12 Most Unusual Places to Stay in UK That You Won’t Believe Exist

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Forget boring hotels and typical B&Bs – these are the most unusual places to stay in UK that turn a regular weekend break into a real adventure.

FinnLough Bubble Dome UK

Want to sleep in a UFO-shaped airship perched on a Highland mountain?

Or maybe spend the night floating in a bubble dome under the stars?

From a jet plane in Wales to an invisible house built into a cliff, here are 12 places that redefine the meaning of a room with a view.

12 Most Unusual Places to Stay in UK

Let’s explore twelve remarkable properties that transform an ordinary weekend away into an extraordinary experience.

1. The House in the Clouds, Suffolk

The House in the Clouds, Suffolk

Standing as one of the most bizarre places to stay in UK, this former water tower masquerades as a house floating among the treetops.

The unusual structure rises 70 feet above Thorpeness village, originally built to disguise an eyesore water tank in the 1920s.

The House in the Clouds, Suffolk UK

Now converted into living space, it offers five bedrooms and panoramic views across Suffolk’s heritage coast and countryside.

Check prices for The House in the Clouds here.


2. FinnLough Bubble Dome, Northern Ireland

FinnLough Bubble Dome, Northern Ireland

Among the weird places to stay in UK, these transparent domes provide an unfiltered view of the night sky.

The bubbles sit in private forest clearings, each equipped with custom-made four-poster beds and telescope.

The climate-controlled space maintains perfect visibility through advanced anti-condensation systems.

Check prices for FinnLough Bubble Dome here.


3. The Jet Star, Wales

The Jet Star, Wales

This decommissioned private jet transformed into grounded accommodation represents one of the most interesting places to stay in UK.

The Jet Star, Wales 2

The aircraft retains its original cockpit, now converted into a quirky seating area, while the main cabin houses a double bed and kitchen.

Check prices for The Jet Star here.


4. Malmaison Oxford Prison, Oxfordshire

Malmaison Oxford Prison

A Victorian prison transformed into a boutique hotel, where former cells now serve as luxury bedrooms.

The original iron doors, exposed brick walls, and metal stairs remain intact throughout the building.

Malmaison Oxford Prison

Located in Oxford Castle Quarter, guests sleep behind the same thick walls that once housed inmates, though now with plush beds and modern amenities.

Check prices for Malmaison Oxford here.


5. Blackhouse Village, Isle of Lewis

Blackhouse Village, Isle of Lewis

Traditional Scottish blackhouses stand as living museums on the Isle of Lewis.

These restored stone dwellings with thick walls and thatched roofs once housed both people and livestock.

Modern comforts blend seamlessly with historical features, including peat fires and box beds.

Check prices for Blackhouse Village here.


6. The Tree Howf, Scotland

Hand-crafted using recycled materials and fallen trees, this elevated cabin combines rustic charm with clever design.

The structure includes a glass ceiling above the bed, outdoor bath, and wraparound balcony.

Solar power and wood-burning stoves provide sustainable comfort.

Check prices for The Tree Howf here.


7. Cabin Beo, Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Cabin

This tiny home delivers big views over Portree Bay and the Old Man of Storr through its full-size picture window.

The compact space includes a king-size bed, wood-burning stove, and modern kitchenette, offering a perfect blend of comfort and immersion in Skye’s dramatic landscape.

Check prices for Cabin Beo here.


8. Chestnut House Treehouse, Wales

Chestnut House with Hot tub & Sauna

This elevated woodland retreat stands out among unique places to stay in the UK, combining rustic charm with luxury amenities.

The treehouse features a spring-fed, log-fired hot tub overlooking the Welsh mountains and a glass-fronted sauna nestled in the forest.

Chestnut House Treehouse, Wales

The fully insulated structure delivers modern comfort in a pristine forest setting.

Check prices for Chestnut House Treehouse here.


9. Airship 2, Scotland

Airship2 Scotland

This aluminum pod resembles a retro-futuristic spacecraft landed in the Scottish Highlands.

Floor-to-ceiling windows curve around the structure, providing panoramic views of the Sound of Mull.

The interior features contemporary design within its distinctive shell shape.

Check prices for Airship 2 here.


10. Conker Treepod, Wales

Conker Treepod, Wales

Suspended between trees, this spherical pod takes inspiration from the shape of a horse chestnut.

The compact space includes a double bed and wood-burning stove, while large circular windows frame forest views.

A short walkway connects to a separate bathroom pod.

Check prices for Conker Treepod here.


11. Castle Gatehouse, Gloucestershire

Castle Gatehouse, Gloucestershire

The restored medieval gatehouse offers a genuine castle experience without the vast scale.

Original arrow slits and battlements remain, while the interior provides modern luxury.

Check prices for Castle Gatehouse here.


12. Floating Tree Sphere, Dorset

Floating Tree Sphere, Dorset

This elevated structure appears to hover above a small lake, supported by hidden stilts.

Floor-to-ceiling windows create the illusion of floating among tree canopies.

A walkway connects to shore, while a private deck extends over the water.

Check prices for Floating Treehouse here.


Final Thoughts on Most Unique Places to Stay in UK

Whether you’re dreaming of stargazing from a bubble dome, playing pilot in a converted jet, or waking up to mountain views in a tiny cabin, these unusual stays prove that accommodation can be the destination itself.

Each of these unique properties offers more than just a place to rest – they create unforgettable memories and stories to tell.

Looking for more UK travel inspiration? Check out:

Photo of author

Jolene Ejmont

Originally from South Africa, now living in Australia, Jolene is a wife and a mother to three beautiful daughters. Together with her family, she is embarking on a journey towards changing her current stress-filled life to one focusing on her dreams and her passion for travel. She wants to share her stories in the hope to inspire you to chase your own dreams!