Ahh, when I think about my time in the Cotswolds it gets me all warm and fuzzy. There is just something about the UK countryside that is just bloody gorgeous. The lush, endless green fields and the quaint towns brimming with history.
The city of Gloucester is located in the west of England, comfortably nestled between the Cotswolds to the east and the Forest of Dean to the west. The historic city lies along the River Severn and has a deep maritime heritage indicative at the Gloucester Docks.
Now, the cool thing about staying in an Airbnb in Gloucester is that there’s a good chance you’ll be staying in a small piece of history. Many of the units are refurbished Victorian-era homes or even medieval townhouses that have been carefully modernised as to not compromise their integrity. Rentals in Gloucester can also take the form of something rather quirky too, like a converted warehouse or even an old chapel if you’re lucky!
I’m going to take you through some of the BEST Airbnbs that money can rent you in Gloucester for your browsing pleasure. There are a range of units to suit every budget and need so there’s definitely something for everyone.
Without further ado, let’s dive into the best Airbnbs in Gloucester.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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Quick Answer: These Are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Gloucester
Charming Vaulted Apartment
- > $$
- > 5 guests
- > Pet friendly
- > Quirky décor and eclectic artwork throughout
Spacious, private self-contained guest suite
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Luggage drop off allowed
- > Fully-equipped self-contained unit
Huge Victorian Retreat; Sleeps 15+Private Parking!
- > $$$$
- > 15 guests
- > Private patio or balcony
- > Awesome Victorian architecture throughout
Little Home
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Private backyard – Fully fenced
- > Beautifully light and bright little home
Beautiful Coach House, Gloucester
- > $$$
- > 4 guests
- > City skyline view
- > Recently refurbished historical coach house
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Gloucester
Now, before I get into the list of top Airbnbs, I think it’s important to set expectations so that you know what you’re getting yourself into. I’ve briefly touched on what you can expect from rentals in Gloucester but let’s delve a bit deeper.
First things first, every single Airbnb is different, not just the ones in Gloucester. Each has its own unique charm and offering and each one has a different price. This is the beautiful thing. Why? Well, because this means that there’s something for everyone’s needs, wants, expectations, and budget.
In terms of Airbnbs in Gloucester, you can expect a range of different property types within the city, ranging from cottages and condos to apartments and houses. And everything in between. You might even find yourself something rather unique like an old warehouse conversion or a chapel that is now a modern apartment.
The historical building conversions are pretty special as you’re staying in a little piece of history, so to speak. Overall, you’ll find more of a local Gloucester touch in these properties with a warm and welcoming atmosphere – it’s the Gloucester way! When travelling in the UK, I found so many small quaint towns had the same energy <3
In terms of amenities, you can expect a lot of the usual suspects from any modern Airbnb. Things like WiFi, TVs, fully-equipped kitchens, utility cupboards, washers and dryers, and maybe a dishwasher if you’re lucky. What I’m trying to say is that you won’t be hard done by in terms of the amenity offering. You’ll generally have everything you need for a more-than-comfortable stay in Gloucester.
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Gloucester
Staying in the Cotswolds is an absolute treat. The landscapes are beautiful and the towns are quaint. Plus, you might just see Jeremy Clarkson roaming around (if you’ve seen Jeremy Clarkson’s farm – I’ll get me). Anyway, enough about Jeremy, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty.
Here are the 15 top Airbnbs in Gloucester that await your undivided attention! Let’s go.
Charming Vaulted Apartment | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Gloucester
Kicking things off for the top Airbnbs in Gloucester is this quirky vaulted apartment. The décor and artwork throughout are rather eclectic and give off a pretty fun vibe, although the apartment means business.
It boasts a fully-equipped kitchen, WiFi, a washer and dryer, and free parking on the premises for one car. More parking can be arranged too but at an additional cost.
The apartment can comfortably sleep five guests across a king bedroom, a single bedroom, and the sofa bed, so it’s perfect for a family or a few mates. The central location is a big plus and the Gloucester Docks as well as other city sites are easily reachable from the unit.
Spacious, private self-contained guest suite | Best Budget Airbnb in Gloucester
Now, not everyone is flush and has deep pockets to able to just splash out on expensive rentals in Gloucester. This self-contained guest suite is for us budget backpackers. It’s located at the front of the owner’s main house but it’s completely separate and has its own access.
The biggest draw card is that it’s a cost-effective option for those travellers looking for something that isn’t going to break the bank but still delivers. It’s got a kitchenette, WiFi, washer, HD TV, and a hair dryer – basically everything you need for a comfortable stay. The dining table even doubles as a pool table for some holiday billiards which is a fun little touch.
