The most expensive Airbnb rentals in the United Kingdom

As summer rolls around, why not consider booking a luxurious Airbnb rental in one of the many charming corners of the United Kingdom?

As of 2024, Airbnb is one of the leaders in the home-sharing market, with over 7 million active listings across 220 countries worldwide. According to Inside Airbnb, there are more than 91,000 listings in London alone so you’re certainly not short on choice. As we scroll through an array of lavish holiday rentals, from historic manors to entire castles and lovely townhouses, curiosity arises: Where precisely can we find the most expensive Airbnbs in the United Kingdom?

To find the answer, our team at BestBrokers combed through Airbnb.com for the top 20 priciest offerings in the country. Apart from the national research, we also scrutinised the website for the top 10 most expensive listings in 15 major urban areas across the UK. All properties were ranked by nightly rate, including Airbnb service fees and cleaning charges often imposed by hosts. We also gathered essential information for each accommodation, such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, maximum guest capacity, and premium amenities.

So, without further ado, discover the nightly rate of the most expensive Airbnb rental in each of the UK’s major urban areas on the map below:

Priced at a staggering £11,500 per night, an eight-bedroom family home in the heart of Chelsea stands out as the priciest Airbnb listing, not just in London, but among the properties on the map as well. A Grade II listed mansion, situated in the highly sought-after Ye Priory development in Liverpool, is a runner-up, charging £3,801 per night. Coming third is a ten-bedroom residence in Birmingham (£3,319/night), followed by Edinburgh’s Drylaw House (£2,724/night) and a luxury eight-bedroom cottage near Bristol (£2,716/night).

Recent statistics by Inside Airbnb reported a total of 91,778 listings in London, 62.5% of which were for entire homes and apartments (57,402), with the average price per night being £174. This is thirteen times the number of listings recorded in the Scottish capital city, Edinburgh, where the figure stood at 7,051 (4,795 of which were entire homes/apartments), while the average nightly rate amounted to £152.

The UK’s Top 20 Priciest Airbnb Listings

Nationwide, the nightly rate of the top 20 priciest Airbnb rentals in the UK fluctuates between £4,777 and £11,500, depending on factors such as location, type of accommodation, availability, demand, seasonality, and the host’s pricing strategy. As a result, the average price comes to £7,545 per night. For a 7-night stay in July/August, prices range from £33,439 to £80,500, with an average total of £52,818.

Of the top 20 priciest properties, 14 are tucked away in England, 5 are scattered across Scotland, while the remaining one is nestled in the heart of Wales. Greater London dominates the list with 6 properties, while the Cheyne family home in Chelsea, offered at £11,500 per night, takes the crown as the most expensive Airbnb rental across the nation. This is hardly surprising, given Chelsea’s reputation as one of the capital’s most affluent districts, celebrated for its rich history and steep property prices. Meanwhile, Gloucestershire secures two spots near the top, featuring the luxurious Temple Guiting Estate, priced at £8,940 per night and a stunning Grade II listed Georgian Manor in Eastington at a nightly price of £8,648. On the other hand, Craig-y-nos Castle set in Brecon Beacons, Powys, emerges as the most affordable option within our top 20 list, commanding a nightly rate of £4,777. Among the most extraordinary rentals are Henry’s Townhouse in Marylebone, Central London, the former residence of English novelist Jane Austen’s brother Henry, and Middleton Castle in Norfolk, which dates back to 1455 when it was originally built by Thomas Scales, 7th Baron Scales.

As per the Office for National Statistics, the median gross annual pay for full-time employees reached £34,963 in April 2023. And yet, the average Brit would still need to set aside over two years’ worth of full-time earnings just to afford a solitary 7-day holiday at the Cheyne family home, summing up to £80,500.

Moreover, the HomeLet Rental Index as of February 2024 showed that the average monthly rental price for a new tenancy in the UK stood at £1,262. That means a 7-night stay at the eight-bedroom family residence could cover more than five years’ worth of rent. According to our calculations, at a 50% occupancy rate (the proportion of days in a year for which the property is booked) the priciest Airbnb in the UK generates an annual revenue of £2,098,750, while the most affordable option in our top 20 list yields £871,803 after fees.

1. Cheyne Family Home in Chelsea, Greater London

Nestled in the heart of Chelsea, one of London’s finest residential areas, this grand yet welcoming family home is just a stone’s throw away from the Victoria and Albert Museum, the celebrated Farmer’s Market, the world-famous King’s Road and Hyde Park. With a nightly fee of £11,500, a seven-night stay in July at the residence adds up to a total of £80,500.

