romantic places to visit in uk

The most romantic places in the UK

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written by Phoebe Lowndes

updated 16.11.2023

Discover the most romantic places in the UK, whether it's a countryside stroll or a sunset cocktail in one of the world's greatest cities . Here are our top picks.

1. Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales

2. london, england - one of the most romantic places in the uk, 3. tintagel castle, cornwall, england, 4. peak district national park, derbyshire, england, 5. bath, somerset, england, 6. the isle of skye, scotland, 7. the giant’s causeway, county antrim, northern ireland, 8. edinburgh, scotland, 9. durdle door, dorset, england, 10. lake district, england, 11. scottish highlands, scotland, 12. st ives, england, 13. the norfolk broad, england, 14. gower peninsula, wales, 15. bourton-on-the-water, england.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for visiting the world.

If paradise is strolling out of your back door and straight into the mountains, then the Brecon Beacons is one of the best romantic places in the UK for you. Holiday cottages situated within this seemingly boundless national park offer couples with outdoorsy spirits a chance to commune with nature.

Walking, mountain biking and pony trekking are fun ways to explore the uplands and valleys of the Black Mountains. Afterwards, if you’re not tired out from the day’s adventures , the area is scattered with proper pubs boasting serious gastro credentials.

Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales © stocker1970/Shutterstock

Seeking the ultimate romantic weekend? Look no further than London . Smart, edgy and buzzing with a multicultural atmosphere — the diversity of this buzzing heartland is perhaps its star quality.

The Shard’s viewing platform is a magnificent way to soak up some atmosphere with your amore. You can also cop a thriftier view by boarding the Thames Clipper from Tate Britain to Tate Modern. Or take a stroll up the infamous Parliament Hill to watch the sun go down over this sprawling city.

Where to stay in London

• Best for couples: Rubens At The Palace
• Best for a dreamlike stay: The Londoner

Also, explore our guide to where to stay in London and find more attractive accommodation options.

The London Eye, River Thames, London, UK © Paul Daniels/Shutterstock

In the most far-reaching corner of the British Isles dwells Cornwall . This county is known fondly for its sandy beaches and cream teas, but also as a place that exudes myth from every mound. Tintagel Castle is perhaps the most evocative, as one of the greatest medieval sites in the entire country, and the alleged birthplace of King Arthur.

Think wizardry, tales of damsels in distress and knights in shining armour. The winding paths and sea views along Tintagel’s ruined battlements are simply enchanting.

Tintagel Castle - one of the most romantic places in the UK © Valery Egorov/Shutterstock

Escape to one of the ultimate romantic places in the UK — the Peak District — for a rural sojourn. In August, when the moorlands yield vibrant purple heather, this hearty hinterland (stomping ground of Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre) is breathtaking.

Make sure you book into one of the many characterful cottages available in the area. A great way to spend a day is at the stunning stately home of Chatsworth House — the historic seat of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and the setting of many famous love stories.

Ashopton Viaduct, Ladybower Reservoir, and Crook Hill in the Derbyshire Peak District National Park, England © Rob Thorley/Shutterstock

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A UNESCO World Heritage site interwoven with literary history, the Georgian city of Bath is the perfect setting for a romantic weekend. Stroll through town to the Royal Crescent and observe Palladian architecture at its most magnificent. Or take the chance to visit The Pump Room for champagne tea overlooking the Roman Baths.

Explore independent galleries and shops to find a perfect memento, and conclude your day by indulging in a soothing soak in the naturally warm rooftop pool at Thermae Bath Spa. The breathtaking city views from this tranquil oasis add to the charm of this one of the most romantic places in the UK.

Where to stay in Bath

• Best for budget: The Z Hotel Bath
• Best for solo travel: Hotel Indigo - Bath

Find more accommodation to stay in Bath

This tailor-made trip to Northern Cornwall includes fantastic and romantic scenery. You will start your journey in London with some unique activities to get to know the city, before setting off on a 5-day walk across Cornwall. End your trip in Bath and explore the backdrop of Bridgerton.

Bath © ThinAir/Shutterstock

Undulant and unspoilt, the rugged scenery of Skye is some of Scotland ’s most captivating. The island’s hub is Portree, a picturesque town of colourful harbour buildings and a good base for those looking to explore the island.

Keen wild swimmers should head for the enchanting Fairy Pools near Glen Brittle – a memorable spot for taking the plunge. And whisky fans mustn’t leave without a trip to the Talisker Distillery, where you can warm those cockles with a tasting tour.

Portree © Aeypix/Shutterstock

Journey to the northeast coast of Northern Ireland to see the sunset over the horizon from atop Giant’s Causeway . A brisk walk will bring you to this remarkable natural phenomenon, created by an ancient volcanic eruption, where approximately 40,000 hexagonal columns interlock to produce an undulating ridge of basalt rock.

If the symbolism of perfect natural unity isn’t enough to get you all gooey-eyed, the aura of myth and legendary stories surrounding this site will surely captivate your hearts.

The fascinating Giant Causeway in Northern Ireland © Kanuman/Shutterstock

Elope to Scotland ’s capital for an elegant weekend away and to experience the fabulous contrast between medieval and cosmopolitan. You’ll find chic bars and restaurants nestled amongst landmarks steeped in centuries of history.

Book a table for dinner at The Outsider with a castle view to enjoy modern Scottish cuisine in the heart of the Old Town . A climb to the peak of Arthur’s Seat (an extinct volcano) will reward you with stunning views of the city and Edinburgh Castle .

Where to stay in Edinburgh

• Best for the warm welcome: Native Edinburgh
• Best for old-school charm: Haymarket Apartments

Find more accommodation options to stay in Edinburgh

On this tailor-made trip to vintage England and picturesque Scotland , you will visit two traditional capitals, London and Edinburgh, and enjoy a trek through the Loch Lomond national park. This trip will let you discover peaceful Scottish islands on foot, with several days of detailed walking tours included.

Edinburgh, Scotland © S-F/Shutterstock

For the British coastline at its most arresting, pitch up on the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth. Here you’ll find campsites with far-reaching sea views and private beaches.

The picture-postcard limestone arches of Durdle Door make this weather-beaten landscape a dreamy location for long cliff-top walks, fossil hunting and a romantic break. Come twilight, cuddle over a campfire and if stormy weather threatens to cloud your stay, take shelter in the nearest cheerful pub – of which there are many.

Late evening light at Durdle Door Lulworth Dorset England © C Jones/Shutterstock

It’s easy to see why the Lake District National Park inspired William Wordsworth’s Romantic poetry. With its rolling green hills peering over clear expanses of water and quintessentially English towns and villages, the national park makes the perfect romantic getaway. Stay in a stone-­clad cottage, light a roaring fire and enjoy the peace and quiet of this stunning region after a day admiring awesome views from the top of the fells.

It's away from the more obvious sights that the Lakes really begin to pay dividends as one of the most romantic places in the UK. The dramatic valleys of Langdale, Wasdale and Eskdale, as well as villages like Cartmel, a gourmet paradise, all create a charming, romantic atmosphere.

Dawn light over Ullswater and the Helvellyn range in the English Lake District. Taken from Place Fell © Shutterstock

The Highlands of Scotland region covers the northern two-thirds of the country and holds much of the mainland’s most spectacular scenery. The signature combination of mountains, glens, lochs and rivers, surrounded on three sides by a magnificently pitted and rugged coastline, guarantees wonderful moody views.

You may be surprised at how remote much of the Scotland Highlands still is. The vast peat bogs in the north are among the most extensive and unspoilt wilderness areas in Europe, while a handful of the isolated crofting villages on the west coast can still be reached only by boat.

On this tailor-made Highland Tour , you will discover the beautiful region of Perthshire, the famous Loch Ness and Inverness – the capital of the Highlands. Get a chance to admire Europe’s oldest mountain, stroll along sandy beaches on the Scottish West Coast, and visit the mysterious Isle of Skye.

Skye Island in Scottish Highlands, Scotland © David Redondo/Shutterstock

Just east of Zennor in Cornwall, lies the picturesque town of St Ives, a perfect romantic getaway. With its four hilly miles and steeply built streets, this charming town was once fueled by the pilchard industry. As the pilchard reserves dwindled in the early 1900s, St Ives evolved into a thriving artists' colony.

This vibrant community laid the foundation for renowned artists like Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth, Naum Gabo, and potter Bernard Leach. In the 1960s, a third wave of artists, including Peter Lanyon and Patrick Heron, followed in their footsteps, further enriching the artistic heritage of this enchanting destination.

Where to stay in St Ives

• For beach stays: Palma Guest House
• For romantic setting: Pedn-Olva

Find more accommodation options to stay in St Ives.

Evening light on Porthmeor Beach St Ives Cornwall © ian woolcock/Shutterstock

Three rivers – the Yare, Waveney and Bure – meander across the flatlands to the east of Norwich, converging on Breydon Water before flowing into the sea at Great Yarmouth. In places, these rivers swell into wide expanses of water known as broads, which for years were thought to be natural lakes.

The Norfolk Broads are crisscrossed by roads and rail lines, but the best – really the only – way to see them is by boat. You can happily spend a week or so exploring the 125 miles of lock-free navigable waterways, visiting the various churches, pubs and windmills en route.

Thurne Mill on the waterside of Thurne River mouth in the Norfolk Broads @ yackers1/Shutterstock

Thrusting into the Bristol Channel west of Swansea, the nineteen-mile Gower (Gŵyr) peninsula is fringed by sweeping yellow bays and precipitous cliffs, caves and blowholes to the south. To the north, one finds wide, flat marshes and cockle beds.

Inland, amidst the brackened heaths, you'll discover scattered castle ruins, intriguing churches, prehistoric remains, and quaint villages. These all contribute to the allure of romantic places in the UK.

Spring dawn over iconic Three Cliffs Bay in Gower South Wales © Steve Pleydell/Shutterstock

Bourton-on-the-Water is the epicentre of Cotswold tourism. Beside the village green – flanked by photogenic Jacobean and Georgian facades in yellow Cotswold stone – five picturesque little bridges span the shallow River Windrush, dappled by shade from overhanging trees.

It looks lovely, but its proximity to main roads means that it’s invariably packed with people. Tourist coaches cram in all summer long and the little High Street now concentrates on souvenirs and teashops, interspersed with everything from a Model Village and Motoring Museum to a Dragonfly Maze and Bird Park.

Where to stay in Bourton-on-the-Water

• For location: The Lansdowne Guest House
• For couples: Chester House Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bourton on the Water

Bourton-on-the-Water village in the Cotswolds © Reimar/Shutterstock

For even more romantic destinations, check out our in-depth guide to the most romantic places in the world .

Feel inspired by our winter breaks in the UK? Check out the snapshot of The Rough Guide to Wales or The Rough Guide to England and start planning your perfect trip.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to the UK without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

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17 Best Romantic Things to Do in the United Kingdom

Daniel Berehulak / Getty Images

From villages straight out of fairytales to unique cottage hideaways, there's no shortage of romance in the United Kingdom. Skip the chocolates and roses, and instead test your relationship by getting lost in a contemplative maze, show your commitment with London's finest custom jewelry, or go camping under the stars. You can choose to spend time in the picturesque countryside, or hit the pavement of a big city like London, both complete with countless activities perfect for rekindling a spark. Make your honeymoon or anniversary one for the romance books with a trip to a nostalgic British destination.

Take a Cruise on Lake Windermere

Ashley Cooper / Getty Images

A trip to the lake district is not complete without a boat cruise on the famous Lake Windermere. This 10.5-mile and 200-foot deep lake is the largest natural lake in all of England. Start your excursion in Bowness, Ambleside, or Lakeside to enjoy a cruise up and down the narrow lake, complete with narrated history. Take in points of interest and the sweeping mountain views, perfect for photo ops. You can book a trip on a smaller launch boat (recommended for couples) or a larger "steamer" for a 75-minute round-trip journey. Combine your cruise with a visit to a local attraction for a whole-day affair.

Soak at Thermae Bath Spa

oversnap / Getty Images

Nothing is more romantic and relaxing than soaking together in natural mineral-rich waters. At Thermae Bath Spa, in Bath, you can enjoy a rooftop pool filled with 92 Degree F water that contains over 42 minerals and trace elements. Bask in the hot springs to heal your bones with a two-hour spa session, and then retreat to the on-site massage rooms for a couple's massage. You can also book the Wellness Suite to enjoy the Georgian Steam Room, the Infrared Room, and the Celestial Relaxation Room. 

Sip Tea at Lucy's Tearoom

Debby Lewis-Harrison / Getty Images

If you find yourself in Cotswold, stop into Lucy's Tearoom for an afternoon tea. (in typical local fashion). This small, family-run business sits inside a 300-year-old stone cottage in Stow's Market Square. Go inside and admire the architecture, complete with flagstone floors, exposed beams, and a large bay window. Then, sip on traditional cream teas and eat homemade toasted teacakes, alongside plant-based healthier fare. You can also book one of two tea-named rooms at their bed and breakfast upstairs.

Get Lost in Puzzlewood

James Mills / Getty Images

Located in Gloucestershire’s historic Forest of Dean, Puzzlewood gives you an outdoor experience full of twisted trees, meandering paths, bridges, and lookout points. Don your hiking boots and experience a forest full of otherworldly sights, like interesting rock formations and underground caves. These caves, called scowles , were formed by the erosion of carboniferous limestone, and then they surfaced over time exposing some of the cave features. Along the trail, look for badgers, deer, fox, rabbits, and a variety of bats. Then, when you're done exploring, hit the cafe for baguettes and tea.

Have a Brief Encounter

David Williams / Getty Images

Carnforth Station , in Lancashire, posed as Milford Junction in the classic British movie, David Lean's Brief Encounter. The station has recently been refurbished with a nod to its historic cinematic debut. Meet up under the clock featured in the film, or have a more modern encounter of your own at London's newly refurbished St. Pancras International Station. Start by taking a selfie with Paul Day's 30-foot tall statue, The Meeting Place ,  and then drink champagne at the world's longest champagne bar located on the station's platform.

Shop for Custom Jewelry

 peeterv / Getty Images 

Approximately 40 percent of the jewelry made in the United Kingdom, including much that finds its way into the exclusive shops of London's Mayfair, is made in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter . The area is full of designer-makers (some who were trained at the district's own college) working out of small, glamorous shops. Many artisans can create a piece to your own specifications, usually for much less than you might expect to pay for custom work elsewhere. While you're waiting for your piece to be completed, ogle over the sparkly stones at a diamond shop, or grab a glass of wine at one of the district's trendy cafes.

Visit the Sexy Giant

The Cerne Abbas Giant could well be the sexiest ancient monument in the British Isles. The National Trust describes him as a huge chalk outline sculpted into the hillside above the village of Cerne Abbas, representing a "naked, sexually aroused, club-wielding giant." Those wanting to spice up their relationships are drawn to amorous encounters near the Giant's most upstanding feature (take a guess). In the past, couples have even spent the night here. If you are tongue-tied on Valentine's Day, a trip to this ancient drawing proves that sometimes a picture can speak a thousand words.​

Stay the Night in a Castle

You just can't move without bumping into a castle or a castle ruin somewhere in the UK. More amazingly, many of them have been turned into unique luxury hotels. Imagine a room in a turret with ancient stone walls, a roaring fire, and baronial hangings all over the place. Nowadays, these castle hotels, like Langley Castle Hotel , mostly fit the "boutique hotel" genre. Still, you can expect four-poster beds, luxurious bathrooms, historic landscaped views, moats, and battlements to keep your most romantic fantasies going.

Hold Hands on a Beautiful Beach

Andy Stothert / Getty Images

While it's not exactly a tropical beach destination, the UK's breathtaking beaches were carved out by the wind and the glaciers of the ice age, creating remarkable landscapes. The National Trust of Wales designated some of these beaches the best place to pop the question. A few of the most popular include Watergate Bay , which boasts 2-miles of pristine sand and is a great place to watch surfers. Another surfing beach, Saunton Sands , backs right up to Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. And the fabulous tranquil coastal village and beach of Sandsend will take you out of the city's hustle-bustle and into Fairytale Land.

Lose Yourselves in Leeds Castle Maze

VisitBritain / Pete Seaward / Getty Images

The English pride themselves on their elaborate hedge mazes, and these sites are not just family attractions. Three to 400 years ago, in the heyday of English maze design, mazes were considered places for flirtation and a hideout for secret lovers to rendezvous. Go during the day, when the kids are in school, and you'll have plenty of private time for snogging (that's British for smooching) between thick walls of yew. Leeds Castle , in particular, has a dense yew maze set within a square. Yet, when seen from above, the pattern is circular. This unique feature makes this maze hard to solve. You can literally spend hours inside.

Stargaze at Brecon Beacons

Michael Roberts / Getty Images

Brecon Beacons National Park in South Wales is an outdoor couple's haven. Here, you can hike miles of meandering trails, take a romantic horseback ride through the countryside, or mountain bike on roads and hillside tracks. This park also earns its name as an International Dark Sky Reserve. The skies are so clear at night, you can see the Milky Way, major constellations, bright nebulas, and meteor showers with the naked eye. Book a camping or glamping experience, grab a blanket, and cuddle up with your romantic someone, while appreciating incredible celestial sights.

Stroll Through a Lavender Meadow

Joanna Potępa / Getty Images

The town of Norfolk, famous for its lavender plants, is home to Norfolk Lavender, which houses the National Collection of Lavenders. Here, more than 100 different varieties of the fragrant herb grow in abundance. Wander the fields, hand-in-hand, taking in the relaxing aromatherapy. Then, take a guided tour of their distillery and see the plant go from flower to perfume. After that, hit the Lavender Lounge Tearoom, where you can indulge in lavender-infused cake and tea.

Row Your Way Through Cambridge

 Oli Scarff / Getty Images

In the college town of Cambridge, the River Cam has long been navigated by punts , traditional flat-bottomed boats similar to those that ply the canals in Venice. Book a private tour for you and your sweetie, while the boat's operator uses a setting pole to guide you down the waterway. You'll see sights like the Mathematical Bridge, King's College Chapel, the impressive Wren Library, and you'll pass under the Bridge of Sighs. Take a boat out by yourself, if you'd rather enjoy more privacy. Still, with a trusted guide at the helm, all you need to do is relax with a glass of wine and take in the view.

Take a Walk in Dartmoor

Jason Jones Travel Photography / Getty Images 

Idyllic Dartmoor is home to the Emsworthy Mire, a moorland nature reserve where thousands of bluebells flower every spring. And in the protected Dartmoor National Park you can explore miles of trails through open moorlands and deep river valleys. Just head out on an abandoned railway or on an archeological walk, and it won't be long before you find yourself alone, complete with a pristine view perfect for picnicking. Start at Princetown's network of trails, and don't forget to check the weather and pack accordingly before you go.

Ice Skate at London's Somerset House

coldsnowstorm / Getty Images 

London operates different ice rinks during the winter months, but few are as romantic as the one at the Somerset House. The neoclassical landmark is illuminated from below, as skaters of all ages and ability levels glide around on the ice beside it. A skate at this venue is considered one of London's favorite winter experiences. Take a glide around the ice, while gazing into each other's eyes, and then enjoy artisan food and drink at Chalet Barragiste with Jimmy Garcia. Go during the holidays to see the 40-foot-tall Christmas tree decorated in lights.

Take a Stroll Through Bibury

 joe daniel price / Getty Images 

Bibury, an ancient village situated along the banks of River Coln, was once described by the poet William Morris as "the most beautiful village in England." Surrounded by the Cotswold Hills, this idyllic town boasts cobblestone houses, most donned in meandering ivy vines. Take a stroll along Arlington Row and admire the architecture of the cottages built in 1380 as part of a monastic wool store. And don't miss a visit to the Bibury Trout Farm, a working farm where they breed Rainbow and Brown Trout for restocking waterways for anglers. Rent a snug little cottage, or stay at the romantic riverside Swan Hotel .

Take a Steam Train Ride Through Scotland

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Fans of Harry Potter will recognize the iconic steam train, as it makes its way throughout Scotland's ancient villages and picturesque lochs. A trip over the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Inverness makes you feel like you're living part of the Potter movie, as you feel the romance of a past era. For this experience, make sure to book the West Highland Line. Other journeys, like an overnight train experience, take you deep into the highlands, and half-day excursions pass by villages and beaches where you may spot herons, eagles, and otters. 

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40 of the Most Romantic Places in the UK

• Last Updated 13 February 2024

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Looking for your next couples getaway or intimate weekend escape? These are some of the most romantic places in the UK!

Britain is a nation of cosy countryside getaways, lively city escapes, stunning country manor hotels, and crumbling castles. So there are plenty of opportunities to get away from it all with your other half! 

Discover historic towns full of culture, great restaurants, and intimate bars to explore. Outdoorsy couples will fall in love with the sweeping landscapes that inspired some of the nation’s most famous poets and authors.

Get away from it all with a countryside ramble. Unwind with a relaxing couple of days soaking up the summer sun on a picturesque beach. Or delve into the culture and history of some of the UK’s prettiest cities . Whatever you love doing, you’re sure to find the perfect holiday to suit your relationship!

I’ve teamed up with a few of the country’s top travel bloggers to compile this list of the most romantic places to visit around the UK. So get ready to find your perfect couple’s holiday in Britain…

40 Romantic Places in the UK: Map

26 romantic places in england uk, 8 romantic places in scotland uk, romantic spots in northern ireland, 4 romantic locations in wales.

The Lake District, Cumbria

The Lake District is perfect for a couple’s getaway. These are the landscapes that inspired Wordsworth, as well as many other Romantic poets. It’s also home to the third most romantic hotel in the world!

Home to some of Britain’s best scenery and most spectacular views, plus picturesque villages, gorgeous hotels, and some of the best food in the country – this wonderfully British setting lends itself beautifully to romance. Rent a cosy log cabin or book into a luxury boutique hotel, head out for long walks in the countryside, and round off each day cuddled up by the fireplace. Bliss!

RECOMMENDED TOUR: Ten Lakes Full Day Tour (8-9 hours)

Stratford Upon Avon, Warwickshire

This charming, historic town on the River Avon was the birthplace and home of Shakespeare. As a result, it has long been a place of pilgrimage for British literary greats, including Keats, Dickens, Tennyson and Hardy. 

Perhaps it’s the spirit of Shakespeare and his famous romances that make Stratford Upon Avon an idyllic lover’s getaway. Stroll along the canal and watch the many riverboats passing by – you could even rent one for a unique escape. Could there be anything cosier?

Bath, Somerset

Stunning Georgian buildings, oodles of history, Britain’s only natural thermal spa, and the setting of one of my favourite Jane Austen novels… Bath is definitely one of the most romantic places in the UK. Make the most of the many exceptional antique tea rooms to indulge in the quintessentially British ritual of afternoon tea. Don’t miss historic Sally Lunn’s, the oldest shop in Bath.

This is a town that has built its success on wellness and leisure. Especially romantic is the gorgeous Thermae Bath Spa, where couples can cuddle up in the rooftop pool, which offers fabulous views of the city and surrounding countryside. Check out my review of the spa here for more info.

RECOMMENDED TOUR: Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Prosecco

Jurassic Coast, Dorset

Arguably one of the most romantic places in all of the UK has to be Dorset’s Jurassic Coast . Boasting 185 million years of history, this 96-mile stretch of coast is justifiably famous. It’s full of geological marvels – and, more importantly, it’s also insanely pretty! 

Long cliff walks, cosy country pubs, picturesque villages, and dozens of stunning beaches make this part of England perfect for a romantic getaway. Set the mood by renting a pretty stone cottage, or try glamping in a fancy yurt or rustic log cabin. 

Scilly Isles, Cornwall

Just off the coast of Cornwall, the Scilly Isles are another of the most romantic places in the UK. Although popular, the islands are nowhere near as busy as better-known Cornish destinations. So you have a pretty high chance of finding a beach all to yourself! 

Island life is slow-paced and relaxed. Spend the day at the beach, exploring on foot or by bike, or island-hopping by ferry. In the evening there are dozens of amazing restaurants to choose from, perhaps while you enjoy a coastal sunset. Importing goods is expensive so there’s a big focus on locally-grown produce and fresh, local seafood! Don’t miss the Crab Shack on Bryher Island – although you might have to be prepared for your other half to see you making a mess of yourself! 

Peak District

Recommended by: Jenny, Peak District Kids

If you’re an outdoorsy couple, maybe your idea of romance is a hike across the open hills with no one in sight bar the two of you. Indeed, the Peak District in England’s Midlands has been the backdrop for many an adaptation of Pride and Prejudice .

Spend your days taking in the views at Stanage Edge or Monsal Head. Or you could head to Chatsworth House to picnic like Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy. You may also want to declare your love by adding a lock to Bakewell’s Lovelock Bridge. 

But the real romantic treat of the Peak District is the dark night skies , creating the perfect conditions for stargazing. Grab a bottle of wine and some blankets, and head to Surprise View, near Hathersage.

Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

Recommended by: Darek, Darek and Gosia

Located in Somerset,  Cheddar G o rge is one of the most spectacular natural landmarks in this part of Great Britain. It is also known as a very romantic spot. Couples, who love hiking, can spend time together while walking the loop. A picnic on top of the limestone gorge is also highly recommended.

In the evening, there is nothing better than a romantic night with wine & cheese tasting. The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Co. has an amazing selection of the only real cheddar cheese in town!

If you plan to spend a weekend around Cheddar Gorge, make sure to book your stay at Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa. A relaxing treatment together will add a bit more romance to your trip! Alternatively, glamping in the nearby Somerset countryside could be the perfect addition to your romantic getaway.

