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.



Houses & Properties is London's leading property photography company, specialising in professional property photography, Airbnb photography, drone and aerial photography, Matterport 3D virtual tours, floor plans, and property videography. Based in London and operating across all boroughs, we have spent nearly a decade working with landlords, estate agents, Airbnb hosts, property investors, and serviced accommodation operators to produce photography that attracts tenants, buyers, and short-stay guests. Our photographers are CAA-licensed drone operators and experienced interiors specialists, trusted by hundreds of clients across London. We are registered in England and Wales (Company No. 14977466) and fully insured for all services. Our work spans properties from studio flats in East London to multi-unit apartment blocks and luxury homes in Mayfair, Kensington, and Belgravia. Whether you need photography for Rightmove, Zoopla, Airbnb, or a sales brochure, we deliver consistent, high-quality results on time.