The spacious holiday home is fitted with eight exquisitely designed bedrooms and six-and-a-half modern bathrooms spread over three floors. Additional features include a patio garden, courtyard, a fully equipped kitchen and a terrace, offering stunning views of the Thames and the city beyond. Your stay comes with paid airport shuttle service, private parking and exclusive access to the stunning Burton Court, comprising three tennis courts and a tennis academy, and frequently hosting cricket matches and artistic fairs.

2. Mayfair Penthouse, Greater London

Gather your group of 8 and enjoy breathtaking views of Central London’s iconic landmarks from the balconies of Mayfair Penthouse. This Airbnb Luxe property lands second on our top 20 list, commanding a nightly rate of £11,131 and a week-long getaway in July priced at £77,919.

Featuring four bedrooms, each equipped with a private bathroom, and a daily housekeeping service, the residence is conveniently situated in the heart of Mayfair, providing easy access to the shops and restaurants on Mount Street. For those seeking outdoor adventures, Hyde Park is just a short stroll away. Back at the penthouse, guests can unwind in front of the fireplace after a day exploring the bustling streets of London.

3. Remenham Court, Oxfordshire

Tucked away in the enchanting market town of Henley-on-Thames, renowned for hosting the world-famous Henley Royal Regatta, the stunning Remenham Court is uniquely positioned on the banks of the Thames, just 40 minutes away from London. With a jaw-dropping nightly rate of £10,925, a week-long retreat in July at this historic riverside venue amounts to £76,475.

The main house features six bedrooms and four bathrooms, offering sweeping views of the garden and river beyond. At the same time, The Gatehouse, a separate construction, provides two additional bedrooms and a bathroom. Together, they offer sleeping accommodation for up to 18 people and boast an orangery, a raised terrace, sweeping lawns and intimate outdoor spaces. On top of all that, the residence features an exclusive jetty, allowing guests to arrive by boat or water taxi.

4. Temple Guiting Estate, Gloucestershire

Set in approximately 14.5 acres of beautiful English countryside, Temple Guiting Estate, featured by Airbnb Luxe, secures the 4th position in our top 20 list with a nightly rate of £8,940 and a one-week getaway in July priced at £62,580.

Ptolemy Dean designed this estate, which consists of five separate units— a 15th-century five-bedroom Manor House, a luxurious five-bedroom barn, a one-bedroom Peacock Shed, a three-bedroom Granary and a one-bedroom Cow Byre hideaway. Combined, they can host up to 34 guests and offer an array of amenities, including an astroturf tennis court, a heated outdoor pool, a gym and a massage therapy room. There is also a billiards room, yoga and pilates studio and two bubbling hot tubs.

5. Belgrave House next to Buckingham Palace Garden, Greater London

Nestled in the chic London neighbourhood of Belgravia and adjacent to Buckingham Palace Garden, this elegant and spacious retreat is available at £8,798 per night, amounting to £61,586 for a 7-night stay.

The house, arranged over five floors, features five bedrooms, four bathrooms, a terrace and a secluded garden. It is situated within walking distance of the renowned shopping paradises of Sloane Square and Knightsbridge and includes amenities such as a paid airport shuttle service and exclusive access to Belgrave Square Gardens, offering wooden pergolas and tennis courts.

6. Eastington Park, Gloucestershire

Next in rank is an 18th-century manor house in Eastington. At a rate of £8,648 per night, a full week’s retreat in July at this charming wedding venue sums up to a total of £60,535.

Situated within 8 acres of magnificent gardens, offering breathtaking views of the picturesque Gloucestershire countryside, this stunning Grade II Georgian Manor can accommodate up to 70 overnight guests across thirty-two well-appointed bedrooms and twenty-eight bathrooms. It serves as a licensed venue for ceremonies, both within its elegant ballroom and outdoors in the gardens under a stunning pergola. The estate is managed by an experienced, award-winning team of wedding specialists and features a 24-hour licensed bar.

7. Innes House, Moray

Welcome to Innes House— a 17th-century Scottish stately home tucked away in the heart of the Highlands. Here the cost per night is £8,186, which brings a 7-night stay in July to the eye-watering amount of £57,301.

The house sits west of the historic Spey Valley renowned for its malt distilleries, and close to the golden beaches of Moray, overlooking the spectacular mountains of Cairngorm National Park. Owned by the same family for five generations since the 19th century and honoured with multiple Scottish Wedding Awards, the residence features nineteen bedrooms and twenty-two-and-a-half bathrooms, providing comfortable accommodations for up to 36 guests. With its grand ballrooms, drawing room, library, and patio for al fresco dining, it presents an idyllic location for family gatherings and special celebrations. Guests can also indulge in activities such as dolphin spotting, fishing, and even surfing.

