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Pilot House

From floating havens and towering cranes to woodland domes and underground caverns, we’ve got every type of unusual stay right here. There’s so much to browse, that we’ve divided everything into handy categories to make choosing your dream holiday that much easier!

What will you stay in?

A Frame cabin with a deck at the front, surrounded by long grass

A-Frames

Simple yet striking, A-Frame houses are a totally unique holiday experience! With their steep-angled sides, these rustic looking houses in woodland or lakeside settings became highly popular in the mid-20th Century and are now enjoying something of a rebirth.

The Water Shed Grand Design holiday house in Chichester West Sussex

Architect Designed

Enjoy a holiday in modern or historic architecture with a stay in one of our specially curated architect-designed homes. With stunning settings and locations combined with innovative design, these are swoonworthy rentals with a unique edge.

Peddlers Den, a converted barn and granary in Yorkshire

Barns & Stables

Ever fancied a holiday in a charming and spacious renovated barn or stable, filled with character and light? Our portfolio of unique conversions mix rustic charm with contemporary features, so be sure book your rural break with a difference today.

A row of beach huts at Bournemouth beach

Beach Huts & Houses

Listen to the sounds of the sea and waves as you stay overnight in your very own blissful beach retreat by the sands. At Host Unusual we pride ourselves on finding the most unique and individual beachfront holiday accommodation possible.

"Blackbird" boathouse for two in the water in North Devon

Boats & Boathouses

Take to water and stay onboard a houseboat, converted narrowboat, or a boathouse by the water's edge. Browse our accommodation, ranging from static, moored sailing boats to mobile barges that follow an water-based itinerary tailored to you.

An Eco Bothy in Loch Ken, Scotland

Bothies

These compact huts and cottages are named after mountain refuges in Scotland where farm labourers once rested. Nowadays many bothies are renovated to provide comfortable and quirky accommodation in enviably spectacular settings.

Yellow American School Bus converted into holiday accommodation in the countryside of the South Downs

Buses & Coaches

Book your tickets and climb aboard one of our converted buses or coaches for a holiday that is miles away from your usual escapades. From old double decker buses to space age coaches with luxury sleeping pods, we've gone the distance for you.

A silver Airstream Trailer on a hotel rooftop in Cape Town

Caravans & Airstreams

Embark on a unique and quirky airstream or caravan adventure with Host Unusual. Perfect for lovers of all things retro and kitsch, you'll experience a stay in one of our selected vintage vans or lovingly restored gleaming airstreams - taking 'glamvanning' to the next level.

Koza Cave hotel in Turkey

Caves and Grottoes

Whether it be a restored, ancient basement with centuries-old features or a contemporary stone-hugged dwelling carved into the hills, one thing is for sure: a cave holiday will be like no other holiday - fun, atmospheric, unique and unforgettable.

A building on stilts with a crane at the top next to a body of water with three sailing boats

Cranes

Elevate your holiday potential in an incredible converted crane! Those with a head for heights and a sense of adventure will marvel at the transformation of these lofty gems from their former career in freight transportation into stylish, quirky holiday lets.

Cottage with a turfed roof and wooden panels on the outer walls next to a Loch

Earth & Turf Houses

By cleverly using the earth to insulate and control temperatures on either their roofs, walls or a combination thereof, these beautiful Earth & Turf Houses make for equally beguiling holiday homes! Browse our unique collection of energy efficient shelters here.

Two flotels on a river with pampas roofs

Floatels

Water babies prepare to be amazed! Behold our range of floatels and floating accommodation, each offering a truly unique overwater experience; relax in your quirky retreat listening to the sound of water flowing gently by - we can't think of a more serene way to holiday!

Warwick Knight Caravan at The Glamping Orchard

Glamping

Glamping ('glamorous camping') holidays have soared in popularity and variety in recent years both in the UK and worldwide. Why not try something new and exciting? Here you can browse our selection of unique & quirky glamping and luxury camping sites, with options including bell tents, yurts, tipis, geodomes, glamping…

A shepherd's hut on a gravelled area in front of a tall oak tree with a table and two chairs outside the front of it and festoon lights decorating the fence behind it

Shepherds Huts

Shepherds Huts cleverly combine the tradition of these former shepherd's dwellings with current innovation and stylish decor. A short break in one of these properties will help to recharge the batteries and provide a romantic setting to unwind in.