Oxford, Oxfordshire

Recommended by: Umang, Travelmax.in  

Home to the famous Oxford University, Oxford is a very quaint little town. To explore the town, you can either walk around at leisure, opt for the hop-on hop-off bus (from £18pp) or simply cycle around. Oxford University also has a few tours which offer a glimpse of what this Victorian town has to offer.

Oxford town has a lot of lanes. The labyrinth of these cobbled lanes can extend an impressive indulgence in Victorian vibes. While exploring Oxford, you can consider stopping by The Alchemist, well known for its Sushi. Around sunset, the Isis River, another name for the Thames, offers some beautiful views. The entire vibe can turn romantic as the river bathes in soft sunlight and the sky turns orange.

The Cotswolds

Recommended by: Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

The Cotswolds area is full of picturesque villages surrounded by natural beauty, so a stay in a private Cotswolds cottage really is the perfect romantic getaway. Take a lovely stroll hand in hand between the villages of Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter. (Vegetarian and vegan travellers  can relax, the word “slaughter” just means “marsh” or “wetland” in Old English).

If you’re not feeling too active, a scenic drive along Broadway Road is a great alternative. You’ll pass by some beautiful hillside villages along the way. If you’re in the Cotswolds in the summertime, be sure not to miss the purple lavender fields in bloom. The Snowshill Lavender Farm is a great place for a photoshoot.

RELATED POST: Lords of the Manor Hotel Cotswolds Review

Canterbury, Kent

Recommended by: Demi, Around the World with Her

Perched on the River Stour in Kent, Canterbury is a beautiful, historic city. The city is a UNESCO world heritage site, and is well known for its stunning cathedral. The cobbled streets, independent shops, and historic walls with excellent viewpoints all give Canterbury a very romantic feel. There are plenty of boutique hotels in Canterbury, making it perfect for couples.

The city is famous for “punting” on the river. A great afternoon activity, as you can relax in a traditional boat and have someone gently float you down the river. Punting is not only quirky, but sailing through the narrow river past lush gardens and cute bridges is very romantic. Finish any day with a traditional afternoon tea at Tiny Tim’s famous Tea Room . If you’re lucky, someone will be playing old love songs on the piano that sits in the centre of the cafe!

READ MORE: Best Things to do in Canterbury

Tintagel, Cornwall

Recommended by: Kat, Wandering Bird 

One of the most romantic places in the UK has to be Cornwall. In particular,  Tintagel Castle  and the secret waterfall nearby.

We’ve all heard stories of the love between King Arthur and Guinevere and visiting the castle where the legend is based is definitely worth your time. On a sunny day, the views are breathtaking.

However, if you want romance, head down the road and visit St Nectan’s Glen. This waterfall trail winds through a beautiful forest, along the banks of a bubbling stream, passing several small waterfalls until you reach the cascade where the water cascades through the rock. 

It’s the perfect place for a romantic picnic or an afternoon stroll (although if you want the best photos get there early!)

Lindisfarne, Northumberland

Recommended by: Tracy, UK Travel Planning

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne is a tidal island located off the Northumberland coast in the North East of England. It is a wonderful destination, especially in the summer months when the days are long and warm.

Stay a few nights on the island and wander the tiny village exploring the quaint lanes and ancient ruins of Lindisfarne Priory or Lindisfarne Castle. The island is tidal so you can be cut off from the mainland too, which makes it even more special and secluded. Views from Lindisfarne over to Bamburgh Castle are stunning so I recommend a sunset stroll along the beach to enjoy the views. 

Knaresborough, Yorkshire

Recommended by: Nell, Adventures with Nell

Knaresborough is a quaint market town in North Yorkshire, not far from Harrogate. Its cobbled streets, stone steps, hidden alleyways, tea rooms and tranquil riverside make it perfect for a day out or a weekend away with your loved one.   There are plenty of romantic things to do in Knaresborough, from strolling through the Bebra gardens to admiring the views from Knaresborough castle, exploring Mother Shipton’s Cave or simply enjoying the riverside with an ice cream in hand. But the ultimate romantic activity is to hire a rowing boat. Take turns to row each other along the river, passing under the iconic Victorian viaduct.

Mersea Island, Essex

Recommended by: Sarah, A Social Nomad

Mersea Island is an estuary Island in Essex accessible by an ancient Roman causeway, which is also covered by the tide several times a month.  Here you’ll find glorious romantic hideaway cottages and fabulously colourful (and fully equipped) beach huts to hire by the day. 

Mersea Island is home to some seriously good foodie options. It is home to the world-famous Colchester Native Oyster, so visiting either the Company Shed or West Mersea Oyster Bar is one of the best things to do on Mersea Island . Both provide amazingly good oysters and seafood right on the beach. As well as Oysters, Mersea Island has a vineyard, which is the perfect place for wine tasting in a picturesque courtyard.

Rivington, Lancashire 

Recommended by: Jenni, Choose Veganism

Rivington in Lancashire is like a miniature version of the Lake District and the perfect place to go for a romantic walk in the North West of England. As well as lots of natural beauty, the area has fascinating man-made features which date back over a hundred years, including the Japanese Garden, Italian Lake, and terraced gardens.

At the top of the hill, 1191 feet above sea level is Rivington Pike, an ancient beacon which was built in 1733. Here you can enjoy a romantic picnic accompanied by spectacular views. On a clear day, you can see the sea, 25 miles into the distance. It’s not uncommon to spot deer, rabbits and other wild animals in the area and there are some lovely little tea rooms where you can sit outside and enjoy the countryside.

Shrewsbury, Shropshire

Recommended by: Ania from The Travelling Twins 

There are a hundred reasons to call Shrewsbury one of the most romantic places in the UK. From evening riverside walks, to wandering amid mediaeval timber buildings, jettied out over steep stone pavements. Shrewsbury has quaint little alleys and colourful streets lined with classy independent shops, as well as numerous cafes and restaurants.  

For us, the romance of the place is embodied by the Market Square. Standing literally over the central square on an arcade of stone columns, the Old Market Hall is home to an arts cinema with a stylish cafe bar. It’s a great place to wind up the day with a snack and a drink before or after a movie. Check in advance though, as the theatre is small and it is often booked solid. 

York, Yorkshire

Recommended by: Dave Chant

York is a beautiful cathedral city located in North Yorkshire. There are numerous charming B&Bs, or posh spa and luxury hotels. The medieval centre is home to the delightful Shambles lane oozing with cafes, making a nice stop for afternoon tea. You can watch the sunset from the City Walls and walk a full loop of the centre.   Other attractions include York Minster, the cathedral with its Heart of Yorkshire window where people believe a kiss seals a lifetime together. There are picnic spots in Rowntree or Dean’s Park where you can lie in each other’s arms. A trip to York Castle Museum is also a good stop, or you can visit York Dungeons if you like jumping terrified into the arms of your lover!

RECOMMENDED TOUR: River Ouse City Cruise

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

Recommended by: Anisa, Two Travelling Texans

When you think of Cambridge, you probably think of the University and its students. But it can be a romantic place too. Cambridge has an interesting combination of gorgeous architecture (i.e. King’s College Chapel) and green spaces. It also has some world-class museums.

The area called The Backs is especially scenic and romantic. You can go for a walk hand in hand or go punting on the Cam . Punting uses a boat similar to a gondola, where you stand on the back to paddle, but you use a pole instead of an oar. If you’re not brave enough to try it on your own, you can hire someone else to do the punting or go on a punting tour. When you’re done, you can go for an afternoon tea in Cambridge to round off the perfect romantic day out! 

RECOMMENDED TOUR: Guide Punting Tour on the Cam

Yorkshire Dales

Recommended by: Daniel, Urban Abroad

When looking for the most romantic places to visit in the UK you can’t ignore a visit to Yorkshire! What more could you ask for than a picture-perfect countryside retreat snugged away in the Yorkshire Dales National Park ?

Whether you are looking for a quiet picnic spot to woo your other half, or just fancy a hand-in-hand stroll whilst you and your loved one contemplate some of the UK’s finest viewpoints.

This makes an excellent choice – and as one of the more refined destinations in the north of England you can expect to breathe in some of the cleanest air as the conservation, biodiversity, and heritage of this park is second to none.

RECOMMENDED TOUR: Yorkshire Dales Day Tour from York

Brighton, East Sussex

Recommended by: Mansoureh, Travel with Mansoureh 

The charming seaside city of Brighton on the southern coast of England is a great spot for a romantic break. The city is less than an hour train ride from London so it’s very convenient for a weekend gateway.

Going to the beaches is one of the best ways to enjoy a sunny day in Brighton. But if you want to have an astonishing panoramic view of the English Channel and the city, you can hop on the British Airways i360 observation tower. From the top, you’ll be able to see the white cliffs of Beachy Head on a clear day. 

Strolling around the city centre and eating in one of the seaside restaurants are must to do when you are in Brighton. This is also known as one of the best cities in the UK for nightlife , so if you fancy a party, you’re in luck!

Windsor, Berkshire

Recommended by: Marco from Travel-Boo

Windsor, only an hour by train from London’s Waterloo station, has certainly been in the spotlight in recent years, thanks to the numerous royal weddings of late. Whilst it is known to be the Queen’s preferred residence away from London, Windsor has so much more going for than just its royal connection.

Quintessentially English and exuding loads of charm, Windsor is undoubtedly one of the most romantic places in the UK. Visit Windsor Castle , or explore the quaint town centre. Make sure to pass by The Crooked House of Windsor, an oddly leaning building dating back to 1687.

You may also want to head down to the river to enjoy a romantic boat ride along the Thames, taking in the gorgeous lush-green scenery, as the swans swim by. To round off a romantic visit to Windsor, book an overnight stay at the luxurious Castle Hotel Windsor, set in the heart of lovely Windsor. 

Staithes and the North Yorkshire Coast

Recommended by: Ella, Many More Maps

The entirety of the North Yorkshire coast is one of the most romantic places in the UK. Expect wild, wind-swept cliffs, secluded coves and remote fishing villages.

Basing yourself in Staithes, North Yorkshire , start by taking a secluded coastal walk. The Staithes to Runswick Bay route is enchanting, and trails along clifftops and sandy beaches. Spend the evening warming up in front of a cosy, open fire in an atmospheric pub. As Staithes is a fishing village, you’ll be able to dine together on some of the most delicious seafood in the UK.

To extend your trip, take a short drive to one of the other popular areas of the North Yorkshire coast such as Whitby or Robin Hoods Bay, or hit the cliffs to spot Yorkshire puffins and other wildlife. 

Penwith Peninsula, Cornwall

Recommended by: Simona, Travel OFF 

The Penwith Peninsula is an area of Cornwall stretching from St. Ives to Land’s End, the most westerly point of the British mainland.

Its rugged coastline, characterized by granite cliffs overlooking the Atlantic ocean, and quaint fishing villages preserving the atmosphere of past times, make this area one of the most romantic places we have visited in the UK.

A must-see is the charming Minack Theatre, perched on a cliff in Porthcurno. This theatre was built in the 1930s by Rowena Cade, a passionate woman in love with art, and still operates today, hosting plays during the summertime in one of the most incredible and romantic settings we have ever seen.

Norfolk Broads, Norfolk

Recommended by: Mandi, East Anglia Family Fun

There is nothing more romantic than taking a stroll along the Norfolk Broads, watching the sunset across the calm still water, listening to the various wildlife, or catching a glimpse of a Barn owl or Heron flying just above your head.

The Norfolk Broad houses some of the most quaint villages in the UK, surrounded by fields and farms. So if you’re looking for peace and tranquillity to share a romantic weekend then this is the place for you.

Fancy exploring the area, then why not hire a dayboat and go cruising along the Broads, stopping at the various pubs and restaurants along the way. 

Haworth, Yorkshire 

Recommended by: Helen on Her Holidays

Haworth in West Yorkshire is a pretty mill town. Independent shops line the steep main street, a steam railway runs through the valley, and it’s set in a stunning landscape. But what makes Haworth particularly romantic is its three former residents – Charlotte, Emily and Anne Brontë.

Haworth was home to the Brontë sisters from 1820 until their tragically early deaths. Their intensely passionate novels including Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights were all written in Haworth, in the dining room of the Brontë family home (now the Brontë Parsonage Museum ).

Visitors can see the places that inspired the sisters’ romantic tales; windswept moorland walks, pretty waterfalls and ruined farmhouses are all easily accessible from one of Haworth’s cosy B&Bs.

Recommended by: Sophie, We Dream of Travel

The capital city is truly one of the most romantic places in the UK. Often overlooked as a romantic destination, London has everything you could possibly want for an intimate date! Think picnics in one of the five royal parks. Or evening riverside strolls and hand-in-hand walks through some of London’s most famous streets as the city lights twinkle.

Looking for a quirkier date? Try junkyard golf, a themed dinner, afternoon tea on a double-decker bus, or even spend the night in a museum.

Prefer upscale? There are plenty of excellent fine dining options, and you can even combine these with a more alternative experience in London . Try Dans le Noir for dinner in complete darkness. A great way to get to know someone in a different way!

Many of Britain’s most romantic destinations have strong literary connections, and beautiful Edinburgh is no exception. The inspiration behind many well-known works of literature – including, most recently, Harry Potter – this truly gorgeous city is easily one of the most romantic places in the UK.

Culture, history, art, music and more mean there’s plenty to keep a couple busy here. Don’t miss this list of quirky suggestions for more unusual things to do in Edinburgh .

Loch Lomond

Recommended by: Stephen Schreck of A Backpackers Tale

Loch Lomond combines untouched nature with a charming romantic setting. Surrounded by windswept hills, and the verdant forest of the Trossachs National Park.  This nature-rich area acts as a lush boundary between the Scottish lowlands, and highlands.   Dotted around the Loch are pint-size townships, like the village of Luss, which are perfect for a quaint stay at bed-and-breakfast. 

Loch Lomond has numerous outdoor activities including hiking, horseback riding, boat tours across the lake, canoeing, and even a couple of beaches. So travellers seeking a romantic getaway in the UK should – without question – add Loch Lomond to your Scotland Itinerary . 

RECOMMENDED TOUR: Loch Lomand Scottish Highlands Sightseeing Tour

Isles of Lewis & Harris

Recommended by: Sonja from Scotland For Families

The Isles of Harris & Lewis are located in the remote Western Isles, off the coast of Scotland. The location adds to the romance of the islands, as it’s likely you’ll have many areas to yourself – or at least share them with fewer other tourists than the more popular Scottish destinations.

You can step back in time at the towering standing stone circle at Callanish and the Blackhouse Village in Lewis, before taking a wander along beautiful beaches in Harris that would have you thinking you were in the Caribbean – if it weren’t for the chillier weather! These islands are a fantastic place to just get away from it all and spend time together exploring a beautiful location. 

Scotland’s Castle Trail

Recommended by: Kathi from Watch Me See

Few places are as romantic and beautiful as Scotland’s Castle Trail in Aberdeenshire. From pink turrets to impressive fortresses, the castles on the trail are among the most famous in Scotland. The trail connects 19 fairytale castles, ruins and stately homes, and is steeped in Scottish history. Stories of kings and queens, alliances and vendettas – as well as more than one romantic tale – are waiting.

The absolute highlight for couples is a trip to Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven , a stunning ruined castle that sits atop a dramatic cliff. Many even chose to renew their vows here, but watching the castle light up in the golden light of sunset is just as romantic!

Recommended by: Gemma, Two Scots Abroad

Here’s how to fill a Glasgow itinerary for a couples getaway: 

Brunch in the Merchant City: The Wilson Street Pantry is a stylish cafe with a variety of egg plates. Hit the shops to buy an outfit for the big night out or book an afternoon at Blythswood Square spa.

Glasgow’s food scene is strong so depending on what type of meal you’re after, you’ll find it in the city centre of West End. Follow up with a distillery tour and whisky tasting (from £17.50pp).

There are a couple of options for drinks and partying. Bar hop across the cute cobbled street of Ashton Lane, enjoy a drink and a movie at Everyman Cinema or join in a ceilidh at Sloans (Friday). Prefer live bands? Glasgow is a UNESCO city of music, check out the intimate King Tuts or vintage Barrowlands.

Fort William

Recommended by: Nicole from Nicole LaBarge Travel Blog

Fort William is a quiet place to stay in the Scottish Highlands and the perfect addition to any Scotland Itinerary . Located on Loch Eli, Fort William is the jumping-off point for climbing Ben Nevis, visiting Glen Coe and the Lochaber Geopark.

The landscape around Fort William is breathtaking.   The Jacobite Steam Train also runs to Fort William if you want to ride the train that is described as one of the great railway journeys of the world.

I stayed at Glencoe House, a five-star hotel in a beautiful mansion in Fort Williams. This hotel was beautifully done, charming and cosy. You are sure to have a wonderful weekend getaway in Fort William.

READ MORE: Check out my review of the gorgeous Black Sheep Hotels, the perfect spot for a romantic getaway in the Highlands!

Fort Augustus and Loch Ness

Recommended by: Skye Class from SkyeTravels

There are few places in Scotland more iconic and romantic than Loch Ness. This lake is the largest body of water in the UK, and there are plenty of attractions around its shores, not to mention the fabled Loch Ness Monster deep in its depths. Along the western side is Urquhart Castle from the 13th century.

At the southern end of the lake lies the quintessentially Scottish town of Fort Augustus. You’ll find some romantic B&Bs there, each serving a homemade Scottish breakfast in the morning. But better yet, Fort Augustus is where you can take a cruise on Loch Ness (from £21.20pp). Book one around sunset/evening for what is perhaps one of the most romantic activities in Scotland.

The Isle of Skye, Scotland

Recommended by: Daniela, Grumpy Camel  

Known for its dramatic landscapes and ancient Celtic myths, the Isle of Skye is one of the most romantic places in Scotland. This Scottish island is an ideal destination for couples who enjoy road trips and hiking.

There are many things that make the Isle of Skye a romantic place: atmospheric lochs and mountains, castles that are steeped in legend, and quaint, colourful towns, like Portree.

Some must-visit spots on the island include the Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools and the Old Man of Storr. You could also visit a whisky distillery or go on a boat trip along the coast, where you may spot some seals, otters, puffins and perhaps a couple of whales, too!

Recommended by: Allan, It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor 

The sleepy wee capital of Northern Ireland was at one time a city to avoid. But in post-Troubles times, this reputation now works to its advantage, because it is overlooked by the mass tourist trails. And while it doesn’t quite share the same romantic cliché of Europe, it instead has this loveable rapscallion charm in Belfast City Centre . It’s an Irish thing.

The city is quieter and more serene than most, with river walks along the Laganside, the Titanic Quarter, and the cobbled streets of the old Cathedral Quarter. But the comforts and romance are more found indoors, with local Irish pubs, drinks in cosy ‘snugs’ (private pub compartments), live traditional music, and an authentic and undisturbed local scene.

RECOMMENDED TOUR: Political Taxi Tour of Belfast

Causeway Coastal Route

Recommended by: Sarah, Live Dream Discover

Cruising the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland has all the components for a romantic UK getaway. Imagine, driving along with the rugged Irish coastline on one side and iconic fields of green on the other. But the drive is just part of the experience. Taking a walk on the beach with the sound of crashing surf and your hair tossed by the sea breeze is a must.

You’ll also be drawn to wander the cliffside ruins of Dunluce Castle, admire the stunning views at Carrick-a-Rede, and walk the mysterious Giant’s Causeway . No doubt you’ll be tired and hungry at the end of the day but luckily there are plenty of romantic B&B’s and cosy cottages to rest up for the next day’s adventures.

Don’t want to drive? There are plenty of fab day tours, like this Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Tour (from £35pp)

Portmeirion, Gwynedd

Recommended by: Charlotte, The Millenial Runaway

Portmeirion Village is one of those places you just can’t believe is in the UK. This magical Welsh village is so exclusive it requires a day ticket to access its village, gardens, beaches and estuary. Those willing to fork out the £10pp will be rewarded with an enchanting Italianate-style village with its own private peninsula on the southern shores of Snowdonia.

So whether it’s a romantic stroll through the 70-acre sub-tropical forest, reliving Titanic moments on the famous Stone Boat of Portmeirion, or simple a candlelit dinner over Italian favourites, Portmeirion Village is the perfect romantic getaway for a true feeling of elopement.  

Llanddwyn Island, Anglesey 

Recommended by: Dylan, Shoot From the Trip

What could be a more romantic destination in North Wales than the origins of St. Dwynwen – Wales’ patron saint of lovers? Llanddwyn Island , located to the southwest of the Isle of Anglesey is the perfect place for a romantic coastal stroll.

Accessed from the beautiful expanse of Newborough Beach, Llanddwyn Island is accessible at all times apart from high tide. There’s a network of walking paths along the Island where you can take in views of the ruins of the 16th-century St. Dwynwen’s church and two iconic lighthouses at the tip of the headland. Take a seat and soak in the views from this magical spot.

Gower Peninsula, Glamorgan

Recommended by:  Ben Holbrook from Driftwood Journals

Nestled away on South Wales ‘ unspoilt south coast, the Gower peninsula was named as the UK’s first-ever official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Celebrated for its blissful beaches and cosy country pubs, it is a ruggedly romantic destination for couples in search of some quality time in the great outdoors.

Stroll with wild ponies along the cliffs of Rhossili Beach to Worm’s Head, spotting seals and dolphins dancing in the waves below. Head to Llangennith for a surf lesson in some of the UK’s best waves, followed by a few pints of Gower Brewery ales at the King’s Head. 

And when you’re feeling peckish, explore the cafes, ice-cream parlours and pubs in the historic seaside town of Mumbles, or simply stretch out in your rural rental with Welsh cakes, wine and a good book. As the old saying goes, Wales never fails!

Lake Vyrnwy, Powys

Recommended by: Pauline, Bee Loved City. Read more in her post on the best things to do in Welshpool .

Located on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, Lake Vyrnwy is one of the most beautiful reservoirs in the UK. This secluded and hidden lake is the perfect place for a romantic getaway! You can go on a walk around the lake or to the various waterfalls. It’s also ideal if you like cycling or horse riding. 

To enjoy the beauty of the lake, head to the pub at Lake Vyrnwy Hotel & Spa. Perfectly located at the top of a hill, it offers some of the most beautiful views over Lake Vyrnwy. You can get a glass of wine and eat on the terrace of the pub. It’s also important to mention that the food is both delicious and affordable. If you fancy going to the spa, they also offer several romantic spa packages.

Is there anywhere you’d add to this list of romantic places in the UK? Scroll down to leave a comment!

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8 thoughts on “40 of the Most Romantic Places in the UK”

I’d have to agree with your number first choice here Emily: I’ve fallen in love twice in Stratford upon Avon! Mainly down to the fact I was at college here for the first one and living there for the second. It is a beautiful place to live and I’d recommend it to anyone to visit. Wandering down the river on a summer evening is one of the most romantic things you can do, pop for a drink at the Dirty Duck and sit outside and watch the swans…..

Thanks for commenting Rachel :) I visited Stratford Upon Avon a few years ago now, but it is lovely and so romantic. Has that lovely English charm I suppose thanks to all the old buildings. I definitely need to go back again with my boyfriend :)

Hi Emily, quite a nice write up you got over. I hope one day I will live your experience.

Thanks Mercedes! I still have so much more of the UK to see :)

Lucky for me, I went to Bath last year and I loved it. Thanks for the great info!

I love Bath too – it’s such a nice city and the food scene is great. Especially if you like afternoon tea :)

Chester with all of its history. Looe, Cornwall. The Vale of Evesham, The Dales. Why go to big cites that are generally commercialised. Get out into the beautiful countryside. Find a local country pub for a pie and a pint or ploughman’s lunch.

So true – there are so many lovely areas of countryside in Britain and they can be really romantic. A nice walk ending at a country pub sounds like my dream date! Never been to any of the places you’ve suggested, though, looks like I need to travel more in my home country!!

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The 25 Most Romantic Places In The UK To Escape To For This Valentine's Day | 2024

With its quaint towns and bustling cities, beautiful rugged coastlines, stunning scenery, and centuries-old buildings and castles, the UK has got plenty of great places to escape to for a romantic weekend break.

I'm Kirsty, owner of 24 Countries. If you love travel, you're bit of an adrenaline junkie, love a good bargain and haven’t got it all figured out yet? Then, follow along for travel inspiration!

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This post is all about Romantic Places In The UK.

The most romantic places in the uk to escape to this valentine's day | 2024, the united kingdom can sometimes be overlooked when it comes to "romanticism". especially when you can travel to the likes of 'paris', 'venice', or the 'amalfi coast' within a couple of hours from here. however, i'm here to tell you (or rather show you) that the uk has plenty of great places to escape to for a romantic weekend break. with its quaint towns and bustling cities, beautiful rugged coastlines, stunning scenery, and centuries-old buildings and castles, the uk has got plenty to offer. whether you want a beach holiday, or to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life or even, explore the cultural side of the cities, the four uk nations of scotland, england, wales and northern ireland have something for everyone. let's get started this post covers romantic places in the uk., table of contents:, 10 romantic places in england, 7 romantic places in scotland, 5 romantic places in wales, 3 romantic places in northern ireland.

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The city of Bath , in the county of Somerset in Southwest England, is famous for its Roman baths , and stunning Georgian architecture, which can be found around every corner. 

The city has taken relaxation seriously since it was founded in the 1 st  century AD by the Romans, who used the natural hot springs as a thermal spa, and this is still very much a feature of modern-day Bath. 

So, whilst you are in the city, you need to indulge in the city’s roots, by heading to Thermae Bath Spa , Britain’s original thermal spa, to relax in the beautiful open-air pool, which has incredible views over the city. Purely for educational purposes, of course!!

