by Wasp chic bohemian under the shadow of the Shard. A 19th century Gothic Revival church in Putney. An art studio in Chelsea that was once home to the lead singer of The Noisettes.
These are just some of the most exclusive AirBnbs in London – 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 roundup of the best.
Borough artist school
Host Natalie manages a few magical properties in London, including this bohemian chic hideaway in the shadow of the Shard. The exact location (it’s a “stone’s throw” from the Borough Market) is a secret and guests must apply and be approved for a stay. Natalie spent five years renovating the old poor house which dates back to 1907 and there is real attention to detail. The floor is salvaged from a nearby factory and the vintage furniture feels like you’re in a dollhouse. The exposed bricks and the ancient copper roll top bath add a huge amount of character and there are many other whimsical touches to explore and uncover, such as hidden passages and rare pieces of art adorning the walls.
Up to 2 guests, £304 per night, Southwark SE1, Airbnb.co.uk
Shoreditch party house
In vibrant Shoreditch, this ultra-modern penthouse has an exclusive outdoor party terrace for popping bottles and soaking up 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 property is the free on-site parking garage (a rarity) and a sauna to sweat off 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 swanky loft in vibrant Soho. The vibe is hotel-meets-private members’ club, with interior design by award-winning London duo Elliot March and James White. Custom features include custom millwork, sleek marble counters and beautiful velvet-wrapped furnishings. It is on the doorstep of London’s hottest shopping and dining district and is surrounded by theater and music venues.
Up to 6 guests, £1,776 per night, Soho W1F, Airbnb.co.uk
The Mayfair Inn
It doesn’t get more exclusive than Park Lane, one of the most sought-after streets in the world, although that exclusivity comes at a great price. Inside this stunning penthouse, charcoal-black decor with hints of caviar and champagne gold hints, adding drama to the ultra-luxe aesthetic.
There’s a cozy fireplace for snuggling up on chilly days and an outdoor terrace to enjoy an Aperol spritz while watching the sunset. Nearby is Mount Street, 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
With a change of pace, this cozy narrowboat located on the trendy Regents Canal exudes all romance and charm. It makes the perfect base for exploring Victoria Park and Broadway Market and is within easy reach of trendy bars and restaurants. The traditional houseboat has been completely renovated by the host Yann and has a hot rain shower, a record player on board and even an interior wood burning fireplace. Enjoy the peaceful tranquility and get close to nature without leaving the city.
Up to 4 guests, £150 per night, Hackney E2, Airbnb.co.uk
Notting Hill townhouse
This sophisticated apartment sits between the famous Portobello Road Market and chic Westbourne Grove, bustling with designer shops and restaurants. The pastel-coloured stucco-fronted building dates back to 1860 and the elegant, tasteful interior has nice original features such as a 19th-century fireplace. Guests can step directly into the bustling urban area of Notting Hill to pick up tulips from the market or stroll to Kensington Palace and Hyde Park.
Up to 2 guests, £245 per night, Notting Hill W11, Airbnb.co.uk
Chelsea art studio
Double-height ceilings and wall-to-wall skylights on the roof bathe this renovated Victorian art studio in sunlight. It is in an excellent location in affluent Chelsea and has an abundance of character. Host Alex renovated the property with the aim of creating a unique and eclectic space with art as a 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 transfer doesn’t end there, as the studio was home to Shinai Shoniwa – the lead singer of the indie rock band The Noisettes.
Up to 6 guests, £750 per night, Chelsea SW10, Airbnb.co.uk
Putney Chapel
This rare hideaway offers guests an exclusive opportunity to stay in a restored 19th century Gothic church. The historic stone building sits in a beautifully overgrown cemetery framed by cherry trees and wildflowers. It is quaint and romantic, with sunlight flooding through the stained glass windows and a mezzanine balcony to gaze out into the distance and imagine you are in an EM Forster novel.
The restoration of the church is modern and clean, with whitewashed walls and wooden floors. Rustic meets elite with the perfect escape from the city (as long as you don’t believe in ghosts).
Up to 4 guests, £250 per night, Putney SW13, Airbnb.co.uk