View of the central highlands of Guatemala from a hill house at Hobbitenango

Hill & Hole Houses

Experience your own slice of magic with a unique stay in a mystical, fantasy hill hole or house. These enchanting hideaways are an other-worldly retreat from everyday life where you can pretend you are residing in a storybook, even just for a short while.

A castle surrounded by Scottish HIghland countryside

Castles & Follies

Relive history and stay in a fairytale castle or folly; a fun experience for the family or a romantic break for two. From Gothic chateaux or Scottish castles to ancient fortresses and follies, booking a holiday in a venue steeped in intrigue and tradition will not disappoint.

Black grand piano forte inside a religious chapel with ornate red and gold religious paintings on the domed ceiling

Churches & Chapels

Find your own sanctuary and divine setting with a stay in a beautifully converted church or chapel. Once consigned to parsons and vicars, these incredibly historic and ancient venues now offer a chance to holiday out of the ordinary.

Brick and sandstone entrance archway to Palmers Folly a Grade II-listed building on Holkham Estate, Norfolk.

Gatehouses & Tollhouses

Book a stay in a converted Gatehouse or Tollhouse and get an added dose of fascinating history. As gateways to buildings of significance, many of these unusual buildings have been renovated and modernised to provide an unforgettable holiday experience.

An old sandstone building with a medium tower at one end

Towers & Forts

Ever thought about indulging your regal side with a stay in a medieval tower or fort? Embark on a magical mystery (or should that be 'history') tour with Host Unusual. Browse our range of majestic and quirky accommodation options that are sure to impress.

Arctic Fox Igloo in Finland at night with northern lights in sky

Igloos & Ice Hotels

Cool in every sense of the word, book a stay in an igloo or an ice hotel and you'll enjoy abodes constructed entirely out of snow or ice and embark on an incredible and unusual adventure, one that is a world away from your own.

Lighthouses

Imagine as the sun sets over the sea, with panoramic views from all angles. Lighthouses and keepers cottages offer access to accommodation in some of the most unusual landmarks, with huge appeal for children and big children alike!

Knoydart Hide in the Scottish Highlands

Lodges

The traditional notion of a lodge is of somewhere in the country or mountains, for shooting or fishing. That may have evolved somewhat, and some holiday lodges today are indeed rather sleek and modern, yet the concept of escaping the usual everyday rush in favour of rural life remains the…

A wooden cabin with an outside deck area with a table and chairs in the middle of a forest

Cabins

Step into a cabin hideaway away from busy modern life. Our chosen cool cabins are often hand-crafted or sleek, hip and modern, in idyllic, private settings and some even come with dreamy hot tubs. These are alternative boltholes far removed from the world of average hotels.

Sacromonte Hotel a glass lodge in Uruguay

Glass Lodges

Stargaze whatever the weather, with our simply breathtaking selection of unique glass lodges and holiday houses. These pure gems come with ceiling-to-floor glass windows or glass roofs allowing daylight and celestial skies to permeate your temporary nest.

Westland Wessex helicopter converted into holiday accommodation

Military

Attentttttion! All salute this range of exciting and unusual places to stay, all with a military background or connection. Including a diverse range of accommodation from helicopters and underground bunkers to army towers and more, these make ideal breaks for history buffs!

A building with mirrored walls reflecting the grass and hills surrounding it making it appear almost camouflaged

Mirrored

Holidays that reflect you and your insatiable quest for the unique, in every sense: welcome to Host Unusual's exciting range of Mirrored properties, cleverly blending into their environment by offering a complete mirror image of it.

A Land Rover Defender car parked by a beach with a roof tent

Nomadic

If the explorer spirit is strong inside you and you're not suited to staying rooted to one spot, then this range of holidays on the move will appeal! These quirky and adventurous retreats are mobile, so you'll be guaranteed to wake up with a fresh holiday outlook every day.

