How booking a homestay works
Five steps, one real human team, and your payment protected until after you've arrived and seen the home for yourself.
- 1
Browse hosts, or tell us what you need
Every listing shows the host's first name, their area, photos of the home, the room and meal options, the weekly price, and their verification badge. If you'd rather describe what you're looking for, send a general enquiry and we'll shortlist options for you.
- 2
Enquire, at no cost
Send your dates, a little about yourself, and any requirements (meals, dietary needs, distance to a particular college or workplace). Guests must be 18 or over. There's no charge and no commitment at this stage.
- 3
A real person confirms your match
We're not an instant-booking site. Our accommodation team, the same people who have matched students with London host families since 2009, check availability with the host, confirm the details, and come back to you, usually within one working day.
- 4
Pay securely by card
Once you're happy, we send a secure card payment link for the total shown. The price on the listing is the price you pay. Your booking is confirmed as soon as payment clears, and you receive the host's full details and address.
- 5
Arrive, settle in, and check in with us
The host isn't paid until 48 hours after you arrive. If the home isn't what the listing promised, tell us within those 48 hours and we'll put it right, with a different host or your money back. After that, the host is paid and your stay runs its course.
Common questions
What does the price include?
Each listing states what's included: room type, meals (from room-only to half board), and any extras. The weekly price on the listing is the total weekly price; our service margin is already inside it. There are no booking fees at checkout.
How long can I stay?
Most stays are between two weeks and several months. Tell us your dates in the enquiry; hosts set their own availability.
Can I book for someone under 18?
No. UK Homestays is for adult guests (18+) only. For under-18s, including 16 to 17 year old students, our sister agency London Homestays provides fully managed placements in London with the appropriate safeguarding.
What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation terms are set out before you pay and in our terms. In short: the earlier you cancel, the more you get back, and we always tell you the exact terms before taking any money.
Who am I actually booking with?
UK Homestays introduces you to independent host families and handles the matching and payment. Your stay is with the host; we remain your point of contact throughout, and your payment is protected as described above.