From Treehouses to Train Carriages: The Rise of Quirky UK Getaways
Quirky Cottages | Published 18/01/2026, last updated 03/02/2026
Tags: quirky cottages / treehouse holidays / uk staycations / unusual accommodation / unique uk holidays
The UK is full of charming cottages, cosy lodges, and seaside retreats. But a growing number of travellers are looking for something a little more unusual — something unforgettable. From treehouses perched high among the branches to old railway carriages converted into stylish holiday homes, quirky UK getaways are on the rise.
These unique stays aren’t just about accommodation — they’re about creating memories, telling stories, and discovering experiences you won’t forget. Let’s explore how and why quirky cottageshave become a must-try for modern travellers.
What Makes a Getaway “Quirky”?
A quirky getaway is any accommodation that breaks away from the ordinary. These stays are often characterised by:
- Unique or unconventional buildings, like treehouses, lighthouses, or converted buses
- Themed or imaginative interiors that spark curiosity
- Historic or unusual pasts — many properties were once churches, barns, or signal boxes
- Extraordinary locations, from secluded woodlands to coastal cliffs
The goal of a quirky stay is to surprise and delight - to turn a simple break into an experience that feels like a story worth sharing.
Popular Types of Quirky UK Getaways
Quirky cottages come in all shapes and sizes across the UK. Some of the most popular types include:
- Treehouses: Elevated hideaways in forests, perfect for escaping into nature.
- Train Carriages: Converted railway coaches with retro charm and modern comforts.
- Shepherd’s Huts: Tiny, stylish shepherd's huts offering a cosy off-grid experience.
- Converted Buildings: From chapels and barns to lighthouses and windmills.
- Historic Properties: Castles, follies, and other unusual heritage sites.
Each type offers a different kind of adventure, whether you’re looking for rustic simplicity, design-led luxury, or a whimsical escape from the ordinary.
Colwall, sleeps 2
St Ives, sleeps 10
Bickington, sleeps 2
Why Quirky Stays Are Growing in Popularity
Quirky UK getaways are becoming increasingly popular for several reasons:
- Unique Experiences: Travellers want more than a bed — they want stories to tell.
- Instagram Appeal: Photogenic properties help guests share their adventures online.
- Personal Touch: Many quirky properties are independently owned and carefully curated.
- Staycation Boom: With more UK holidays than ever, people are seeking distinctive local escapes.
- Connection with Nature: Many quirky stays are tucked away in scenic, peaceful locations.
Tips for Booking Your Quirky Cottage
Booking a quirky cottage can be slightly different from booking a traditional holiday home. Here are some tips to make the most of your stay:
- Check the layout and accessibility — unusual buildings may have stairs, lofts, or compact spaces.
- Read reviews carefully — quirky stays can be hit-or-miss if expectations aren’t aligned.
- Embrace the quirks — odd features are often what make the stay memorable.
- Plan for location — many quirky cottages are off the beaten track, so transport and supplies may require planning.
- Consider the season — some properties like treehouses or huts can be more fun at certain times of year.
Conclusion
From treehouses to train carriages, quirky UK getaways are transforming the way we holiday. They offer more than just a place to sleep - they provide stories, memories, and unique experiences that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a creative retreat, or a family adventure, quirky cottages deliver a fresh and exciting way to explore England, Scotland, and Wales. So why settle for ordinary, when the UK has so many extraordinary places to stay?