Renting a vacation home in London offers a level of comfort, flexibility, and local charm that traditional hotels often can’t match. Whether you’re planning a short visit or an extended stay, choosing the right agency can make all the difference in how enjoyable, safe, and stress-free your trip will be. With countless rental companies available, it’s essential to know which ones are trusted, well-reviewed, and suited to your specific travel needs.
This guide breaks down the most reliable vacation home rental companies in London while helping you understand what to expect, how to compare options, and how to make informed choices with confidence.
What Makes a Vacation Home Rental Company Reliable in London?
A reliable vacation rental company is one that consistently delivers on service, safety, and guest experience. In London’s competitive rental market, reputation is built on trust, transparency, and professionalism. The most reputable companies tend to be fully licensed and often belong to trade organisations that ensure high standards.
Customer support plays a crucial role as well. Reliable companies have dedicated teams available to help with queries before, during, and after your stay. Equally important is how transparent they are with pricing and booking terms. No one wants to be caught off guard by hidden fees or restrictive policies.
The best companies also maintain properties to a professional standard. Cleanliness, accurate descriptions, and up-to-date photos are signs that a company takes its listings seriously. Finally, verified online reviews can give real insights into the consistency and quality of their service.
How Do Vacation Home Rental Companies Differ From Platforms Like Airbnb?
While platforms like Airbnb connect guests to individual hosts, vacation home rental companies operate more like professional property managers. This distinction can be critical, especially when reliability and support are priorities.
Rental companies usually handle everything from booking and check-in to cleaning and maintenance. This means the guest is not relying on the responsiveness of a single homeowner but a full team. Policies are typically clearer and more consistent across listings, and there’s often a centralised customer service number to call if anything goes wrong.
In contrast, Airbnb listings can vary widely depending on the host. While many offer excellent service, there’s less uniformity, and resolving issues may require going through platform mediation. That’s why many travellers, especially those staying longer or needing extra support, prefer the added security and structure of a professional vacation rental company.
| Feature | Vacation Rental Companies | Airbnb |
| Customer Support | Centralised, professional | Varies by host |
| Property Standards | Consistently maintained | Highly variable |
| Booking Fees | Often lower or fixed | Service & cleaning fees apply |
| Cancellation Policies | Standardised | Different per host |
| Responsibility | Company-managed | Host-managed |
Which Are the Top 10 Vacation Home Rental Companies in London?
1. UnderTheDoormat – “Stay Like a Local in the Heart of London”
UnderTheDoormat is a London-based vacation rental company specialising in professionally managed homes across prime central locations. The company focuses on delivering hotel-quality service within authentic residential properties, allowing guests to experience the city like a local. Each home is carefully vetted, styled, and maintained to high standards.
Guests benefit from fresh linens, premium toiletries, and round-the-clock customer support. As a member of the Short Term Accommodation Association, UnderTheDoormat follows strict compliance and safety standards. Their properties are particularly popular with international travellers and repeat visitors. The brand has built a strong reputation for reliability, comfort, and personalised service.
Area of Expertise
Boutique holiday homes with professional hospitality standards.
Who It Suits Best
Travellers seeking a local yet premium London living experience.
Pricing
Approx. £130–£400 per night depending on location and season.
- Website: https://underthedoormat.com
- Phone: +44 20 7993 5599
- Email: hello@underthedoormat.com
- Address: 210 New Kings Road, London, SW6 4NZ
Review
★ 4.8
“Beautiful apartment and flawless service. Everything was exactly as described.”
2. The Plum Guide – “Only the Best Homes Make the Cut”
The Plum Guide is known for its uncompromising approach to quality. Only a small percentage of homes pass their extensive vetting process, which evaluates everything from design to Wi-Fi speed. This makes The Plum Guide one of the most selective vacation home rental companies in London.
Their listings appeal to travellers who value aesthetics, comfort, and reliability. Every property is professionally managed and supported by a responsive customer service team. The brand has become synonymous with high-end stays and curated luxury. Their London portfolio includes some of the city’s most desirable neighbourhoods.
Core Strength
Highly curated luxury homes with strict quality control.
Ideal Audience
Discerning travellers who want premium, design-led accommodation.
Pricing
From around £200 per night, with luxury homes exceeding £1,000.
- Website: https://www.plumguide.com
- Phone: +44 20 4579 9309
- Email: info@plumguide.com
- Address: 189 Shoreditch High Street, London, United Kingdom
Review
★ 4.7
“Every detail was perfect. The home exceeded our expectations.”
