In 2026, it’s clear we’re no longer just chasing plots and characters, but perfect spots to read them in, as “comfy reading chair small spaces” and “reading nook ideas” emerge as trending terms in Pinterest’s Spring Trends Report. 

To celebrate the joy of getting lost in another world on a calming staycation this bank holiday season, Airbnb is revealing a curated selection of UK stays, perfect for a book-worm escape. 

It comes as Airbnb announces ‘Room to Write’ –  a new writing award in partnership with arts charity Hay Festival. Open to UK-based writers, the award offers eight recipients an Airbnb coupon worth £1,500 to stay in a UK location of their choosing to champion creativity and the importance of place and space in storytelling. More information can be found here. Hay Festival 2026 takes place 21–31 May in the world’s first booktown, Hay-on-Wye in Wales.  

From Guest Favourite cosy stays with libraries, sun-drenched window seats, and sweeping views, to homes once lived in by renowned authors – this list provides the ultimate inspiration for a reading getaway spent disconnecting from the everyday, or even putting pen to paper yourself. 

Former home of Charles Dickens, London (sleeps 2)

Step into literary history in this bright, characterful apartment once inhabited by Charles Dickens. Set in the heart of Fitzrovia, it pairs period charm with a central London postcode – offering a rare chance to read, write, and wander in the footsteps of one of Britain’s greatest storytellers.

Skirr Cottage, Croyde (sleeps 3)

Tucked away on the Devon coast, this former home of Tarka the Otter author Henry Williamson is steeped in quiet inspiration. Surrounded by rolling countryside and sea air, it’s a peaceful hideaway where long, unhurried reading sessions come naturally. 

 Spinks Nest – Interior designed vintage cottage, Hunworth (sleeps 2)

This beautifully restored Norfolk cottage blends heritage charm with thoughtful, design-led interiors. With its soft textures, wood-burning stove, and calming palette, it’s an intimate retreat made for slow mornings, quiet pages, and complete switch-off.

Cosy rural retreat with log burner, Rochester (sleeps 2)

A converted outbuilding turned snug countryside escape, The Snuggery lives up to its name. Think flickering firelight, layered blankets, and a cocoon-like atmosphere – ideal for settling in with a book and staying there for hours.

Boutique log cabin, North Yorkshire (sleeps 4)

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the North York Moors, this Scandinavian-style cabin creates a striking yet cosy setting – perfect for reading as the landscape shifts outside.

Bronwen Cottage , Conwy (sleeps 4)

Overlooking castle-dotted landscapes and tranquil parkland, this charming Welsh cottage feels quietly transportive. With its warming wood-burner and storybook surroundings, it’s an idyllic setting to lose track of time, and chapters.

The Tiny Townhouse, Hay-on-wye (sleeps 2)

Photo credit: https://www.lucygoldphotographer.com/ 

Tucked away in Hay-on-Wye, the backdrop to Hay Festival 2026, this stylish townhouse offers a contemporary base perfectly placed for post-browsing downtime after a day spent exploring its famous bookshops.

The Kennels, Mountfield (sleeps 2)

Surrounded by East Sussex countryside, this secluded cabin offers a slower pace of life. With far-reaching views and easy access to historic towns and coastline, it’s a restorative setting for reading, reflecting, and resetting.