relax in the stunning orangery, or sit down to eat in the octagonal-shaped dining room. Built in the 1760s and designed by famed architect James Paine, it's also an excellent base to explore the surrounding rolling countryside, or try your hand at one of many outdoor activities on offer - including hot air ballooning and horse-drawn carriage rides.
Whaley, nr Bolsover, Derbyshire, England
A vibrant, stylishly converted water tower set amongst six beautiful acres of Derbyshire countryside, close to the ancient castle-town of Bolsover for a fairytale escape.
Experience a Valentine's to remember at this stylishly converted water tower, secluded amongst six acres of countryside and located close to the ancient Derbyshire town of Bolsover. The Tower is the ideal setting for a Valentine's break for romantic couples and comes complete with sleek self-contained facilities. Perhaps light up the woodburner for a snuggly evening in, or explore the surrounding land with a romantic picnic?
Nr Cranbrook, Kent, England
A romantic escape to the Garden of England calls for a truly memorable place to stay, and that's exactly what lies in store at the Old Smock Mill, feature on the TV series Extraordinary Escapes.
If you’re looking for a truly unique property to take your partner’s breath away this Valentine’s Day, then look no further than the Old Smock Mill. This beautifully restored 19th century mill, later used as a gunner’s outlook during World War II, still retains many of its original cogs, wheels and pulleys, alongside a cosy, woodburning-effect stove. It’s the perfect place to cuddle up for a romantic weekend this February.
Shifnal, Shropshire, England
Historic former hunting lodge in Shropshire's Weston Park - a romantic retreat for two.
A fairytale castle for your dream Valentine’s break? Go on then. Built around 1865 as a hunting lodge for the third Earl of Bradford, this three-floor property is filled with character and charm. And with the lounge opening out onto a decked roof terrace, you’ll be able to take in spectacular views of the surrounding Weston Park and Temple Wood, designed by non-other than famed English landscape architect Capability Brown.
Isle of Harris, Scotland
Deluxe self-catering accommodation on the Isle of Harris with panoramic coastal views and mid-century interior design.
Bedrooms: 1 per property
Sleeps: 2 per property
For some, a romantic break away shouldn’t be spoiled by any interruptions. Well, beautiful serenity in breath taking natural surroundings is exactly what you’ll get here. From your luxury, open plan living room – complete with vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows – you might even be able to spot harbour porpoises, dolphins and grey seals in The Sound outside. The owners will source superb local seafood for you on request, or you can try your hand at fishing for something even fresher.
Sheerness, Kent, England
Eclectic accommodation and seasonally-inspired dining on a National Nature Reserve in Kent, with an abundance of wildlife right on your doorstep.
Bedrooms: Varies
Sleeps: Varies
Only an hour from London but a world away from the hustle, bustle and pollution of the Big Smoke lies the UK’s only nature reserve which allows guests to stay overnight. Wake up with the local wildlife of the beautiful Isle of Sheppey literally on your doorstep. This area has been the inspiration for photographers, artists and writers for hundreds of years. And the huts themselves take glamping to a whole new level, replete with fully fitted kitchen and en suite bathroom.
Talybont, Ceredigion, Wales
A gorgeously grown-up treetop bolthole for two, romantically secluded amongst enchanting Ceredigion countryside.
Why not spend Valentine's Day at an outrageously romantic treehouse, secluded on the edge of a sheep-dotted organic farm meadow in Ceredigion countryside? There is an abundance of luxury facilities to make your stay feel extra special, including a bespoke-crafted wet room shower… though the al fresco shower may prove addictive before long! Have a romantic wander down to the firepit for a sizzling sunset supper on the barbecue, or toast marshmallows under the stars.
Sibton, Suffolk, England
Thatched forester's cottage in Sibton Park- a perfect hideaway from modern life.
If you yearn for the simpler things in life, and want a romantic break away undisturbed by modern stresses and strains, this is the property for you. Surrounded by woodland and set in its own meadow, the thatched Hex Cottage has no mains electricity- meaning you’ll pass the evenings by candlelight. An Esse wood-fired range cooker supplies the cottage with heating and endless hot water, while an open log fire, comfy sofa and fluffy rug complete the idyllic setting.