8. Magnificent House in Knightsbridge, Greater London

Conveniently located just a short walk away from Hyde Park and near the Royal Albert Hall and the Science Museum, this 9,400 sq residence in Knightsbridge charges £7,671 per night. For a week-long stay in July, the total sum reaches £53,698.

The house can host up to 14 guests in its six well-appointed bedrooms and boasts a wrought-iron grand staircase, a cinema room, an office and a terrace overlooking London’s most opulent areas.

9. Dun Aluinn Castle, Perth and Kinross

Perched on an elevated site and surrounded by 5.5 acres of lush private grounds, Dun Aluinn offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lovely Highland town of Aberfeldy and the serene River Tay below. Priced at £7,250 per night, the seven-night retreat in July is available at a total cost of £50,750.

The castle has been featured in prestigious UK and EU publications, such as Elle Decoration UK and the Swedish Nya Rumm, showcasing the world’s finest architecture, art, and interior design works. Dun Aluinn accommodates up to 18 guests in its nine bedrooms, each equipped with a private bathroom. For larger groups, it is possible to rent the Lodge as well, which offers four en-suite bedrooms, bringing the total capacity up to 26 guests. Guests can also unwind in the wood-fired hot tub nestled in the woods beside the house or gather around the inviting fire pit.

10. Rose Castle, Cumbria

Standing proudly on the edge of the Lake District National Park, right in the heart of Cumbria, Rose Castle commands a nightly rate of £7,195, which brings a week-long stay in July to a total of £50,368.

Nestled in 60 acres of private grounds, the 800-year-old castle provides overnight accommodation for up to 28 guests in its 15 beautifully furnished bedrooms. Each room features an original fireplace and beautiful views of the gardens, woodland and the River Caldew. It features a Bishop’s library and there is a private chef available too.

11. House of Bobbin, Greater London

Yet another of London’s getaways is next on our list! House of Bobbin boasts eight bedrooms and six bathrooms spread over four storeys in Paddington, City of Westminster. Priced at £7,148 per night, the seven-night getaway is available at a total cost of £50,036.

This wonderful home is located mere minutes away from Hyde Park and comes with access to the private Sussex Square gardens.

12. Mansion in Southport, Merseyside

Located in Southport, Merseyside, this exclusive mansion has a nightly rate of £7,016, bringing a week-long stay in July to a total of £49,115.

It features seven bedrooms and five bathrooms, hosting up to a maximum of 14 people. Your stay includes the services of a private chef, preparing meals of excellent standard, a chauffeur driver, providing transportation to any location within the North West Region, airport drop off and pick up services, and daily housekeeping.

13. Middleton Castle, Norfolk

Set in a stunning estate in the picturesque village of Middleton amidst the Norfolk countryside, Middleton Castle dates back to 1455 when it was first built by Thomas Scales, 7th Baron Scales. It has been a family home since the early 1600s and is surrounded by its own moat. The castle is offered at £6,507 per night, which makes a week’s stay a total of £45,550.

Middleton Castle boasts versatile reception rooms, an oak-panelled dining room, a billiards room, a fully-fitted family kitchen, and fifteen ornate bedrooms, accommodating up to 30 guests for private gatherings and corporate retreats. The gardens offer multiple outdoor seating areas, and a Summer House is also available.

14. Killochan Castle, South Ayrshire

Situated over 140 acres of breathtaking Ayrshire countryside, Killochan Castle rests alongside the tranquil banks of the River Girvan, offering spectacular vistas of the coastline and the iconic Ailsa Craig. At a nightly rate of £6,315, a week-long stay in July at this medieval fortress, once the abode of the Cathcart family, adds up to a total of £44,204.

The castle, dating from 1581, sleeps up to 18 people in ten majestic bedrooms, while an additional 22 guests can be accommodated in three beautifully appointed cottages within the grounds. Featuring a grand dining room, spacious living areas, a cinema room, a dungeon and a turret, Killochan Castle has been the backdrop for many fairytale weddings, private celebrations, grand banquets and corporate retreats.

15. Luxury Rural Home in Penn, Buckinghamshire

This three-story family residence is set in Penn, one of the most picturesque and sought-after villages in the area, just 4 miles east of High Wycombe, offering a variety of shops, supermarkets, restaurants and leisure facilities. The house has a nightly rate of £6,057, bringing a week-long stay in July a total of £42,400.

Surrounded by lush greenery, including towering trees, and meticulously manicured lawns, the property boasts a tennis court. It features five bedrooms, four bathrooms, a welcoming living area and a modern kitchen, hosting up to 10 guests.

16. Kincardine Castle, Aberdeenshire

Kincardine Castle is a Victorian country house, located in the heart of a 3,000-acre estate, overlooking the majestic surroundings of Royal Deeside, 1 km northeast of the village of Kincardine O’Neil.