The front of Manowce historic palace in Police, Poland

Palaces

Feel royally at home in a former ruling residence and grand retreat, with our unique selection of palace accommodation, ideal for your next family or group holiday. Royal role playing is obligatory in your impressive temporary digs, of course!

Refurbished vintage 1965 Boeing 727 Airplane in Puntarenas

Planes & Helicopters

Welcome on board the most unusual in-flight experience - without any need for take-off. Our selection of converted planes and helicopters give you a taste of life in the cockpit in comfortable holiday accommodation that you'll never forget. Fasten your seatbelt!

The Bodmin Jail Hotel in Bodmin, Cornwall

Prisons & Cells

Get locked up for the night in a converted prison or jail cell for a truly memorable and quirky holiday experience. With many original features but the added bonus of home comforts, you certainly won't be planning your escape!

The Island Cornwall with suspension bridge in Newquay

Private Islands & Estates

Retreat to your own exclusive escape and book either an island far from the madding crowds, or an estate where you can enjoy a host of facilities. Be it for a group adventure or short break, these choices will guarantee you blissful privacy and seclusion.

The Old Church House Inn in Torbryan, Devon

Private Pubs & Inns

Become the landlord/lady of your very own private pub, designed with exclusive celebrations in mind. What better way to toast a special occasion than by pulling your own pint or mixing your own bespoke cocktail in a historic pub? Cheers!

A restored railway carriage at Railholiday in Cornwall

Railway Carriages & Stations

You need not be a trainspotter to appreciate the wonder of these converted carriages and station houses. Often positioned next to working steam trains, and some with original carriage seats, treat yourself to a first-class holiday with style and nostalgia.

Handcrafted wooden roundhouse in Somerset farmland

Roundhouses

Circular dwellings with conical rooves were once standard home forms in the Bronze and Iron ages, with some still remaining today. Expect our roundhouses to have unique fairytale settings and a slice of rustic romance to get you in a spin!

Shipping container converted into a holiday cabin in the North York Moors

Shipping Containers

Shipping containers are typically heavy duty steel boxes, and they may be synonymous with freight and shipments, but they also create unique and compact living spaces, so why not also holiday accommodation? Check out these unique spaces and book yourself in for a memorable small space adventure!

8 metal silos

Silos

Nobody can deny the distinctive look and feel of a silo; these tall towers or cylindrical pits were mostly used to store grain, but many now have a new lease of life and have been cleverly converted into quirky accommodation for us all to enjoy - how unique!

A metal and glass cabin next to the sea

Space-Age

For out of this world stays - literally - look no further than our collection of intriguing galactic getaways combine space-age designs with futuristic features for a truly unique holiday experience. To infinity and beyond!

The Forest House, a 17th century thatched house

Thatched

No chocolate-box village in the countryside would be complete without a thatched abode or two, symbolic of the romantic notion of a short break away. Quaint and characterful, they will give you a taste of that quintessential 'country cottage' life.

A large abstract looking sculpture built into grassy banks with circular windows and multicolour outer walls

Themed

Themed accommodation definitely ticks the box for fun factor. Whether it's venturing into the Wild West, the big blue sea or even prison, escape your normal world into a fantasy holiday world.

Tiny Home Borders a small holiday retreat in the Scottish Borders

Tiny Houses

The tiny homes movement has exploded in recent years over in the States, but is also making waves across the pond as people get seduced by the notion of decluttering and downsizing. Check into a compact pad and experience tiny life for yourself.

A treehouse from the ground at Rufus Roost (camping cabins in England)

Treehouses

Browse our collection of treehouses and treetop holiday rentals ranging from luxury glamping getaways to rustic woodland retreats. Stay in a tree cabin and re-enact that childhood dream for an unforgettable holiday in the countryside.