Once you have learned more about the city roots, visit Bath Abbey , Pulteney Bridge , and tour the Jane Austen centre , who famously lived in Bath between 1801-1806.  

Bath is the perfect place to take life at a slower pace. 

One of the first things that comes to mind when you think about Cambridge is their world-renowned university. However, the stunning city of Cambridge has so much more to offer!

Located in the county of Cambridgeshire in Eastern England, the city of Cambridge looks like it’s came straight out of a fairy tale. With its lush scenery, cobbled streets, and beautiful architecture, you’ll be mesmerised with the beauty of the city.

Go sightseeing and marvel at the likes of the Great St Mary’s Church and the King’s College Chapel , visit world-class museums, or just simply enjoy picturesque walks around the city with your partner.

Cambridge has been referred to as ‘ the Venice of the UK ’, making it one of the go-to places for a romantic weekend in the UK. It’s gained this title over the years due to the fact that the city is situated on the River Cam, which you can go punting down.

Tucked away in the Southwest tip of England is the county of Cornwall . It has often been dubbed the ‘Cornish Riviera’ due to its plentiful sandy beaches, lovely fishing villages and seaside resorts. 

Temperatures in Cornwall in the summer can reach up to 20 o C, and if there is a heatwave even into the 30s, which for the UK is very toasty! Who needs to go abroad with temperatures like that?!

Cornwall doesn’t just have beautiful scenery; it also has cultural significance. Cornwall is home to the most south-westerly point of the UK, a very famous landmark, known as ‘Land’s End’ . 

Other unmissable attractions to visit whilst in Cornwall include Minack Theatre , which is an open-air theatre perched on the Cornish cliffs. Shows still run at this theatre to this day and if you can time your show for the sunset, then you’ll witness an incredibly romantic setting.

There’s also the beautiful historic town of St Ives , where you can go surfing, Tintagel Castle, The Lost Gardens Of Heligan , and Saint Michael’s Mount , which looks very similar to Mont Saint-Clair in France. 

Cornwall may be small, but it packs a punch!

Dorset is a county in Southwest England with an incredibly beautiful coastline, known as the Jurassic Coast . The Jurassic Coast stretches for 95-miles and has actually been named as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site due to its rock formations and geological wonders.  

One of the must-see things in Dorset is the Durdle Door , an ancient limestone arch that protrudes into the sea. It is one of the most photographed and iconic landmarks on the Jurassic Coast.  

A short drive from Durdle Door is Lulworth Cove , another notable place to visit whilst you are in Dorset. Being on the coast means there’s a plethora of stunning beaches to visit. You can also expect quaint villages, beautiful stately homes and incredible castles.

Dorset makes for a perfect romantic, coastal getaway!

Lake District

The Lake District is a gorgeous National Park in Northwest England, known for its serene lakes, huge forests, rolling hills and picturesque villages. 

Spend your days out exploring the surroundings; going walks around the beautiful lakes, hiking to waterfalls, visiting castles, and doing water sports. Then spend your evenings going to a cosy pub to get a drink and some comfort food. 

The perfect place for nature lovers and couples who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life for a quiet romantic getaway.

If you are a city dweller and thrive in the hustle and bustle of city life, then London is the ideal place for you to take a romantic city break. 

It has something to offer everyone, world-famous museums, unforgettable theatre performances, iconic historical landmarks, and unique activities. 

If you are looking for something a bit more romantic, opt for some drinks at the Shard whilst you admire the city lights, take a sunset cruise down the River Thames or plan a romantic picnic in one of the five stunning royal parks .  

You will be spoiled for choice in London!

Like Cambridge, Oxford has a very prestigious and well-known university. In fact, Oxford University was actually ranked the number 1 best university in the world for a record eighth consecutive year. 

Whilst you are in this small city, it’s definitely worth touring the university, not only because of its academic excellence, but its stunning gothic architecture. For impressive views over Oxford, climb the  University Church of St Mary the Virgin .

Oxford is also home to a bunch of world-class museums, and the stunning Blenheim Palace  is only 30 minutes away. You can also go punting down the River Cherwell , which is a fantastic way to gain a different perceptive on the city.

And if all that didn’t convince you, then Oxford has actually ranked within the UK's top 50 most aesthetically pleasing destinations for a staycation. You can’t go wrong with a visit to Oxford.

Peak District

Step into nature with a romantic trip to the stunning Peak District National Park in Central England. It’s the ultimate place to disconnect and recharge as you spend time in the magnificent, expansive valleys and peat-covered moorlands. 

There is plenty of things to do in the Peak District from taking a cable car up to the Heights of Abraham to walking the incredible Monsal Trail and Mam Tor ridge or even, exploring the spectacular natural caverns. 

There’s also lots of beautiful villages to roam around including Edensor, Castleton and Bakewell , and if you want to wind down, the spa town of Buxton .

Follow in the footsteps of Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett by visiting Chatsworth House and discover the wonderful manor house of Huxton Hall . 

The wonders of the Peak District continue into the night, as it has the perfect conditions for stargazing! Grab some blankets, cuddle up, and see if you can spot any shooting stars.

The Cotswolds

Nestled in the heart of England is the Cotswolds , home to some of the most scenic landscapes in the country. The Cotswolds spans over six counties with the majority in Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire.

With its lush rolling hills, picturesque thatched stone cottages, and quaint tea rooms, the Cotswolds makes for a quintessential romantic English getaway.

Be sure not to miss Castle Combe in the Cotswolds; this stunning little village regularly features at the top of the ‘prettiest town in the UK’ list.

Another must-see is Arlington Row , a charming street of quaint stone cottages, in Bibury. It was also one of the filming locations used in Bridget Jone’s Diary and Stardust.

A short drive away from Arlington Row is  Copse Hill Road , in Lower Slaughter, which despite its unfortunate name was voted ‘the most romantic street in the UK’. 

If you can, try and time your visit to the Cotswolds for summertime when the Lavender Fields are in full bloom. 

York is a beautiful must-see city situated in the county of Yorkshire in Northern England.

York was founded by the ancient Romans in AD 71 and is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the UK. With its incredible historical buildings and cobbled, winding streets, it’s the ideal place to stroll about and simply admire the architecture.

There’s so much to keep you busy in York, from walking the city walls to exploring the huge 13 th -century Gothic cathedral or even, cruising down the River Ouse . You won’t be short of things to do! It really is a wonderful place to go for a romantic city break.

If you want a bit of a slower pace, then you should visit the old market town of Knaresborough, which is also in Yorkshire. With its stunning scenery, idyllic river, charming pubs and cafes, Knaresborough is the perfect place to spend quality time with your significant other.

Or if you’ve got a bit of time to spare, visit both York and Knaresborough for the best of both worlds!

Arran is an island off the west coast of Scotland, with rugged landscapes, dramatic mountains, quaint villages, and gorgeous beaches. 

It takes less than an hour to reach Arran by ferry from Ardrossan in North Ayrshire. However, when you reach Arran, you’ll feel like you are a million miles away from it all. 

Whether you are looking for relaxation, cultural experiences, or adventure; Arran has something for everyone. 

If you are seeking adventure, you could climb to the island’s highest peak, Goatfell , go golfing, or take part in some water sports, like paddleboarding or sea-kayaking. For those who are wanting to learn a bit more about the island, you should visit Brodick Castle, Lochranza Castle , or the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum. 

If you simply want to slow down and unwind, visit one of the distilleries, walk along one of the island’s beautiful beaches or book into the Auchrannie spa for a massage. 

The Auchrannie hotel, which I’ve linked below, has ‘couple retreat’ cabins , with hot tubs, outdoor patio areas with fire pits and incredible views over the surrounding hills. I stayed here a couple of years ago and although, it’s a bit pricey, it’s so worth it!

Edinburgh is Scotland’s Capital City, located to the southeast of the country, and although I may be a little biased, I do think Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful, unique, and romantic places to visit for a city break.

Edinburgh is a city of two halves: a medieval Old Town and a cosmopolitan Georgian New Town. With its cobblestone streets, incredible architecture, and rich history, it really is a place unto its own. 

Explore the famous castle , which dominates the city skyline, walk the Royal Mile , visit the beautiful Circus Lane and Deans Village , or hike up Arthur’s seat or Calton hill to experience the sunset over Edinburgh. 

It doesn’t just stop there, the city also has a fantastic mix of independent shops, restaurants, and bars. So, you definitely won’t be stuck for things to do!

Edinburgh is a place that will stay with you forever!

Fort William

Fort William is the largest town in the Scottish Highlands and is nestled in between Loch Linnhe and the UK’s highest peak, Ben Nevis .

Fort William is described as ‘the outdoor capital of the UK’ due to the sheer number of outdoor activities available, including water sports, hiking, winter sports and so much more. 

If you are looking for more romantic things for you and your partner to do, you can take a picnic and go see the Harry Potter train cross over the Glenfinnan Viaduct , go see a film in the Highland Cinema , or go on an evening sunset cruise down the Loch Linnhe . 

Located a short drive away from Fort William is Glencoe , an incredibly beautiful valley with stunning scenery - picture rugged mountains, rivers, and a famous wee white house. You absolutely need to visit if you are in the area. It is breath-taking!

Want to know more? Here’s the 11 BEST things to do in Fort William . 

Isle Of Skye

The Isle of Skye is located to the northwest of Scotland and is connected to the mainland by bridge. 

It has some of the most incredible scenery in the country, with dramatic mountainous peaks, rugged landscapes, medieval castles, quaint fishing villages, and a rich variety of wildlife (including highland cows!!).

The Isle of Skye is one of those places that looks incredible no matter the weather, be it rain or shine, and to be honest, we are talking about Scotland here, so it’s most likely going to be rain!

The  Fairy Glen ,  Fairy Pools  and  the Old Man of Storr  are some of the most famous attractions on Skye, but there’s so much more to do than just these 3 things including exploring  Dunvegan Castle , hiking to  Quiraing , walking to  Neist Point Lighthouse , and visiting the largest town on the island,  Portree .

If you are really lucky, you might even see the Northern Lights !

Loch Lomond

A short drive away from Glasgow in Central Scotland is  Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park . It was the first national park established in Scotland and falls on the Highland Boundary Fault, which separates the lowlands and the mountainous Scottish Highlands. 

The Highland Boundary Fault is what makes Loch Lomond so scenic. As the serene and tranquil loch is surrounded by towering dramatic peaks, often covered in snow. 

Loch Lomond is surrounded with charming villages, which contain some really lovely cafes. I would highly recommend you visit  Duck Bay Marina  and the  Oak Tree Inn  for some food, both are amazing!

You can also hike up  Conic Hill , which is an excellent place to see the aforementioned Highland Boundary Fault,  take a cruise up Loch Lomond , visit  Doune Castle , and even, the nearby  Devil’s Pulpit . Other than that, there’s not a huge amount to do in Loch Lomond, but that’s kind of the beauty of it. 

Loch Lomond is so incredibly peaceful and really does make for a fantastic romantic getaway to recharge and reconnect with your partner. 

Here’s the 9 most romantic places to stay in Loch Lomond .

Sutherland is a county in the Scottish Highlands, and it makes up a large section of the North Coast 500. Sutherland stretches from Lochinver in the West to Golspie in the East. It also covers Unapool, Kylesku, and Cape Wrath. 

In Sutherland, you can expect hundreds of beautiful white sandy beaches including  Achmelvich Bay and Clachtoll Beach . Looking at a picture of the beaches in Sutherland, you would think they were somewhere tropical. However, don’t let that fool you, they are absolutely freezing, and you will most definitely need a jumper!

Sutherland is also home to the Smoo Caves and the magnificent Dunrobin Castle.

Given the sheer distance this county covers means that it contains some absolute gems! This part of Scotland is largely unspoiled, and exceptionally peaceful – perfect for a romantic getaway!

The Cairngorms National Park

Located in the heart of Scotland is the Cairngorms National Park . The Cairngorms was voted “one of the top 20 places to visit in the World” by National Geographical Traveller Magazine, and if that’s not reason alone to go, I don’t know what is.

The Cairngorms is the quintessential Scottish landscape, featuring spectacular mountains, and lochs, which lend themselves to a wide variety of water sports, snow sports and wildlife spotting. 

The Cairngorms also contain lovely villages including Braemar, Ballater and Aviemore , which both have plenty of quaint restaurants and cosy, romantic cabins to stay in. 

You’ll also find lots of distilleries and castles here. In fact, the Royal Family even has their Scottish Residence, Balmoral Castle , in the Cairngorms. The Cairngorms even contains Scotland’s only pyramid - yes, you did read that right!

Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire  is a county in southwest Wales and is an area of outstanding beauty. It is home to the Preseli mountains, surrounded by sea on three sides, and has both Anglo-Saxon and Celtic connections. 

You can explore the magnificent medieval  Pembroke castle , walk some of the  Pembrokeshire coastal path , visit the  smallest city in the UK, St Davids , and the resort town of  Tenby  or even, spot some wildlife on a sea safari or take part in some water sports. 

One of the most romantic things to do is pack a picnic and spend some quality time with your partner at  Barafundle Bay , one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK.

Brecon Beacons

Brecon Beacons is a spectacular national park in Wales, boosting 520 square miles of incredible Welsh scenery. 

There’s something for every fitness level in the national park from short strolls to strenuous hikes including hiking to the highest peak in South Wales,  Pen y Fan . 

The wilderness of the Brecon Beacons lends itself to water sport activities, cruises, horse-riding, rock climbing, and even, tandem paragliding.

Brecon Beacons has actually been dubbed ‘the UK’s waterfall country’. One of the most popular routes around some of these waterfalls is the  ‘Four Falls’  walk, which is a circular route taking approximately three hours.

Brecon Beacons was the first place in Wales to be declared an ‘International Dark Sky Reserve’, due to its minimal light pollution, meaning that it is one of the best places to snuggle up with your partner for a spot of  stargazing .

Lake Vyrnwy

Lake Vyrnwy is a reservoir, which was built in 1880s. This beautiful lake is a must-see destination, located on the edge of Snowdonia National Park and set amidst the Berwyn Mountains. 

Lake Vyrnwy is a paradise for nature-lovers. There’s so much to do here from hiking the nearby  Snowdon mountain  (Wales highest peak), walking or cycling the many trails around the lake, taking part in water sports, and even, bird-watching. 

If you are wanting to relax and unwind, head to the nearby Lake Vyrnwy Hotel for some drinks and for incredible views over the lake or visit the spa for a much-needed couple’s massage. 

Llanddwyn Island

Llanddwyn Island is located on the coast of the Isle of Anglesey in North Wales and contrary to the name, it isn’t actually an island.

On Llanddwyn Island, you’ll find the  Tŵr Mawr Lighthouse, a staple landmark often captured in photographs of the island .  Nearby is the Old Llanddwyn Chapel and stunning  Newborough Beach . From Llanddwyn, you will also be treated to magnificent views over Snowdonia.  

Llanddwyn Island has a famous connection with Saint Dwynwen, the Welsh Patron Saint of lovers, and quite possibly, the most romantic backstory on this list.

According to legend, Llanddwyn Island is where Saint Dwynwen, the daughter of 5 th  century Brychan Brycheiniog, set up a convent and prayed for thousands of love stories to come true. A rather fitting story for a romantic getaway. 

To this day, people still celebrate St Dwynwen on the 25 th  January, the Welsh equivalent of Valentine’s Day, by giving gifts and even, visiting Llanddwyn Island.  

Portmeirion

If you were to look at a photo of  Portmeirion,  you probably wouldn’t assume that it was anywhere in the UK. The reason being is that Portmeirion was designed in an Italianate style.

Portmeirion is a tourist village, meaning it doesn’t have any permanent residents. However, it is incredibly stunning and was voted ‘one of Britain’s most beautiful seaside villages’. 

To visit Portmeirion, you have to buy a ticket, which costs about £18 per person, but you’ll then gain access to the magical village, gardens, and beaches. 

Truly immerse yourself in the enchanting Welsh ‘Italy’ by indulging in some delicious pasta and gelato. 

County Antrim

County Antrim  is home to both Northern Ireland’s capital city,  Belfast , and the most famous landmark in the country,  the Giant’s Causeway . 

If you and your partner are looking for a longer itinerary than just a romantic city break then there’s a 195-mile driving route, ‘the Causeway Coastal Route’. 

This route takes you cruising past the main landmarks in County Antrim from  Carrick-a-rede rope bridge , the  Gobbins cliff   path,  and  Dunlace Castle . You might even spot some Games of Thrones filming locations along the way. 

Spend the journey soaking up the Irish scenery with coastline on one side and lush green landscapes on the other, reconnecting with your partner, and stopping off wherever you like. 

County Londonderry

County Londonderry is right next to County Antrim and also, contains part of the Causeway Coastal driving route.

Visit the city of Londonderry , which is home to Ireland’s only completely intact city walls , which are a whooping 400-years old. Then venture to the nearby seaside village of Castlerock , which is home to the Mussenden Temple and stunning Downhill Strand and Castlerock beach .

County Londonderry is also home to the stunning  Binevenagh hill , which takes around 5 hours to hike but you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the stunning Irish landscape. 

If you are looking for something a bit more relaxing, then take a romantic stroll through the tranquil Roe Valley Country Park .

The Mourne Mountains

The beautiful  Mourne Mountains  contains the highest mountain range in Northern Ireland. The dramatic landscape has even inspired the likes of C.S Lewis’ Narnia and Game of Thrones.

If you are a couple who loves to hike together, then the Mourne Mountains is where you need to head too. 

Take on the legendary  Mourne Seven Sevens challenge : a 29km hike over varied terrain and 2440m of elevation. The route takes about 10-12 hours to complete but will take you to all the summits of the seven highest peaks in the Mourne Mountains. 

If you manage to get good weather on the day of your hike, you’ll bear witness to some of the best views that Northern Ireland has to offer. 

Make sure you’ve booked some cosy accommodation to come back too, where you can recharge and chill after your long hike. 

I hope you all have a wonderful Valentine's Day 2024 wherever you are celebrating it.

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The most romantic places in the UK to visit on a Valentine's escape

Celebrate your love in these top UK spots for lovers

If you're looking for a Valentine's Day break closer to home, there's an array of romantic places in the UK you'll want to consider for a couples' escape.

The UK is filled with beautiful and romantic places to stay that rival the likes of Paris or Venice – and you won't face the typical flight price hikes for weekends or lengthy airport queues either.

Instead, think elegant countryside retreats , beautiful landscapes for scenic walks , and charming towns with cosy pubs (some with rooms) , where you can curl up in the corner together by a crackling fire and gaze into one another’s eyes.

From catching a glimpse of a stunning sunset behind Edinburgh Castle to enjoying a leisurely punt along Cambridge’s waterways, or meandering around the honey-hued villages of the Cotswolds , we’ve rounded up the most romantic places in the UK for a mini-break.

It turns out that romance, really is, never very far away.

If nothing else, you’ll certainly fall in love with the town of Bath itself. One of the most romantic places in the UK, the healing properties of the hot springs here are famous throughout Europe, and its golden-coloured buildings bring a touch of 18 th -century glamour to everything that takes place here. The spectacular Roman Baths, first built in 1894, still stand – largely unchanged – at the centre of the town, and impress all those who visit even centuries later.

Best of all for couples, it's still possible to partake in much of the same rituals as these ancient bathers. After touring the Roman Baths and its ancient pump house, head to the modern equivalent, the Thermae Bath Spa. Located just around the corner, it invites you to dip your toes (read: your entire body) in these same warm waters, whether in the facility's impressive rooftop pool — great at sunset — or in one of its two thermal baths.

Where to stay: Nestled regally in the middle of Bath’s prestigious royal circle, beaming down across open parkland and the rest of the city, The Royal Crescent & Spa hotel is truly a gem in the crown of romantic places to stay. Expect regal lounges, stone spiral staircases and an enchanting spa tucked away on the other side of the garden.

The Scottish capital is a honeypot for honeymooners and those looking for a fairy tale backdrop to their love story. Traverse the cobbled streets of the old town, hike up to Arthur's Seat for unrivalled views of the city, or step back in time at Edinburgh Castle, which towers over the parkland below.

And if food is the language of love then Edinburgh is fluent in this too, offering an impressive gourmet scene, from restaurants serving up traditional Scottish dishes to modern dining options and candlelit bistros tucked down twisting alleys.

Where to stay: The Witchery by the Castle offers a range of opulent suites in Edinburgh, each one unique with its own special features.

Lavishly furnished suites display gothic touches, with large oak beds and 4-posters, velvet-lined walls and flamboyant red and gold décor indicative of the style. There are separate seating areas and large bathrooms with free-standing silver baths

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Cambridge’s canals lend themselves to romance, whether you want to recite Keats to your loved one as you slowly punt up the waterways or hire someone else to do the work for you as you take in the views from the River Cam.

Steeped in history, the breathtaking colleges that flank the waters add an elegant atmosphere to proceedings, though – as a student hub – the bars and restaurants of the town are never too far away.

Where to stay: University Arms offers 192 rooms and suites, with views over Parker’s Piece, historic Regent Street, and the hotel’s inner courtyard. Conveniently situated in the Cambridge City Centre district, this hotel is situated 350 yards from Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.

Lake District

The Lake District is undoubtably one of the most romantic places in the UK and attracts couples after some alone time in nature, time and time again. In the heart of Cumbria, the area is renowned for its glacial ribbon lakes, rugged fell mountains historic market towns.

Keen walkers won’t know where to look – into the eyes of their loved one or out across the dramatic landscape.

Where to stay: Set in a row of 17th-century fishermen's cottages on the banks of Lake Windermere, the relaxed Wateredge Inn is just 11 minutes' walk from the town centre and four miles from Wray Castle.

Packed with beautiful buildings and landmarks such as York Minster, the walled city of York was built by the ancient romans but is a worthy host for any modern love story too. In this romantic UK spot, you can join a guided tour to really immerse yourself in the culture, or – if you’re brave enough – take part in one of the quirky ghost walks to see a different side of the streets here.

For a more traditionally romantic evening though, head to one of the bustling bars or cosy, candlelit restaurants, and enjoy the friendly service that York is known for.

Where to stay: The luxurious Grand Hotel offers stylish rooms and a vaulted spa. Set in the iconic Grade II listed former railway headquarters, its Rise Restaurant, Terrace & Bar serves up modern British dishes, with locally sourced, freshly prepared dishes. The open kitchen and spacious setting at The Rise, York creates an immersive and social dining experience.

Norwich is a modern cultural hub set within the medieval streets of Norfolk. Here, visitors can marvel at the Romanesque Norwich Cathedral and soak up the history and culture of the independent theatres and museums.

Nineteenth century author George Borrow named Norwich a “fine city” and it’s easy to see why as you meander around the town centre in this utterly romantic place in the UK. We recommend paying a visit to the Planation Garden, a three-acre, Grade II English Heritage registered garden established over 100 years ago in an abandoned chalk quarry, and, in the evening, curl up beside the fire of a cosy city pub.

Where to stay: Sprowston Manor Hotel, Golf & Country Club is set in a 16th-century manor house offers its guests elegant accommodation, an 18-hole golf course, peaceful spa and a fitness centre with an indoor pool.

Brecon Beacons

Wales as a country boasts ample opportunities for couples looking for romantic places to stay in the UK, but the Brecon Beacons in particular – with their dramatic landscapes and cosy, country inns – are a must visit.

Take some time out together on the Four Falls hike which takes you on a trail between the park’s most scenic waterfalls, or wrap up warm and head out for a magical night of stargazing, a rare opportunity in the UK due to light pollution.

Where to stay: The Swan at Hay is one of the best-known hotels in the Brecon Beacons and the accommodation of choice for authors, actors and comedians who come to Hay during the Hay Festival. It has just a handful of rooms and serves up classic British cuisine in the restaurant.

BROWSE MORE PLACES TO STAY IN THE BRECON BEACONS

Stratford-upon-Avon

If it was enough to inspire Shakespeare to pen some of the world’s best-known love stories, then Stratford-upon-Avon is certainly enough to have you appreciating your own partner all over again in no time.

And it isn’t hard to see how the Bard managed to channel such romance as you stroll the quaint streets of this medieval market town in Warwickshire.

Where to stay: The 18th-century red-brick townhouse of Hotel Du Vin Stratford hides modern amenities behind its historic exterior. There’s a chic lounge to unwind in, an alfresco seating area and sleek bedrooms, together with a straightforward bistro and a relaxed atmosphere.

The capital of England makes for a romantic place in the UK anytime of the year. Visit during the summer to take advantage of its sprawling parks, alfresco dining opportunities and scenic walks along the river Thames.

While in winter, romantic Christmas markets, ice rinks and myriad of twinkling lights will welcome you into the folds of this magical city in no time.

Where to stay: The boutique Egerton House Hotel , sits behind two regal red brick Victorian townhouses, waiting to enfold you into the family feel on off here. Grab one of their renowned martinis and find an intimate spot in the lounge for an evening of board games and laid-back chat.

Dubbed ‘the most beautiful village in England,’ Bibury – just a short drive from Cirencester – is one of England’s most picturesque chocolate box areas and a romantic place in the UK for a mini-break. From the iconic 14 th century houses of Arlington Row (which once appeared on the inside of British passports) to picture-perfect trails along the River Coln, the tiny village is nothing short of enchanting.

Whether you visit in the summer or the winter, romance abounds within this honey-hued area of the UK and you’d be hard-pressed not to immediately fall in love. Head to the Swan for a roaring fire, oversized roast and a cosy countryside atmosphere.

Where to stay: The Swan Hotel , its biscuit-coloured stone covered by vines, is one of the most iconic buildings in the village, and provides a perfect base for exploring the wider Cotswolds with Cirencester, Burford and other charming towns nearby.

