Are you looking to earn money with short-term rentals? The Airbnb market in the UK is growing fast. This is because there is a strong rental demand and good average occupancy rates. Many cities show high demand and strong average monthly revenue. This guide will show you the most profitable Airbnb locations UK. It includes useful tips for both new hosts and those with experience. If you want a steady rental income or good returns on your investment, this guide is for you. Let’s find out the best places for Airbnb success in 2026.
Table of Contents
Key Highlights
- Find the UK’s best Airbnb spots for making money in 2026. These places range from busy cities to cute towns.
- Learn about important things that affect profit. These include tourist attractions, rental demand, and property prices.
- Get useful information about average monthly revenue, occupancy rates, and trends in property prices for each area.
- Receive helpful tips for landlords. This includes how to pick the right property and increase rental income.
- Whether you have experience or are new to Airbnb, this guide offers key information for success in the UK market.
1. Edinburgh – A City of Festivals and History
Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland. It attracts many tourists throughout the year. This is why short let properties are very popular here. The city’s rich history and stunning Old Town are big draws for visitors. Famous events, like the Edinburgh Fringe, also invite millions of guests every year.
Investors can expect good returns, especially when things are busy. Properties in the Old Town, close to Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, can bring in higher earnings.
Edinburgh has lovely cobbled streets. It also offers great museums and a fun nightlife. This makes visitors have a memorable experience. As a result, the city has a high occupancy rate for short let properties.
- Average Annual Revenue: £18,100
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 70%
- Average Daily Rate: £71
2. Bath – Heritage and Hot Springs
Bath is a city recognized by UNESCO for its heritage. It combines Roman history with beautiful Georgian architecture. This unique charm, along with its famous thermal springs, draws many visitors who want to enjoy the culture.
landlords in Bath make steady rental income. The city is a popular weekend getaway, which helps. Homes near attractions like the Roman Baths and the Royal Crescent can earn good money.
Bath offers many attractions. You can find ancient history and modern spa experiences there. This mix of options helps keep short-term rentals in high demand.
- Average Annual Revenue: £64,600
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 68%
- Average Daily Rate: £261
3. Manchester – Music, Football, and Culture
Manchester is a vibrant city in northwest England. You can easily get there through Manchester Airport. The rental market is growing quickly because many young professionals are moving to the city. People enjoy Manchester for its music, football clubs, and cultural attractions.
Big events, like concerts at Manchester Arena and football games at Old Trafford, create a demand for short-term rentals.
Manchester’s Airbnb market is a great opportunity for investors. The economy is strong, and many visitors are arriving. This can lead to good returns for those who invest.
- Average Annual Revenue: £53,200
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 60%
- Average Daily Rate: £243
4. Liverpool – The Beatles and Maritime Heritage
Liverpool has a rich history tied to the sea. It is also where the famous Beatles are from. Many visitors travel to Liverpool from all over the globe. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has popular places like the Royal Albert Dock and the Cavern Club. These attractions draw millions of tourists each year.
The busy tourism industry in Liverpool makes it one of the best places for Airbnb investors. Property prices in the city center, mainly near the waterfront, are going up. This shows there is strong potential for property values to grow.
People visit Liverpool for its music, history, and football. landlords can benefit from the city’s enduring appeal.
- Average Annual Revenue: £47,700
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 44%
- Average Daily Rate: £294
5. Brighton & Hove – Beaches and Bohemia
Brighton & Hove is a cheerful coastal city. It has a fun beach vibe and an artsy feel. The city is well-known for its beautiful pier, one-of-a-kind shops, and lively arts scene. This mix makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK.
There is a strong interest in rental properties in Brighton & Hove. This demand is even higher for homes close to the seafront and the lively Lanes area. In the summer, more people want to visit the city. Many landlords often see full bookings during this time.
Brighton & Hove has something for everyone. Whether you enjoy the beach or art, you will find it here. This means there are always many guests looking for short-term rentals.