The house was built for Mary Pickering on the site of, and integrating part of, an earlier building called Kincardine Lodge, dating from around 1780. It is the private home of the Bradford family and operates as a hospitality venue, entertaining guests since the 1890s. The castle is priced at £5,999 per night, which makes a week’s long stay a total cost of £41,994.

Featuring 12 elegantly appointed en-suite bedrooms, Kincardine Castle sleeps up to 22 guests and plays host to grand Scottish weddings. The residence offers full-time private chefs and a dedicated team of professional household staff.

17. Henry’s Townhouse, Greater London

Welcome to the former home of Jane Austen’s brother Henry, a luxurious property featured in leading outlets such as Forbes, The Sunday Times and The Telegraph. At a nightly rate of £5,940, a 7-night stay in July at this address totals £41,580.

Located in Marylebone, one of London’s most charming neighbourhoods, the townhouse accommodates up to 12 overnight guests across six bedrooms, each uniquely designed to evoke the glamour of the Regency period. The interiors draw inspiration from Jane Austen’s beloved brother, Henry, who resided here in the 18th century. Guests can immerse themselves in the rich history of the Austen family, exploring Jane’s reading room, the art-adorned hallways, and the lavish sitting rooms. A delicious breakfast, prepared by a private chef awaits them daily in the pantry kitchen.

18. Springkell House, Dumfries and Galloway

Offered at £5,829 per night, Springkell is a magnificent Palladian mansion, tucked away within 100 acres of picturesque gardens in the village of Eaglesfield. Dating back to 1734, it lies just six miles from Gretna Green, near the English border. A week-long retreat in July reaches £40,800.

The main house comprises 21 luxury bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms, accommodating up to 49 guests. Three two-bedroom cottages can sleep 17 more people if you need extra space. The interiors have been renovated and furnished exclusively by the interior designers of The Goring Hotel, London, for the Duchess of Cambridge. The reception rooms at Springkell include a striking black-and-white hallway, a spacious ballroom, a formal dining room and two elegant sitting rooms. Throughout your stay, three chefs and a well-stocked bar are at your service.

19. Bardney Hall, North Lincolnshire

Offered at a nightly rate of £5,075, Barton-upon-Humber’s Bardney Hall concludes the UK’s top 20 most expensive Airbnb rentals list.

Tucked away in the heart of North Lincolnshire with Hull and East Yorkshire within sniffing distance, Bardney Hall was constructed as a private residence for William Gildas in the early 1700s. Now, it is used as a wedding and events venue and a bed and breakfast. A week-long retreat there totals £35,525.

The mansion boasts 6 bedrooms, each with a private bathroom, and mesmerising garden views, sleeping up to 14 guests. The hosts offer a wonderful array of activities both at the house and further afield, including afternoon tea rituals, croquet lessons, wine tasting, hair and beauty treatments, golf and horse riding. There is a private chef on-site too.

20. Craig-y-nos Castle, Brecon Beacons

The Craig-y-nos Castle is a Scots baronial-style country house, nestled near Glyntawe in Powys, Wales. Built on parkland beside the River Tawe in the upper Swansea Valley, it is located on the southeastern edge of the Black Mountain.

The castle, once home of the famous 19th opera singer Adelina Patti, now operates as a B&B and a wedding venue. It offers 25 bedrooms and 24 bathrooms, sleeping up to 71 people and features its own Grade I listed theatre. At £4,777 per night, the total for a week-long stay in July at the castle sums up to £33,439. Interestingly, guests describe the place as the most dog-friendly accommodation in Wales, if not the whole UK!

Methodology

To come up with these findings, the team at BestBrokers combed through Airbnb.com for the most expensive listings in the United Kingdom. To determine the actual price per night, inclusive of all fees and taxes (cleaning fee, Airbnb service fee, occupancy tax), and any applicable discounts, each property’s total cost for a 7-night stay in either July or August 2024, known as peak months for holiday rentals in the UK, was divided by seven. From there, based on the total nightly rate we calculated, our team meticulously filtered and curated the top 20 priciest Airbnbs in the country.

In addition to the national research, we scrutinised the website for the top 10 priciest Airbnb rentals in 15 of the UK’s major urban areas, encompassing the primary city along with its surrounding built-up areas, suburbs, and nearby towns and villages. We also collected essential details for each Airbnb, such as property type, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, maximum guest capacity, and premium amenities. Note that hotel rooms and listings with unrealistic prices or no available dates in either July or August were filtered out. Data collection took place between February 27 and March 5, 2024, and was correct at the time of writing. However, it’s important to acknowledge the dynamic nature of rental prices, which fluctuates daily and varies throughout the year.