The Best Holiday Cottages on Airbnb in Kent, UK

Last updated: 29 July 2023

The era of regional travel in the UK is now stronger than ever. Once lockdown is lifted in the UK, we can quickly pack our bags, grab a hire car and discover some quaint, rustic, clean properties on Airbnb in Kent. 

If you’re only looking to do a weekend in Kent, then you’re in luck. Most of these properties can be booked for an overnight stay although I’d suggest making the most of it and staying for the whole weekend. 

What Makes Airbnb Different?

Holiday rentals like Airbnb offer a different experience to traditional hotels and even some B&Bs. With Airbnb, prices are often much lower than the traditional counterparts, and you can get truly localised opinions of suggested itineraries, the best driving routes, and venues like local restaurants and pubs. 

It’s the unique, quirky concepts that I love most about Airbnb.  Sleep in a treehouse, a bubble, a self-catering barn, narrowboat, Airbnb offers a wide variety of properties, catering to all tastes. Solo travellers seeking solitude, couples for some romance, and families to reconnect.  

In the time of Coronavirus, many Airbnb’s are self check-in (and check-out) which means there’s a limit on your personal exposure to the virus. We’ve noticed many properties have updated their listings to include detail about antiviral cleaning frequency and changed their booking structure (like gaps between guests) in light of COVID-19.

After lockdown ends, I am keen to get out of London, and I’m not the only one that feels this way!

Social-distancing days out will undoubtedly become a thing thanks to COVID-19. Days out like a road trip to Kent, a picnic in the shadow of some jaw-dropping properties, exploring Kent’s stunning coastline, as well discovering historic monuments, buildings and places.

I’m pleased to hear English Heritage are reopening many of their properties across Kent, including Dover Castle, Deal Castle, Bayham Old Abbey, Down House, the home of Charles Darwin, from July 2020. 

While you can easily do a day trip from London to Kent, I think there is a lot of benefit to staying overnight, including some respite at one of these unique Airbnb properties in Kent.

Chic Treehouse

Sleeps: 4

This stunning property will not disappoint. From the dramatic beamed ceiling to the luxurious copper bathtub, this is a lofty 2-bedroom treehouse with a difference.

Stylish luxury with all the mod-cons including two en-suite bathrooms with showers, a fully equipped kitchen, a barbecue and a delightful decked terrace; the perfect place for balmy evenings in the treetops overlooking exquisite views over woodland grounds.

While this property easily caters for four, the jewel in this cedar crown is the master bedroom which fans out into its own spherical space, containing a king-sized bed, wardrobe space, and an opulent copper bathtub. 

The Hide Out

Sleeps: 2

Switch off in this shepherds hut inspired cabin. Set amongst the green woods on top of a steep hill of a working farm, on the edge of woodland with uninterrupted views of the valley below.

Guests can relax inside or out with furnished decking or a comfortable living space inside complete with a fully equipped kitchenette including sink and a gas hob. The bedroom on the mezzanine level sleeps 2, with a lovely bedside window offering superb views. 

Old Smock Windmill

Sleeps: 2

This old windmill has been transformed into cosy, stylish accommodation with a relaxing and calm atmosphere.  

Three-storey solid brick mill has been renovated but still retains some of its original charm with the white weatherboard tower, the oak staircase leading to the entry, and exposed beams spanning each floor carrying the original upright shaft giant spur wheel and sack hoist. 

Guests will feel at home here with everything aimed to help you unwind from the moment you walk in. Surrounded by the green Kent countryside, spend your days rambling and evenings recharging one of the great local pubs. Old Smock Mill is a romantic place for couples. Guests receive a delightful welcome basket upon arrival complete with organic eggs straight from the owners chickens’.

Peaceful & Secluded Barn

Sleeps: 2

This secluded traditional oak framed barn is a comfortable and very clean choice for a weekend in Kent. It’s equipped with everything you could possibly need for a short break. 

Walkers will love Stelling Minnis. The ancient common is perched high on the Kent Downs plateau and close to the old Roman Road of Stone Street and is considered an outstanding natural beauty area of extensive common land which you are free to roam at your leisure. Be sure to make time for the highly rated local village shop, which is just two mins away, or consider the local pub for dinner or a Sunday roast. 

Fairytale Mini Gothic Castle

Sleeps: 4

Given the opportunity to sleep in a Grade II-listed mini Gothic castle would you do it?  Now’s your chance!

This quirky and unique property was once the gatehouse for the Garrison stationed at Dover Castle which is located just behind the property. 

The property was modernised for comfort but retains its original aesthetic, with beamed ceilings, vintage furniture and a romantic canopied master bed in the turret, to create a holiday home of childhood dreams and fairy-tales.  

Tiny House – Foodie Haven

Sleeps: 2

This tempting retreat is situated in beautiful gardens in the heart of the High Weald area of East Sussex which is right on the border with Kent.

The annexe has been recently renovated to a high standard with the aim of providing a luxurious place to recharge and escape from the demands of everyday life.

Discover the abundance of wildlife by taking a stroll through the gardens to the River Uck which borders the property, or explore the lake in a small rowing boat. As the sun begins to set, you might be blessed with some wild deer who are often seen wandering through the garden.