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View on Osprey View on REIHuge Victorian Retreat; Sleeps 15+Private Parking! | Over-the-Top Luxury Airbnb in Gloucester
So, it’s luxury that you’re after? Well then, you don’t need to look any further than this epic seven-bedroom Airbnb in Gloucester. It can comfortably sleep 15 guests so it’s the ideal spot for a big weekend getaway for large groups of friends or families. There’s plenty of space!
The fully-equipped kitchen is second to none and has everything you need to whip up an unforgettable meal for your group. It gets even better though – there’s an epic conservatory that’s got a formal dining area for everyone to gather to enjoy the feast. It’s all about togetherness here.
The massive windows in the living area allow sheet loads of natural light in and really add to the light and bright feeling of the house. Honestly, I could speak about this house for hours but I can’t, so just book it – you won’t be disappointed!
Little Home | Perfect Gloucester Airbnb for Solo Travellers
As a solo traveller in the UK, you don’t want something massive and over-the-top that you’ll get lost in on your own. This little home is the perfect rental in Gloucester for those looking for a quiet and secluded spot for their time in the city. The Gloucester Cathedral and docks as well as the Forest of Dean and The Cotswolds are all close by too so get ready to do some exploring around.
In terms of amenities, there’s no shortage here! There’s a fully-equipped kitchen with tea, coffee, and milk provided, smart TV, WiFi, and it’s pet friendly so you can bring your furry companion along. First one is included, however, you will pay a small cleaning fee for your second animal.
Beautiful Coach House, Gloucester. | Perfect Short-Term Airbnb in Gloucester for Digital Nomads
Calling all those who live the digital nomad lifestyle – this spot is for you! The cottage is located at the rear of the owner’s garden complete with its own entrance and a cute little outdoor patio with table and chairs.
On the inside, you’ll have a full kitchenette, a living/dining room area, and two bedrooms. The beauty is that both rooms have desks so you can dedicate the one to a work office. Alternatively, you can sit in the lounge or at the table if that’s more your work vibe. The unit also has BT business infinity WiFi throughout so you won’t have to worry about those uploads taking long or crusty Zoom calls – you’re covered!
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Gloucester
Luckily, that’s not all I have in store for you – the list continues! Here are a few more epic Airbnbs in Gloucester for you to choose from:
RewildThings – Sky
We’re starting off the second part of the list here with a bang – and by bang, I mean an epic treehouse a stone’s throw from Gloucester. This spot is something super unique and ideal for a romantic getaway for those travelling as a couple, although there is additional sleeping space for the kiddos too.
The treehouse aims to be as eco-friendly as possible and sustainable materials were used to build it to ensure minimal damage to the surrounding environment. If sustainability is your vibe, then this is definitely the place for you.
The unit is stylishly decorated throughout and boasts a sheltered outdoor kitchen, an outside fire pit, and an awesome indoor fireplace for those chilly nights. There’s also an epic outdoor copper bath that’s hands down my favourite feature. For those who need it, there’s also WiFi in the unit, but I say turn that phone off and embrace the solitude.
Stylish 2 Bedroom Apartment in The Docks
We now move from the forest to the Gloucester Quays for this two-bedroom apartment overlooking the docks. It’s neat, and compact, and serves as the perfect base to explore the docks and the nearby attractions of Gloucester and its surrounds. It’s wonderfully light and airy and boasts an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining room area that really adds to the sense of space that you get here.
The kitchen is fully equipped for your cooking pleasure, there’s WiFi in the unit, a washer, and a TV for catching your favourite Netflix shows. All linen is provided and there’s complimentary housekeeping provided for stays longer than 7 days.
Large 1 bedroom with 2 bathrooms and parking
The next Airbnb in Gloucester is the perfect one-bedroom unit for a couple or a young family with a child, with a king bed in the main room and a sofa bed in the lounge. The apartment is located in one of the finest regency buildings in Spa road, a stone’s throw from the Gloucester Docks. The rooms are spacious and the high ceilings really give you a sense of space and freedom throughout the apartment.
There’s also secure gated parking for your car so you have one less thing to worry about during your relaxing weekend away. The unit works equally as well for a business trip or leisure and the central location is a real plus. The walls are also soundproofed so you won’t be disturbed by the noises from the local docks – even more reason to have a lie-in in the king-sized bed.
Garden Annexe, Gloucester
Next up is this awesome two-bedroomed annexe that’s ideal for the whole family! Alternatively, it’s an ideal Airbnb in Gloucester for those couples looking for a romantic escape for the weekend. The annexe is fully private and away from the main house with access via a side gate leading onto the property.
The twin bedroom features two single beds but fear not – they can be converted into a king-sized bed for added comfort. There are no appliances for cooking, unfortunately, but there are more than enough local bars, pubs, and restaurants nearby to do the cooking for you. My favourite part about this spot though, is the hot tub that’s available for guests to use during their stay; that just took the relaxing element up a few notches!