3. London Perfect – “Elegant Homes in Iconic Locations”
London Perfect focuses on luxury vacation rentals in prestigious areas such as Kensington, Chelsea, and Notting Hill. Part of the globally recognised Vacation Perfect group, the company is known for combining British elegance with modern comfort. Their properties are spacious, tastefully furnished, and ideal for longer stays.
Guests also benefit from concierge-style services, including airport transfers and local recommendations. London Perfect is particularly popular with couples and families looking for refined accommodation. Their long-standing presence in the market reinforces their reputation for trust and quality.
Distinctive Focus
High-end holiday homes with concierge support.
Best Match
Luxury-focused travellers and long-stay visitors.
Pricing
Typically £250–£600 per night.
- Website: https://www.londonperfect.com
- Phone: +1-888-520-2087
- Email: reservations@londonperfect.com
- Address: 39-40 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, London SW7 5HR
Review
★ 4.8
“Exceptional apartment and outstanding service from start to finish.”
4. ALTIDO London – “Smart Stays for Modern Travellers”
ALTIDO London operates at the intersection of hospitality and technology. The company provides professionally managed apartments in central London, offering seamless digital check-ins and consistent service.
Properties are modern, well-equipped, and suited to both leisure and business travellers. ALTIDO’s strength lies in its operational efficiency and service reliability. Their homes include high-speed Wi-Fi, workspaces, and regular cleaning services. The brand is especially popular with professionals and international guests who value convenience.
Operational Strength
Tech-enabled, fully serviced holiday apartments.
Best Fit
Business travellers and digital nomads.
Pricing
From £100 to £300 per night.
- Website: https://stayaltido.com
- Phone: +44 (0) 208 854 4295
- Email: bookings@stayaltido.com
- Address: Hamilton House, Mabledon Place, Mabledon Pl, London WC1H 9BB
Review
★ 4.6
“Smooth check-in and very well-maintained apartment.”
5. Ivy Lettings – “Comfortable Homes for Families”
Ivy Lettings specialises in family-friendly vacation homes in South West London. The company places strong emphasis on personalised service and long-stay comfort. Many of their properties include child-friendly features and are located in quieter residential areas.
Ivy Lettings is ideal for guests who prioritise space, calm surroundings, and homely interiors. Their hands-on booking approach ensures each guest receives tailored support. This focus has earned them loyal repeat customers.
Service Focus
Family-oriented rentals with personalised assistance.
Best For
Families and extended-stay travellers.
Pricing
From around £180 per night.
- Website: https://www.ivylettings.com
- Phone: +44 20 7349 7015
- Email: info@ivylettings.com
- Address: 132-134 Lots Road, London SW10 0RJ
Review
★ 4.5
“Perfect for our family. Spacious, clean, and very quiet.”
6. City Relay – “Professionally Managed Urban Stays”
City Relay offers fully managed vacation rentals across key London districts. The company is known for efficient guest support, smooth check-ins, and consistent property standards.
Their homes cater to short-stay tourists and business visitors alike. With local teams and in-house maintenance, City Relay ensures quick issue resolution. Their focus on operational excellence makes them a dependable option for central London stays.
Management Strength
End-to-end professional property management.
Ideal Guest
Short-term visitors needing reliability and support.
Pricing
Typically £120–£250 per night.
- Website: https://cityrelay.com
- Phone: 020 3865 0611
- Email: info@cityrelay.com
- Address: First Floor, 10 Cromwell Pl, South Kensington, London SW7 2JN
Review
★ 4.4
“Great location and excellent communication throughout our stay.”
7. Smarter Rent – “Flexible Living Without Long Commitments”
Smarter Rent focuses on flexible, fully furnished apartments for short to mid-term stays. Their properties are particularly popular among professionals relocating to London.
All homes are ready to live in, with utilities and Wi-Fi included. Smarter Rent offers transparency in pricing and flexible booking terms. This approach makes them ideal for people needing temporary housing without long contracts.
Key Advantage
Flexible terms and move-in-ready homes.
Best Suited To
Relocators and remote workers.
Pricing
From approximately £900 per week.
- Website: https://www.smarterrent.co
- Phone: 020 7550 9396
- Email: hello@smarterrent.co
- Address: Boutique Co, Kew Rd, Richmond TW9 2NA
Review
★ 4.3
“Made our relocation stress-free and simple.”