Guests are provided a welcome hamper which includes a homemade cake, locally sourced eggs, fresh homemade soda bread, homemade gooseberry jam, milk, coffee and tea.

The fully equipped kitchen is fitted out with everything you could need including a Nespresso coffee machine for the all-important caffeine fix.  

Tired of cooking? No problem. Meals prepared by a Le Cordon Bleu chef can be arranged (at an additional cost) using locally sourced and home grown ingredients which can be consumed inside, or at my favourite spot – the outside eating area with views across the beautiful gardens.

Moored Dutch Barge

Sleeps: 6

Those with a sense of adventure should consider this quirky, 110 year-old Dutch Barge moored in the heart of medieval Sandwich in Kent.

Enjoy spectacular sunsets along the canal from the outdoor deck. Open a bottle of wine, enjoy a long summer night on the waterproof bean bags, and benches. There’s even shade from an awning for the elusive intense summer sunshine.  

Decorated in nautical neutral with original artwork throughout, the barge is ideal for families and avid golfers with six courses within easy reach. This spacious pet-friendly/dog-friendly barge has 1000 sq/feet of living space, and is centrally heated.

Ancient Kentish Timber Barn

Sleeps: 4

The beamed Barn is fully renovated to an exceptional standard and is set in the beautifully landscaped grounds of a typical converted Kentish Oast House.

The open plan design includes comfy chesterfield sofas; a large dining table and chairs; and a huge, fully equipped kitchen for those who wish to cook up a storm.

The large bedroom upstairs comes complete with a beamed cathedral roof and super king size bed; the bathroom is equipped with luxurious waterfall shower. Families can be accommodated here a bedroom with twin beds on the mezzanine.

This property has a 2 night minimum stay, but why would you only want to stay one night when it’s this homey!

Former Stable – Renovated Annexe

Sleeps: 2

Not far from the Weald of Kent, this beautiful studio flat has an enviable view of the rural Kent countryside through the large floor-to-ceiling windows.

The newly refurbished studio apartment is a completely self contained annexe attached to a main house has its own private entrance. The annexe has a crisp interior and decor, equipped with a kitchenette stocked with the basics and the all-important Nespresso machine, modern bathroom with walk-in shower complete with underfloor heating.

This secluded hideaway makes a great retreat for a couple, especially those keen to undertake the scenic country walks and cycle routes, or day trips to nearby attractions include Michelin starred restaurant The West House, Sissinghurst Castle, Bodiam Castle, and the historic town of Rye.

Shepherd’s Hut

Sleeps: 2

This luxurious Shepherd’s Hut is set in its own garden and offers far reaching views toward the twin kiln Oast House and over open fields up to Great Battle Woods.

Situated close to 1066 footpath and only 15 minutes from the East Sussex coast, guests can relax on the patio, or by the hanging BBQ grill, or venture off to discover local gems such as National Trust properties of Scotney Castle and Sissinghurst or Bayham Old Abbey which is run by English Heritage, or day trips to the coast of Hastings and St Leonards, or historic towns such as Battle and Rye. 

Avid golfers will be happy with access to a nearby Golf Course which is just a two minute drive away. Consider sticking around for a meal, as the restaurant is known to serve hearty breakfasts, and scrumptious lunch and dinners.  

Historic Hopper Hut

Sleeps: 2

Nestled on a working farm in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the clue for the history of this property is in the name.  The Hopper Hut was once used as accommodation for seasonal hop pickers who would come from London on their working holidays.

Modernised following an extensive restoration, the unique property provides a fully equipped kitchen, sitting area, double bed with ensuite shower. Wake up every morning to views over the surrounding farms and Bewl Water reservoir before you set off to explore the miles of walking trails or one of a number of castles, gardens and stately homes that are nearby.

Eco Lodge with Brede Valley Views

Sleeps: 2

This very private self catering eco safari tent is a great option for a lazy weekend away.

Guests can expect open-plan style with a touch of luxury. A sitting area fitted with a large wood burner with lots of wood to keep you cosy on chilly nights, or spend balmy long summer nights on the lovely covered deck area for relaxing and taking in the view of rolling hills and green valleys.

Weekend guests are rewarded with slow Sundays. The hosts block out Sunday bookings to allow weekend guests a lazy Sunday lie-in. This means no racing around to pack up and check-out. Looking for a long weekend? Drop the hosts a line when booking, they will happily have you for a Sunday night too, just let them know when booking. 

Glamping fans such as myself will be relieved (wink wink) to know there are two eco compost loo’s. Phew! As for lighting, this eco lodge is truly sustainable by using solar power.

Exploring Kent

Need a SIM Card?

The UK is, for now, still member of the European Union so if you have an EU SIM you should be eligible for free data roaming from your home country.

If you’re needing a SIM card, there are Prepaid or Pay As You Go (PAYG) options.

Order a Prepaid SIM Card for the UK online and have it shipped to you.

Travelling EU as well as the UK?

Three UK currently lets you use your phone abroad at no extra cost.
These Go Roam plans are PAYG/prepaid and let you use your data allowance, text and call from abroad at no extra cost.

Go Roam is available in over 70 destinations including Spain and Australia. If you’re exploring Europe as well as the UK, this SIM card makes staying connected much easier.

Additional Reading

• Call the Midwife Tour at Chatham Dockyard
• Kent Weekend – Road Trip Itinerary