Looking for a place to stay that’s out of the ordinary, unusual even? We’ve picked the best the UK has to offer that wouldn’t quite fit into the conventional overnight breaks.
Every now and then, it's great to have a break from the ordinary and that can also apply to where you decide stay on your well deserved short break.
From shepherd's huts, hobbit huts, yurts and even a night in a prison cell, there's a lot more to breaks away than meets the eye.
When planning a short break, it's worth considering accommodation that veers off the beaten path rather than settling for the predictability of a standard hotel room. The allure of an unconventional lodging experience lies in the novelty it brings to your trip. Choosing to stay in a shepherd's hut, a hobbit hut, or even a yurt for a unique glamping adventure can infuse your short break with a sense of wonder and excitement. These quirky abodes allow you to immerse yourself in nature or fantasy-like settings, breaking free from the mundane routine of traditional accommodation. Similarly, spending a night in a former Victorian prison presents an opportunity for an entirely distinctive, slightly eerie experience that you'll remember for years to come. By opting for unusual accommodations, you can transform your short break into an unforgettable journey filled with new perspectives and intriguing stories to share.
In addition to the memorable experiences unusual accommodations provide, they often offer an authentic connection to the local culture and environment. These unconventional options are typically nestled in more secluded or nature-oriented settings, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors and experience a different way of life. Whether it's the rustic charm of a shepherd's hut or the enchanting ambiance of a hobbit hut, such stays encourage a deeper engagement with your surroundings. Furthermore, opting for these unique accommodations supports small businesses and local hosts, contributing to a more sustainable and community-driven tourism model. So, by breaking away from the conventional hotel room, you not only make your short break stand out but also promote a more enriching, eco-conscious travel experience.
Yep, you heard that right. For an overnight stay with a difference, you can experience what it's like to visit a prison and spend the night behind bars in a prison cell - no illegal activity necessary we hasten to add!
Shepton Mallet Prison and Shrewsbury Prison both offer you the chance to spend 12 hours locked in overnight, sleeping in a real prison cell and enjoying an evening guided tour led by an ex prison officer. Learn about what life was like for the prisoners, officers and visitors to the prisons. You'll get to visit places you'll never normally get to see such as the cells, healthcare rooms, executioner’s bedroom, and even the Condemned prisoner’s cell. Your sentence finishes at 7am the next morning, providing you've been on your best behaviour of course, but not until you've enjoyed a hot and hearty breakfast!
This is a fantastic experience for couples, groups of friends and those with an interest in the paranormal. Oh, didn't we mention it's a haunted prison?!
The buying and booking was easy. Now we just wait for the experience as my son is very excited.
I cannot wait to cuddle those cows!
It was super easy to buy a last minute present. I actually think I found something really amazing.
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