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Cool down in a private pool: 7 affordable Airbnbs to rent this weekend in the UK, all under £63pp a night
Summer poolside staycations without splashing much cash? These won’t be around for long...
When the temperature creeps above 25°C in the UK, we naturally go into a heat-induced panic. Lido and swimming-pool slots become as hard to bag as Glastonbury tickets, and local swimming spots and beaches become overcrowded, loud and stressful. Throw school holidays into the mix and battling for a parking spot at the beach can get seriously ugly.
It’s too late – read: expensive – to book a last-minute trip abroad (and the heatwave in Europe is even hotter!) so how about a water-filled staycation instead?
According to Airbnb, searches by UK guests for stays on home turf are up more than 11% year-on-year, as travellers increasingly favour easier, more flexible breaks that don't require expensive flights, 100ml liquid limits and hours in the passport queue.
And the good news is you don’t have to part with too much cash to make a splash in a property with its own private pool. Once the reserve of sprawling country estates, there are now plenty of surprisingly affordable Airbnb stays that also come with one.
So we’ve done the scrolling for you and found seven of the best Airbnb rentals with outdoor pools to book this summer around the UK, with some available to book this weekend. And we’ve even made sure that none of them cost more than £250 a night for four – or £63pp each – whether you want to go with a group of friends or family.
Plus, every stay is a top-rated ‘Guest Favourite’ (awarded to the top-rated homes on the platform, with average ratings above 4.9 stars), so you don’t need to worry about whether it’ll be up to scratch. Let's dive in!
Wildlife Farm, Shadoxhurst
If glamping is your thing, this bell tent tucked away between bucolic wildflower meadows and ancient woodland is hard to beat. Guests can spend their days exploring 300 acres of nature-rich countryside before cooling off in the outdoor swimming pool, around which the only creatures you’ll need to compete for space with are the chirpy birds that love the surrounding bushes.
- Sleeps: 4
- Available: This weekend
The Old Stables, Chichester, South Downs
Nestled in the South Downs countryside, guests can spend their days cooling off in style, exploring nearby walking trails or enjoying a long lunch at a local pub. The meticulously decorated cottage itself comes complete with vaulted ceilings, a private garden and plenty of space to unwind.
- Sleeps: 4
- Available: This summer
Pear Tree barn, Yealmpton
This beautifully converted stone barn combines characterful charm with modern interiors, while its location near the South Devon coast puts beaches, Salcombe, Dartmouth and Dartmoor all within easy reach. After a day exploring, the outdoor pool is the perfect place to cool off and soak up the sunshine.
- Sleeps: 4
- Available: This weekend
Regency villa apartment, Montpellier, Cheltenham
For anyone who can’t decide between a city break and a countryside escape, this spacious apartment offers the best of both worlds. Guests are just a short stroll from Cheltenham’s boutiques, bars and restaurants, while a private garden and heated swimming pool provide a welcome retreat when the temperatures climb. Ideal for girls’ weekends, couples or families looking for a little luxury this summer.
- Sleeps: 4
- Available: This summer
The Owl House, Moreton
If the holiday group chat is divided between a swimming pool and a hot tub for when it gets cooler in the evenings, this countryside stay comes with both. Set within three acres of beautiful gardens complete with wildlife ponds and far-reaching rural views, The Owl House is a peaceful retreat designed for switching off. Expect stylish interiors offering a fun blend of contemporary design and I-want-to-take-that-home-with-me antiques.
- Sleeps: 4
- Available: This summer
The Mount Barns & Spa, Elmley Lovett
If your ideal staycation looks suspiciously like a spa break, Gig House at The Mount Barns & Spa is the one to bookmark. This beautifully converted barn comes with access to a shared outdoor wellness area featuring a pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and even an ice bath, all set against sweeping countryside views.
- Sleeps: 4
- Available: This weekend
Eagle Lodge, Cowbridge
If you like your countryside escapes to be more convenient than off-grid, Eagle Lodge strikes the perfect balance. This stylish log cabin overlooks rolling Welsh countryside and comes with access to an outdoor swimming pool, while the charming market town of Cowbridge, the bustle of Cardiff and nearby beaches are all within easy reach. It’s cosy inside but has a terrace outside for long, languid afternoons with family or friends.
- Sleeps 4
- Available: This summer
