Today, Vrbo® unveiled the 2025 Holiday Homes of the Year, revealing the most remarkable private holiday homes across the UK.   

Vrbo’s annual collection is more than just a list; the Holiday Homes of the Year invite Brits to experience the UK at its best and most inspiring, highlighting homes and hosts that are creating unforgettable stays for families and groups of friends. This year’s standout holiday homes range include a colourful beachhouse, a striking manor house on a private island, and a romantic 16^th century castle in Scotland. 

“Every year, Vrbo Holiday Homes of the Year inspire travellers to book their next family holiday, and the 2025 collection is no different,” said Larry Plawsky, General Manager of Vrbo. “The holiday homes on this year’s list reflect the places with amazing guest ratings, experienced and dedicated hosts, and stunning spaces that offer the most requested amenities on Vrbo from private pools to fully equipped entertainment rooms.”

Entering its fourth year in the UK, the Holiday Homes of the Year are chosen from more than two million listings on the Vrbo app and undergo a thorough selection process based on what travellers desire most:   

• Exceptional guest ratings: Ratings of 9.8 or above and stellar reviews from former guests 
• Premier Host status: Properties managed by hosts with a proven track record of providing excellent guest experiences ¹
• Multi-bedroom accommodations: Enough space for families or group trips; all homes have at least three bedrooms for guests to comfortably stay together 
• Standout amenities: Homes that feature the most popular amenities on Vrbo; every honoree has a private pool or hot tub, and extra consideration was given to homes with unique features like a games rooms, cinema, gym or in-home casino. 

“Vrbo hosts are ultimately the key to making a traveller’s holiday one to remember. Premier Hosts in particular are known to go above and beyond to offer exceptional, reliable and relaxing guest experiences,” said Tim Rosolio, vice president of Partner Success for Vrbo. “With our rigorous Premier Host badging, we’re sending a clear and compelling trust signal to travellers about where to find the best and consistent experiences on Vrbo.” 

This year’s Holiday Homes of the Year are among the fastest-booked rentals in the country. Travelers who book the Holiday Homes of the Year can take advantage of Vrbo’s free rewards program, which includes earning OneKeyCash™ that can be used toward future eligible stays². 

This year’s collection of homes also embodies popular travel trends from Vrbo’s travel trends report, Unpack ’25, such as JOMO Travel and Phenomena-List. From tranquil gardens, private indoor pools and hot tubs, to state-of-the-art cinemas and private gyms – these amenities are perfect for those seeking JOMO (the Joy of Missing Out) – to homes nicely located for witnessing some of nature’s most spectacular phenomena, like starling murmurations in Somerset. 

Vrbo Holiday Homes of the Year celebrates extraordinary private properties around the world with more than 50 honorees across the U.S., Canada, U.K., France, Germany, Australia and New Zealand. Download the Vrbo app to view and book the most impressive holiday homes for your next family holidays and learn how hosts make the coveted list on our blog.

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Escape to the country in style: The Cosh – Moreton-in-Marsh, Cotswold 

Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the countryside, surrounded by contemporary elegance and breathtaking views. The Cosh, a stunning converted Dutch barn nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, offers the ideal escape for discerning travellers seeking a luxurious and dog-friendly retreat. This architectural gem seamlessly blends modern design with rustic charm, creating a truly unique holiday experience. This converted Dutch barn boasts an airy open-plan living space with bi-fold glass doors leading to a peaceful garden and charming shepherd’s hut. Upstairs, the exquisite family room leads onto a vast balcony with sweeping views of the Cotswolds. With six luxury bedrooms and five bathrooms, The Cosh is perfect for large families seeking long summer evenings dining al fresco, or cosy winter escapes in the English countryside. 

Coastal chic: Quarry House – Kingsbridge, Devon 

Quarry House is an architectural wonder designed by award-winning architect Stan Bolt and with breathtaking coastal views. Inside, guests will enjoy spacious living areas with industrial décor and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the house with natural light. The modern kitchen is one of the property’s standout features where families can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner overlooking Devon’s rolling green hills. The gardens offer complete privacy, inviting guests to explore and relax in peace. A particular highlight is the Shepherd’s Hut, a tranquil haven to unwind with a drink and soak in the spectacular views across the South Hams and towards the Salcombe-Kingsbridge estuary.  Evenings are made cosy with a wood burner inside the hut, ensuring warmth and comfort no matter the weather.  

A highland fairytale: Kilmartin Castle – Kilmartin, Argyll and Bute (Scotland) 

Originally built in 1550 during the legendary reign of Mary Queen of Scots for a former bishop, Kilmartin Castle held a rich and colourful history before being abandoned for nearly 200 years. This magnificent castle has been carefully restored as a luxury private guest house that sleeps up to 10 guests in five magnificent rooms. The walls and floors proudly display their original aged patina; inside, a curated collection of antique furniture, original artworks, and fascinating objects creates an atmosphere of timeless elegance.  Outside, guests can enjoy the landscaped gardens and its amenities including an orchard, sunken fire pit, and an outdoor kitchen equipped with everything needed for alfresco dining – including a Kamado Joe BBQ and pizza oven. Guests can also enjoy the castle’s own organic fruits, herbs, and vegetables, and take a refreshing dip in the wild swimming pond.  

A country thatched cottage dream: Smithycroft – Chard, Somerset 

Nested in the heart of the Somerset countryside, Smithycroft is a beautiful cottage with traditional thatched roof and stone walls in the charming village of Combe St Nicholas. This idyllic cottage exudes charm from the moment guests arrive. Smithycroft has been thoughtfully refurbished to include touches of modern luxury. Inside, the cosy atmosphere continues, where couples and families can settle into plush leather armchairs and relax by the fireplace before enjoying a restful night’s sleep in one of three spacious bedrooms. The enclosed garden is perfect for enjoying summer evening drinks. 

Coastal grandeur: The Natterjack Manor House – Morecambe, Lancashire 

Indulge in the ultimate luxury escape at The Natterjack Manor House, a contemporary home with vast living spaces. The ground floor is an expansive, open-plan area, perfect for socialising and entertaining. Outside, the manor boasts boutique garden areas, a hot tub, al fresco dining spaces, and an outdoor kitchen complete with a masonry BBQ, stone pizza oven, fire pit, and gazebo. The Natterjack Manor House also features a stunning private, indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, massage room, and gym for a dose of relaxation and wellness during the stay. 

Luxurious beachfront escape: Downs Cottage – Deal, Kent  

This extraordinary beachfront retreat seamlessly blends modern luxuries with sophisticated elegance, providing the perfect escape for families and interior design enthusiasts alike. Set right on the shore, this airy home boasts a quintessential beach house feel with its white-wood interiors and maritime-themed decor. Colourful fabrics and artwork add a touch of style and quirkiness to the space. Kids can enjoy long summer days playing on the beach outside, while parents can unwind in the sauna. The pristine lawned garden is the perfect setting for BBQs and sunset drinks. 

A private island escape: Hermitage House – Caton, Lancashire 

Hermitage House, is a unique home located on a private island that offers an unforgettable experience. Before even stepping foot onto the private island, guests will be captivated by the breathtaking views of the River Lune, with the charming Otter Island visible from most rooms. Hermitage House leaves no stone unturned in providing entertainment, with luxurious amenities including a games room, a casino and even a private hair salon. Unwind and rejuvenate in the private spa, hot tub, and sauna. Movie nights are a must in the private cinema, offering a perfect way to end a day of exploring the beautiful surroundings.