A chic bohemian hideaway in the shadow of the Shard. A 19th century Gothic Revival chapel in Putney. An art studio in Chelsea where the lead singer of The Noisettes once lived.
These are just some of the most exclusive AirBnbs in London – which you can rent for £150 a night, if you know where to look. From secret lofts to unique penthouses with rooftop hot tubs, here’s our pick of the best.
The Borough Artist School
Host Natalie manages a number of enchanting properties in London, including this chic bohemian retreat in the shadow of the Shard. The exact location is a secret (it’s steps from Borough Market) and guests must apply and be approved for a stay. Natalie spent five years renovating an old workhouse dating from 1907 and the attention to detail is exquisite. The floor comes from a nearby factory and the vintage furniture makes you feel like you’re in a dollhouse. The exposed brick and antique copper roll top bath add a huge amount of character and there are plenty of other whimsical touches to explore and discover, such as hidden passages and rare works of art adorning the walls.
Up to 2 guests, £304 per night, Southwark SE1, Airbnb.co.uk
The Shoreditch Party House
In vibrant Shoreditch, this ultra-modern penthouse has an exclusive outdoor party terrace where you can pop bottles and take in the skyline from an eight-person hot tub. Guests can live out their celebrity fantasies with more space than a yacht in Monaco to entertain friends. Perhaps the most exclusive feature of this East London hotel is the free on-site parking (a real rarity) and there’s a sauna where you can sweat out the alcohol after a wild night.
Up to 8 guests, £1,200 per night, Old Street EC1V, Airbnb.co.uk
The chic Soho loft
In a city where location is everything, it doesn’t get better than this chic loft in vibrant Soho. The atmosphere is hotel-meets-private members-club, with designer interiors by award-winning London duo Elliot March and James White. Custom amenities include custom millwork, sleek marble counters, and beautiful velvet-wrapped furnishings. It is close to London’s most popular shopping and dining district and surrounded by popular theater and music venues.
Up to 6 guests, £1,776 per night, Soho W1F, Airbnb.co.uk
The Mayfair Penthouse
It doesn’t get more exclusive than Park Lane, one of the most coveted streets in the world, although that exclusivity does come at a price. In this beautiful penthouse, the charcoal black decor with hints of gold gives caviar and champagne vibes, adding drama to the ultra-luxe aesthetic.
There is a cozy fireplace where you can cuddle on cold days and an outdoor terrace where you can enjoy an Aperol spritz while watching the sunset. Nearby Mount Street is London’s answer to New York’s 5th Avenue, and you’re never far from a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Up to 8 guests, £8,895 per night, Park Lane W1, Airbnb.co.uk
The Hackney Narrowboat
In a change of pace, this cozy narrowboat on the trendy Regents Canal radiates romance and charm. It’s the perfect base for exploring Victoria Park and Broadway Market and the trendy bars and restaurants are within easy reach. The traditional houseboat has been completely renovated by host Yann and features a warm rain shower, a record player on board and even an indoor fireplace. Enjoy the peaceful tranquility and get close to nature without leaving the city.
Maximum 4 guests, £150 per night, Hackney E2, Airbnb.co.uk
The Notting Hill mansion
This sophisticated apartment is located between the famous Portobello Road Market and chic Westbourne Grove, bustling with designer shops and restaurants. The pastel-coloured stucco building dates back to 1860 and the elegant, tasteful interior retains charming original features such as a 19th-century fireplace. Guests can head straight into the bustling metropolitan area of Notting Hill for tulips from the market or take a leisurely stroll to Kensington Palace and Hyde Park.
Up to 2 guests, £245 per night, Notting Hill W11, Airbnb.co.uk
Chelsea’s art studio
This renovated Victorian art studio is bathed in sunlight thanks to its double-height ceilings and wall-to-wall skylights in the roof. It is in a prime location in affluent Chelsea and has an abundance of character. The property was renovated by host Alex with the vision to create a unique and eclectic space with art as the focal point.
The walls are decorated with pieces from a range of creatives, including London-based mixed media duo Miss Bugs, urban graffiti artist Bast and photographer Sebastian Mader. The name-dropping doesn’t stop there, as the studio was once home to Shingai Shoniwa, the lead singer of indie rock band The Noisettes.
Maximum 6 guests, £750 per night, Chelsea SW10, Airbnb.co.uk
The Putney Chapel
This rare hidden gem offers guests the exclusive opportunity to stay in a converted 19th century neo-Gothic chapel. The historic stone building sits in a charming, overgrown cemetery, surrounded by cherry blossom trees and wildflowers. It’s quaint and romantic, with sunlight streaming through the stained glass windows and a mezzanine balcony where you can gaze into the distance and imagine you’re in an EM Forster novel.
The renovation of the chapel is modern and clean, with lime-washed walls and wooden floors. Rustic meets minimalist in a perfect escape from the city (as long as you don’t believe in ghosts).
Maximum 4 guests, £250 per night, Putney SW13, Airbnb.co.uk