Dry stone hut with a corbelled roof with 5 cone 'spire' shapes

Trulli

There is no mistaking a Trullo (or 'Trulli' in plural); traditional Italian buildings with conical roofs made with Apulian dry stone. Loving restorations of these buildings, some dating back to 14th Century, now offer gorgeous holiday rentals like our selection here.

A WWII operations bunker in Sennen Cornwall

Underground

Subterranea is where it's at with this range of underground accommodation, from bunkers to brochs! Each of these spectacular holiday lets has managed to make use of terrain by working and adapting it to create a special space for you to enjoy.

A room built on water showing you how it looks above the water level and underneath it below the water level

Underwater

Sublime submarine adventures await for budding water babies with these incredible underwater places to stay. Watch shoals of fish and plenty of other marine creatures swim lazily by from your very own private nest-cum-aquarium.

A bedroom inside a windmill with bare brick walls inside, a bed, clothes rail and a full length mirror

Unique Conversions

Enjoy a break in history and transformation with these extraordinary buildings, all of which once had very different former lives. From converted prisons to lifeboat houses, brewery vaults to seed stores, discover some truly fascinating converted gems, ready to holiday in.

Purple grapes on a vine

Vineyard

Oenophiles (wine lovers) rejoice! Keen connaisseurs of the grape can now stay in unique vineyard accommodation situated inside winery grounds, with direct access to locally produced wine. Pop a cork and take a gander at our 'sparkling' selection of properties here.

A duke box next to a dressing table in a bedroom

Vintage & Retro

Take a timewarp trip and enjoy a unique vintage vacation or retro retreat for your next break; from art deco villas to modernist classics, gleaming airstreams to cosy retro caravans and more, everything in this section includes a nostalgic nod to the past!

Wildcard!

Our Wildcard contingent are an odd collection of misfits, but that's why we love them! They all share a common trait - a particularly quirky feature or style that makes them difficult to categorise or pigeon hole Get to know and love our Wildcards as much as we do.

The Windmill Suffolk

Windmills & Watermills

These iconic mills with their circular interiors have given up their day job milling grain and water to provide romantic and nostalgic accommodation for people to enjoy. Think panoramic views, stargazing, charm and atmosphere - what's not to love?

What’s your holiday heaven?

Outdoor bed with stunning view of green countryside

Alfresco

Ever wondered what it feels like to sleep outside with the sounds of nature and under a blanket of stars to keep you company? Well wonder no more with our range of unique alfresco accommodation to bring the inside out - how very Host Unusual indeed!

Eco Stays

Eco Stays

Designed, built and managed using clever eco-sensitive practices, these eco-friendly retreats minimise their environmental impact as a priority. This means you can relax and enjoy your holiday knowing you are treading lightly.

A historic military base converted into holiday accommodation elevated above Jersey's coastline

Historic Retreats

Play the lead in your very own holiday fable with a stay in one of these incredible historic retreats. Each of our handpicked selection has its own long list of beguiling stories from a bygone era, so check in and immerse yourself in their wonders.

A kettle on a stove with an open window and scenic countryside behind it

Adults Only

Stylish, unique and peaceful: these are all buzzwords in this selection of unique properties, all tailored for adults. So leave the kids behind and retreat to a romantic getaway, somewhere truly 'grown up' with your name on it.

An old vintage SHARP television in front of a plain white wall

As Seen On TV

Stars in their very own right, all these properties are so extraordinary and unique that they've been spotted on the small screen, so why not visit one of your favourites in real life and experience the media hype for yourself?

A hot tub for two pictured at night, lit by fairy lights

Hot Tubs

Hot tubs: fun, relaxing and some would even say they provide health benefits! There's no mistaking the appeal of a hot tub in which to soak your cares away and we have no shortage here of unique pathways to hot tub accommodation heaven. Explore our collection of private hot tubs…

Two log cabins next to a lake

Lakes, Lochs & Rivers

All of these unique Host Unusual places to stay are situated next to or close to lakes, streams, lochs or rivers - so you can relax back and enjoy the soothing powers of water throughout your break.