Even in the rain, Oxford manages to retain a golden glow, which reverberates off its medieval architecture. Dubbed the 'City of Dreaming Spires' by poet Matthew Arnold, the 38 colleges that make up the prestigious university give the town a gothic, glamorous feel.

Visitors here can explore picturesque gardens, browse authentic wares at the historic Covered Market and marvel at the views from the top of the Carfax Tower.

Where to stay: A former prison up until 1996, the Malmaison Oxford could not feel further from its roots now. Original cell doors and window bars still offer guests a flavour of what the building used to be like, but these stark reminders are coupled with sumptuously-painted guestrooms with velvet-clad headboards and a unique central lounge and dining space.

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is nothing short of magical, and so lands a well-earned place as one of the UK’s most romantic places to stay. The Trossachs National Park in which it sits is Scotland’s first national park, spanning from the Southern Highlands to the Scottish western coast and offers visitors who travel the distance, a window into a fairy tale.

From scenic hikes to enchanting villages and more opportunities for a waterside tipple than you can shake a short stick at, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in another world entirely.

Where to stay: The Lodge On Loch Lomond Hotel , sitting – unsurprisingly - right on the banks of Loch Lomond, provides a perfect base for the restorative waters of the loch and its mountainous backdrop. And, on your return, the hearty cuisine at Colquhoun's waterfront restaurant, using local seafood, will offer a further taste of what is on offer here.

Artists famously adore St Ives for its special quality of light, which also helps to make it one of the most romantic places in the UK. The Cornish town has an impressive arts scene, with a coastal Tate gallery that showcases British artists, and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.

Culture aside, it’s an excellent place to learn how to surf – popular beaches include Porthmeor. Or set off by boat to see the seal colony that inhabits Seal Island. The harbour is another highlight, as are the cobblestoned streets, cute shops and charming tea rooms.

Where to stay: At Trevose Harbour House , works by the town’s many resident artists adorn the walls. The nautical decor is a perfect fit for the boutique hotel’s St Ives setting, with lots of blue and white, as well as paisley prints and mid-century furnishings. The homely hotel has a snug with a fireplace and a terrace for alfresco aperitivi if the weather permits.

Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands have fans all over the world, with people making regular pilgrimages to see their famously dramatic scenery. Loch Ness of course draws much of the attention, but even without a mythical prehistoric creature lurking in its waters (or not), the Highlands are a truly romantic place to visit.

As well as the highest peak in the United Kingdom, Ben Nevis, the region is home to many more mountains, including some that you can ski down in the Cairngorms National Park. The NC500 is another star attraction, along with charming towns and ancient castles. The country’s northernmost town, John O’Groats, and the wide open skies and empty beaches of Caithness are two more romantic destinations.

Where to stay: If you’re planning on a romantic road trip as part of your trip to the Scottish Highlands, Newhall Mains is located conveniently close to the start of the route. The farm spans a vast 900 acres, near the Black Isle peninsula, with repurposed farm buildings now forming the accommodation.

Bigbury-on-Sea

There are lots of rugged and romantic places in Devon, but Bigbury-on-Sea is seriously special: this South Devon village, near Kingsbridge, is in an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The beautiful beach has rock pools to explore and there are plenty of watersports to try, including surfing, windsurfing and kite-surfing. Overlooking the beach is Burgh Island, accessible on foot or by Defender at low tide, when the causeway is revealed.

Where to stay: For a truly special hotel experience, Burgh Island offers something unforgettable. The art deco retreat is straight out of an Agatha Christie novel – and the writer herself once visited the hotel, as did Winston Churchill. It’s adrift at certain times of the day, depending on the tide – when it’s in, you can reach the hotel by sea tractor. The glamorous stay has the air of an ocean liner, with live pianists and black-tie parties in the ballroom.

Wales’ Coastal Way spans 180 miles from Aberdaron to St Davids, running the entire length of Cardigan Bay (Ceredigion in Welsh) at the edge of the Irish Sea.

Visitors can kayak beneath towering cliffs, surf at Whitesands Bay and stroll sections of the spectacular Pembrokeshire Coast Path. And if you fancy a trip to Britain’s smallest city, St Davids is a 90-minute drive south-west of Aberaeron.

Where to stay: One of the main landmarks along the town’s Georgian harbour (thanks to its bright cobalt-blue façade), Harbourmaster Hotel was built for Aberaeron’s harbourmaster back in 1811 to serve as his home and office. Since the early Noughties, it’s been the best boutique hotel around, with an excellent restaurant where you can enjoy the finest Welsh produce.

Isle of Skye

Much like its Highlands, Scotland’s islands are also some of the most romantic parts of the UK. Even Skye’s name has a romance to it. The isle, which is connected to the north-west coast of Scotland by bridge, is part of the Inner Hebrides. It’s home to quaint fishing villages, medieval castles, freshwater lochs, mountains and beautiful peninsulas.

Swim in the isle’s fairy pools, set sail in search of white-tailed eagles or visit the ancestral seat of Clan Macleod: Dunvegan Castle, which is Scotland’s longest continuously inhabited castle. In the capital Portree, you’ll find pubs to warm up in and shops along the harbour.

Where to stay: For romantic seclusion, check in to Kinloch Lodge , isolated in the hills of Skye. It was a family home for centuries and they’ve shared it with guests for 50 years now. You can expect cosy fires, delicious local food and, of course, some authentic Highland hospitality.

Officially part of the British Isles but closer to France, Jersey is the far-flung romantic destination for Anglo- and Francophiles, since the Channel Islands are a perfect mix of the two cultures.

In Jersey, highlights include cliff-top trails, historic castles and beautiful beaches. The island is just under 120 square kilometres, with coves, cycle lanes and pedestrian paths, and incredible local produce, especially lobsters and oysters, not to mention its famous potatoes and dairy.

Where to stay: The family-owned Atlantic is on Jersey’s west coast, with amazing views of the golden sands of St Ouen’s Bay. You’ll be able to admire the headland from the pool. The stand-out restaurant serves produce sourced from the bay just below the hotel.

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14 Top-Rated Weekend Breaks in the UK for Couples

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Sep 29, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

One of the top travel destinations in the world, the United Kingdom has plenty of great things to do for couples. Whether the kids have grown or simply don't factor into the equation any longer, couples are spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing a romantic UK weekend getaway .

Adventure seekers, in particular, have plenty of options and often simply "head for the hills" once Friday rolls around. Those who do so are rewarded with some of the most stunning scenery to be found anywhere, from the endless hiking and biking trails in the Brecon Beacons of Wales to the idyllic rolling hills of the Lake District in England . Scotland , of course, is equally attractive, with some of the best Scottish couples getaways in lovely Loch Lomond.

For culture lovers, spending time together in the nation's larger towns and cities can be extremely rewarding, too. Favorites include the historic Scottish capital of Edinburgh, along with the English capital, London. Both offer superb accommodations for couples, plenty of cultural attractions, including some of the world's top art galleries and museums, as well as great dining and entertainment.

And getting there is easy. You'll find even the remotest places to visit in the UK are accessible by train, with stations located in even the smallest of villages and towns. Rail travel can also be affordable, especially with advance planning using useful websites like Trainline and National Rail , both of which offer visitors from overseas substantial discounts.

Find the most romantic places to visit with our list of the top weekend breaks in the UK for couples.

1. Edinburgh's Romantic Views

2. london for couples, 3. the hot springs of bath, 4. hiking the brecon beacons, 5. cambridge for couples, 6. loving the lake district, 7. loch lomond: the queen of scottish lakes, 8. explore the channel islands, 9. a not-so-hard-day's-night (or two) in liverpool, 10. england's seaside getaway: brighton, 11. take a stroll through york's shambles, 12. get cuddly in the cotswolds, 13. historic canterbury and its majestic cathedral, 14. portmeirion: a little piece of italy in wales, map of weekend breaks in the uk for couples.

When it comes to couples' getaways, few places in the UK can match Edinburgh's romantic setting. The Scottish capital boasts no end of great views over its most important historical landmarks to enjoy. Highlights include catching a glimpse of a stunning sunset behind Edinburgh Castle , a great place to spend a day exploring, or relaxing on Calton Hill with its spectacular views across Princes Street. These views are especially good from Calton Hill's famous folly, a replica of the columns from the Acropolis in Athens.

After taking in these and other top Edinburgh tourist sites , including the lovely Royal Mile and the city's Royal residence at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, treat your loved one to a sumptuous dinner at one of the city's top restaurants. Some of the best come with stunning views over landmarks such as the castle, including one of our favorites, The Outsider. Given its spectacular views over the city's rooftops toward the castle, you'll want to plan ahead and reserve yourself a window table.

If great theater and cultural activities are your thing, try to time your visit to include such world-renowned events as the Edinburgh Fringe (August), a 25-day celebration of the arts, or the equally popular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August). In winter, it's all about the city's great Christmas Market (December).

A word of caution, though: the city's top hotels for couples, such as the boutique-style The Witchery by the Castle with its great restaurant, can book up during these peak times, so plan ahead accordingly.

Getting There: If you're visiting from London, the 400-mile, 5-hour (ish) trip from London to Edinburgh seems to flash past as fast as the scenery. If you can, upgrade to a first-class ticket for additional comfort as well as a great lunch. While it's certainly doable to make the trip by car, the nearly 8 hours drive time isn't for everyone and certainly cuts into your weekend away.

Thanks to its immense size, it doesn't take a great deal of imagination to find fun things for couples to do in London.

Given its endless opportunities for sightseeing , it's possible to satisfy the preferences of both partners, whether this involves attending world-class theater in the West End, a musical performance at the iconic Albert Hall, or visiting its many museums and art galleries, such as the splendid Victoria and Albert Museum ( V&A).

Even those who prefer walking can be accommodated. London is extremely easy to get around on foot, and where greater distances are involved, such as from St. Paul's Cathedral to Greenwich , there's no end of public transit to get you close enough to key points of interest, where a pleasant stroll can be included.

Other favorite strolls include the South Bank, a popular cultural destination with a superb classical music program, and then crossing the majestic Tower Bridge over the Thames to the Tower of London . In fact, time your walk right, and you may even see the sunset behind the bridge. One other popular stroll takes in amazing Regent Street, famous the world over for its high-end luxury shopping and attractive architecture.

The luxurious The Rubens at the Palace is a great choice of a place to stay in London for couples. Not only is this chic hotel literally across from Buckingham Palace , but its location on the Royal Mews means it's perfect for those who enjoy walking, as it's also very close to Hyde Park . The hotel also boasts plenty of great amenities to enjoy, from dining to live entertainment.

Getting Around: Thanks to its excellent transit system of underground trains (the "tube") and buses, it's also an incredibly easy city to get around. And getting to London from the country's major airports, such as Heathrow (16 miles) and Gatwick (39 miles), is fast and easy by train, too.

Bath, the most attractive of the UK's many smaller towns, is the perfect weekend break for couples who enjoy plenty of pampering. One of the smallest of the UK's many attractive cities , Bath has been providing travelers with somewhere to soak weary body parts for over 2,000 years, ever since the first Brits recognized the healing qualities of the hot springs that still gush, countless centuries later, at an impressive 275,000 gallons a day.

But it was the Romans who built the first structures here. These include the spectacular Roman Baths, largely unchanged since those first visitors from far and wide availed themselves of these therapeutic waters.

Best of all for couples, it's still possible to partake in many of the same rituals as these ancient bathers. After touring the Roman Baths and its ancient pump house, head to the modern equivalent, the Thermae Bath Spa . Located just around the corner, it's here you can dip your toes (okay, your whole body) in these same warm waters, whether in the facility's impressive rooftop pool at sunset or in one of its two thermal baths.

A variety of special packages are available for couples, including massages for two with a lovely meal included. An alternative spa experience can be enjoyed at the historic Cross Bath , an 18th-century open-air facility that can be booked for private 1.5-hour sessions.

In addition to its ancient springs, romantic Bath offers many other fun things to see and do . Must-visits include the stunningly attractive Royal Crescent , an area of outstandingly well-preserved Georgian architecture that is partly responsible for the city's UNESCO World Heritage status.

The highlight here is popping into No.1 Royal Crescent. Set up as a museum, this exquisite townhome has been preserved exactly as it would have been in the 18th century when England's upper classes flocked to Bath to get away from the noise and pollution of London. Better still, live the Georgian-era dream and book an uber-luxurious stay in The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa , complete with its elegant, opulent period décor and comfortable four-poster beds.

Getting There: A distance of 115 miles, if you're traveling from London to Bath by train, bus, or car , it's an easy trip. Making the journey by train will save you at least an hour's travel time over a car, and will deposit you in the heart of this always busy tourist destination. That said if you do insist on driving, you can at least make use of Bath's excellent " park and ride " program.

Like Scotland, Wales is another superb destination for couples, particularly adventurous couples. One of the top places for couples to visit in South Wales , Brecon Beacons (recently renamed Bannau Brycheiniog after the region's Welsh name) is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise where you'll find no end of excitement, from hiking and biking adventures to camping and even stargazing.

You can head for the hills and start walking along any one of the many well-marked trails. One of the most popular is the spectacular Four Falls hike . As the name of this great walk suggests, it takes in the park's most scenic waterfalls: Cwm Porth, Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and the Sgwd yr Eira Falls, and is a fun hike can take upwards of four hours.

Another nice waterfall to explore is the 90-foot Henryd Falls . The country's tallest falls, it's a relatively easy hike that can be enjoyed even by those of moderate stamina.

Other fun things to do in Brecon Beacons include paying a visit to Merthyr Tydfil , a picturesque town that serves as a starting point for cyclists hitting the UK's National Cycle Route. From here, you can also hop aboard the excellent Brecon Mountain Railway, an authentic steam train journey taking in some of the park's most stunning scenery. Join a gorge walking experience, a wet adventure that will have you swimming and climbing over some of the same waterfalls mentioned earlier.

For those planning on hiking this beautiful area, check availability at any one of the many fine places to stay in or near the park. Favorites include The New White Lion Hotel , a great choice for its proximity to the park just a short walk away, as well as traditional Welsh hospitality.

Getting There: While it's a little trickier to access by rail from London, the 180-mile distance is manageable if you break the trip up with a stop in the Welsh capital of Cardiff ; this 3-hour journey makes using the city as your base for the weekend a good option. From here, it's less than an hour by bus to Merthyr Tydfil and your Welsh outdoor adventures. If you do have a car, you can expect to spend around 3 hours driving each way from London.

Those seeking a romantic weekend break couldn't do much better than visit the university city of Cambridge. Less than an hour north of London by train, it's easy to get to and a lot of fun to explore on foot, so leave the car behind.

Start your Cambridge adventure with an exploration of the city's many magnificent university colleges. There are 31 of these historic colleges here, together providing an endless array of architectural eye-candy, with historic attractions that date back as far as the late 1200s.

It would take weeks to visit them all, so if you're pressed for time, be sure to include King's College in your Cambridge itinerary. It's notable for its large well-manicured grounds and river views, and its stunning chapel. Better still, try to time it for choir practice or church service; early evenings are also good times to visit.

For the ultimate romantic selfie, head to the 15th-century Queens' College with its many well-preserved medieval buildings, and look for the old Mathematical Bridge for an unforgettable backdrop.

Finally, no visit to Cambridge would be complete without hopping on one of the many people-powered punts. These distinctive flat-bottomed watercraft are used to move people around the city's shallow canals and on the River Cam. Punting is a delightful way to spend an hour or two with a loved one and provides views of this historic college town you may otherwise have missed, as well as the chance for some quality time together.

From the city's centrally located train station, you're just minutes from great hotels, including the elegant Hilton Cambridge City Centre , a popular choice for its contemporary décor and comfortable rooms and suites; and The Varsity Hotel & Spa , a resort-style affair offering affordable rates and the perfect romantic dinner spot on its rooftop, with some of the best views over the city.

Getting There: If you do decide to drive the 60 miles from London to Cambridge , you'll need to factor in additional time for traffic and parking, which can be tight, especially on weekends. That said, the city's five park-and-ride locations mean you can ditch the car for the weekend as you explore the city on foot.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cambridge

The Lake District in Cumbria is one of those unique destinations that encapsulates the quintessential English scenery, its gently rolling hills and pleasant pastures interspersed with lovely lakes and charming villages, ensuring a timeless appeal. Whether you're simply looking for a place to rest your heels while enjoying the views, or are seeking something a little more adventurous, this collection of 16 gorgeous lakes, moors, and valleys is ideal.

Hill-walkers are spoiled for choice thanks to the large Lake District National Park , home to the tallest peaks, including England's tallest mountain, Scafell Pike, and the prettiest lakes. There are trails suitable for all levels, from gentle lake-side affairs to those that require a little more fitness but are well worth the effort for the spectacular views. Park highlights include a great visitor's center in Kendal, a variety of boat tours, and numerous lovely old villages in which to stop and rest awhile over a well-deserved lunch or dinner.

If you want lakeside views, stick close to the shores of the region's largest lake, Windermere. Most of the Lake District's tourist attractions and related things to do are to be enjoyed here, including pleasant lake cruises that carry guests from quaint village to village. There's also the fun Haverthwaite Steam Railway , which travels through the spectacular scenery of the Leven Valley.

There are also numerous lovely spots for a picnic or great restaurant patios for a romantic lunch or sunset dinner. Plan appropriately, and you can even enjoy such activities courtesy of packages provided by leading area hotels, such as The Samling Hotel , set on 67 acres of land overlooking Lake Windermere and just a short walk from the ferries.

Getting There: Given the fact it's around 260 miles from central London, getting from London to the Lake District means you'll need to spend at least a half-day traveling. About six hours each way from London whether you travel by car or train. If you're starting from somewhere closer to the Lake District, it makes more sense. It's an ideal destination if you're visiting Scotland as it's only a 90-minute drive from Glasgow Airport .

Scotland also boasts its very own lake district: the stunning Loch Lomond. A pretty 25-mile route that'll take you around 45 minutes to drive from central Glasgow, Loch Lomond, famously dubbed "The Queen of Scottish Lakes" by writer Walter Scott, offers no end of fun things to do for couples. Don't have a car? Don't despair! Rail services to Balloch, where you can begin your Loch Lomond adventure, run regularly, and take around the same time as a journey by car.

Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn here not just for the superlative fishing (the lake's trout and salmon are often found on menus at the region's top restaurants), but for experiences such as hiking and mountain biking. The best trails are part of the spectacular Western Highland Way and through the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park . Rock climbing on Ben Lomond, as well as water sports like kayaking, are also popular.

Those preferring more relaxed pursuits can enjoy the beautiful scenery from the comfort of one of the many boats that cruise the waters or, for that matter, from the comfort of their room or suite. Such views are certainly not hard to come by from the lake's top hotels and resorts.

A few favorites include the elegant (and completely renovated) Cameron House , perched overlooking the water at the south end of the loch and popular for its romantic castle-like setting, couples' spa packages, and superb dining and activities add-ons. From here, it's easy to get your fix of one of the most idyllic natural attractions in Scotland, without even having to travel far after arriving.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do around Loch Lomond

When it comes to choosing the perfect couples' getaway, make sure you include the English Channel Islands on your shortlist. Although closer to France than they are to England, this collection of small islands consists of, in descending order of size: Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and Herm.

While it might be tempting to base yourself on Jersey for the duration of your stay, you'd be missing out on some truly amazing sites if you do. While this might mean spending a little longer than just a two-day weekend (stretch it out over a bank holiday weekend), an extra night or two will allow you to explore beautiful Guernsey. You'll then be able to hop aboard a locally operated charter for a quick exploration of Alderney or Sark, each of which is delightful to explore on foot.

Naturally, your choice of final destination will likely be decided by accommodation availability. A favorite for travelers is The Atlantic Hotel , a delightful luxury hotel offering activities such as golf and tennis, as well as superb ocean views, especially nice at dusk over dinner. After a couple of nights here, you'd do well to head to Guernsey for a stay at The Old Government House Hotel & Spa , a superb couple-friendly location offering great food and ocean-view rooms and suites.

Getting There: The islands are surprisingly easy to get to from the mainland, with regular 90-minute flights available from London. Prefer to make the trek by water? Ferry rides from Portsmouth take around 4 hours, and ferry services are also available from mainland France.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

Few bands have had as lasting an impact on a country's cultural scene as The Beatles, quite possibly the one band in the world both individuals in a couple can agree to actually like! Nowhere is this more evident than in the Fab Four's hometown.

Popular things to do in this once again hip port city include hopping aboard any one of the many guided tours that will whisk you to the best-known Beatles landmarks. These include the better-known spots such as the informative The Beatles Story, a museum dedicated to the band's time in Liverpool and on the world stage. It just so happens to be located in the Albert Dock area, so be sure to spend time exploring this old harbor area with its modernized wharves and warehouses.

Those who enjoy a little exploration on their own would do well to pick up a Liverpool map and mark out a route that takes in some of the other Beatles-related points of interest. Be sure to include the Cavern Walks, a series of murals created by John Lennon's first wife, Cynthia, in the downtown area. Then head further afield to places like 20 Forthlin Road , the childhood home of Paul McCartney, and now a museum. Also worth a visit are sites such as Lennon's old home on Menlove Avenue, along with the selfie opportunities along Penny Lane and at Strawberry Field .

And where better to stay, come nightfall, than in a Beatles-themed hotel? The centrally located Hard Days Night Hotel offers great rooms and suites with names like the McCartney and Lennon Suite, the latter with, of course, a baby white grand piano. All rooms and public spaces are chock-full of enough memorabilia, photos, and Beatles-related artwork to ensure a thoroughly immersive Fab Four weekend.

Getting There: If a rail ride of around three hours duration works (add an hour if traveling by car), the 200-mile journey from London to Liverpool is certainly worth it.

For generations, Brighton was known as the place for couples to escape to for a "quiet," no-frills weekend away from prying parents and crying kids. This delightful seaside resort town overlooking the English Channel has cleaned up its act in recent decades, gentrification bringing a new reputation as a classy place to travel to for time away with a sweetheart.

This is an idyllic setting. Boasting a charming old pier, a lovely promenade, and a five-mile-long beachfront on which to sit and soak up the sea air, you'll definitely enjoy spending a romantic weekend here with your loved one.

In addition to walking along its waterfront, be sure to delve a little deeper into the town center and its outlying regions, too. You'll be rewarded with Regency-era terraced homes, plenty of great shopping along the famous Lanes pedestrian area, as well as plenty of great food options, from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants.

Brighton's top attractions are also well worth spending time exploring, especially the very elegant Royal Pavilion, built as a summer home for King George IV, and now housing collections of period furniture and related artifacts.

For couples who enjoy cultural activities, try to time your weekend break to coincide with the popular Brighton Festival . A good excuse for a spring break, this three-week marathon includes worldwide talent in the fields of classical and jazz music, theatrical performances, as well as comedy.

Planning ahead for accommodation is a good idea if you intend to visit during the summer or the festival. A good waterfront option overlooking the beach includes the classy Harbour Hotel Brighton , offering a variety of room sizes, all just a short walk from Palace Pier, the entertainment hub and marina, as well as some of the best beaches in Brighton .

Getting There: Traveling the 60 or so miles from London to Brighton is definitely easy, especially if taking the train. Fast, efficient, though often busy rail services depart Victoria and London Bridge stations throughout the day, and the hour journey time is between 30 - 60 minutes faster than driving, depending on the time of day.

Few cities anywhere in England have so deep a connection with romance as the city of York. Located in North Yorkshire in the northeast corner of the country, this beautiful city is rich in stunning historic architecture, including the majestic York Minster , as well as the country's longest and best-preserved medieval city walls. It's also home to countless picturesque lanes, and all look like they're straight out of a storybook, a fact that has resulted in York becoming England's unofficial pre-wedding celebration destination.

It's this spectacular setting, not to mention its association with weddings and celebrations, that also makes York one of the best places to visit for a romantic weekend getaway. And nowhere's more fun to explore with your significant other than York's famous Shambles. Laid out (or rather, thrown together!) in the 1300s, the area features numerous old timber-framed buildings that seem to defy gravity, as their fronts literally protrude over the narrow cobbled streets.

The name, in fact, has less to do with the seemingly chaotic design of these streets than it does the once plentiful butcher shops and meat stalls that were to be found here, which at the time was referred to as "The Great Flesh Shambles." They are now a mix of boutique shops, tearooms, and eateries.

Hungry? Just steps away from the Shambles and York Minster, The Bow Room Restaurant is making a name for itself as one of England's top restaurants. It's certainly one of the most romantic, with spectacular garden views that also take in York's famous city walls. For the ultimate experience, book a night or two at Grays Court Hotel , the historic hotel that owns the restaurant.

For an even more romantic York experience, try to swing a visit in the period leading up to Christmas. A section of the Shambles known as Snickelways is lit up to spectacular effect, its narrow laneways lined with stalls and vendors selling gifts, food, and hot beverages as part of what is one of the country's best Christmas markets.

Round your weekend stay with an afternoon tea at The Grand, York . This fine historic hotel is also a great place to stay, and you'll soon want to come back and do it all over again.

Getting There: While driving the 200-plus miles to York from London takes around 4 hours, high-speed rail services can get you there in half that time, making it a clear winner for those wanting a stress-free weekend getaway.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England

The Cotswolds possess what's widely considered one of the most romantic landscapes in all of England.

Covering an area of 800 square miles, the Cotswolds' idyllic scenery consists of rolling hills and farmland, lush green valleys and woodlands, as well as the country's most picturesque villages . It's a romantic setting that has been immortalized in everything from paintings to poetry, as well as movies and TV.