- Average Annual Revenue: £50,500
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 53%
- Average Daily Rate: £259
6. Bristol – Street Art and Engineering Marvels
Bristol is well-known for its street art, beautiful buildings like the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and busy cultural areas. Right now, the city has more people wanting to rent homes. It pulls in young professionals who prefer a vibrant lifestyle.
Investment in property in Bristol has increased a lot in recent years. This growth makes it a good option for Airbnb investors. Areas like Clifton are special because of their beautiful views and old buildings.
Bristol has a special charm. It has many fun places to visit and a strong economy. This makes it a great spot for people who want to succeed in the Airbnb market.
- Average Annual Revenue: £51,300
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 59%
- Average Daily Rate: £239
7. York – Medieval Charm and Chocolate
York is a historic city with a lot of medieval beauty. It attracts many people who love history. The city has strong walls, the well-known York Minster, and the beautiful Shambles street. These attractions bring many tourists to York.
landlords can look forward to good returns. The average daily rate for rentals remains high. Homes that are close to the city center and near big attractions attract many visitors.
York has a special charm that takes visitors back in time. This makes it a great place to visit. Because of this, there is a constant need for short-term rentals.
- Average Annual Revenue: £60,200
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 69%
- Average Daily Rate: £239
8. Glasgow – Vibrant Nightlife and Victorian Architecture
Glasgow is the biggest city in Scotland. It is becoming a great place for Airbnb investment. This is due to its low costs and lively culture. There is good potential for growth here. The city has beautiful Victorian buildings and a lively nightlife. It also has great music venues that attract many visitors.
The city center is changing a lot. There are new buildings, and the roads are getting better. These improvements make it more appealing to investors and local residents.
Glasgow offers a special and genuine experience. You can visit art museums, enjoy live music, and discover unique places in the West End. This boosts the need for short let rentals.
- Average Annual Revenue: £55,500
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 66%
- Average Daily Rate: £231
9. Oxford – Academia and Architecture
Oxford is a well-known city. It is famous for its wonderful university and long history. The city has lovely buildings and attracts many tourists. This makes it a great place for those who want to invest in Airbnb.
Rental properties in Oxford are always in high demand. This is especially true for those near the university and the town center. At times like graduation and other events, more people look for the best places for Airbnb to stay. This rise in demand helps owners earn more rental income.
Visitors can check out old libraries and enjoy strolls by the beautiful River Cherwell. Oxford, with its blend of history and knowledge, is a well-liked option for Airbnb stays.
- Average Annual Revenue: £86,100
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 76%
- Average Daily Rate: £309
10. Cambridge – Punting and Prestige
Cambridge is well-known for its amazing university and the lovely River Cam. It often ranks as one of the top cities in the UK for Airbnb annual revenue. The blend of schools, charming streets, and fun activities like punting brings in many tourists.
Investors who are thinking about Cambridge should expect good returns. This is true, especially during busy seasons when many people come to enjoy the city’s historic sites. Properties near the university colleges and city center tend to have high rates.
Cambridge has much to offer. You can find amazing museums and enjoy classic afternoon tea. This gives visitors a real feel for English life. It also brings many people looking for short-term rentals.
- Average Annual Revenue: £8,088
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 64%
- Average Daily Rate: £86.90
11. Birmingham – A Hub of Industry and Culture
Birmingham is located in the West Midlands region of England. It is a vibrant and diverse city that is reviving itself. Large projects are transforming the city, making it more attractive for tourists and professionals. This development is positive news for property investors.
Rental income is going up in Birmingham. This is especially true in areas like the Jewellery Quarter and Digbeth. These locations offer both modern apartments and older industrial buildings. The city’s amazing food, unique shops, and cultural attractions, such as the Birmingham Museum and Symphony Hall, are drawing many visitors.
As Birmingham grows, the Airbnb market gives a great chance for people. If you want good rental income and solid returns on your investment, this is the right time to look into it.