Pots of pencils, boxes of coloured chalks and pots of paint brushes

Learning Holidays

Prove that you CAN teach an old dog new tricks with this range of extraordinary places to stay, where you can also learn some brand new skills ranging from woodwork to massage, or yoga to foraging!

An old sandstone building with columns and archways at twilight with dark blue sky

Luxury Breaks

Splash out Host Unusually and take a walk on the decadent side. Whether it's a birthday splurge, special occasion...or perhaps for no reason at all other than to self indulge, you'll find luxury escapism here.

Northern lights in sky (green coloured) and reflecting on lake surface in the back ground with a square conservatory in the foreground

Northern Lights

Unusual accommodation is at its best when combined with unusual phenomena, and aurora borealis or 'Northern Lights' certainly tops this list! So now you can marvel at the most natural light displays on Earth from the comfort of your unique Host Unusual base.

Off Grid

Off-Grid

Go off-grid! Unplug yourself and say a refreshing farewell to technology, electricity and smartphones. These unique holiday homes in sublime locations are all deliberately unconnected to electricity and other mainstream power sources, allowing you to flick your holiday OFF switch.

Bed and chairs set up outside in the wilderness

Panoramic Views

These properties with breathtaking panoramic views will give you an overwhelming feeling of calm and well-being. So sit back, relax, and let your eyes scan the landscape time and time again, taking in those stunning vistas.

A see-through glamping pod on rocky land with rocky hillside and the sea behind it

Remote Location

Sometimes during the hectic fray of everyday life the saying 'to get away from it all' really needs to ring true. Well, your escape hatch is here with this selection of delightfully remote locations, where the only distractions are of your own creation.

WIldflower meadow with a glamping wagon in the distance away

Rural Retreats

Venture into the fields and reconnect with mother earth on a rural retreat holiday, where the only distraction you'll have is the array of beautiful natural scenes; think rolling hills, wild flower meadows and fresh country air. Sounds perfect to us!

aerial view looking down at a coastline, mainland into rocks into turquoise water

Seaside Breaks

Grab your bucket, grab your spade and make your way to the nearest horizon! These quirky seaside retreats are just a stone's throw from the sounds of waves breaking and some of the most gorgeous coastal scenery imaginable.

A woman wearing a black swimming costume, smiling and sitting on a bench inside a sauna

Spa Breaks

Enjoy some of the most eclectic spa-on-your-doorstep spots around and reconnect with your senses at these delightfully quirky retreats, from the truly traditional to the opulent outdoor. And relax...

4 cyclists riding bikes on trails in Perthshire, Scotland

Sports & Activities

If you're the active type, you'll have no problem summoning your energy and enjoying a host of activities on holiday. At these unique properties, you'll find sport, recreation and active pursuits are on standby for you to enjoy.

Stargazing

Stargazing

These settings have all been chosen for having easy access to a blanket of starry, wide open skies. They are usually far from street lighting, have minimal light pollution and perfect dark sky conditions, meaning you can lean back, relax, and stargaze with celestial awe!

Large pool with surrounding decking area in the countryside at sunset

Swimming Pools

There's nothing that screams holiday more than use of your own swimming pool to frolic in. Here we bring you a range of properties each with their own oasis; some are indoor, some outdoor, but all are blessed with that essential ingredient: H2O!

Inside a bedroom on a house boat on the River Thames with a view of Tower Bride

Urban Location

Follow the bright lights of the big city and explore the unusual gems that some of our most buzzing metropolises have to offer. From architect designed pads to houseboats and converted city towers, we've got it covered.

8 alpacas in a field

Wildlife

Combine your love of unique holiday accommodation with coming face-to-face with a variety of animals. From tigers to alpacas, meerkats to rhino, these encounters are sure to drive all the family wild with excitement!

A large house-sized treehouse in oak trees with sunlight shining through the leaves

Woodland Retreats

If forest bathing is your thing, then go down to the woods and indulge your arboreal addiction with a stay in a peaceful woodland retreat. These properties all have a leafy location, ideal for your next break.

Person sat cross legged doing yoga in front of a turquoise ocean

Yoga & Wellbeing

Namaste! Embrace the principles of this ancient way of life in a relaxing and inspiring setting; Host Unusual has a range of unique settings focused on well-being to enhance your holiday mindfulness.