Whether you're adventurous or amorous, or possibly both, a weekend break in the Cotswolds is just the ticket for couples seeking quality time away together. With countless cottage rental opportunities in the countryside or quaint Cotswold village B&Bs and inns, you'll find no end of great accommodation options to suit your preferences and budget, too.

Favorite places to visit during your stay include Castle Combe and Bourton-on-the-Water , both of which also serve as excellent bases for hikers. They're also within easy reach of the 102-mile Cotswold Way National Trail . Stretching all the way from the city of Bath to Chipping Camden, this well-marked route takes in the beautiful Cotswold Hills' along with some of the region's most picture-perfect villages.

Getting There: Fortunately for travelers, it's easy to get to. A distance of just 80 miles, getting from London to the Cotswolds only takes about 90 minutes whether you travel by train or car. But to get the most out of your Cotswold weekend getaway, you really would benefit from having a car to get you to the remoter corners of this area of outstanding natural beauty.

Located in the heart of Kent , a county famously known as the "Garden of England," the city of Canterbury offers plenty of good reasons to be included on lists of the best UK weekend breaks for couples.

Canterbury is immensely walkable, with the top attractions, the best accommodations, and countless fun attractions all located within its historic city center. And if you do drive, a number of handy park-and-ride locations are dotted on the city's outskirts.

The main attraction here is undoubtedly Canterbury Cathedral . Dating all the way back to the 11th century, this majestic place of worship dominates the city's skyline, so it's hard to miss. While a guided tour is a good way to learn more about the building, you'll also want to dedicate time to exploring the cathedral grounds, as well as the many well-preserved old townhomes and shops dotted around its gatehouse.

For a truly unforgettable romantic weekend break in Canterbury, check into the accommodations on offer at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge . Owned and operated by the cathedral and set within its grounds, the lodge offers luxurious rooms and suites with garden views, as well as guest-only access to areas of the property that are usually closed to the public.

Getting There: An easy train ride south of London, you'll find yourself covering the 60 miles between London and Canterbury in an hour if taking the train, or around 90 minutes by car.

Book a stay in beautiful Portmeirion in North Wales , and you'll have to convince yourself you're not on Italy's Amalfi Coast.

Established in 1925 and a labor of love for its owner, Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, it was only completed in the 1970s. The Italian flourishes are everywhere here, from the bright Mediterranean-themed buildings to the alleys and laneways that connect them, and the beautiful gardens and fountains dotted here and there.

The best part, though, is having the place to yourself once the gates shut, and the general public go home. Come closing time, guests staying at the resort can wander the property at their leisure, even enjoying a romantic meal on-site at one of the resort's two restaurants. Afterward, wander down to the water and enjoy the sunset from the riverside lower village.

In addition to being famous for its unique brand of Portmeirion pottery, available from the on-site shops, this unique resort property is often recognizable to visitors and guests from its appearance on TV and movie screens.

Getting There: This makes an ideal weekend getaway for those already in Wales or visiting northern England. The cities of Manchester and Liverpool are just 120 and 110 miles away, respectively, compared to London's 230 miles.

Address: Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd

Official site: www.portmeirion-village.com

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• The 13 Most Romantic Places...

The Most Romantic Places in the United Kingdom

You don’t have to travel to Paris for a romantic weekend away; there are plenty of places in the UK that were seemingly created with couples in mind. From idyllic woodlands to coastal villages, here are 13 of the most romantic spots in the country.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Sail on the lakes at Windermere

The Lake District is one of the most romantic places in the UK, especially if you love to spend time outdoors. If you choose just one part of this beautiful national park for an idyllic getaway, head to Windermere; here, you can spend time walking around the lake, admiring the views or hopping aboard a boat for a cruise on the lake at sunset. When it comes to an intimate dinner for two, there are many places from which to choose. For a spot of fine dining with a view, visit Holbeck Ghyll , or for a casual al fresco supper, take a picnic basket and a bottle of champagne down to one of the wooden jetties and gaze up at the stars.

Stepping into the New Forest is like walking into the past. First designated as a royal forest in the Domesday Book, the protected area is home to many species of flora and fauna that can’t be found anywhere else in the UK. The winding paths through the trees and low valleys also make for an incredibly romantic weekend away. Set off hand in hand to explore the woodlands and keep an eye out for the famous New Forest ponies.

Dine on oysters in Whitstable

It’s said that oysters are the ultimate aphrodisiac and there’s nowhere better to put this theory to the test than in Whitstable . This beautiful coastal town in Kent has been a pilgrimage for seafood-lovers for centuries due to the quality of its oysters. Whitstable even holds a festival in July that honours the oysters and the visitors they’ve brought to Whitstable’s shore. After a day of sunbathing and swimming on the sandy beaches and wandering through the quaint town, stop and share a plate of these briny delicacies, straight from the sea.

Immerse yourself in the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye

The entirety of the Isle of Skye is among the most romantic places in the UK, filled with beautiful scenery and remote, hidden corners for you to explore. If you’re searching for the best place for a picturesque stroll (or maybe even a proposal), head straight to the Fairy Pools, a series of blue and green rock pools and small waterfalls that are truly enchanting. They’re also one of the best spots on the island for a spot of wild swimming, although you and your loved one will have to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to have the place to yourselves.

Explore the quaint village of Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are filled with beautiful villages , but none are quite as romantic as Bourton-on-the-Water. Sat on the banks of the River Windrush, this village is teeming with traditional stone cottages, pretty bridges and charming little shops. The abundance of greenery and trees lining the banks of the river make it the perfect setting for a relaxing country stroll followed by a cosy meal for two, snuggled up together by the fire in an idyllic rural pub.

Discover the unique flora of the Tresco Abbey Garden in the Isles of Scilly

Tucked away on the island of Tresco in the Isles of Scilly , the Abbey Garden is among the most incredible (and romantic) gardens in the UK. Established in the 19th century, it’s brimming with a wide variety of plants, trees and flowers, including many species that can’t be found anywhere else in the country. Spend an afternoon walking through its paths with your loved one while taking in the views from the highest terraces and uncovering plenty of hidden little nooks and crannies to share a moment alone.

Visit the colourful Portmeirion in Wales

There’s nowhere else in the world quite like Portmeirion. Designed and built between 1925 and 1973, this unusual tourist destination in North Wales was built in the style of a traditional Italian village, bringing a hint of the Mediterranean to the UK. The town is filled with colourful buildings and quirky touches, but if you’re hoping for a romantic moment to yourself, head down to the beach or explore the clifftop path.

Relax and rejuvenate in the spas of Bath

The entire city of Bath is soaked in history. Designated a Unesco World Heritage site, it’s been a place of rest and relaxation since the Roman times. In the Georgian era, it became famous for the supposedly curative properties of its waters, and today, many people still flock to this lovely city to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Take your loved one for a couple’s massage and some relaxing treatments, guaranteed to let you take a breath and reconnect.

Live out your own Regency romance at Chatsworth House in Derbyshire

Set in the heart of the Peak District , Chatsworth House is probably the most romantic stately home in England. Green fields and beautiful woodlands surround the house, which is set on the banks of the River Derwent, overlooking the scenic countryside. Fans of Pride & Prejudice (1813) will remember the house from its mention in the novel, and viewers of The Crown will recognise some of the locations from the TV drama. For an idyllic day out, take your time to explore both the house and its gardens, admiring the intricate detail of the interior and the grandeur of the grounds.

Climb through the clouds at Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh

For a romantic day out in Edinburgh, you’ll be spoilt for choice with so many quaint streets and charming restaurants at your disposal. To truly appreciate the city, however, head up high and take on the challenge of climbing the peak of Arthur’s Seat. The walk itself isn’t too gruelling and can be taken at a slow pace, allowing you to stop and admire the views along the way. At the top, take some time to sit, gazing at the beautiful city far below .

Find a secluded corner at the Hampstead Heath Pergola in London

It can be hard to find a romantic spot in London as it’s almost impossible to discover a hidden corner that you can have to yourself. But for some peace and quiet with your loved one, head to Hampstead Heath, bypassing the usual crowds of tourists, and seek out the Hill Garden and Pergola. This particularly enchanting corner of the city is at its most vibrant in the warmer months when foliage covers the raised walkway, providing the perfect shelter for a stolen kiss. The gardens aren’t well-tended and the air of faded grandeur adds to the romantic ambience of this hidden treasure.

Take scenic photographs at Durdle Door in Dorset

There are miles upon miles of beautiful coastline to discover in the UK, but nowhere is quite as romantic as Durdle Door . Among the most photographed landmarks in the country, the instantly recognisable natural archway offers beautiful vistas both from up on the cliffs and down on the beach. On a sunny day, bring your towels and enjoy an afternoon swimming in the sea together, or take a stroll along the cliffs, stopping for a picnic and admiring the views.

Discover the myths and legends of the Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is among Northern Ireland’s most visited attractions and it’s not hard to see why. The weathered coastline gives way to towering hexagonal columns of basalt rock. A Unesco World Heritage site, it was formed around 50 to 60 million years ago during intense volcanic activity; however, Irish myth says it was created by a giant, the mighty Fionn mac Cumhaill, to fight a Scottish enemy. Whatever the origin, the Giant’s Causeway is staggering in its beauty and is the perfect destination for a romantic weekend away.

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The 15 best honeymoon destinations in the UK and Ireland

By Harriet Jones

The seismic shift in the wedding industry has for some led to the immense scaling down of their big day, and the holiday that comes after it. For many couples, it’s meant choosing the UK as their main destination (even if only initially); their mindset may have shifted from large to little and from abroad to home, but that doesn’t mean they need to compromise on the exceptional quality the trip deserves. There are so many thoughtful hideaways stuffed in and around our islands that are ideal for such a momentous break. These are the places and properties we recommend: the high-end hotels, the lo-fi cabins, the glamping sites, the cottages made for two. The sort of spots that are heart-soaringly lovely, reassuringly romantic and just the right kind of special to suit the occasion.

Alderney, Channel Islands

If Jersey was dubbed ‘the honeymoon island’ back in the 1950s for the bright young things who wed at Chelsea Town Hall and then skimmed across the sea, then Alderney should be the equivalent in the 2020s. It’s a low-profile Channel Island within touching distance of France , where the summer stretches out like a wobbly mirage, only melting into a mild winter at the very last opportunity. Smaller than Jersey, it draws in travellers looking for something truly genuine and timeless. For an island with fewer pubs than your hands have digits it’s got a couple of cute hotels. There’s Braye Beach Hotel , situated on a spectacular sandy stretch, where upstairs the best rooms have breezy balconies and downstairs there’s a new, upbeat steakhouse and cocktail bar called The Vaults (Oscar makes a mean Mojito).

Book your stay at Braye Beach Hotel

Of those handful of pubs, some have rooms, the best being The Georgian House . It’s adored by locals, and if you’re not dancing in the garden to a sea shanty, pint of cider in hand, by 10pm then something has gone terribly wrong. A lot of what’s to do centres around the sea: cliff-jumping, volleyball on the beach, rock-pooling for winkles and samphire, ear-wigging live music from pizza joint The Moorings with bare feet buried into the warm sand. At night, hunt for clouds of glow worms in the dark water, zapping about like fireworks. The really fun part, though, is the journey in and out: flying in on a beaten-up 12-seater plane is just as exhilarating as zipping over the Maldives , and if the weather is fine the sapphire blue is just as blue and the diamond specks just as phenomenal-looking.

Book your stay at The Georgian House

Another recent opening is The Blonde Hedgehog , named after the distinctive pale hedgehogs that are often spotted after-dark. Nina rooms are spread across two neighbouring townhouses in the pretty, cobblestoned main town of St Anne.

Book your stay at The Blonde Hedgehog

Island-hopping, Isles of Scilly

Helicoptering into an archipelago might seem a little far-fetched right now, but it doesn’t have to be. Neither does the idea of chalk-white empty beaches, discovering secret coves, visiting clapboard crab shacks or pottering around a miniscule island without a car in sight. All of these delights can be found in the Scillies (and yes, it’s a honeymoon, why not chopper in?). Of the 140-odd isles that make up this destination off the Cornish coast, just five are inhabited, which means that a 10- to 14-day trip is enough time to hop around and get a feel for each. Although you will arrive (by boat or plane) to the main island St Mary’s, where there are a handful of cars, the residents here are experts at slow living and this laidback attitude will sink into your hurried soul like warm honey. Stay at the Star Castle hotel – it’s elevated, so gives a pretty view across the harbour. St Martin’s is the island where some of those elusive, desolate beaches can be found – ribbons of sand broken up by jaunty, paint-chipped sailing boats. Snorkel and swim before cycling to Holly and James’s vineyard for wine-tasting and cloudy apple juice.

Book your stay at Star Castle hotel

Next up is the smallest island, Bryher, at a petite one and a half miles long it often feels exposed – keep an eye out for puffins bracing themselves against the gale. It’s got one of the area's loveliest hotels to retreat to though, Hell Bay, a charming New England-style house with terraces that flood with sunlight streaming across the Atlantic. If short on time and it’s a decision between the final islands, Tresco and St Agnes, both are wildly different. St Agnes is as remote as it gets and is much more of a campsite affair, where cooking fresh lobster from an honesty box is supper, but if romance to you is about staying in a groomed apartment with waterfront brasseries serving chilli and lemongrass crab linguine (The Ruin beach café), then Tresco is the one.

Read our ultimate travel guide to the Isles of Scilly

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh may not spring to mind for a minimoon, but that would be to ignore its sensational spirit and its small footprint bursting with things to do and places to stay (from the plush big-hitters to the tough-to-find B&Bs). Remembering as well that the galleries, smart dining scene, museums and shopping can all be mixed in with blustery hilltop hikes and countryside pints. Plus, there’s something exciting coming this autumn, a townhouse hotel, the little sister to sporting estate Gleneagles . Housed in the former Bank of Scotland, it’s likely to become the sort of urban pad where, like moths to a flame, high-earning creatives will gather to cement deals and couples will come to exclaim over the extraordinary roof terrace. If planning an earlier escape, choose either The Balmoral (for old-school glitz) or The Dunstane Houses (grown-up yet still cool).

Book your stay at Dunstane Houses

After a couple of nights head an hour north to the legendary Gleneagles , voted the best hotel in the UK at the Condé Nast Traveller 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards . This legendary place often feels like it has a split personality between night and day: morning sees the wholesome, Barbours-on, scuffed-wellies brigade but this jolly vibe slowly morphs and is replaced by sheer gracefulness by 7pm. The white-clothed tables in the Strathearn restaurant glint with silver and walnut-coloured trolleys glide silently around, their steaming plates covered under polished cloches. Eat here in the summer and the light is hauntingly beautiful, the hazy evening sun eventually dimming and notching up the soft pools of candlelight scattered around the room.

Book your stay at Gleneagles

London, England

Pre-pandemic, there may have been a slight lethargy towards the upmarket hotels found in Mayfair , Soho and Chelsea. A kind of tiring of classic luxury, with travellers seeking out experience over a clutch of five stars. But now there’s a returning lust for these grande dames and the cosseting they so exquisitely excel at. There couldn’t be a better antidote to staring at the same four magnolia walls of home than checking in at The Lanesborough . A riot of scaled-up Regency splendour saturated in colour, it’s an injection of glee for the post-lockdown soul.

Book your stay at The Lanesborough

The Dorchester is still reassuringly robust, remaining a stalwart for the A-list and, thanks to new energy from super-young chef Tom Booton, now serving the best Scotch eggs and lobster tarts in town.

Book your stay at The Dorchester

But Claridge ’s sneaks in, in its quiet, elegant way, as top of the spoiling pile. A hotel that never seems to have to try, yet for more than 100 years has remained current; a vodka Martini in the Fumoir Bar has been the most glamorous thing to do in the city since 1929.

Book your stay at Claridge's

There are some new kids on the block though, not placed to rival the dames, but there to zhuzh up the central-London scene. The Mayfair Townhouse in Green Park sets its sparkly, quirky mood on entry with a human-size peacock sculpture covered in thousands of Swarovski crystals (and minibars in rooms are free – a very nice touch).

Book your stay at The Mayfair Townhouse

The Nomad in Covent Garden is tipped to be the new Ned (by the same group), and this summer country house Beaverbrook – a proud Surrey legend – opens its first city outpost in Chelsea, which promises to be a close-knit, Georgian affair with a dollop of theatre (the rooms are named after London stages).

Book your stay at Beaverbrook

Find out more about the best new townhouses in the UK

Cotswolds, England

Ah, the Cotswolds . It’s safe to say that it’s a minimoon magnet, due to its smart boutique hotels , unstuffy take on manor houses and cottage owners who know that style involves much more than a duck-egg-blue coat of paint. When it comes to those hotels, there’s a clutch that really stand out, all within an hour’s drive of one another – these types of places tend to orbit around a handful of terrifically chic villages such as Burford, Kingham and Broadway. The Farncombe Estate sits on the fringes of the latter and cradles three properties in its manicured pastures: Dormy House , a snazzy country-house hotel so perfectly pitched guests are rebooking at breakfast; Foxhill Manor the eight-bedroom little sister, which is more relaxed with a do-as-you-please policy; and The Fish , best described as a stripped-back, more affordable Dormy, with the addition of a clutch of hillside huts and treehouses .

Find more of our favourite hotels in the Cotswolds

Venture half an hour to Kingham and Carole Bamford’s The Wild Rabbit is an upscale pub-with-rooms with food that speaks to the showy side of things – don’t expect hearty pub grub. Another 20-minute drive south is the village of Southrop, which has been transformed by Thyme , a passion project from owner Caryn Hibbert. In 2002 she set about restoring a set of honey-stone historic buildings, starting with a cookery school. It’s now a veritable hamlet: cottages, hotel rooms, farm, restaurant, pub, spa… Go for the English Rose room in The Lodge, it’s got fabulous pink walls, gold mirrors and a gilded drinks trolley. The pool may be outside but don’t let that put you off, it’s bath-warm even in the depths of winter .

Book your stay at Thyme

The Scottish Highlands

They say romance is subjective, but it would be very difficult to challenge the allure of the Scottish Highlands . The cloud-wreathed peaks, the slopes pocked with dense moss, khaki-green grassy plains, reeds swaying by misty, empty lochs – it’s the emptiness, in fact, that does it. Empty, yet at the same time deeply atmospheric. What could be better than a lodge made for two in the midst of all this beauty? 57 Nord opened in 2019 and is the antithesis of the average Scottish bothy that can be found in these parts. It’s light, airy, supremely modern, with more than a hint of Scandi, and so clean-cut design-wise that it slices through the wildness of the landscape like a smooth blade. All sharp lines and acres of glass, white ceramics and subtle grey mottled marble, topped off with a steel roof. For something more (seemingly) traditional, The Fife Arms , set at the foot of the craggy Cairngorm mountains is, at first sight, a Scottish hunting lodge revamped. But look closer and the real excitement is all in spotting the unique details, such as the electric-blue blown glass chandelier in the lobby and the original watercolour painting by Queen Victoria (it’s tucked away behind the door as you enter). It’s like a contemporary art gallery and hotel all rolled into one deliciously curated package.

Book your stay at The Fife Arms

Read the full review of The Fife Arms

The Cary Arms, Devon, England

Babbacombe Bay in Torquay, where they ring a bell when dolphins come to visit, has one of those breakneck hills leading down to it that feels like a stage of the Tour de France. Three quarters of the way down sits The Cary Arms , a gloriously nautical pub that delivers so much more than just a cracking Sunday lunch that locals travel miles for. The rooms in the main building are nice enough in a creaky inn way, but the latest additions, six white and royal-blue, glass-fronted beach huts, were built purely for couples on a rocky outcrop below the small spa. Each has a porthole window in the peak of the roof, the kind that needs long arms and a wooden stick (provided) to close the solid shutters. But it’s intentional – the beds are on a mezzanine and the view when sitting up is as crisp and spherical as a telescope out onto the sea, often punctuated by fishing boats gliding through the circle. Make sure to have a snack or supper here at least once – it’s comfort dishes with a dash of English riviera; Otter ale pies by the fire in winter and pints of prawns and Salcombe gin Negronis outdoors in summer. One evening take the steep walk up the slope and turn left into Princes street for award-winning fish and chips at Hanbury’s. Eating in is fine, but best to take away and sit on the benches on the promenade – with the Narnia-style lamps gently dappling light down the cliff, it’s heart-wrenchingly nostalgic.

Book your stay at The Cary Arms

Elmley National Nature Reserve, Kent, England

When a whole county has been known as ‘the garden of England ’ for hundreds of years, there are bound to be some pretty jaw-dropping nature spots to be found within it. Elmley Nature Reserve is one of those places. It’s a destination where waking up feels like a total privilege (that’s because it is – roughly 38 people can stay on the whole 3,200-acre site at a time), where a cup of morning coffee has a backdrop that consists of miles of savannah-like marshland and enormous flocks of wildfowl swirling through a soft-pink dawn sky. It gives that pinch-me feeling of being on safari . Located on the Isle of Sheppey just over an hour from London , this fiercely protected piece of land is, unlike many nature reserves in the UK, family-owned, and the Fultons have cleverly diversified the wetlands with a smattering of chic places to stay hidden among the rushes. From teeny cabins with cast-iron radiators, soft wool throws and outdoor showers (Damson has an outdoor bathtub) to dinky but delightful Shepherd’s huts, most of the hideouts are geared towards getting couples to switch off from normal life, and on to each other.

Book your stay

Find out more about cosy cabins you can rent across the UK

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Somerset, England

It’s happened so quickly that it’s taken some residents by surprise, but the hamlet of Bruton (and other towns that touch its sides, such as Frome) has become somewhat of a destination for the artsy elite. What started with a world-class gallery on the outskirts of the village (Hauser & Wirth back in 2014) has snowballed into a collection of Japanese- and Scandi-influenced shops, considered places to eat and curated wine bars. And at the heart of all this, just outside of Bruton itself, sits The Newt – a landmark that has probably surprised even itself with how popular it has become less than two years since its launch. But the owners shouldn’t be surprised – they had already achieved this sort of stardom once, back in South Africa with winery and farmstead Babylonstoren. This hulking UK project (hotel, cyder farm, spa, museum, multiple restaurants, a garden drawing in day-trippers) has a very similar sprawling, kick-back, all-welcome feel to it. It’s high-end but utterly unpretentious, a very difficult quality to engineer. New in 2021 is The Farmyard, tucked away in a quiet corner of the land accessed through the cyder orchards, which makes holing up on the estate as a twosome even more attractive.

Book your stay at The Newt

Another more recent opening in the area is Number One Bruton , a sensitively converted Georgian townhouse and a much welcome add-on to restaurant Osip by Merlin Labron-Johnson, one of the youngest British chefs (at 24) to be awarded a Michelin star. This once burgeoning rural corner of England seems to be reaching a crescendo – now is the time to check it out.

Hex Cottage, Suffolk, England

Lately the phrase off-grid when used in relation to travel has become a tad clichéd, a stock line to describe some far-flung, fantastical island. But this Hansel and Gretel-style cottage is exactly that – it’s got no grid to speak of, it’s entirely electricity free. It’s set in its own wildflower meadow on the Wilderness reserve estate , and its exterior of red bricks, gnarly tree-trunk pillars, thick thatched roof and vivid turquoise-painted door gives a joyful hint of the fun and romance inside. Large storm lamps, pillar candles and a flickering hearth light the way to a cosy, whimsical interior with working antiques (a whistling kettle), gingham curtains next to clouds of deep-red and dusky pink roses and an Esse range cooker heating hot water. The kitchen also has an original bread oven and a butler sink, and there’s a help-yourself herb garden outside and a pair of Pashley bikes propped up against the back door. The lack of artificial light really conjures an intimacy that’s hard to find elsewhere, and makes simple things such as reading or taking a board game off the shelf seem brand new. Although it’s easy to stay put on the reserve and have the Wilderness team bring more firewood, buckets of ice for wine and charcuterie platters, the Suffolk surroundings should be snooped around. There’s the gorgeously retro Pier and golden sands at Southwold, art galleries and music festivals in coastal town Aldeburgh or gin-making at Adnams brewery nearby.

Book your stay at Hex Cottage

Cornwall, England

It’s no secret that Cornwall has an incredible food scene, and even the most rookie eater has heard of the Dover sole at Rick Stein’s and the hand-dived scallops at Paul Ainsworth’s. But in the past five years a new wave of restaurants has opened, putting down roots that aren’t quite as glossy as the eponymous brasseries. They tend to be headed up by chefs who became fed up with London’s flashy lifestyle, wanting something a little more grounding. Weaving a couple of these treasures into a trip should be a top priority. To start, make a 24-hour stop at Coombeshead Farm , an informal B&B sandwiched between Dartmoor and Bodmin moor. It’s the brainchild of Tom Adams and April Bloomfield and their ultimate goal is to be entirely self-sufficient, with everything on the plate picked, washed and pretty much served there and then (or, like the Mangalitsa bacon, coming from their own animals). There’s not a whiff of fuss in sight but the dishes are assured and inventive. Home-churned butter graces the finest sourdough like cake frosting, the lavender and bergamot soup is a dream, sides to pork or lamb might be bronzed fennel or nettle kraut and there’s honeycomb from the bees for breakfast. Fill the car with loaves and pickles and head to Fitzroy in Fowey for lunch (plump mussels and natural wines) before nipping up to the north coast and checking in at recently opened The Pig at Harlyn Bay (with a similar farm-to-fork ethos). Just next door in Padstow there’s also Prawn on the Lawn, a fishmongers with a small café, run by Londoners Katie and Rick and serving mind-blowingly fresh seafood rolls. A great opportunity to champion the latest rising stars.

