Here are 20 idyllic spots in the UK for the perfect romantic break with your loved one. Imagine quality time exploring new places, relaxing in four-poster beds and re-discovering a love for romantic staycations.
1. The Lake District
The top search for the perfect romantic break in the UK, is as predicted, The Lake District. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, there are many picturesque country villages with quaint boutique hotels and outstanding, panoramic views of the peaks. The most prolific destination for tourists has to be Windermere, the gem of the South Lakes. But the North Lakes also boast some fantastic scenery, such as the beautiful town of Keswick which gives quintessential English vibes, but also has easy access to the highest mountain in England, Scafell Pike, for anyone seeking adventure.
The perfect place to stay may well be a local B&B for your romantic weekend break. Supporting local businesses, as well as having a unique stay in an old manor house steeped with old English culture may well add to the special occasion. In The Lake District, you will find medieval castles to visit, unique wildlife and nature experiences, and romantic boat trips on the water. It may well be the perfect spot for your romantic escape.
2. Cambridge
Cambridge is one of Britain’s oldest and most cultural cities, with plenty of cultural things to do and boasts the most romantic hotels in the country. By far, the most iconic activity is punting along the river to view the beautiful old university campus, whilst listening to some light, funny history facts about the city. If you love British history, try booking a tour of the university campus to learn more about the colleges and the celebrities that attended.
There are endless beautiful photo spots and quintessential British streets to walk down. In the summer months, it is particularly idyllic here, and as term time has ended you may find its slightly less busy with students. To name a luxury hotel or two that have a romantic vibe, you have The Varsity Hotel, with panoramic views of the old architecture and an on-site spa experience. Additionally, The Graduate Hotel sits on The River Cam, and is the ultimate English experience for any romantic weekend getaway. A dreamy meal in the garden sunshine under the classic striped parasols could be a moment to remember with your loved one that you always treasure.
3. Bath
Fall under the romantic spell of the historic city of Bath and walk through the most prolific period drama film sets in the world. Fans of Bridgerton, Poldark, and other countless historical shows will adore what this city has to offer, such as the very instagrammable Royal Crescent curved street, The Roman Baths, and Prior Park, a National Trust site famous for appearing in Pride and Prejudice.
If you are looking for a quiet, quaint boutique hotel, Brindley’s is a central cottage hotel with the quintessential English hotel vibe that will truly feel like one of the most romantic places you could stay. However, the Thermae Bath Spa, with its rooftop pool and historic city views at night, has to be one of the best things about Bath, that you could not easily find elsewhere. This trip would suit a special anniversary as a unique romantic getaway with your loved one.
4. York
York is the most charming city in North Yorkshire by a country mile. It has stunning architecture, cute little restaurants and cafes, as well as gorgeous boutique hotels perfect for a mini weekend break with your other half. Walking the Shambles feels like a step back in time, with the spooky ghost tours, and local independent shops in every corner. For any travellers who love unique gift shopping, York is the ideal place to explore.
Why not book a classic afternoon tea at Betty’s tea room? They often have a live piano playing with some of the best table service in Britain, as well as offering beautiful views of the old city. If that’s a little out of you price range, then there are plenty of other places to go. Double Dutch pancake house is an intimate little dessert spot, or Goji cafe, which has fresh daily salads and picnic boxes for sale. The York Dungeons, gothic cathedral, city walls or Yorkshire museum provide plenty of fun day time activities, and is the perfect setting for your romantic city break.
5. Edinburgh
This Scottish capital is by far, one of the top searched romantic weekend getaways in the world. it has a quaint, historic quality that truly feels like a step back in time. Enjoy a Harry Potter walking tour, a visit to Edinburgh Castle, a stroll along the Royal Mile, climb Arthur’s seat or take part in a whisky tasting. There is so much to do and see, a weekend almost is not enough! Autumn is the perfect time to visit Edinburgh, as you get a taste of the fall colours in an old, academic setting. There are endless intimate, cosy restaurants in this city, making it the romantic mini-break of your dreams.
An adorable spot to visit for the cute photos and beautiful nature, is the village of Stockbridge. It has lots of picturesque cafes, and a Sunday market, but most importantly, you can walk under Dean Bridge and along the Water of Leith. If you know your partner would love some Instagrammable pics, Edinburgh is definitely the perfect city break for you (check out my Edinburgh Instagram blog post!)
6. Newcastle
Newcastle is a city known for parties, but in actual fact, it is a brilliant romantic getaway spot. You can easily spend a few days walking around the old streets and checking out the bridges up close – as well as Jesmond Dene, known for stunning, nature-filled walks and gorgeous photo spots. Even though its a little colder than some weekend breaks you’ll find in South England, with nature like this, it’s hard to imagine a better place.