Who’s going?

A kettle on a stove with an open window and scenic countryside behind it

Adults Only

Stylish, unique and peaceful: these are all buzzwords in this selection of unique properties, all tailored for adults. So leave the kids behind and retreat to a romantic getaway, somewhere truly 'grown up' with your name on it.

The back of a person holding the handles a wheelchair ready to push it

Disability Accessible

Unusual places to stay need not mean they are out of reach to those with disabilities or who are less mobile. Browse a selection of unique accommodation with a range of disability accessible levels.

Two dogs walking on leads on a footpath, dogs and owners legs in shot

Dog Friendly

If you feel that it's not a family holiday unless the pet pooch can come along too, then you'll be glad to know that all the unique & exciting Host Unusual places to stay in this category are either dog-friendly or offer options for your beloved four-legged friend.

A woman and a man holding hands with a small toddler in between them, all walking together

Family Friendly

Gather your clan and plan one of the most unique and exciting adventures as a family, whether it be stargazing from your own geodome to a fairytale treehouse, these spellbinding places are ideal for families and the kids will love them.

Women grooming the side of a black horse's neck

Horse Friendly

If you are fortunate enough to have your own horse as part of your clan and think they deserve a holiday as much as you do, then why not book one of these unusual properties with their own livery stables and facilities?

A large white house with green roof tiles and a large lawn in front of it

Large Groups

Gather all your friends and family and head to one of these extraordinary places and party houses, catering for large groups. Ideal venues often with exclusive hire, you'll be in the right place for fun, laughter and celebration, all with that added Host Unusual twist.

Beach houses painted different colours in the order of the rainbow

LGBTQ Friendly

Everyone wants a friendly welcome when they check into their accommodation regardless of the walk of life they choose, so for our LGBTQ+ users, here is our selection of unique properties who have all declared themselves supportive & respectful of the community.

What’s the occasion?

Wooden cabin in the countryside with small outside decking area

Budget Friendly

Browse our range of budget-friendly places to stay, all starting at under £100 per night (based on lowest price unit, off peak stays - high season prices may be higher).

Small parcel wrapped in brown paper with a pattern of coloured stars and a gift label attached

Gift Vouchers

There's nothing more exciting than receiving a gift experience and we certainly have the most unique accommodation to choose from! Perfect for an open-ended escape at a time of your choosing, these properties all offer vouchers for your nearest and dearest.

Alice in Wonderland themed dining room

Hen Parties

You only get one chance at making your hen celebration special, and it's much more than just party, so why not really go the extra mile with one of these spectacular and unique places for the ultimate finale to freedom?

A large white house with green roof tiles and a large lawn in front of it

Large Groups

Gather all your friends and family and head to one of these extraordinary places and party houses, catering for large groups. Ideal venues often with exclusive hire, you'll be in the right place for fun, laughter and celebration, all with that added Host Unusual twist.

2 freestanding baths outside on wooden decking with a view of scenic countryside

Mini-moons

For the perfect post-wedding break after the eventual 'Big Day' why not try a mini-moon? Host Unusual features the most unique and extraordinary destinations, tailor-made for true romantics .

A cabin with outside decking with seating

Romantic

There are times when only the most romantic of settings will do, that warrant being viewed through two sets of eyes instead of one. Here we bring you some of the most unusual and romantic breaks on earth.

Weddings

Wedding Venues

It's all about finding the perfect, special setting when it comes to your nuptials. So why not say 'I do' in one of these quirky venues, all experienced in catering for the most important day of your life.

Short Breaks

We've all been there: just that one odd day left of annual leave and no shortage of wanderlust but what to do?! Help is at hand with our selection of properties that offer the chance to stay for shorter durations.

One Night Stays

One Night Stays

We've all been there: your annual leave has diminished faster than you can say 'long weekend break', but help is at hand with these truly special short but sweet breaks, and your pathway to one night of unusual holiday accommodation heaven.

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