Warm cosy but large 1 bedroom apartment in the city
So, you’re looking for a stylish rental in Gloucester, that’s both reasonably priced and perfectly located in the city? Well then, you need not look any further than this apartment. Located in the heart of the city, it’s a stone’s throw from the Gloucester Docks and all it has to offer. The city centre is also a short walk away so you can park your car for the weekend and just walk everywhere – it’s a win-win situation!
There’s a fully-equipped kitchen with a gas hob to whip up some delicious Masterchef-worthy meals as well as a washer, dryer, HD TV, and fast WiFi throughout. It really is a comfortable home away from home that more than delivers on its offering.
Cosy twin in stylish Victorian home with breakfast
Every now and then it’s important to throw in a cost-effective option for those travellers seeking a more budget-friendly Airbnb. This twin room is just that and is ideal for two mates who are looking for a cheapie for a quick trip passing through Gloucester. The room features two single beds and is located within the owner’s private Victorian home.
There is a shared kitchen for the use of the guests and in the mornings, there is a complimentary basic “help yourself” breakfast. This is comprised of toast, cereal, and juice. The room also has a kettle for making tea and coffee. Other than that, the house is centrally located and within walking distance of the city centre and transport links as well as the iconic Gloucester Cathedral.
Super stylish space in an old ballroom inc parking
Now, this Airbnb in Gloucester is something special – it’s housed in a former ballroom from the 1850’s so is really a piece of history. It’s been stylishly modernised but the former charm of the ballroom remains; I’m talking high ceilings, beautiful cornices, and tall windows.
The fully-equipped kitchen is open plan and flows into the dining area which then flows into the living room area. One of the coolest features, however, is the double-volume living/dining room area that gives way to the open-plan, loft-style main bedroom on the upper level.
Dreamy Cotswold Hideaway in the Heart of Painswick
While this cottage seems pretty unassuming from the outside, it packs a punch on the inside – and then some! It dates back to the 18th century and is a registered Grade 2 cottage a stone’s throw from Gloucester. Not everyone wants to be right in the hustle and bustle of the city and that’s where this spot comes in. Hell, could it even be the best Airbnb in Gloucester? I’ll let you decide!
The interior has been stylishly and carefully modernised but it has still retained its original integrity. I’m talking about the original stoneware and the exposed beams that have been highlighted throughout the cottage. The original stone fireplace has to be one of my favourite features though – you know that many a fire has graced it with its warm presence.
5 Bedroom Family Home. Hot tub, secluded gardens
Thinking of an epic weekend away with the mates? Or you’re a large family with a few kids? Then this house is the perfect place for you!
It boasts 4 bedrooms and can sleep up to 7 guests so there’s plenty of room to fit everyone in. There’s an epic garden as well as an undercover outdoor area that’s home to the best feature of the house – the hot tub!
The owner does live in the property (when you’re not there, of course) but they really believe in the saying mi casa es su casa or my home is your home. There’s also an outdoor play area for the kids complete with a climbing frame so they’ll be entertained for hours!
Victorian penthouse apartment with dock views
The final Airbnb in Gloucester that I’m showcasing in this article is this historic converted Victorian warehouse in the Gloucester Docks. This little piece of history has some neat original features such as exposed wooden beams and ironwork that tell a story of its maritime ties.
The prime location in the Gloucester Docks means that you can take casual strolls and look at the boats and other historical buildings in the area. The Quays Leisure Quarter is also a short walk away from the penthouse apartment. Aside from that, the apartment is fully equipped with a kitchen, washer, WiFi, TV, and hairdryer, and has free parking on the premises.
FAQs About Airbnbs in Gloucester
Right, now it’s time for some questions. These are a few of the most commonly asked questions I get when it comes to Airbnbs in Gloucester:
What To Pack For Gloucester
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Gloucester Travel Insurance
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Gloucester.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Airbnbs in Gloucester
Right, that now brings us to the end of the top 15 Airbnbs in Gloucester (insert sad face here). But don’t stress, because this is just the beginning of your journey – you just need to book your spot and hit the road!
Remember, the best Airbnb in Gloucester isn’t the one that I say is the best, it’s the one that best fits your needs and wants (and budget, of course). There are so many to choose from and there’s something here for everyone – I’m verrrry confident saying that!
If you’re still unsure, be sure to check out my overall best-value pick: Charming Vaulted Apartment. It is ideal if you’re travelling in a group as it can fit up to five people, but divided up by all of you it’s bloody good bang for your buck.
Safe travels and I hope that you have the best time exploring Gloucester 🙂
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Check out our Backpacking around the UK guide for in-depth info for your trip.
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- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks in the UK.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
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