- Average Annual Revenue: £6,862
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 60%
- Average Daily Rate: £90.85
12. Ashford in Kent – Gateway to London and the Countryside
Ashford is a town in the Garden of England. It is a great place to live. The cost of living is low, and transport is good. Many Airbnb places in Ashford are always full. A train ride to London takes under an hour. This makes Ashford a favorite for commuters and those wanting a weekend getaway.
Property prices in Ashford cost less than in London. This makes it a good place for investment properties. There is a market for short-term rental hosts. New buildings near the International Station make it more appealing. They offer modern places for short-term rental.
Guests can look at the Kent countryside. They can also stay in Ashford and visit London from there. Because of its nice location and low prices, Ashford is a smart choice for Airbnb investors.
- Average Annual Revenue: £3,393
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 94%
- Average Daily Rate: £80.33
13. Nottingham – History, Culture, and a Vibrant Lifestyle
Nottingham is a city in the East Midlands region of England. It has a rich history and a lively culture. The rental market is strong here, backed by several major employers in the area. This makes Nottingham a good spot for landlords. The city is also well-known for its connection to Robin Hood and the historic Lace Market district, which attracts many visitors.
The city has many new students because it has two universities. This leads to a big group of students. There is a steady need for rental properties. Areas like West Bridgford are very popular. They have lovely Victorian buildings and cool bars that draw in young professionals and short-term renters.
Nottingham has low housing costs, many cultural attractions, and a growing economy. Because of this, its rental market is expected to grow even more. This growth brings great opportunities for both investors and hosts.
- Average Annual Revenue: £7,621
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 61%
- Average Daily Rate: £89.27
14. Leeds – A Thriving Northern Powerhouse
Leeds is an exciting city in West Yorkshire. It has a thriving economy, lots of students, and a vibrant cultural scene. This combination creates a high need for rentals. Because of this, it is a great Airbnb investment location for investors.
In the last few years, house prices in Leeds have been rising steadily. The city is gaining popularity, but there is a shortage of housing. Areas like Headingley, known for its student vibe, and the city center, filled with shops and restaurants, are excellent places for short-term rentals.
Leeds is a cost-effective city with a vibrant culture. It also has good transport connections. This makes it a great option for landlords. They can expect steady returns on their investment here.
- Average Annual Revenue: £8,088
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 64%
- Average Daily Rate: £86.90
15. Gwynedd – Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventures
Gwynedd is in North Wales. It is famous for its beautiful natural scenery. This includes Snowdonia National Park and a lovely coastline. It is a great place for people who love nature and outdoor activities. Tourists visit Gwynedd all year round. They come for hiking, climbing, and to see charming villages.
landlords in Gwynedd gain from a steady flow of guests who want short-term stays. This is especially true in busy times like summer and holidays. Homes close to popular spots like Mount Snowdon, Caernarfon Castle, and the beautiful beaches of the Llyn Peninsula are very popular.
The Gwynedd Airbnb market has a special charm and always attracts visitors. This shows it can earn steady rental income and has chances for long-term growth.
- Average Daily Rate: £205.70
- Average Annual Revenue: £50,900
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 68%
16. Cardiff – The Welsh Capital
Cardiff is the vibrant capital of Wales. It is gaining popularity and drawing many investors and tourists. The city is undergoing significant changes. It has a lovely blend of old charm and modern buildings. This makes it an excellent place for various property investment opportunities.
Cardiff is becoming popular for its cultural attractions. You can find places like Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Centre, and a new project by the waterfront. The city has a special blend of history, culture, and fun activities. Experts in property investment recognize its potential. Many new projects are starting to fill the demand for both short-term and long-term rentals.
Cardiff is growing a lot. The Airbnb market offers a good chance for people. They can benefit from its increasing popularity and bright future.