Book your stay at The Pig at Harlyn Bay

Adare Manor, County Limerick, Ireland

Sometimes a hotel is a destination in and of itself, and Adare Manor in Ireland is a fine example of this. This castle/manor house is so gargantuan, both in its size and status, that it gracefully looms over its nearby thatched village (Adare). There are a couple of firsts that set it apart from competitors: La Mer opened its first British Isles spa here and, most recently, The Oak Room became the first Michelin-starred restaurant in the county, where head chef Michael Tweedie works wonders with local ingredients and tarts up Irish classics – his five-spice Thornhill duck has rave reviews. Sommeliers Jonathan and Farrah are absolutely on point too; the beef is best paired with a rich glass of Amarone red. On top of these well-earned credentials, the property sees more than 100 engagement proposals a year from couples the world over (the crowd is so mixed it’s impossible to pinpoint), so it’s fair to say there must be something quite spellbinding about it. Interiors are exceedingly fairy tale: yawning, gothic-style window arches, silk-damask drapery, glittering chandeliers. It’s hard to pick a dud room, but the larger ones are so over-the-top fancy it’s almost a tad overwhelming – a smaller one, both in space and pared-back taste, is our pick.

Book your stay at Adare Manor

The Burrow, Powys, Wales

This stone building really does resemble a burrow with its neat carpet of grass gently sloping across the roof and the slender black chimney puffing away. It’s buried into the Bleddfa hills of Powys, an area of Wales where the scenery is softer and more rolling than the jagged Snowdonia mountains. The Burrow is situated on a farm named Dolassey where owners Tom and Amy live, but the land is vast and it’s unlikely you’ll bump into them. The only sounds are the bleating of nosy sheep and the tumbling of water. Although it’s designed for two, it’s spacious; there’s an open-plan living area with bifold doors onto the terrace, a shiny copper bath next to the king-size bed and a double shower in a separate bathroom. The aesthetic is minimal and sophisticated but there are splashes of colour and fun too: dining chairs look like the Sixties school stacking variety, with bright red and blue spindly legs, and there’s a jug bursting with wildflowers next to the little wire welcome hamper. Come dusk, cook on the fire pit outside (or order a ploughman's basket from The Little Welsh Kitchen, which will deliver straight to the door) before jumping into the hot tub for nightfall. The stars scatter across the sky here like a never-ending sheet of sequins, and sometimes the Milky Way is visible.

Book your stay at The Burrow

The Private Hill, North Yorkshire, England

As sought-after glamping ventures such as Fforest become ever more crowded (particularly once the post-vaccine boom takes hold this summer) savvy travellers should shift their focus to the new, low-density patches popping up. Unlike other larger sites, The Private Hill in Yorkshire has just four eye-catching domes to stay in, one being set apart a little, so it can deliver the seclusion that a trip like this demands. What’s pleasing is the type of people who stay here clearly aren’t in it for the Insta-points. It’s only had a sprinkling of bookings so far; mostly young, flushed-cheeked locals looking for an understated but memorable way to pop the question, or older couples in weathered camping gear celebrating Ruby anniversaries. Each polar-insulated structure has everything expected in a hotel room rather than a tent: full-size shower, flushing loo and wardrobe, and these practicalities are all layered up nicely with sheepskin throws, battered leather armchairs, patchwork rugs and one giant bed cocooned in Egyptian cotton. Cheery Becci or Jo might already have lit the woodburner before check-in, which is a sweet touch. If the evening weather is balmy, they offer up homely dishes served on your private decking: goat’s cheese tart, steak and apple crumble under a blanket of stars – all for £35 a head.

Book your stay at The Private Hill

Read more about the best places to go camping in the UK this summer

North Norfolk, England

The Norfolk Coast Path is where in-the-know visitors come in hushed droves. Devotees tend to swerve Devon and Cornwall , favouring cycling or walking the trails here, as they are a shade less touristy and a notch more varied. Wade through immense shifting sand dunes (great shelter for picnics), skip over tidal creeks, scrunch along shingle beaches and stop off at seaside villages such as Titchwell, away from the main thrum (not forgetting the whipping amber gorse of the often-deserted marshes at Cley and Salthouse). Around five miles away is a l ittle-known rental , its ancient flint walls, heavy oak beams and eccentric curiosities contrasting beautifully with a slick high-spec kitchen and Aesop products. The floor consists of hand-made Norfolk tiles called pamments, the method used to create the clay has been around for centuries and it means no two squares in the blush-pink palette are the same. Yet running underneath is seamless underfloor heating – a perfect example of the thought that has gone into renovating this former gardener’s cottage (it took two years to get everything just so). The sunken concrete bath made with two people in mind is another winning detail. After a soak, take a wander up the road to The Hunworth Bell for a posh burger (Holkham-bred beef, Emmental cheese, brioche bun, skinny fries) and Norwich-brewed beer before stumbling back to a soundtrack of owls hooting.

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10 Most Romantic Towns and Villages in the UK

Beautiful uk towns couples can explore together.

The most romantic towns and villages in the UK come in all shapes and sizes. Check out our list below and you’ll see that you have choices ranging from quaint country escapes to some of the best beach towns in Europe. The diverse landscapes found in the UK gives you striking highlands and lush valleys to choose from, each with an undeniably charming settlement in its midst.

When visiting any of these beautiful UK towns, couples can enjoy romantic walks together along cobbled streets, sandy shores, or dramatic footpaths. Unwind in the easy-going atmosphere of each option and enjoy spending time together in a delightful setting.

What are the most romantic towns in the UK?

Portmeirion, a little taste of italy on the north coast of wales.

Portmeirion was purpose-built as a tourist village, with design work starting in 1925. While not explicitly based on the fishing village of Portofino on the Italian Riviera, you can definitely see an influence in the design of the colourful streets, pretty squares and iconic buildings.

If you’re visiting as a couple, be sure to take a walk around the striking Castell Deudraeth and its beautiful gardens. You should also take the time to enjoy afternoon tea at Hotel Portmeirion. Head to Battery Square for the best selection of souvenir shops.

A picture-perfect Kentish coastal town

Whitstable’s fresh sea air, even fresher seafood, and laidback charm has been attracting over-stressed Londoners since the 18th century. The annual oyster festival is a particular highlight, celebrating the town’s long tradition as a place with the highest quality shellfish.

With its steady pace and chilled-out atmosphere, Whitstable earns its place among the most romantic towns in the UK, especially for couples looking to enjoy each other’s company without distractions. Take a walk on the pebbly beach (with a stop for a drink at The Old Neptune), check out the little boutiques along the High Street and taste fresh oysters at The Lobster Shack or The Sportsman. They’re supposed to be an aphrodisiac, after all!

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St. Anne’s Beach near Blackpool

Explore the isle of skye from this colourful hub.

Portree may be the largest town on the Isle of Skye, but that certainly doesn’t make it a big, bustling place. The pastel-coloured houses clinging to the cliffs around the harbour conceal a very modest web of streets, most of which are lined with delightful guesthouses and seafood restaurants.

If you’re visiting the Isle of Skye as a couple, Portree is certainly a fantastic place to rest your heads at the end of a busy day taking in the island’s sights. Be sure to take a drive to the Fairy Pools, Talisker Bay, or the fairy-tale Dunvegan Castle & Gardens.

Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon on the Pembrokeshire coast

Abereiddy is very little more than a handful of houses along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path yet it ranks among the most romantic towns and villages in the UK. The star attraction is the Blue Lagoon – a coastal pool with water that appears as blue as a tropical sea. It’s not technically a lagoon since the wall between the pool and the sea collapsed, and it’s also technically not blue water as the colour comes from the slate that used to be quarried here.

Aside from checking out the lagoon and the ruined slate buildings around it, couples visiting the area should certainly check out the nearby Blue Flag beach. Taking a walk along the coastal path is also worth it for the striking views of one of the UK’s most beautiful shores.

Bourton-on-the-Water

Venice of the cotswolds.

Bourton-on-the-Water got its nickname of the “Venice of the Cotswolds” from the 5 beautiful old bridges crossing the gentle waters of the River Windrush. The little Gloucestershire village has a long history and some bizarre traditions. Visit over the August Bank Holiday to see the local football team having a kick about in the river.

For couples visiting Bourton-on-the-Water, there’s the charming riverside and picturesque streets lined with stone cottages to explore. There’s also a Grade II-listed church and an interesting selection of shops to check out, including a local perfumery, a jeweller, and a pottery. There are also a few family-friendly attractions like The Model Village and the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection.

Fort William

The outdoor capital of the uk.

Fort William is a lively town on the shore of Lock Linnhe, in the Scottish Highlands, perhaps most famous for being the nearest town to Ben Nevis. The peak of the highest mountain in the British Isles is just over 4 miles away, with a footpath leading directly there from town.

If you’re looking for natural beauty, you’ll certainly find it all around Fort William, which really earns its nickname as the outdoors capital of the UK. If climbing mountains doesn’t do it for you, consider exploring the West Highland Peninsulas or the picturesque Glencoe. If you’d rather stay in town, take in the historic castles and distilleries.

Discover nature and history in a charming south-coast town

The little town of Rye is located close to the coast in East Sussex with no shortage of historical charm. The old cobbled streets at its centre are lined with medieval half-timber houses, old pubs, and lovely little boutiques. Be on the lookout for local ceramics and pottery – the town’s speciality.

Built at the confluence of the rivers Tillingham, Brede, and Rother, there’s naturally plenty of boats and bridges dotted around Rye. Other highlights include the Rye Castle Museum, which includes the striking Ypres Tower. Some of the exhibits in the former prison are a little ghoulish, but the view from the top is lovely.

Enjoy a pudding in the picturesque Peak District

Bakewell is a beautiful market town in the Derbyshire Dales, with historical country estates and natural wonders all around it. The Monday market itself is a popular pull, as is the Grade I-listed All Saints’ Church, the medieval bridge over the River Wye and Haddon Hall just down the valley.

Take a walk around the quiet streets of Bakewell to discover charming boutique shops and eateries. Don’t forget to grab a slice of the town’s unique Bakewell Pudding. Take your pick between the Bakewell Tart Shop, The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop, or Bloomers of Bakewell, all of which claim to have invented the recipe.

One of Britain’s best beach towns

St Ives may be known as one of the UK’s premier surf destinations, but it’s also one of the more romantic towns and villages along England's south coast. Even just getting there, coming in along the shore-hugging railway line above the white-sand beach, is an experience. Once you’re actually here, you have quaint cobbled streets, striking coastal paths, and that beautiful blue sea to enjoy.

St Ives has quite an impressive choice of first-class restaurants to try as well as a lively arts scene to discover – there’s even a branch of the Tate gallery here. There’s also a good array of shops and some cosy pubs and bars to enjoy in the evenings.

A historical highlight in North Yorkshire

Richmond has been described as the most romantic place in the North East of England, and it’s not hard to see why. The little Yorkshire market town is ideally situated on a bend along the River Swale, with the town’s well-preserved Norman-era castle dominating the hillside, overlooking the babbling water and the delightful waterfalls.

Still need more reasons to rank this place among the most romantic towns and villages in the UK? How about the fact that it’s right on the doorstep of the Yorkshire Dales? If you don’t want to stray out of town, the narrow, cobbled streets are lined with a good selection of historical attractions, shops, and plenty of little pubs and eateries.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Adventures of Alice

14 Amazing Romantic Weekend Getaways in England

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Are you looking for the most romantic breaks and getaways in England for you and your other half but don’t know where to start?

England is a country known for its historical landmarks and beautiful countryside. But it’s also the perfect spot for a romantic trip in the UK.

There are many amazing places to visit in England if you’re looking to sweep your significant other off their feet, with its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and stunning coastline.

Whether you are looking for a quiet B&B tucked away in the countryside, a quiet and secluded cabin in the woods, or a luxury hotel overlooking the ocean, there’s something for everyone! So read on and start planning your next romantic getaway in England!

My Favourite Romantic Hotels in England

✅ This gorgeous hotel in the Cotswolds ✅ A stunning chalet with sea views in Dorset ✅ This incredible hotel and spa in the Lake District

the Most romantic getaways in England

England has many beautiful places to visit for a couple’s getaway. However, whether it’s a special anniversary or you simply want a change from the routine for a weekend, these are my top recommendations for where you can travel with your other half.

1. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are famous for being one of the most beautiful places to visit in England . With cute villages, rolling hills, and plenty of trails for hiking and biking, the Cotswolds is the perfect setting for a romantic night away.

Explore some of the most popular villages such as Bibury, Castle Combe, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold. It’s a great place to grab afternoon tea, go for a romantic dinner, or explore the countryside .

You can also visit some of the Cotswolds’ many castles, like Sudeley Castle, or Broughton Castle.

Be sure to also check out some of the area’s most popular attractions as well, such as the Cotswold Wildlife Park, the Cheltenham Racecourse, and Blenheim Palace .

✅ This hotel is the perfect base for a romantic escape in the Cotswolds.

2. Cambridge

With its fancy University buildings, popular punting river, and a plethora of great places to eat , Cambridge is one of the best romantic getaways in England.

Full of charming cobbled streets, the beautiful riverside setting is the perfect place to stay for couples who enjoy spending quality time outdoors and exploring new places.

There are many things to do in Cambridge , such as visiting the (free) Fitzwilliam Museum, strolling through the Botanic Gardens, or going on a scenic bike ride. You can also explore some of the colleges at Cambridge University, such as King’s College or Trinity College.

A few other Cambridge must-haves include going for a punt ride on the River Cam, or exploring the many museums and art galleries .

You can also venture a little outside the city centre to some of the most popular villages and towns in the area, such as Grantchester, St Ives, and Melbourn. This is also a great place to go for a stroll through the Cambridgeshire woodlands .

✅ I love this hotel in Cambridge and it’s super romantic!

3. Jurassic Coast

For couples who love spending time in the great outdoors and want to explore England’s natural beauty, the Jurassic Coast is a perfect choice.

Located in the beautiful county of Dorset , this 96-mile stretch of coastline is an area of outstanding natural beauty. It features dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and stunning beaches.

There are plenty of things to do along the Jurassic Coast, such as hiking, biking, swimming, and even fossil hunting.

Be sure to visit some of the popular spots such as Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, and Old Harry Rocks. But also visit some of the surrounding areas like Abbotsbury, the little town of Weymouth , the beautiful island of Portland , and the stunning Corfe Castle.

✅ If you’re after a romantic hotel in Dorset, you’ll love this place!

Of course, I couldn’t write a blog post about the most romantic getaways in England without mentioning London! The country’s capital is full of things to do and see, making it perfect for couples who love city breaks.

Some of the most popular attractions include Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and Big Ben. You can also explore some of the city’s charming neighbourhoods such as Notting Hill or Covent Garden or more hidden gems in London like Sky Garden.

And there are lots of free attractions in London too, like the British Museum is also well worth a visit.

And don’t forget about all the amazing restaurants and bars in London! Grab champagne at the top of the London Eye, or head for an adrenaline-filled date on a speedboat on the Thames!

Whether you’re spending one day in London or exploring the city for an entire week, you’re sure to have a great time with your significant other.

✅ There are lots of romantic hotels in London, but this is one of my favourite.

Bath is another of the best getaways for couples, with its beautiful Georgian architecture, lovely parks, and charming streets. It’s the perfect place for a romantic weekend break with your partner and an ideal place for couples who love spending time exploring English history.

There are plenty of things to do in Bath, and be sure to visit some of the most popular attractions in the city, such as the Roman Baths, the Georgian Pump Room, and the Royal Crescent.

You can also visit some of Bath’s many museums, such as the Victoria Art Gallery, the Jane Austin Centre, or the Holburne Museum.

And of course, no day in Bath would be complete without a visit to one of its famous spas, such as the Thermae Bath Spa or the Green Park Bath.

You can also enjoy some afternoon tea or go for dinner at one of Bath’s many restaurants.

✅ This is one of the most romantic hotels in Bath

6. New Forest

Located in the south of England, the New Forest is a beautiful place for nature lovers.

Located in Hampshire, it’s perfect for a romantic getaway. With its rolling hills, dense forests, and charming villages, it’s easy to see why this area is so popular.

There are plenty of things to do in the New Forest, such as going for a walk or cycle ride on one of the many trails, visiting the New Forest Wildlife Park, or exploring one of the many villages in the area, such as Brockenhurst, Burley, and Lyndhurst.

Make sure to also check out some of the forest’s most popular attractions, such as Beaulieu Palace and Abbey, Exbury Gardens, and the New Forest Museum .

✅ I recommend this hotel for a romantic stay in New Forest

7. Oxford 

Similar to Cambridge with its fancy Universities and quaint streets, Oxford is another great destination for a romantic couples getaway. With its beautiful architecture, stunning gardens, and fascinating museums, Oxford is perfect for couples who love history and culture.

There are so many great things to do in Oxford , such as visiting the University of Oxford – one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world – or going for a walk in one of the city’s many parks.

You can also visit some of Oxford’s most popular museums, such as the Ashmolean Museum , the Museum of Natural History, and the Pitt Rivers Museum.

And if you’re looking for something a bit more active, you can go punting on the River Thames or explore one of Oxford’s many cycling trails.

✅ If you’re after a romantic hotel in Oxford, you’ll love this place!

8. Lake District National Park

Ideal for outdoor addicts, the Lake District is not just one of the most romantic getaways in England, but it’s also one of the most picturesque places in the country.

There are stunning lakes, charming villages, and beautiful countryside. It’s one of the best places to go hiking in England , and it’s perfect for couples who love spending time in nature.

If you’re wondering about the best things to do in the Lake District, be sure to visit some of the most popular villages and towns. This includes Keswick – home to Derwentwater, Bassenthwaite Lake – Grasmere, and Ambleside.

You can also explore some of the many lakes in the area, such as Lake Windermere, Ullswater, and Thirlmere. It’s ideal for glamping and you could find a cosy cabin and curl up with the most spectacular views.

After all, the scenery in the Lake District is simply stunning.

✅ This is one of the most romantic places to stay in the Lake District

9. Robin Hood’s Bay

This cute bay tucked into the North York Moors National Park is another spot that perfect for couples who love spending time outdoors.

With its quaint, hilly streets, traditional pubs and restaurants, and history steeped in piracy and legend, it’s easy to see why Robin Hood’s Bay is such a popular destination.

If you’re looking for a charming and picturesque village with a romantic atmosphere, then you’ll love this village. It’s home to some of the most stunning coastal scenery in North Yorkshire.

There’s also plenty to do in Robin Hood’s Bay, such as taking a walk along the beach, exploring the village’s many shops and cafes, or visiting some of the local attractions.

Some of the must-see sights in Robin Hood’s Bay include the smuggler’s museum, the Bay Hotel, and the Robin Hood’s Statue.

✅ This is one of the most romantic places to stay near Robin Hood’s Bay

Near some more pretty stunning UK countryside , the city of York is a great destination for a couples getaway. With its medieval walls, charming, narrow streets, and beautiful architecture, it’s easy to see why this city is so popular.

There are plenty of great attractions in York , and be sure to visit some of the most popular attractions in the city, such as the York Minster, the National Railway Museum, and the Jorvik Viking Centre.

You can also explore some of York’s many famous streets, such as The Shambles and Stonegate.

York is also a great place to go for a walk or cycle ride in the countryside surrounding the city. There are plenty of beautiful parks and gardens to explore, as well as the stunning North York Moors.

✅ I recommend this hotel for a romantic stay in York

11. Isle of Wight

Just a 30-minute ferry from Portsmouth or 45 minutes from Southampton , the Isle of Wight is a great destination for couples who love spending time outdoors. With its stunning coastline and peaceful villages, it’s easy to see why this island is so popular.

if you like hiking, biking, fishing, and even surfing, you’ll love the Isle of Wight! Also, be sure to visit some of the most popular villages and towns on the island, such as Cowes, Newport, and Ventnor.

Of course, you can’t visit the island and not pay a visit to the Isle of Wight’s most famous attractions . And the Needles should be pretty high on your to-do list.

These three chalk stacks are a must-see for any visitor to the Isle of Wight, and Needles Park is also a great day out with a crazy golf course, fireworks, and other great attractions.

The beautiful Alum Bay below the Needles is also a must-see, with its rainbow rocks and colourful sand is one of the UK’s most impressive beaches .

✅ I love this hotel in the Isle of Wight and it’s super romantic!

12. Somerset

This county in South West England is full of rolling hills, stunning coastline, and charming villages. If you love the outdoors and breathtaking locations, you’ll fall in love with Somerset.

There are plenty of things to do in Somerset . Some of the most popular towns and cities in the area are well worth a visit. This includes Glastonbury – famous for its magnificent Tor as well as the popular summer festival – Cheddar, and Wells.

Cheddar Gorge is also located in Somerset and is well worth a visit for its amazing views and intriguing caves. It’s also home to Bath, which I mentioned earlier in this article and you could easily visit Bath first and then head down into the countryside.

✅ This is one of the most romantic luxury hotels in Somerset

13. Northumberland

This county in North East England is a bit of a hidden gem in the United Kingdom. With its unique coastline, picturesque villages, and beautiful countryside, it’s quite surprising that it’s not more popular than it is.

If you’re the type of couple that loves secluded spots and natural beauty, you’ll feel right at home here.

There are plenty of things to do in Northumberland , such as visiting the city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, going for a walk on Hadrian’s Wall, or exploring one of the many castles in the area.

You can also visit some of the most popular villages and towns in Northumbria, such as Alnwick (home to one of the most famous Harry Potter filming locations in the UK), Hexham, and Berwick-upon-Tweed. Bamburgh Castle and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne are also well worth a visit.

✅ This is one of the most romantic places to stay in Northumberland

14. Cornwall

Of course, no list of the best romantic breaks in England would be complete without Cornwall. This wonderful county in the South West is perfect for both couples and families.

With its stunning coastline, a history steeped in Arthurian legend, and charming coastal villages, it’s easy to see why Cornwall is such a romantic destination.

There are plenty of things to do in Cornwall for couples. Explore St. Ives – famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and art galleries – Padstow, and Falmouth. Then also head to the south of Cornwall to little villages like Looe and Fowey.

You can also explore some of Cornwall’s many medieval castles, such as the Tintagel Castle , the Bodmin Moor Prison, or the Launceston Castle.

A trip to Cornwall can easily span 2 weeks or more as there’s so much to see, so if you like road trips with your other half, this is an incredibly romantic location.

✅ If you’re after a romantic hotel in Cornwall, you’ll love this place!

Final Thoughts on the Most Romantic Getaways in England

So, there you have it, my favourite romantic getaways in England! While England is most commonly thought of as just London, there’s so much to explore in this country.

And you don’t have to travel somewhere secluded like the Maldives, Greek islands, or a Caribbean island in search of a romantic retreat – although you may get more reliable weather!

Either way, exploring England is a great way to get outdoors, relax, celebrate a special occasion, and bring you closer to those you love.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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13 places for a romantic break in England

Romantic town and city breaks

Romantic countryside breaks, romantic coastal breaks.

Plan a romantic weekend away

With fairytale scenery, swish rooftop bars, mouth-watering Michelin-starred restaurants and secluded hot tubs never far away, England is one of the best places for a romantic weekend away.  

Need some help planning the perfect trip? We’re at your service with our in-depth guide to some of the most romantic breaks across the country.

Take a boat trip for two along the River Cam

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

With its endless architectural eye-candy, the university city of Cambridge is a charming spot for your romantic escape. Home to many a poet, author and artist over the years, its prestigious streets are quipped to inspire lots of new love stories. Enjoy green scenes at Cambridge Botanic Gardens , climb the Great St Mary’s Tower for skyline views or go stargazing at the Institute of Astronomy. Whatever you do though, don’t leave without a punting trip on the River Cam . Get comfy inside a vessel built for lovers with a glass of champagne in hand as a gondolier-like guide navigates the river for you, showing you some of the city’s most romantic spots.

Where to eat

As the night draws in, opt for two-Michelin-starred Midsummer House , an inventive eatery set inside a Victorian villa and famed for its dreamy taster menu. Afterwards, show off your moves at one of Hidden Rooms’  jazz evenings or sip classic cocktails and craft beer at 2648 , an intimate speakeasy hidden beneath Trinity Street.

Where to stay

For an all-in-one package, book a room at The Varsity Hotel , where you can have dinner with a view at its restaurant, Six , and unwind in its swanky spa. Celebrating a special occasion? The luxury University Arms  – with its decadent chandeliers and Edwardian interiors – is your best bet.

Watch the sun set across the capital

From hidden spas  beneath Covent Garden to sipping champagne at the top of the London Eye , there are so many romantic things to do as a couple in London. Spend an afternoon sailing along leafy Regents Canal on your very own boat , or explore the manicured gardens at one of London’s many royal palaces before snuggling up on a bench to watch the sunset from Parliament Hill (the highest spot in the city). As the night draws in, get dressed up and see one of London’s legendary West End shows  or watch theatre by candlelight at The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse .

For the hottest table in town, book a booth at Bentley’s Oyster Bar , near Piccadilly Circus, where you can knock back British oysters and sumptuous seafood platters, or nab a dinner slot at Clos Maggiore  in Covent Garden, hailed as the most romantic restaurant in London. With its tables set under a canopy of blossoming flowers, it’s easy to see why. For post-dinner cocktails, head to Mayfair’s The Connaught Bar , voted the World’s Best Bar, or sink a bottle of wine with your muse at cave-like Gordons Wine Bar  in Embankment, said to be one of the oldest wine bars in London.

With double-ended sunken bathtubs, rooms at the flamboyant Rosewood London  in High Holborn are idyllic urban sanctuaries, perfect for a romantic night away. Close to St Paul’s, there’s The Rookery , a dark warren of rooms with Georgian period features, open fires and four-poster beds, while over in the Royal Victoria Docks you can stay in a floating hotel with panoramic views across to Canary Wharf. The Good Hotel London , located away from the bustle of central London, even re-invests all its profits into training long-term unemployed people in London. Sounds like a winner to us!