If you were looking for somewhere with vibrant nightlife, but wanted to explore in the day, Newcastle is the perfect jumping off point to visit nearby places, such as the small city of Durham, one of the most prominent university towns in England. Just an hour away, is Bamburgh Castle, nestled in the county of Northumberland for anyone who enjoys medieval history and picturesque coastal walks.
7. The Peak District
The beauty of the Peak District can not be overstated. If you are looking to stay North – a cosy cabin nestled in the valley may be a perfect romantic getaway for you. The Peaks boast spectacular views in the famous national park, as well as stunning English villages to enjoy cosy walks around. If you are a fan of a warm, ambient pub, then visit the beautiful village of Bakewell for a quintessential afternoon tea, as one of many romantic things to do with your weekend.
By staying in the Peak District, you could get easy access to some amazing day trips. This is Chatsworth House, also known as the set for Pride and Prejudice as Mr Darcy’s estate, Pemberley – an ideal day trip for lovers of restored country manors. Additionally, The Heights of Abraham make for an intimate ride in a cable car, with views over the entire valley and village of Matlock Bath. The Peak District is the perfect backdrop for a special occasion or anniversary, think dreamy country cabin with your own private hot tub.
8. The Scottish Highlands
If you dream of a blustery walk along The Scottish Highlands, this may be the perfect romantic break for you. Outlander fans typically explore The Highlands to relive a historic romantic fiction, and with outstanding views like this, its easy to see why The Highlands are a great place for couples. Things to do include, exploring medieval castles of history, such as Dunrobin castle, searching for the Loch Ness monster, learning about the famous battle of Culloden, and most importantly taking in the glorious natural landscape.
To live a true fairy-tale, stay at Inverlochy Castle Hotel with four poster beds and mountainous views, or even try the beautiful Coast Spa at The Golf View Hotel for a truly romantic experience. If city breaks are too busy for you, try something cosier to increase the intimate feel.
9. Brecon Beacons National Park
The Welsh countryside is one of the best places for couples who love nature, hiking and all things adventure. Stay at a cosy pub with a mountain view, and wake up to a day of activities. The famous 6 waterfall hike is a good place to start, walks amongst the alpacas, daytime cruises, or even climb Wales’ highest mountain Pen y Fan.
10. Oxford
Another classic English university town brimming with culture, Oxford is the perfect location for slow, romantic travel. There are areas of the university you can walk around as a visitor, and enjoy the grand architecture steeped in English history, as well as the classic punting on the river for a seriously romantic activity for two. For anyone out there who loves Harry Potter, enjoy walking through some of the Hogwarts scenes and revelling in a magical atmosphere. Oxford is a picturesque, flower filled city perfect for walking and intimate dinners on the river.
Hotels worth a look for a romantic weekend to remember are The Old Bank Hotel, with a cosy bar, bright, fresh rooms and close to the city centre, or for a really bougie stay, The Randolph Hotel has modern British decor, large themed rooms, chandeliers and high ceilings – ideal for a romantic surprise.
11. St Ives, Cornwall
Possibly the most popular location in Cornwall, St Ives is this heavenly little seaside town with charming pubs, cafe’s and romantic boutique hotels perfect for two. In the summer holidays, St Ives is typically a family spot, but outside of July & August, it has multiple vast, beautiful beaches, cosy cafe’s, and lots of lovely coastal walking routes. Some ideal hotels to stay in for the perfect romantic vibe, are The Harbour Hotel & Spa, overlooking Porthminster beach and some of the best Cornish cream tea’s in the county. Another option is the Boskerris Hotel, situated on Carbis Bay. This hotel has a soft, pastel décor aesthetic and a striking ocean view restaurant, making it the ideal romantic break.
12. The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is a well-known area of outstanding natural beauty in England, and home to some of the most gorgeous English villages for your romantic holiday. Famous villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold and Castle Combe are some of the most exceptional, photographic spots in the country, and anyone seeking romantic spots for a special occasion will be spoilt for choice.
Some other spots in The Costwolds are Daylesford Organic Farm Shop, Britain’s most aesthetic farm produce shop, Broadway Tower, a short walk with a view over the vast, country lands, and St Edward’s church in Stow-on-the-Wold. Depending on the season, there are countless flower fields you will encounter on your drive, and lots of ivy covered, old-English pubs to have a pint in.
