Romantic breaks in the UK
With beautiful landscapes dotted with quaint, country villages, and historic attractions amidst incredible walking trails, the UK’s a fantastic destination for romantic weekends away.
Escape on a romantic break in the UK’s best destinations
Whether you’re planning a special Valentine’s or an anniversary to remember, there are so many pretty towns and villages to choose from. You could spend your weekend rowing in the Lake District, hiking in Scotland, or treating yourself to a luxurious stay in London: with such a great repertoire of romantic retreats, why go anywhere else? Of course, accommodation is important when you’re treating that special someone, and renting privately ensures you’ll enjoy your break to the fullest. While hotels might have room service and pampering treatments galore, countryside cottages offer unrivalled privacy and space. You could choose a property with a roaring fire and beautiful, ocean views, or somewhere with a garden where you can relax amidst fragrant flowers. You’ll find thousands of UK properties to choose from, from elegant townhouses in historic cities to traditional farmhouses in the countryside. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll be able to book the ultimate hideaway.
Lake District
The Lake District is widely regarded as the UK’s most romantic destination, with its breathtaking landscapes and 14 sparkling lakes. Head for Buttermere, Crummock Water or Loweswater, and you’ll find the perfect balance between the open countryside and the mountains. Enjoy challenging hikes and climbs and admire spectacular views, or take things a little easier and enjoy a day boating on the water. Lorton Valley is one of the best spots for those looking for history and romance, but you’re guaranteed an unforgettable break wherever you choose to stay.
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Cornwall
Cornwall might be best known for its fun-filled family activities, but it’s also a great destination for couples. The beautiful town of Padstow is possibly one of its most romantic locations, and a great place to go for a relaxing weekend away. Choose from traditional fish and chip shops overlooking the sea or world-class eateries like Rick Stein’s award-winning restaurant. With its delightful harbour and picturesque streets, Padstow’s a truly charming place to spend the evening. During the day, try surfing on one of Newquay’s blissful beaches, or spend an afternoon strolling through the Lost Gardens of Heligan.
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London
Aside from the obvious sites and attractions in London, there’s plenty to keep couples entertained. If you’ve done the dinner dates along the Thames and walked around the city’s endless parks, why not book something a little different? Speed boat tours along the Thames are growing more popular by the day and are sure to inspire quickened heartbeats – albeit not as you might have expected! In the evening, you could head out to one of London’s top gourmet restaurants or watch a film in Finchley’s Phoenix Cinema. As of the oldest picture houses in the UK, it’s original art deco decor inspires a uniquely romantic atmosphere.
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Scotland
While many tourists believe Scotland’s West Coast boasts the country’s most romantic landscapes, how about a beach break around Saint Cyrus, a Nature Reserve in Aberdeenshire? From uncovering hidden coves along the coast to scrambling over enormous rocks, you’ll certainly have fun exploring this wild and rugged landscape. If not, why not head for a Scottish Island instead? With vast, white sand dunes and crashing seas, the Outer Hebrides proffer the perfect setting for a secluded weekend in Scotland.
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Wales
Wales is an ideal destination for couples who enjoy long, romantic walks, as it offers hundreds of scenic trails to choose from. You could stroll through acres of fertile farmland, go dolphin watching along Cardigan Bay, or even try to conquer Snowdon, the tallest peak in both Wales and England. Why not head off for a weekend in the Brecon Beacons, and visit Sgwd yr Eira? A magnificent waterfall flowing into the Afon Hepste river, you can easily slip behind its crashing curtain of water to sneak a cheeky kiss or two!
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Things to do in the UK: Love is in the air!
It may sound familiar, but there’s nothing more romantic than long strolls along the beach. The UK has almost 8,000 miles of coastline, and some of the most dramatic and scenic walks in Europe. Forget jetting off to shores abroad this year: brave the sea breeze and head for Britain’s most beautiful beaches! Barafundle Bay is one of the best along the Pembrokeshire Coast, whilst Dorset’s Jurassic Coast offers a backdrop of sheer, white cliffs. Pednevounder, at the westernmost tip of Cornwall, is renowned as one of the most secluded coves in the UK: while it’s a little tricky to get there, it’s well worth the trip.
If you’d rather swap beaches for forests in bloom, why not pack a picnic and explore one of the UK’s National Parks? The Lake District National Park is regarded as the UK’s most romantic holiday destination, with endless lakes, stunning scenery and vast forests: if it was good enough for Wordsworth, it’s good enough! Bath’s National Trust Skyline Walk is another great choice for couples, offering a great way to spend your weekend in the city. As the only city in England to boast UNESCO World Heritage status, Bath boasts attractions of both historic and cultural interest, as well as an array of romantic, gourmet restaurants.