Be part of a Shakespearean story in Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire

Embark on a Romeo and Juliet-style weekend at this medieval market town in Warwickshire. The birthplace of William Shakespeare is chock-a-block with the Bard’s greatest inspirations and legacies. Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace  for a look into his upbringing, or wander around  Anne Hathaway’s Cottage’s acres of beautiful orchards and gardens. Afterwards, see one of his greatest love stories played out at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre , one of only three RSC theatres in the country.

If you’re visiting in the springtime, make sure you pack a picnic and hire a rowboat or punt from the Boathouse to glide down the River Avon. On the flip side, during the winter you can get a little slice of paradise at Stratford Butterfly Farm  where hundreds of beautiful butterflies flutter around freely – now and again they’ll even take a pitstop on your nose!

Celebrating something special? The chef's table at Salt   – the town’s first Michelin-starred restaurant – makes for an unforgettable meal.

When it comes to romantic hotels, look no further than Ettington Park Hotel  – a Neo-Gothic mansion that looks like something straight out of a fairytale. With round turrets, church ruins in the garden and chandeliers galore, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.

Stroll the cobbled streets of Knaresborough

Knaresborough, North Yorkshire

A warren of medieval streets and stone staircases, this Yorkshire market town’s star attraction is the viaduct with its elegant arches straddling the River Nidd. Take a morning stroll underneath it on the promenade, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and one another. Start at Mother Shipton’s Cave  – England’s oldest and most mysterious tourist attractions – and finish at Our Lady of the Crag, home to an early-15th-century chapel excavated from sandstone Check out the romantic ruins of Knaresborough Castle  too, with its ancient graffiti, secret tunnels and views across the town.

Warm up afterwards with coffee and cake at Number Thirteen , where everything is upcycled, handmade and Fairtrade, and in the evening, treat your other half to a sumptuous seven-course tasting menu at General Tarleton , a hidden gourmet gem in an unassuming 18th-century coaching inn. For small plates and cocktails, head to Six Poor Folk , housed in one of the town’s oldest buildings.

If you plan on staying the night, book The Cottage at Dower House & Spa , a self-contained room tucked away in the gardens (perfect for that added bit of privacy). Alternatively, go all out with a stay at Goldsborough Hall , a stately manor formerly home to Princess Mary, Her Majesty’s aunt, for lavish gardens and Jacobean hand-carved four-poster beds. You’ll have hearts racing with that one!

Plan a surprise proposal in Chester

Chester, Cheshire

Tip-toeing on the border of Wales, the walled city of Chester is up there with the most romantic places in England. Cruise along the River Dee in your very own private picnic boat  or go shopping on The Rows . These double-decker streets are lined with first-floor Medieval walkways leading to lots of independent shops. You may even stumble across England’s oldest shopfront.

Afterwards, escape the hubbub with a walk along the city’s Roman walls , keeping an eye out for fascinating sights like the Eastgate Clock - built in 1897 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s jubilee - and the Wishing Steps. Legend has it that if an unmarried girl could successfully run up and down the steps while holding her breath, the man of her choice would propose to her.

Reserve a table at Chez Jules  – housed inside one of Chester’s iconic Tudor buildings – for French-inspired dishes that change daily, or enjoy sunset views over the UK’s oldest racecourse at 1539. Named after the year racing first began in the city, this award-winning restaurant serves up twists on British classics. Looking to impress? Treat your other half to top-class cuisine at the two AA Rosette La Brasserie at The Chester Grosvenor . Sink some bubbly at its glamorous Champagne bar before tucking into the likes of Colchester oysters and dark chocolate marquise.

Fit for royalty, The Queen  is a landmark hotel said to be the first skyscraper of its time. Furnished with four-poster beds and suites dedicated to former kings, the hotel has had a roll call of famous guests, including the likes of Charles Dickens and Cecil Rhodes. Just outside of the city centre, surrounded by 1,000 acres of land, is the luxurious Carden Park . As well as an onsite vineyard and two golf courses, the hotel is home to an outdoor spa garden complete with thermal garden pods, hot tubs and a Bollinger bar.

Write your own love story in Bath

Bath, Somerset

Inspiration for many of Jane Austen’s romantic novels, the UNESCO City of Bath is another of England’s dreamy cities. Fill a hamper and visit one of Bath’s beautiful parks and gardens, all of which are worthy of a picnic – the Royal Victoria Park, with the iconic Royal Crescent as a backdrop, is one of our favourites. The National Trust’s 18th-century Prior Park  is equally as striking, with its series of lakes and Palladian Bridge, said to be one of only four in the world. For scenic views book a private sunset tour of the Bath Abbey Tower , which includes a glass of bubbly when you reach the top, soak in the Thermae Bath Spa’s  rooftop pool, or why not float through the air in a hot air balloon  as it glides over the honey-coloured Georgian buildings below?

Be transported back to an era of elegance with a delicious afternoon tea in The Pump Room  – a venue at the social heart of Bath for more than two centuries – accompanied by the sounds of the Pump Room Trio. In the evening, get dressed up for a meal at the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Bath. The Olive Tree , located inside the Queensberry Hotel, is known for its fine seasonal produce and creative menu. Or set the mood at Italian-inspired Ponte Vecchio , a candlelit eatery overlooking the iconic Pulteney Bridge.

Set in 20 acres of private grounds, Bailbrook House Hote l has charming views towards the city, and even offers breakfast in bed. Or stay right at the centre of the action at Harington’s Hotel . Tucked away down a quiet cobbled street, you can hire their secluded courtyard for a private hot tub session. For the ultimate treat, book No.15 by Guesthouse , a boutique hotel with independently designed rooms, all of which have access to a pantry full of complimentary goodies to enjoy day and night. Be sure to book a couple’s slot in the hotel’s subterranean Copper Room too, to enjoy a soak in its huge round copper bath and side-by-side treatments using eco products.

Connect with nature in the Lake District

Lake District, Cumbria

Gentle rolling hills, glassy waters and charming villages – the Lake District is the epitome of romance. It’s no surprise then, that the region was once home to romantic poets like Wordsworth, Southey and Coleridge. You’ll be spoiled for choice here with miles of walking routes, countless picnic spots and endless dramatic scenery – all with barely another soul in sight. Wander up to Friars Crag, where a perfectly placed bench welcomes sweethearts to soak up the views across Derwentwater, or embark on the Catbells Lakeland Walk, rated the most popular walk for loved-up couples. Literature lovers can’t miss a visit to Rydal Mount , the home of William Wordsworth, while the Theatre by the Lake  puts on performances throughout the year. Planning to propose? Hire a rowboat to take out on one of the lakes, or for the ultimate movie moment, go horse riding around Ullswater with Rookin House .

For a romantic meal out, there’s L’Enclume  – a two-Michelin-star eatery with theatrical flourishes – and The Drunken Duck , which whips up dishes like crab & apple crumpets and cheese & chive soufflés. Or go off-piste with a candlelit dinner at The Cottage in the Wood  – a fairytale-esque restaurant hidden in Whinlatter Forest.

For a dreamy night’s sleep, hide away at the Scandinavian-style Hinterlandes Cabin . Tucked away in the woods, it has its own private firepit and wood-fired hot tub. For luxurious suites with emperor beds, book Brimstone , which has a spa and a library with free drinks and snacks, or snuggle up by the fireplace in Holbeck Ghyll , a former hunting lodge-turned hotel.

Follow a romantic road through The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds

Dotted with quintessentially English villages, each with its own character, The Cotswolds is one of our favourite places for a cosy couples’ getaway. The ultimate way to explore the region is by hiring a classic car  and taking The Romantic Road , which winds through the area’s best bits – like Broadway, Chipping Campden and Stow-on-the-Wold – starting and finishing in the spa town of Cheltenham. Park up and wander around the chocolate box villages and have lunch in a snug pub before driving off into the distance to your next destination. Other romantic activities include exploring the beautiful botanic garden of Batsford Arboretum, hiking up Devil’s Chimney for unrivalled views over the Malvern Hills or taking a tour of one of the Cotswolds’ many breweries and distilleries .

Fuel up at the poshest pub in Britain, The Wild Rabbit . Set in the UK’s largest organic farmland, this homely inn serves up award-winning food from a theatrical open kitchen. Over in Chipping Norton, you’ll find The Chequers , a grown-up gastropub with cute candlelit tables and specials like twice-baked cheddar souffle. Or splash out on a treat meal at the Michelin-starred Le Champignon Sauvage  in Cheltenham.

The ivy-clad Swan Hotel  in Bibury, home to a selection of unique rooms and quaint garden cottages (complete with private hot tubs), is one of our favourite options for resting your head. Alternatively, for a quirky stay in a back-to-nature bolthole, try The Fish Hotel  with its collection of shepherds’ huts and treehouses.

Work your way through East Sussex’s wineries

East Sussex

One of England’s greenest counties, East Sussex is famed for its white cliffs, lush fields and a myriad of award-winning wineries. Treat your other half to a tour of one, two or ten of the county’s vineyards, from the Albourne Estate with its sparkling varieties to Bluebell Vineyard  and Court Garden Vineyard , with its choice of reds, rosés and whites. Many, like Rathfinny Wine Estate , have onsite restaurants, so you can accompany your tipples with a range of gastronomical delights.

When you’re not sipping home-grown vino, take a slow walk atop Beachy Head for spectacular views across the English Channel; explore 17th-century Bateman’s , the former home and sanctuary of Rudyard Kipling; or feel like a loved-up teenager again with arcade games, candy floss and ice cream on Brighton Pier .

Arrive hungry to The Gallivant  near Rye, where the fish and seafood haven’t travelled very far at all. A lot of its other produce is sourced locally too, including its garlicky Celtic cabbage. Further west you’ll find The Curlew , a former coaching inn within a stone’s throw from Bodiam Castle. Alongside quirky, modern interiors, the kitchen serves an ever-changing menu of small, sharing plates that are perfectly paired with a selection of organic and biodynamic local wines.

If you want the full vineyard package, you can stay onsite at Oxney Estate  – England’s largest organic vineyard – which has a selection of cosy cottages and shepherd’s huts overlooking the vines. Elsewhere, be sure to book a hotel in the pretty cobbled town of Rye, like Jeake’s House  – a quirky, B&B with antique décor and four-poster beds. Or go off-grid at the Meadow Keeper’s Cottage  at Swallowtail Hill Farm. This crooked cottage on wheels was hand-built by local craftsmen and comes with a private outdoor shower.

Stroll hand-in-hand along the sandy beaches of St Ives

St Ives, Cornwall

Home to hidden coves and some of the best beaches in the UK, Cornwall – and in particular St Ives – is the ideal place for a romantic trip. Walk hand-in-hand around Carbis Bay, Porthmeor or Porthminster, searching for shells and skimming stones, before warming up with a wander around the iconic Tate Gallery . If you’ve got a car handy, take a road trip down the coastal roads to Lands End, soaking up the views with every twist and turn, or head over to Marazion to walk the cobbled causeway over to St Michael's Mount . It’s said that by touching a Wishing Stone at the summit of this imposing island, a truly romantic wish will be granted. Do we hear wedding bells?

Treat your better half to a slap-up meal at The Cellar Bistro  in St Ives. With rouge-red walls and candlelit tables, this Parisian-chic setting is perfect for a romantic supper. If you have a foodie to impress, journey up to Padstow for modern British food at Michelin-starred Paul Ainsworth at No6 , or even further up the coast to Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen . Located in a 15th-century fisherman’s cottage in Port Isaac, this mouth-watering set menu celebrates Cornwall’s freshest seafood and local produce.

Continue the luxury vibes at St Ives Harbour Hotel , with an onsite spa and sea-view rooms, or retreat into the forest at Saint Agnes’ Chui Treehouse . With a stargazing skylight above the bed, a hot tub on the decking and nothing to see for miles but treetops, badgers and deer, this is the perfect place to spend some time connecting.

Fall for the ancient capital of Northumbria

Bamburgh, Northumberland

Take a romantic trip to the wind-swept sandy beaches and breathtaking backdrops of Bamburgh. Soak up history at Bamburgh Castle  (which has dominated the skyline here since Anglo-Saxon times), and stretch your legs with a walk along Bamburgh Beach. If you really want to get those steps in, take the coast path down to Seahouses or up to Budle Bay, a serene spot that’s great for bird watching. For a glimpse of puffins and seals, cross the causeway on foot to the mysterious Lindisfarne , a remote island rich in religious history and topped by a 16th-century castle. Northumberland is also one of the best places in the UK for stargazing , so be sure to spend an evening at Kielder Observatory  watching the night sky. Just be sure to book in advance as the stargazing events are extremely popular.

What better to eat on a trip to the seaside than seafood itself? The Potted Lobster  is a relaxed restaurant with a menu packed with fresh, locally caught seafood, from Lindisfarne Oysters (in case you fancy an aphrodisiac), to lobster thermidor and seafood platters for two. The Brasserie at the Victoria Hotel  is also famed for its seasonal produce and friendly northern welcome, alongside its decadent afternoon teas.

Just south of Bamburgh you’ll find Beadnell Towers , a boutique hotel with a handful of both accessible and dog-friendly rooms. The rooms are modern yet cosy and have lovely, large waterfall showers – ideal after a long day outdoors. If you prefer some space to yourselves, check out Budle Bay Bothies’ Two Shakes  – a stylish and snug shepherds hut, hand-built to traditional methods. It’s got everything you need for a glamping break, plus an outdoor fire pit to keep you toasty in winter.

Enjoy an intimate island stay in Ventnor

Ventnor, Isle of Wight

Make your romantic getaway more exotic with a trip to the Isle of Wight’s southern coast. Ventnor, with its unique micro-climate, is ideal for a warm winter break filled with outdoorsy activities. Take to the clear waters on a kayak or surfboard, or crack open a bottle of bubbly on the soft sands of Ventnor Beach. Stroll along the coastline to Shanklin , an olde-worlde village lined with charming shops and restaurants, for a spot of lunch, or stay for the evening to catch a show at the Shanklin Theatre. If you only do one thing though, make sure it’s a visit to Ventnor Botanic Garden . Home to 30,000 subtropical plants, Britain’s hottest garden is bursting with colour. Discover the garden’s secret corners with secluded seating areas and views over the English Channel, and organise a private Tunnel Tour where you can explore the underground caverns and hidden passageways that lead from the tropical gardens to the seashore. Oh, and just so you know, you can get married here too.

For waterfront scenery, check out The Spyglass Inn  in Ventnor Bay. Its menu features locally sourced ingredients and there are regular performances from local bands too. The Admiral’s Platter is a must for seafood lovers too. For a proper pub lunch, break up a walk with a stop at The Buddle Inn , a 16th-century clifftop pub in the island’s Area of Natural Beauty. Noted for its real ales and cosy vibes, it also has the likes of duck bao buns and smoked haddock scotch eggs on the menu. Alternatively, if you want to splash the cash a bit, book a table at Michelin-starred The Hambrough Restaurant , an intimate eatery that showcases the island’s best produce.

Opt for a tropical stay onsite at the Botanic Gardens in The Cabin . Tucked away in the Upper Nursery with views out over the Channel, this wood-panelled hideaway even has its own Mediterranean garden. Or go all out with a room at one of the oldest hotels on the island, The Royal . As its name suggests, this former coaching house has welcomed in royalty over the years and was said to be Queen Victoria’s favourite place to visit in Ventnor. Nestled in exotic south-facing gardens, the hotel also has an outdoor heated pool, daily high tea and a two AA Rosette restaurant.

Be swept off your feet in Southwold

Southwold, Suffolk

Southwold, on the Suffolk coast, is a quintessentially British seaside town, complete with a beach hut-lined promenade and Victorian pier. Feel the salty sea air hit your faces as you walk together along Southwold Beach before heading down the pier to catch a glimpse of its playful water clock. Be sure to visit  Adnams , a Southwold institution, on a brewery or distillery tour where you can learn all about how their tipples are made, before indulging in a few for yourself. If you’re looking for something extra special, book a gin-making experience and take home a bottle of booze tailored to your taste buds. And for the ultimate date night, catch a flick at the intimate Electric Picture Palace  which, through its deep-rouge décor, usherettes and Tiny Wurlitzer organ that appears during the interval, aims to recapture the golden age of cinema.

After a busy morning, stop by the Tiptree Tea Room  for a light lunch of cream tea. Everything is served alongside Tiptree jams and marmalades and there’s even cute outdoor courtyard seating. For seaside classics like fish and chips and fresh oysters, head to harbourside Sole Bay Fish Company , a restaurant and takeaway where all the seafood is caught daily using their own boats. Elsewhere, eco-conscious Sutherland House  is perfect for that extra touch of luxury. This adult-only fine-dining restaurant is exclusively laid out with tables for two and offers predominantly seafood and plant-based dishes. They even print food miles on the menu, so you know exactly where your food is from. 

Right in the centre of town, The Swan Hotel  has been welcoming guests for over 350 years. Nowadays, the hotel is home to stylish and contemporary bedrooms with luxury down bedding, and come with a bottle of Adnams gin on the house. Further along the coast is The Sail Loft , a beachside restaurant with rooms. As well as sleek décor, the venue is dog-friendly and hosts weekly live music sessions. Alternatively, head inland for a night with nature at the Birch Igluhut  at Blyth Rise. Sleeping two people, this lodge is surrounded by wildlife (including a resident otter) and has access to two sauna cabins.

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The 15 most beautiful places in the UK, according to travel writers who’ve seen them all

From the Forest of Dean’s moss-covered woodland to the cobbled streets of Oxford and the windswept coasts of the Inner Hebrides

For all of the stick we give the UK – the grey skies, the pigeons, the Greggs sausage roll packets littering the pavements – it’s actually a pretty gorgeous country. In London alone, you can be goggling over the Barbican’s brutalist beauty one moment, the next, you might be basking in the tranquility of Hampstead Ponds. Add the turquoise coasts of Cornwall , the rugged mountains of Snowdonia and the fairytale wonder of Scotland’s highlands and islands to the mix, and you’ve got a country which is as good looking as they come. 

When we set about curating this list of the most beautiful places in the UK, we called on our network of expert travel writers. These guys have have personally experienced the pinch-me moment of seeing every place on this list IRL – so we can guarantee you there is no catfishing going on here. Of course, you’ll find the usual suspects – you can’t argue with the magic of the Isle of Skye, after all – but you’ll also find some more surprising beauty spots to add to your travel bucket list. 

Chiara Wilkinson  is Time Out’s UK features editor, based in London. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our   editorial guidelines   and check out our latest   travel guides   written by local experts. RECOMMENDED: 🚂 The UK’s 12 most beautiful train stations 🇬🇧 The 35 best things to do in the UK 🏝 The 30 most beautiful places in the world

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The most picture-perfect places in the UK

1.  Puzzlewood, Forest of Dean

A forest so enchanting, it’s supposedly the blueprint for Tolkein’s Middle Earth, Puzzlewood is a dense green labyrinth within the Forest of Dean. The ancient woodland covers 14 acres, offering hidden caves, towering ravines, charming wooden bridges, moss-covered rocks and twisting roots. Its meandering path is the result of eroded underground cave systems which, over a few million years, became exposed to the surface. Now, it’s a regular on the silver screen, featuring in the likes of Harry Potter and Star Wars. Along the short, easy trail you’ll find nooks and crannies fit for fairies and elves around every corner. 

Time Out tip: After wandering Puzzlewood’s spellbinding track, enjoy some culinary magic at Tudor Farmhouse . The produce is locally sourced, dishes are fresh and if you’re feeling particularly bougie, go ahead and spend a night in one of its luxurious rooms. 

2.  Minack Theatre, Cornwall

It’s hard to believe this astonishing cliff-edge theatre is in the UK. The Minack looks looks like something from an ancient Greek epic, with the greco-esque structure jutting out from the craggy cliffs over the shockingly blue sea. One of the most exciting things about watching a play at the open-air theatre is the unpredictability of the weather. Come rain or shine, the show must go on, even if the audience has to get soaked to their underpants. Built in 1930, this amphitheatre usually has a dependable summer programme of musicals, Shakespeare and other classics, Cornish tales, kids’ performances, and gigs. Catching a show here is certainly one for the books.

Time Out tip: Walk the five-minute (slightly hair-raising) cliff path from the Minack to get to Porthcurno, one of the most stunning beaches in the country. And if naturism is your thing, there’s a nudie beach just round the corner called Pedn Vounder. The perfect recipe for a free-spirited day out.

3.  Barbican Estate, London

Look, I know it isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. No matter how much I wax lyrical about its towering concrete curves, the Barbican is always going to have its detractors. There are plenty of people who don’t appreciate its peaceful vistas, towering greyness and general atmosphere of faded glamour. But to me, it’s stark, cool, imposing and utterly magnificent. Walking around its silent streets makes me feel like I’m in a Cold War era spy movie. And it doesn’t hurt that it’s also home to one of London ’s most celebrated arts venues, complete with a stunning verdant conservatory, plush auditoriums, chic martini bar and loads of quiet little nooks for working or gossiping in.

Time Out tip:  To whet your whistle, head round the corner to The Sekforde , a historic philanthropic pub which operates an educational charity – and does a mean Sunday roast. 

4.  Singing Sands, Isle of Eigg

Home to only around 100 people, the tiny community-owned Isle of Eigg on Scotland’s rugged west  coast is a fascinating experiment in off-grid sustainable living and one of the most unique  places in Britain. Trek or cycle northwest across the island to Laig Bay (you can hire  bikes by the ferry pier) and you’ll find a secluded white crescent beach of such unspoiled beauty it’ll  steal your breath away. The Singing Sands is so-called because its quartzite grains make a rasping or ‘ singing’ sound as you walk on them or when they’re brushed by the wind. Gaze out towards the  distant craggy mountains of Rùm, take a bracing Atlantic dip if you’re feeling bold, or simply slip off  your shoes and enjoy nature’s strange song as sand slips between your toes.

Time Out tip: Drop by the Isle of Eigg Brewery en route for a superb pilsner or IPA (also available at Galmisdale Bay Cafe  and Bar and the Isle of Eigg Shop ).

5.  Avebury Stone Circle, Wiltshire

Ribbons flutter from the branches of ancient trees. Monumental hunks of stone appear to have pushed their way up through the grass. Sheep graze alongside them nonchalantly. I find the tiny village of Avebury captivating, in an otherworldly, magic kind of way. It’s the site of the biggest Neolithic stone circle in the world (as well as burial mounds, pathways and earthworks where you can feel the history beneath your feet). But, unlike Stonehenge, you can wander freely around the stones, and even give them a hug if, like me, you feel drawn to. At some point, somebody decided to build a village right through the middle of the henge, which adds to the area’s surreal feel.  There’s beauty in all of it: the rolling Wiltshire hills, the manmade secrets cut into them, and the fact that you can have a pint in the middle of a massive great big stone circle.  Time Out tip : Stay the night at The Farm at Avebury to have time to explore all the secrets of the surrounding UNESCO World Heritage landscape. The stylish former stables are all set around a pretty courtyard on a muddy working farm, a short walk from the mysterious mound of Silbury Hill.

6.  Medieval Shambles, York

Peering down York’s Shambles in 2024, with the road’s overhanging buildings, rustic wooden crossbeams and characterful row of twee shops, you’d have no idea of the road’s grim past. The name ‘Shambles’ literally refers to an open-air slaughterhouse, which is what this York street was back in the 1300s. These days all that blood and gore (and the street’s famed butchers, which stuck around until the 1800s) is long gone; leaving one of the UK’s best preserved medieval streets. There are few easier, more atmospheric ways to transport yourself back hundreds of years (without the iffy smells and sights) than a stroll down Shambles.

Time Out tip : You try walking past  Shambles Kitchen without buying one of the shop’s delicious smoked sandwiches. The wafts coming out of that place are irresistible.

7.  Seven Sisters, Sussex

Yorkshire has the dales and Cumbria has the lakes, but Sussex is home to some of the UK’s most dramatic, most beautiful cliffs. Enter the Seven Sisters, a succession of (you guessed it, seven) glistening peaks which sit between Seaford and Birling Gap. It’s one of the longest stretches of undeveloped shore on the south coast and is part of the South Downs National Park. But the chalky geology of the area (which is why the cliffs are so brilliantly white) doesn’t just make it beautiful, it’s also responsible for a remarkably diverse ecosystem – head here in the summer and keep an eye out for some of the 20 species of butterfly that flutter around.

Time Out tip: After the hilly walk from Seaford to Cuckmere Haven, a reward lies in the form of a brilliant beer garden at the Cuckmere Inn .

8.  Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye

There’s something innately surreal about Skye: it’s the sort of place that makes you feel like fairytales could actually come true. The Fairy Pools – g listening  turquoise basins threaded together with a series of waterfalls, all set in the backdrop  of the imposing Cuillin mountains –  might well be a tourist trap, but they’re one of these rare places that actually live up to the hype. Legend has it that the pools attract selkies,  mythological creatures which turn from seals into humans at nightfall. Get to the pools early enough and you might be lucky enough to spot one – or at least beat the crowds. A  quick dip in those icy waters will help you melt away all sins. 

Time Out tip:  Make the most of the idyllic island by booking treat yourself a stay at the  4 AA Rosette-awarded  Edinbane Lodge , where you can fill up on an exquisite menu before resting your head in a renovated 16th century hunting lodge. And for a real Hebridean breakfast, head to the ever-trendy  Café Cùil . Where else are you going to get roast tattie hash with Scottish chorizo and caramelised cabbage?