8. GuestReady – “Global Expertise, Local Execution”
GuestReady is an international short-let management company operating across London. Their properties are often listed on major platforms but managed to consistent standards.
GuestReady handles cleaning, guest communication, and maintenance professionally. The company is well-suited for guests who want the convenience of managed Airbnb-style accommodation with reliable service. Their London portfolio spans Zones 1–3.
Operational Model
Professionally managed short-term rentals at scale.
Ideal User
Travellers seeking managed alternatives to Airbnb.
Pricing
From £100 to £250 per night.
- Website: https://www.guestready.com
- Email: social.media@guestready.com
- Address: Fora Space, 31-35 Kirby St, London EC1N 8TE, UK
Review
★ 4.2
“Easy booking and very responsive support team.”
9. Native Places – “Apartment Living with Hotel Perks”
Native Places offers a modern aparthotel experience across London. Their properties blend the freedom of apartment living with hotel-style services such as reception and housekeeping.
Native’s design-led spaces appeal to professionals and long-stay guests. The brand also emphasises sustainability and community living. Their locations are ideal for both business and leisure stays.
Unique Concept
Aparthotels combining privacy and hospitality.
Recommended For
Extended-stay and business travellers.
Pricing
From around £150 per night.
- Website: https://www.nativeplaces.com
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7313 2383
- Email: reservations@nativeplaces.com
- Address: 10-12 Lees Pl, London W1K 6LL, UK
Review
★ 4.5
“Stylish, comfortable, and perfect for longer stays.”
10. Vrbo (Professional Partners) – “Trusted Rentals on a Global Platform”
Vrbo is a global booking platform featuring many London homes managed by professional agencies. While Vrbo itself is not a management company, its partnerships with reputable local providers make it a reliable option.
Guests can access a wide range of family-friendly and professionally managed properties. Clear policies and verified reviews help ensure booking confidence. Vrbo remains a strong choice for travellers wanting variety and global brand trust.
Platform Strength
Wide selection of professionally managed homes.
Best For
Families and traditional holidaymakers.
Pricing
Generally £110–£350 per night.
- Website: https://www.vrbo.com/en-gb
- Phone: +44 800 032 5622
- Email: legal@vrbo.com
- Address: Rathbone Pl, London W1T 1HT, UK
Review
★ 4.4
“Reliable platform with well-managed properties.”
What Types of Properties Do Vacation Rental Companies in London Usually Offer?
The variety of properties available through vacation rental companies in London is impressive, accommodating nearly every kind of traveller. For solo visitors or couples, there are compact studio apartments and modern one-bedroom flats located in prime central areas. Families or groups can choose larger two to four-bedroom homes, often townhouses with multiple bathrooms and open-plan living spaces.
Luxury-seeking travellers will find high-end serviced apartments or penthouses in neighbourhoods like Mayfair and Knightsbridge, often with concierge services and designer interiors. On the other hand, those travelling with pets or children can request family-friendly or pet-permitted accommodations, a feature many top companies now offer.
Serviced apartments are especially popular among business travellers, as they combine hotel-style convenience with the privacy and flexibility of a flat. These often include weekly housekeeping, laundry facilities, high-speed internet, and even workspaces.
How Much Do Vacation Home Rentals Cost in London?
Pricing for vacation homes in London varies widely depending on location, property type, and season. Areas like Westminster, Soho, and Kensington typically command higher prices due to their central location and attractions, while suburbs or Zone 3 neighbourhoods tend to be more affordable.
The time of year also affects costs. Summer months, Christmas, and major event seasons often see a surge in demand, pushing prices higher. Booking during shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) can lead to substantial savings.
| Property Type | Average Nightly Rate | Weekly Rate Estimate |
| Studio Flat | £90–£150 | £600–£900 |
| 1-Bed Flat | £120–£200 | £750–£1,200 |
| 2-Bed Apartment | £180–£280 | £1,100–£1,800 |
| Townhouse | £300–£500 | £2,000+ |
| Luxury Penthouse | £400–£800+ | £2,800+ |
Most rental companies offer better value for longer stays, with discounted rates for weekly or monthly bookings. Some even include utilities, Wi-Fi, and cleaning in the price.
Who Can Benefit Most From Using a Vacation Home Rental Company in London?
The advantages of renting a vacation home through a trusted company extend to several types of travellers. Tourists enjoy a more authentic experience, staying in real neighbourhoods rather than hotel zones. Families benefit from multiple bedrooms, kitchens, and living areas that make life easier, especially with young children.
