When travelling the UK on The Quirky Tour we were blown away by the variety of unusual breaks in the South West that are within a reasonable budget, and the efforts the owners go to to create something unique.
This isn’t just about a place to lay your head, but somewhere you will make lasting memories and come away the feeling that you have experienced something truly special.
Keep it Quirky!
Image from Corrugated Cottage WWII
1. Corrugated Cottage, Somerset (see photo above)
This 1940's 2 bedroom cottage offers authentic war time details throughout with an Anderson air-raid shelter in the garden.
Originally built for the women's land army you can enjoy original features including a 50's sink, claw-foot roll top bath and raised cistern toilet with special sound effect!
Sleeping 4 guests in 2 twin bedrooms (one up some steep stairs), this property is ideal for guests with an interest in history or those looking for something truly unique.
Whilst here you can relax in the fenced garden (dogs welcome too), take a stroll to the village pub or visit the nearby town of Glastonbury.
2. Long Barrow Windmill, Devon
Enjoy total rest and relaxation at this secluded windmill with incredible panoramic views over Dartmoor and beyond.
The windmill is set over 4 floors and sleeps up to 4 guests in a double bedroom and 2 comfortable chair beds suitable for children age 6+.
There is a lovely open plan living and kitchen area on the ground floor with al fresco dining availale for those balmy summer days.
Set close to the beach at Torquay, this property offers a comfortable stay and a great base for exploring this beautiful part of the world.
3. The Old Luggage Van, Cornwall
Historic carriage offers a romantic stay for 2, with trackside views, just a stone's throw from the coast at St Germans.
The carriage has all you could need for a romantic getaway- a double bedroom, woodburning stove for cosiness and plenty of old world charm.
Whilst here you can visit one of the many nearby beaches, enjoy a drink at the local bar or simply relax in your private garden area with a BBQ.
This raised woodland cabin offers a rural getaway for up to 4 guests near Lostwithiel.
Whilst here get up close and personal with eagles and owls with a bird of prey experience with the knowledgeable owner.
The property has a raised mezzanine level with double bedroom area and 2 single futons on the ground floor.
There is a cosy living space with electric heater for chillier days and the private bathroom hut is just a few steps away and comes with gorgeous locally made organic toiletries.
Outside you can enjoy woodland views whilst cooking on the unique stainless steel beer barrel BBQ, or enjoy a game of table tennis in the owner's garden.
There is loads to see and do in the local area, wiht the Eden Project, Bodmin Jail attraction and Porfell Wildlife Park all within a short driving distance.
Gorgeous yurt with woodland and riverside setting ideal for a romantic break or family stay, comes complete with a sauna, outdoor and indoor showers, plus a firepit.
There are three mains parts to this property - the yurt itself with double bed, two single beds and log burner, the kitchen and shower hut and the outside covered seating area with fire pit and grill.
Add to this a choice of seating areas and you have all you need for a perfect getaway.
If you can drag yourselves away from this idyll, then family fun can be had at Crealy Theme Park near Exeter, or enjoy some culture at one of the many National Trust properties in the area.
Located on the edge of the Mendip Hills, this quaint chapel offers a romantic stay for two guests, with dogs welcome.
The chapel has a bright open plan living area and kitchen with a grand piano, perfect for musicians to knock out a tune on.
Up the staircase you will discover your mezzanine level double bedroom with sofa and views down onto the living area.
Outside you can relax in your private garden area, the perfect spot to enjoy your favourite tipple at the end of the day.
Locally you can enjoy a visit to Bath, Cheddar, Longleat and many quintessential English villages.
Get back to the simple life and enjoy a woodland stay at this award winning off grid cabin for 2 guests near Tiverton.
The cabin has been built out of reclaimed sustainable wood and offers a cosy stay with handmade double bed, cosy wood burner and kitchenette with gas hob.
Solar power is provided for electric so you can charge your devices if needs be, however a digital detox is recommended.
Whilst here you can enjoy free guided walks around the wood, visit Tiverton with its castle, Grand Western Canal Country Park and National Trust properties and gardens.
This 1940's themed shepherd's hut tells of a war time love story and is set in the centre of a pretty village near Yeovil.
Inside there is a comfy double bed, kitchenette facilities and an en-suite shower room. Outside you can sink into the warmth of the wood fired hot tub or enjoy dining al fresco in your private garden area.
Locally you can enjoy a meal in the 17th century village coaching inn, explore the Jurassic coastline or take a hike along 28 mile long Liberty Trail path.
Unusual floating pod sleeps 2 guests in Totnes on the south Devon coastline and offersa central location with cafes, restaurants and shops all within walking distance.
Inside the pod there is a double bed, kitchenette and sitting area, plus an en-suite shower room. Luxury shower rooms are also available for your use on the marina.
Outside you have a small balcon area where you can enjoy the seaviews from your floating home.
There is plenty to see and do here, with a beach just a 5 minute walk away, ideal for that morning swim.
Beautiful Dartmoor is just a 15 minute drive away, and offers wilderness for you to explore. Meanwhile fans of retail therapy will love a visit to the nearby retail park with multitude of big brand names.
10. Atlantic Surf Treehouse, Cornwall
Nestled 6 metres above the ground, this treehouse offers a bijou romantic stay for 2 near the coast at Bude.
Inside the treehouse is a double bed, large beanbags and basic kitchenette facilities. Outside on your terrace you can relax with a cuppa and take in the stunning seaviews.
Down on the ground, you will discover you private bathroom with al fresco shower, plus a BBQ area for dining al fresco.
The seaside town of Bude is known for its great surfing as well as fabulous coastal walks and delicious cream teas and Cornish pasties.
A little further afield is the town of Tintagel where you can explore the legendary ruins, or alternatively take a day trip to beautiful Clovelly, the cliffside village with gift shop and cafe.
Browse all budget breaks in the South West!
Thanks for reading!
Jess, CEO & Founder of QuirkyAccom.com
