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Quirky Airbnb rentals in Kent

In recent years, Airbnb has become an incredibly popular way of finding reasonably priced accommodation for a weekend getaway or city break.

But with millions of people now advertising their properties on the site, some of the more interesting, quirky properties can be hard to find unless you are committed to endless scrolling.

Vintage caravan in Herne Bay
Vintage caravan in Herne Bay

So we've done the work for you and collated a list of the quirkiest Airbnb rentals on offer in Kent - check them out below.

1. Mini Gothic castle in Dover

A Grade II-listed mini Gothic castle has now been transformed into a quaint, fairytale holiday home.

Originally built as the gate house for the Dover Castle Garrison officers' accommodation, the castle still has a distinct antique feel with its canopied beds, beamed ceilings and vintage furniture.

The actual Dover Castle is just behind the house, so you can take a tour round the historic settlement during your break.

To book a stay at The Gate House click here

2. Old Smock Windmill in Benenden

This old windmill has been transformed into cosy, stylish accommodation.

Surrounded by rolling fields, the Old Smock Windmill is over three storeys with white weather boards and a balcony encircles the building.

The huge, original beams are fully exposed, spanning each floor carrying the original upright shaft giant spur wheel and sack hoist.

A welcome basket including the owner's chickens' organic eggs are presented on arrival.

To book a stay at the Old Smock Windmill click here

3. Spiral Straw Bale Studio near Canterbury

For a calming retreat, cleansing the mind and soul, this studio could be the perfect place.

The building has been hand-built from wood and straw bales, overlooking the countryside, with space for four guests.

A private patio, reed bed pond, and chimnea fire can be used throughout your stay.

It lies next to 12 acres of private woodland with a bar, fire pit, tables, chairs and a camping area available to hire out separately.

Bespoke retreat packages include breathing work to help heal emotional trauma, relationship therapy, and a raw food workshop.

To book a stay at the Spiral Straw Bale Studio click here

4. Converted chapel in Tyler Hill, Canterbury

This converted chapel is as cosy as you can get, with a log burner, fairy lights and a super king size bed.

Stylish decor and furniture, including ditsy flower curtains and a dark leather Chesterfield, have been carefully selected by the owner.

There is also an outside area with a dining table, and the property is just a 10 minute drive from Whitstable and a half hour walk from Canterbury.

To book a stay at the converted chapel click here

5. Penny Rope bed chamber in Margate

Feel the experience of being banged up for the night - but know you can get out in the morning.

What was once the fridge storage for a stately home, Penny Rope has been transformed into prison cell-themed accommodation, complete with bunk beds and a windowless bedroom.

However, the owners have still managed to create a homely atmosphere, and don't worry, the cell has all the mod cons.

With a private walled garden, Penny Rope sleeps two and is situated in the heart of Margate.

To book a stay at Penny Rope click here

6. Artist's Garden Cabin in Whitstable

The artist's cabin is an electric blue, self-contained retreat.

With room for three, the cabin has its own entrance and patio area, and is just a 15 minute walk from Whitstable station, town centre, and the beach.

It has a bathroom, kitchenette, wifi, and radio.

To book a stay at the Artist's Garden Cabin click here

7. Bubble Minnels Farm in Maidstone

Made up of blown-up plastic balls, this is a unique place to stay.

The top half of the sypherical pods are transparent, with a great view of the sky while lying in bed - perfect for star gazing.

With space for four, the accommodation also has a wood burning hot tub, and is full equipped with a toilet, shower, and air conditioning.

To book a stay at Bubble Minnels Farm click here

8. Vintage caravan in Herne Bay

Go back to basics with this little vintage caravan in Herne Bay.

The tiny red trailer has been decorated with red gingham and floral upholstery and a bright red kettle sits on the stove to match.

Although the caravan doesn't have many mod cons, the shower and toilet inside the house can be used during the day and a portaloo at night.

To book a stay at the vintage caravan click here

9. Houseboat in Oare near Faversham

Set on the edge of Oare Marshes nature reserve, this houseboat has a wood burner and is fully solar-powered.

You can cuddle up inside the barge and watch the rare birds which live in the area, which can be seen from the kitchen window.

You might even spot a seal while eating your breakfast.

The houseboat is joined by lots of other historic boats on the creek and there are plenty of walking routes nearby.

To book a stay on the houseboat click here

10. Woodland yurt in Bekesbourne

A spacious yurt set within 12 acres of woodland, this accommodation combines home comforts and camping.

There is no electricity or wifi on site, allowing guests to escape busy, modern life for a short while, but the yurt itself is warm and dry, with lots of inside space.

A woodland healing centre is also on site, which includes 'mindfulness in the woods' and 'ecstatic dance workshops'.

To book a stay at the woodland yurt click here

11. Sapphire’s Sheppey Car Camping in Sheerness

It may not be as quaint as some of the other fairly light-laden rentals, but this Airbnb is definitely quirky.

An inflatable mattress has been wedged into the back of a Nissan Duke in Sheppey and the windows blacked out with material to prevent passers by peaking in.

For a modest £8, you will also be supplied with a cool bag, hanging rail and colour-changing mood lamp for the duration of your stay.

An outside toilet in a little tent is situated in the owner's private yard, complete with water, soap, and a tube of toothpaste.

To book a stay at Sapphire's Car Camping click here

A sneaky extra one just outside Kent: Hobbit House in Robertsbridge

This rental is not technically in Kent but it's just so lovely - we had to include it.

The Hobbit House has room for four and, true to its name, resembles something from Lord of the Rings, complete with a perfectly circular door, little round windows and a low, flat roof.

Built by local craftsman, it is buried into a bank with views of the Rother Valley.

The house is a short walk from Bodiam Castle, a steam railway, and a host of pubs.

To book a stay at the Hobbit House click here

For more quirky and unusual stories, click here

Read more: All the latest news from Kent

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