For business travellers, serviced flats provide convenience and comfort, often located near commercial hubs or transport links. Digital nomads and remote workers appreciate the flexibility of longer-term leases, often with inclusive bills and fast internet.
Even those relocating to London temporarily whether for work, education, or personal reasons find these rentals ideal for settling in without the long-term commitment of traditional leases.
How Can You Protect Yourself From Scams When Booking a Holiday Rental in London?
Unfortunately, scams in the short-term rental market still exist, particularly through unofficial or unverified platforms. One of the best protections is to book directly through a recognised vacation rental company that has a physical office, a verifiable web presence, and consistent online reviews.
Reading genuine customer feedback on platforms like Google Reviews or Trustpilot can help identify red flags. Be cautious of overly cheap rates, requests for wire transfers or cash, or vague property descriptions with few photos.
Reputable agencies will always offer secure payment options and provide clear contracts and booking confirmations. If anything seems unclear, reaching out to their support team should help clarify matters legitimate companies will welcome questions and be transparent.
What Services and Amenities Should You Expect From Top-rated Rental Agencies?
When booking with a leading vacation home rental company, guests can usually expect a higher standard of service than from a private listing. Standard inclusions often comprise clean bedding, towels, kitchenware, and basic toiletries. Many homes offer additional amenities such as free Wi-Fi, laundry machines, and Smart TVs.
Serviced apartments and high-end listings may come with added luxuries, including weekly housekeeping, concierge services, or airport pickup. Some companies also offer tailored guest experiences, such as local guides, grocery delivery, or restaurant reservations.
Amenities vary depending on property type and budget, but transparency in listings ensures guests know exactly what to expect before they arrive.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a London Holiday Rental Agency?
Choosing the right agency starts with understanding your own needs. If you’re travelling with a group or require specific amenities like pet-friendly properties, you’ll want a company that specialises in those areas. Location also matters: being near the Underground, major sights, or your business venue can save you time and money.
Understanding cancellation policies, payment terms, and support availability is also important. Some agencies offer flexible terms and 24/7 support, which is particularly helpful for international travellers.
Ultimately, a good rental company will help you feel supported from booking to checkout, offering a seamless and secure experience that enhances your trip.
Conclusion
Choosing the right vacation home rental company in London involves more than just finding a nice flat. It’s about trusting a team to deliver a high standard of living, customer care, and peace of mind.
By selecting one of London’s top-rated agencies, researching customer feedback, and understanding the types of properties and services offered, travellers can enjoy a personalised, convenient, and comfortable stay in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Comparison of the Top 10 Companies
| Company | Area Covered | Google Rating | Property Type |
| UnderTheDoormat | Central London | 4.8 ★ | Mid to Luxury |
| The Plum Guide | London-wide | 4.7 ★ | Curated Luxury |
| London Perfect | West London | 4.8 ★ | High-End |
| ALTIDO | City, South Bank | 4.6 ★ | Serviced |
| Ivy Lettings | SW London | 4.5 ★ | Family Homes |
| City Relay | Central & West | 4.4 ★ | Managed Flats |
| Vrbo | Greater London | 4.4 ★ | Mixed |
| Smarter Rent | West End | 4.3 ★ | Flexible Stays |
| GuestReady | East London | 4.2 ★ | Business Friendly |
| Native Places | Zones 1–3 | 4.5 ★ | Aparthotels |
FAQs Vacation Home Rental Companies in London
Are vacation home rentals allowed in all areas of London?
Yes, but short-term lets are regulated. Properties rented for less than 90 days a year in Greater London must comply with planning laws.
Can I get daily housekeeping in a London holiday home?
Some companies offer it as an extra, especially in luxury or serviced properties. Always ask before booking.
Do vacation rental companies provide customer support outside business hours?
Many do, particularly those catering to international guests. Check if they offer 24/7 assistance.
Is it possible to extend my stay once I’m in the property?
Usually, yes, depending on availability. It’s best to discuss extension options during booking.
Do these companies offer airport pickup or transportation services?
Select companies include these services or can help you book them as an add-on.
Will I need to pay a deposit when booking through a vacation rental agency?
Yes, a security deposit is common and refundable after checkout if there’s no damage.
What’s the difference between a serviced apartment and a regular vacation home?
Serviced apartments typically include cleaning, fresh linens, and sometimes breakfast or concierge services.