- Average Annual Revenue: £10,582
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 61%
- Average Daily Rate: £110.60
17. Suffolk – Coastal Charm and Countryside Appeal
Suffolk, found in the East of England, is known for its beautiful countryside, old towns, and lovely coast. People visit the area for a peaceful getaway. There are many things to do, like visiting old villages, having fun at beach resorts, and taking part in local cultural events.
landlords in Suffolk have a steady demand for short-term rentals. This is especially true during the summer and holiday seasons. Properties in popular spots like Southwold, Aldeburgh, and Woodbridge are in high demand.
The Suffolk Airbnb market gives good chances to earn rental money. It is popular with tourists and attracts many visitors.
18. Newcastle – Bridges, Nightlife, and Northern Hospitality
Newcastle upon Tyne is known for its lovely bridges that cross the River Tyne. It is a lively city with a robust economy and a growing reputation for its culture. The city has major employers in healthcare, education, and technology. This attracts various workers and helps keep the need for housing steady.
If you want to start an short let business, you should consider Newcastle. This city has exciting nightlife and cultural attractions, like the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. It is also near a lovely coastline, which makes it a popular place for tourists and visitors who come for a short stay.
Newcastle has many affordable choices. It also has a lively cultural scene and a strong local economy. Because of these factors, there is a great opportunity for landlords to take advantage of its growing popularity.
- Average Annual Revenue: £9,964
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 61%
- Average Daily Rate: £96.38
19. Cheltenham – Regency Elegance and Cultural Festivals
Cheltenham, located in Gloucestershire, is famous for its lovely Regency buildings and lively culture. It hosts several festivals each year. A big attraction is the well-known Cheltenham Festival and the Literature Festival. These events, along with the town’s charm, attract many visitors every year. This keeps the need high for short-term rental homes.
landlords in Cheltenham can take advantage of more visitors, especially during busy events. Homes near popular areas, like the Montpellier District and the Town Hall, usually have higher rental prices due to their good locations.
The town is very popular. It offers many events and attractions. This is why it is a good spot for Airbnb investors. They can gain a regular rental income here.
- Average Daily Rate: $211.30
- Average Annual Revenue: $33,200
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 56%
20. Isle of Anglesey – A Coastal Paradise
The Island of Anglesey is on the northwest coast of Wales. It is drawing interest from property investors because of its natural beauty and culture. The island has beautiful views, old historic places, and a lovely coast. This makes it a great spot for visitors who want a peaceful place to relax.
The island of Anglesey has a growing tourism industry. It attracts visitors with its beautiful coast and historic sites. This rise in visitors is a good chance for landlords. Homes with sea views or close to popular spots are especially attractive to guests.
The Airbnb market in Anglesey shows good chances for making more money. This is helped by a steady number of visitors. This trend is a positive sign for both current and future landlords in the area.
- Average Daily Rate: £198.20
- Average Annual Revenue: £46,100
- Average Annual Occupancy Rate: 67%
Conclusion
Whether you want to see the festivals in Edinburgh or relax in the hot springs in Bath, the UK has many great Airbnb locations. This includes some of the best Airbnb destinations for 2026. Each city has its own special feel—you can enjoy the lively music scene in Manchester, visit the historic waterfront in Liverpool, or soak up the medieval charm of York. If you prefer vibrant nightlife, Glasgow awaits, while Oxford and Cambridge bring a mix of history and prestige.
The variety across the UK makes it easy to create a rewarding hosting experience for years to come. Strong domestic and international tourism continues to drive demand for short-term rentals, reinforcing the profitability of these markets ONS Travel Trends. Start your property hosting journey in these exciting locations and enjoy welcoming guests to some of the UK’s top destinations.
FAQs
What makes a city profitable for short let hosting in the UK?
High tourist demand, good occupancy rates, and reasonable property prices.
Which UK city has the highest Airbnb revenue potential?
Oxford leads with strong occupancy and high average daily rates.
Is short let hosting in the UK still growing in 2026?
Yes, demand keeps rising thanks to steady tourism and domestic travel.
Do smaller towns also perform well on Airbnb?
Yes, places like Bath, York, and Cheltenham attract strong visitor demand.
Where can I find official data on UK travel trends?
Check the ONS Travel Trends.
