Top 10 Airbnb and Short-Term Rental Websites in the UK (2025 Update)

Summary

These 10 short-term rental websites provide a wide range of options for both travellers and hosts. Whether you’re looking to book a last-minute break or list a property, these platforms make it easy to find the right fit.

Are you planning a trip or thinking about listing your property? These 10 rental websites in the UK are ideal for finding your next stay or offering your place to guests. Whether you’re a traveller or a host, these platforms provide plenty of options to meet your needs.


1. Airbnb – A Reliable Platform for All

As one of the most popular names in the short-term rental space, Airbnb remains a solid choice for bookings. It continues to provide an easy-to-use system for hosts to list their properties and for guests to find stays of all types. Whether you’re booking a flat or a house, Airbnb has long been a go-to for short stays in the UK.


2. Booking.com – A Wide Selection of Properties

While Booking.com is known for hotels, it also offers a variety of short-term rentals. In 2025, it continues to offer a range of accommodation options, from apartments to homes. The site is user-friendly, and its flexible booking system makes it a good option for a wide range of travellers.


3. Vrbo – Great for Groups and Families

Formerly HomeAwayVrbo is the go-to for those looking for more space. It focuses on vacation homes, making it a good option for families or groups. From cottages to villas, Vrbo remains a reliable platform for booking longer stays in 2025.



4. Plum Guide – High-Quality Rentals

For those seeking a higher standard of accommodation, Plum Guide offers a curated selection of homes. Only top-rated properties make it onto the platform, ensuring a quality stay. If you want peace of mind knowing your accommodation meets high standards, Plum Guide is the way to go in 2025.


5. Sykes Holiday Cottages – Ideal for Rural Retreats

Specialising in holiday cottages, Sykes offers a wide range of properties in quiet, scenic areas. Whether you’re looking for a country escape or a family-friendly retreat, Sykes Holiday Cottages is a great platform for booking properties in some of the UK’s most peaceful locations.


6. TripAdvisor Rentals – Trusted by Users

TripAdvisor Rentals is part of the well-known TripAdvisor network and continues to offer a variety of rental properties across the UK. With a trusted review system, it remains a top choice for those looking for reliable, well-reviewed homes and apartments in 2025.



7. Snaptrip – Quick Getaways for Last-Minute Plans

Snaptrip is built for those who decide to travel on short notice. Offering deals on last-minute stays, it’s a great option for anyone looking for an easy and affordable way to book a break. Whether it’s a weekend or midweek escape, Snaptripmakes it easy to find somewhere to stay.


8. HolidayLettings – Affordable Rentals with Good Coverage

HolidayLettings, owned by TripAdvisor, continues to be a solid platform for those looking for affordable stays in a variety of locations. It offers a broad range of rental properties, from apartments in the city to cottages in the countryside, and remains a popular choice for UK travellers in 2025.


9. Unique Homestays – Properties with Character

If you want to find somewhere a bit different, Unique Homestays offers properties that have their own distinct appeal. From rural barns to beachside homes, this platform lets you book somewhere that offers a break from the usual. It’s ideal for those looking for something out of the ordinary in 2025.


10. CoolStays – Unconventional and Fun Rentals

CoolStays is for anyone looking for somewhere truly out of the ordinary. Whether it’s a houseboat or a converted castle, this platform offers fun and unusual properties for those who want something different. If you’re tired of typical accommodation options, CoolStays is a great way to book an unconventional stay.