13. Rye, East Sussex
Rye is a medieval English village settled in East Sussex, with Tudor-style houses and old, cobbled streets, its the ideal serene break for two. The literary lovers will enjoy the short-time home of Henry James in the village centre, as well as a beautiful public nature reserve nestled on the coastline showcasing endangered plant wildlife which is open for visitors. Rye is located closely to Camber Sands, one of Englands most stunning beaches, intimately located for those who love a nice, long day by the sea. But the most ideal romantic spot, has to be The Tillingham Winery. The Michelin Green Star restaurant has a beautiful five course tasting menu, or wood-fired pizza and wine for a more casual affair. You can also stay at the winery, and enjoy four-poster beds, or for the especially romantic touch, stay in the exclusive Bell Tent, and experience your own private terrace, fire pit and great views of the woodland.
14. Brighton
Brighton is for fun, quirky couples looking for a fun-filled weekend of activities and culture you won’t find anywhere else in the UK. Some special ideas include The Upside Down House, the Brighton i360 tower, or indeed the iconic seaside pier! Brighton is well-known for it’s diverse night-life experiences and contribution to the arts, so for anyone seeking original performances, club nights and the top #1 LGBT destination in Britain – this may be the perfect couple’s break for you.
15. The Yorkshire Dales
If you want to keep North, some iconic villages well worth a visit are situated in The Yorkshire Dales. The top visited locations include Wenslydale, Appletreewick and Grassington, all which will make you feel like you’ve stepped in to a story book. The Dales are ideal for couples who love walking adventures and exploring the natural landscape, but there are also some romantic activities ideal for two that you cannot miss on your trip.
A visit to The Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa is a must for the perfect romantic break. You can choose from a variety of time slots for spa treatments, as well as several budget options, but for an extra-special experience, you can opt for the Secret Spa and enjoy a private tent with a direct view of Bolton Abbey.
16. The Elms Hotel & Spa, Worcester
This spa is a nature inspired, boutique manor house experience like no other. A serene, calming experience in this spa offers tailor-made spa days, suitable for all needs. Try a variety of bespoke facial, massage and aesthetic treatments, whilst relaxing in the one-of-a-kind facilities and being served by the spa staff.
The hotel also offers several themed rooms for the perfect romantic getaway, as well as a cosy on site restaurant for an afternoon tea experience. If your partner would love this relaxing romantic weekend break, be sure to look into making a booking!
17. Salcombe, Devon
Coastal destinations with sandy beaches and cosy sea views are a top search for a romantic weekend break. Devon, rival to Cornwall, has some beautiful, historic towns, but the most picturesque has to be Salcombe. For those summer beach picnics, ferry rides and cosy nights in a seaside lodge, Salcombe might be a perfect pick. The Harbour Beach Club & Spa is a must visit for couples, but there also plenty of intimate Air BnB’s worth a look for more private weekend. Salcombe is a water sports haven where you could book a day of water skiing or kayaking, but also surrounded by areas of outstanding natural beauty, perfect for those blustery walks over the hills.
18. Harrogate
Back to cosy Yorkshire, this up-market, country town has a lot to offer those seeking a luxury romantic weekend break. For anyone interested in driving around historical Yorkshire, Harrogate may be the ideal rest stop, as it has lively restaurants and bars for those cosy evenings together.
Try a classic afternoon tea at the Harrogate branch of Betty’s tea room for the most quintessential English experience, or a visit to the Turkish Baths spa, a unique step-by-step heat adventure, renowned for tranquil and peaceful surroundings. For a day trip, you can have the Bronte experience in Haworth town, Ripley Castle, or Knaresborough, famed for its beautiful viaduct and rowing boat tourism.
19. Northumberland
The ideal romantic spot for anyone based in North England, is of course, the county that borders England and Scotland. Northumberland is the county of medieval castle history, but accompanied with vast landscapes and windy beaches. Both Alnwick castle and Bamburgh castle are top tourist destinations, not to mention the infamous Hadrian’s wall for the history lovers. Some gorgeous places to stay include the cosy hotel in Alnwick, The Cookie Jar, which has en-suite rainfall showers, an intimate garden space and a luxury afternoon tea service. Northumberland is the least occupied county in England, so if you enjoy a private blustery walk on an empty beach, or a a quiet, serene weekend in a stately home, this may be worth considering for your romantic weekend for two.
20. Knaresborough
Just 15 minutes from Harrogate, is the market town of Yorkshire dreams, Knaresborough. If rowing along the idyllic river, or enjoying the spectacular views of the viaduct sounds like your perfect romantic break, then you may find a staying here for a few days well worth it. Although the top activity is hiring a rowing boat in the spring and summer months, it also makes for a very cosy winter weekend, with charming independent cafe’s and old English pubs to lounge around in.