9.  Whitstable Seafront, Kent

I’ve been going to Whitstable since I was little to visit my auntie, before my mum eventually moved there too. That means I’ve sat on Whitstable Beach probably a million times, and it has never felt any less magical. Its mile of pebbles is separated by wooden groynes, fading into a string of multi-coloured beach huts before eventually leading to Seasalter. But the crowning glory has to be the view of Whitstable’s sunset, which feels as though someone has peeled away the sky to expose it: all deep pinks and oranges reflected on little pools of sea water when the tide is far out. It feels as though the whole world goes still when it sets.

Time Out tip: T he best spot to watch this marvel is from the comfort of the Old Neptune ’s beer garden right on the beach, with a pint of Whitstable Lager in hand (and possibly a dozen oysters).

10.  Rydal Caves, Lake District

While there are plenty of beauty spots throughout the Lake District, none feel as mystical as Rydal Caves. Located between Grasmere and Ambleside, they’re the perfect place to visit if you don’t feel like a lengthy hike, with a car park just a 15-minute walk away.  The caves themselves are dramatic, with an almost mirroring effect from the water. Carefully wander across the stepping stones to the dry areas near the back of the cave to truly appreciate the beauty of the caves. It's little wonder that Netflix's The Witcher chose to film here for their second season.

Time Out tip: Once you arrive back in Ambleside, head to the Ambleside Tap Yard for a wide range of locally brewed pints and delicious pizza.

11.  Loch Lomond, Highland Boundary Fault

Loch Lomond has captured the hearts of even the most stoic Celts for centuries – it’s easy to see why. Set barely an hour away from the bustling metropolis of Glasgow , Scotland's southernmost national park is a complete haven from all evidence of the modern world. With the sort of peaks, waterfalls, and endless lakeland you usually only see in films or Keats’ poetry, a trip to Loch Lomond is restorative for the body and soul. Whoever you arrive as, you’ll leave feeling like a kilt-wearing bagpipe-wielding Scotsman, wind flowing through your locks, freed from any inhibition or worry. There are plenty of campsites spread across the loch, or if that’s a little too close to nature for you, opt for one of the more comfortable lakeview hotels or lodges. 

Time Out tip: Head to nearby village Luss and find the Coach House Coffee Shop for a homemade sandwich and signature hot chocolate in front of a roaring fire with a view to boot.

12.  Central Oxford

It may be an antiquated, elitist academic institution, but you’ve got to hand it to the University of Oxford: it’s responsible for one of the most beautiful bits of urban landscape in Europe. Even for jaded students, the stretch of central Oxford between Broad Street and the High Street is just jawdropping, its medieval lanes and olde-worlde cottages, pubs and bookshops contrasting with the grandiose, honey-coloured stone buildings of high academia. You don’t even have to pay for a single college tour to appreciate the dreaming spires (or should that be ivory towers?) from the outside.

Time Out tip:  Grab a coffee from The Missing Bean and sip it in the sun on the recently-pedestrianised sweep of Broad Street  or stop for a pint at the Grade II-listed Turf Tavern , tucked away between the ancient stone walls.

13.  Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol

Got a head for heights? Head to the pretty area of Clifton in Bristol to take in the Georgian architecture before heading to see the icon of the city: Clifton Suspension Bridge. Designed by legendary engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel and opened in 1864, the bridge spans the breathtaking Avon Gorge and towers a whopping 75 metres above the River Avon, so you can take in views of the city, surrounding countryside – and maybe even a hot air balloon or two if you time it right. The visitor centre is free to visit should you want to learn more.

Time Out tip :  While The White Lion is the best-known places to get a great view of the bridge and gorge, for an equally good view and fewer crowds, head to the terrace at Clifton Observatory for 360-views to enjoy with a cocktail.

14.  Portmeirion, North Wales

Portmeirion is like something out of a dream. That is intentional, as the brainchild of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis set out to bring the peace and pace of the Mediterranean to the northwest of Wales. Don’t scoff: the two are more alike than you might first assume. Since its completion in 1975,  this unique tourist village has established itself as the most romantic spot in north Wales. Of course, it certainly helps if it comes with Italianate architecture, colourful facades and an unforgettable sense of romance. How could you not fall for Portmeirion? 

Time Out tip:   For the full ‘Mediterranean in Wales’ experience, pick up a gelato from Caffi’r Angel and set up shop on the piazza for a spot of people-watching.   

15.  Benone Strand, Causeway Coast

The first time I visited world-class Benone Strand, this vast seven-mile stretch of beach was deserted apart from a single horserider galloping through the clear shallows. Yep, just like in the movies. You can walk along the sandy shore towards Downhill Strand, where ‘Game Of Thrones’ was filmed, passing the rush of the Dunne waterfall, one of the tallest in Northern Ireland. And just past this, perched high up on the cliff-edge, is the area's crowning glory: much-photographed Mussenden Temple, once the library of the 18th century Bishop of Derry, who also built nearby Downhill House, now a wonderfully atmospheric ruin.

Time Out tip :  Warm up at Finnish-style Hotbox sauna on Benone Strand before coffee at the wood-panelled artisan café on the dunes, complete with surf hire.

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My spa holiday in the world’s most romantic place … solo

Justine picardie once fell in love with huvafen fushi with her family — but could she enjoy this honeymoon paradise alone.

T he idea of embarking on a solo holiday in the Maldives might sound strange; why on earth would you want to be unaccompanied in a place that is known for being a honeymoon destination? But if you believe, as I do, that being alone is not the same as being lonely, and that there can be merit in enjoying your own company, then a week at Huvafen Fushi is the ultimate luxury. And so it was that I flew there at the tail end of a long, wet winter, returning to an idyllic island that I had visited twice before (the first time in 2012 with my two sons, who were 18 and 22 at the time, and then again four years later, also with my family).

There are risks of going back to somewhere that you have fallen in love with before; what if it has changed for the worse, or the magic has been lost? Yet I trusted in the fact that Huvafen Fushi attracts a high percentage of returning guests, and as soon as I stepped off the boat, less than an hour after I had landed at Malé airport, I began to relax. It helps that the journey is relatively easy. After a direct overnight flight from London, you are whisked by a private launch to this island in the North Malé Atoll, rather than having to transfer to another plane (as is the case with other, more remote Maldivian resorts). And because Huvafen Fushi is reassuringly small, with just 44 rooms, it never feels crowded. I stayed in an individual thatched wooden pavilion with a large airy bedroom and marble-clad bathroom as well as a private plunge pool and direct access to the pristine beach. There are equally appealing suites built on stilts over the lagoon, reached via a long jetty, and with breathtaking panoramic views out to the open sea.

All the rooms have been recently refurbished, 20 years after the resort opened, but the overall style remains in keeping with the discreet yet distinctive signature of Huvafen Fushi, and eschews any trace of ostentatious vulgarity. The design gives a sense of subtle luxury, using woven rattan, timber panelling and linen furnishings in a calm, neutral palette, remaining true to a longstanding focus on sustainability. As a consequence, the natural beauty of the island shines like a precious jewel: the sea sparkling in shades of sapphire and cerulean; the sky shimmering rose-gold at dawn, then slowly transformed into azure-blue hues; and finally glowing ruby-red as the sun descends towards the amber horizon.

Despite the resort’s diminutive size, there is always much to see. Waking early, I would make myself a cup of tea and step out onto the terrace to watch the fluffy baby water-hens with their mothers, and then stroll barefoot across the cashmere-soft white sand towards the shoreline, where elegant white egrets and grey herons stand poised at the edge, occasionally dipping their long beaks into the waves to catch fish. The ocean is so clear that eagle rays and black-tipped sharks are easily visible from the beach, as are rainbow-coloured shoals of tropical fish in the shallows. It’s easy to venture out with a snorkel to explore the coral reef that surrounds Huvafen Fushi, or go further afield with the resident marine biologist, in search of manta rays and hawksbill turtles. The sight of these elusive creatures cannot be guaranteed, which makes any chance encounter all the more magical; having swum alongside a magnificent pair of giant rays on a previous visit, I felt lucky to discover a turtle on this occasion, and admired its surprising grace as it glided silently beneath the waves.

In between swimming, snorkelling and bird-watching, I also practised yoga in an open-air, overwater pavilion reached by a jetty from the beach, and cooled by sea breezes. The Indian yoga teacher Sayeli Dolas was as kind as the rest of the staff, and gently encouraging, while clearly well able to guide individual pupils at whatever level is appropriate. Thanks to her expertise, and that of Inwar Lapez, the superb massage therapist in the spa, my painfully hunched shoulders and knotted neck muscles gradually unwound over the course of my week’s stay. And I cannot recommend the spa more highly: the skilled therapists are truly exceptional, and having arrived at Huvafen Fushi after a debilitating bout of ill health, I soon felt miraculously restored by several healing massage treatments that complemented my daily yoga sessions. (The spa can devise personalised programmes for individual guests, albeit at a price; this is not an all-inclusive resort, although certain activities — including morning yoga, kayaking and paddleboarding — are free of charge.)

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• 32 of the best hotels in the Maldives • 14 of the best all-inclusive hotels in the Maldives

The healthy food served at the resort is similarly restorative, from platters of tropical fruit and freshly squeezed green juices at breakfast, to plentiful salads at lunch and grilled fish for supper. Guests may also indulge in a delicious selection of homemade pizzas, seafood pastas, creamy risottos, spiced curries and other epicurean delights. Despite the small size of Huvafen Fushi, there’s no sense of repetition, given that there are half-a-dozen dining venues, including a raw-food bar and a Japanese restaurant that offers impeccable sushi, sashimi and other piquant delicacies. Wherever possible, the chefs use locally sourced ingredients. As a consequence, I feasted on sliced dragon fruit and mangosteen in the morning and later sampled green papaya salad with prawns, plus delectable lime and coconut sorbets.

Although most of the other guests were couples or small groups of family and friends, at no point did it feel uncomfortable to be eating by myself. I had a variety of good books for company, and in the evening I could tilt my eyes upwards, stargazing at myriad glimmering constellations in the velvety-black sky.

Huvafen Fushi is a supremely comforting, cosseting haven. I slept well at night, lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves, and during the day floated in the gentle cradle of the aquamarine infinity pool, or read beneath the sheltering shade of palm trees.

As it happens, my husband does not enjoy this kind of holiday — he generally prefers the bracing Scottish Highlands to the sybaritic Indian Ocean — so I didn’t feel guilty about spending this time without him. But for anyone who is wondering about travelling to Huvafen Fushi alone, for whatever reason, I would highly recommend the experience. If you need a reassuring framework for the day, that could be provided by classes in scuba diving, kayaking and sailing expeditions. Or you can simply revel in the freedom of having no plans at all, doing exactly as you please, whenever you choose, surrounded by natural beauty and soothed by the caressing sea.

In an ideal world, and if money were no object, I’d return every winter, like the migrating birds that fly here from cold northern climes. But even if that escapist dream proves impossible, I’ll still remember the healing power of solitude, and the importance of taking the time to recharge and reflect on one’s own. Justine Picardie was a guest of Huvafen Fushi, which has B&B doubles from £1,090 in a Lagoon Bungalow with a pool ( huvafenfushi.com) . She paid for her own flights. Fly to Malé

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Best spa resorts for solo travellers

By Sarah Turner

1. Tor Spa Retreat, Kent

This friendly retreat never has more than 18 people booked in and many come on their own. Near Canterbury, it calls itself a day spa but there are six bedrooms, most overlooking a lily pad-filled lake, while breakfasts are delivered in hampers each morning. The food, vegetarian and Keralan style, is delicious. The treatments are Ayurvedic and guests can choose between, say, a four-handed Udwarthanam massage and taking a dip in the highly heated swimming pool, taking a yoga or mindfulness class or just relaxing. Details One night’s full board from £260pp, including consultation and one Ayurvedic treatment (three-night minimum stay) (torsparetreat.com)

2. Yasuragi, Sweden

The weak Swedish kronor makes nipping to this spa just outside Stockholm more affordable than it would have been a few years ago. To enjoy a blend of Japanese and Swedish spa cultures, you’re given a yukata robe to wear to waft between bathhouse, indoor swimming pool and hot outside pool, and there are meditation classes and sound baths. Dinner is included and if you sit at the communal teppanyaki table, since this is Sweden, everyone will switch to English so they can converse with you. The resort is big — 191 rooms, with about half of them decorated with Japanese furniture, including futons — which allows it to be good value considering the excellent facilities and hybrid Japandi sense of style. Details Half-board doubles from £173pp (yasuragi.se). Fly to Stockholm

Euphoria Retreat, Greece

This spa may be located near Sparta but its programmes are far from spartan, representing a relaxation-based quest for serenity. Solo guests can also choose between individual stays and group retreats. Facilities include four floors of treatment areas, with infrared sauna, yoga studio and outdoor swimming pool. There are just 45 rooms but its position on a hill near Mystras means you can get out and explore the countryside if you want a greater sense of being alone. Details Three nights’ B&B from £919pp, including transfers (healingholidays.com). Fly to Kalamata or Athens

Kamalaya, Thailand

Kamalaya, on the island of Koh Samui, offers programmes for everything from weight management to sleep therapy and detox. At the centre of its main restaurant, it also has a communal table where solo guests tend to gather in the evenings, dining on excellent fusion food and enjoying biodynamic wines. Programmes include lots of yoga alongside massages and sound baths. Regular retreats with visiting teachers are a great option for people travelling by themselves and the 76 rooms vary between expensive villas by the beach and the more budget-friendly garden varieties. Details Five nights’ B&B from £2,250pp, including flights (abercrombiekent.co.uk)

The Body Holiday, St Lucia

This spa in the Caribbean has been catering to single travellers — and couples — since 1988. Guests, who often return, come for a bedrock of yoga and meditation classes, but the ethos is on relaxation rather than prescription. The 154 rooms are luxurious and most have an ocean view. Alcohol is available and there are five restaurants, as well as a full range of watersports. Activities and treatments are all-inclusive and September has a special focus on those who want to travel alone, with no single supplements. Details Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £3,695pp including flights and transfers (inspiringtravel.co.uk)

For all of these packages solo guests have their own room

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16 most romantic getaways in maine.

Coastal towns and charming inns provide the perfect setting for a romantic getaway in Maine.

Most Romantic Getaways in Maine

Courtesy of Cliff House Maine

The Cliff House Maine in Cape Neddick exudes romance.

Maine is the perfect place for a romantic getaway, offering breathtaking views, lovely beaches , cozy resorts, charming bed-and-breakfasts , historic villages and inspiring landscapes for scenic hikes. Grab your sweetheart and experience the romantic opportunities Maine has to offer at these idyllic towns, hotels and restaurants.

Romantic Getaways in Maine

• Cliff House Maine
• Berry Manor Inn
• Glenmoor by the Sea

Kennebunkport

• Harraseeket Inn

Moosehead Lake

• Sebasco Harbor Resort

Old Port, Portland

• Dockside Guest Quarters
• Samoset Resort
• The Craignair Inn by the Sea

Boothbay Harbor

• Bear Mountain Inn + Barn

Cliff House Maine: Cape Neddick

When it comes to romantic getaways in Maine, the Cliff House is unmatched. The expansive 70-acre resort is perched atop Bald Head Cliff with sprawling ocean views, 226 rooms and suites, a luxury spa, a wellness center, and an oceanfront restaurant. If you love to unwind by the pool with your special someone, you're in luck. The Cliff House features two seasonal outdoor pools and two hot tubs, in addition to a year-round indoor swimming pool and hot tub. Guests can choose from rooms with private balconies, spacious suites or the Weare Cottage for larger groups (complete with a full kitchen and dining room). Be sure to take home a souvenir from the Spoondrift gift shop to remember your romantic escape.

Off-property activities include golfing, biking, hiking, river kayaking, fishing, lobstering trips, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and more.

Address: 591 Shore Road, Cape Neddick, ME 03902

Berry Manor Inn: Rockland

Courtesy of Jumping Rocks, Berry Manor Inn

When it comes to romantic getaways, the Berry Manor Inn is hard to beat. The lavishly decorated rooms at this Victorian bed-and-breakfast feature four-poster beds draped with satin, fringed window sconces, lace curtains, handcarved wooden headboards and floral wallpaper. While in your room, cozy up with your main squeeze by the in-room fireplace, relax with your favorite book in the comfortable reading chair or lounge around in the lush robe. Room rates include a full breakfast, evening sweets, access to a guest pantry (stocked with tea, coffee, pie and ice cream), turndown service, concierge service and parking. Recent visitors rave about the fresh-baked pie and ice cream.

Turn up the heat with the "Special Occasion" package that includes a romantic guest room, breakfast, a dozen long-stemmed roses, chocolates, sparkling cider and rose petals. The inn is situated in the historic district of Rockland, and travelers can check out the area's art galleries, diverse restaurants, seasonal festivals and iconic lighthouses while visiting.

Address: 81 Talbot Ave., Rockland, ME 04841

Glenmoor by the Sea: Lincolnville

This waterfront inn on Maine's midcoast is the picture-perfect setting for an enchanting vacation with the one you love. The unique selection of lodging options includes rooms at the motel, suites at the inn and cottages. Amenities at Glenmoor by the Sea include continental breakfast (delivered to your room – a favorite feature of recent guests), free Wi-Fi, parking, laundry, a fitness facility, access to the private rocky beach, tennis courts and a pool. Some of the adorable white cottages provide unobstructed views of Penobscot Bay and in-room fireplaces.

Couples can explore the surrounding areas and enjoy hiking at Camden Hills State Park, sit down for an authentic Maine lobster and seafood experience at McLaughlin's Lobster Shack (open from April to October), go shopping for snacks at Lincolnville General Store, buy locally made lavender products at Glendarragh Farm, cruise the water on a sailboat or schooner, or visit a local museum.

Address: 2143 Atlantic Highway, Lincolnville, ME 04849

Read: The Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

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The charming town of Camden is an idyllic destination for a romantic escape with its location on the beautiful Maine coastline. It's full of rich history with a historic district, a renovated opera house, an 1830s lighthouse and 19th-century architecture. The area also features several hiking trails with views of the harbor and the bay. During the winter, Camden is home to the only ski area on the East Coast with a view of the Atlantic Ocean – the Camden Snow Bowl. Take your loved one by the hand and stroll through downtown Camden, stopping in the various shops, restaurants and cafes. Couples can dine on fresh lobster during the warmer months at Peter Ott's on the Water, take a scenic cruise around the harbor aboard the Lively Lady or visit picturesque Curtis Island.

Where to stay: The luxurious Camden Harbour Inn offers deluxe suites, stunning views, upscale amenities and fine dining that will make this vacation one to remember.

Another boutique hotel, just steps from the water, is the Lord Camden Inn. Located downtown, this elegant inn offers suites with fireplaces and complimentary breakfast – plus it puts visitors within walking distance of shops, restaurants and the waterfront. According to recent visitors, the staff is very friendly and helpful, offering excellent recommendations of the area.

Kennebunkport is a coastal town in southern Maine with gorgeous beaches, a rustic stone church dating back to 1892, a quintessential Maine lighthouse and a lobster fishing village. You will feel the romance in the air as you explore local attractions including the alluring Lower Village, Dock Square, Ocean Avenue and Cape Porpoise. Couples can go whale watching, witness the blowing cave and spouting rock, visit the summer home of former President George H. W. Bush, or browse the unique shops.

Where to stay: Kennebunkport accommodations include the quaint and historic 1802 House Bed & Breakfast Inn. This Colonial inn offers a quiet retreat for twosomes to spend quality time together. With landscaped gardens, comfortable rooms with fireplaces and jetted tubs, and a three-course breakfast, this is the place to relax and unwind. Recent lodgers praised the welcoming staff and loved that the inn is a close walk to town.

Harraseeket Inn: Freeport

Sweethearts will love the 94-room, family-owned Harraseeket Inn located in the heart of Freeport Village. With an outdoor heated pool, in-room fireplaces, fitness center and two restaurants, the inn has all the amenities needed for a memorable weekend respite. You can even bring your fur baby with you and stay in one of the pet-friendly rooms with dog-friendly amenities. Both a daily breakfast buffet and traditional afternoon tea (many say this was a trip highlight) are included. Extras such as chocolate-dipped strawberries, Champagne or roses are available for an added fee. Couples can book standard rooms, deluxe rooms or townhouses.

Address: 162 Main St., Freeport, ME 04032

If you're looking for a place to rekindle the romance, Bar Harbor has just what you need. Located on Mount Desert Island, the town of Bar Harbor offers hiking trails with sweeping views of the town, the bay and nearby Cranberry Islands, as well as scenic beaches, a town pier and plenty of outdoor recreation activities. With its proximity to 47,000-acre Acadia National Park , sweethearts can enjoy each other's company while exploring the woodlands, rocky beaches and granite peaks. Sightings of moose, bears and whales are not uncommon. Start or end your day in Bar Harbor on a romantic note by taking in the sunrise or sunset from Cadillac Mountain.

Where to stay: Overnight accommodations range from hotels , motels and bed-and-breakfasts to glamping, campgrounds, cottages and vacation rentals. The adorable Emery's Cottages on the Shores offers oceanfront views with private beach access. What's more, previous visitors say the sunsets are amazing.

For an upscale, secluded retreat, book a stay at the Balance Rock Inn on the ocean. The beautifully restored inn is reminiscent of the Gilded Age, with luxury accommodations that include antique furnishings and brick fireplaces, opulent decor like stained-glass windows and coffered ceilings, and carefully crafted meals with indoor and outdoor dining options available, not to mention top-notch service.

Moosehead Lake is a perfect place for a romantic weekend with water views, dark skies and plenty of nature to explore. It is situated in northwestern Maine and is the second largest lake in New England. Whether you and your better half want to relax by the lake, work up a sweat on the hiking trails, take an exhilarating whitewater rafting rapids ride, get a bird's-eye view from a seaplane, or just slow down and enjoy the sights and sounds of the natural environment, Moosehead Lake has it all. Book a casual dinner for two with a view at the Stress Free Moose Pub, Leisure Life Resort & Trailside Restaurant or The Lakeshore House.

Where to stay: If you're looking to stay overnight, duos can sleep in a cabin, bed-and-breakfast, lodge, inn, cottage or RV resort. The lakefront cottages and vacation rentals at Wilsons on Moosehead Lake not only provide full bathrooms and an on-site hot tub, but they also offer guided tours, such as fishing, hunting and sunset cruise excursions. Fishing was a highlight for recent travelers who stayed there.

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Sebasco Harbor Resort: Phippsburg

Courtesy of Sebasco Harbor Resort

Escape and admire the natural beauty of Maine at the Sebasco Harbor Resort. For romantic endeavors, twosomes can go on a sunset cruise, try candlepin bowling, indulge in a lobster bake or sleep in a lighthouse with stunning views. Aside from the lighthouse, guests can opt to stay in the hotel-style Main Lodge, a luxury Harbor Village suite with ocean views or a rustic standalone cottage. Dining includes fresh seafood, casual pub fare and microbrews with a sea breeze at Ledges Pub & Patio (open seasonally).

Address: 29 Kenyon Road, Phippsburg, ME 04562

Although the Old Port district in Portland is a quaint historic neighborhood, it has a lot to offer couples wanting variety while on vacation. Walk hand in hand down cobblestone streets as you admire the historic brick buildings, pop into a gourmet food store for a seafood snack, shop for nautical-themed souvenirs, enjoy the lively nightlife or have a romantic dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Don't miss the brown-butter lobster rolls, fresh oysters or clam bake at Eventide Oyster Co. or the handmade Maine potato doughnuts in enticing flavors at The Holy Donut.

Where to stay: Check in to the award-winning historic boutique hotel The Press Hotel , which flawlessly blends the old with the new. What was once the home of the Portland Press Herald has been converted into modern accommodations with nods to the past (think: typewriters, newspaper print accents and more). Settle in with your sweetheart for a game of Scrabble, admire the art gallery that features local artists' work or stay in bed for snuggles with the cozy Cuddledown comforters. Recent guests appreciate the location, fun decor and friendly staff members, but they warn not to get a room on the same side as the fire station since the sirens can keep you up.

Dockside Guest Quarters: York

Couples who sneak away for a romantic escape at the Dockside Guest Quarters are in for a treat. The waterfront bed-and-breakfast has beautiful views of the York Harbor, a restaurant serving traditional Maine fare, friendly service and unpretentious amenities. The property has five buildings that offer a variety of accommodations, with amenities like private decks, cozy fireplaces, kitchenettes, living rooms, private entrances, water views, dining areas, and washers and dryers. Recent travelers loved this property, praising the porches and views.

Enhance your stay with add-ons such as artisanal chocolates, a dozen roses or bath products to take home. For some on-site fun, duos can take advantage of an array of lawn games, a marina with tours just for inn guests, bikes to borrow or boats to rent. Other activities in the area include historical sites, beautiful beaches and interesting museums.

Address: 22 Harris Island Road, York, ME 03909

Samoset Resort: Rockport

Courtesy of Samoset Resort

Lovebirds visiting the Samoset Resort will be treated to thoughtfully designed guest rooms and suites with private balconies and terraces that offer stunning views of Penobscot Bay. At the resort, guests say visitors can expect warm, intuitive service and elegant accommodations. Couples in particular can enjoy oceanfront dining, book a pampering treatment in the spa, play a round of golf together on the 18-hole championship golf course and relax in the zero-entry pool.

When it comes to accommodations, book a nautically inspired oceanfront guest room with a king-sized bed or two queen-sized beds, or a more spacious one-bedroom suite that comes with a private balcony with a hot tub (a favorite feature of recent lodgers), ocean views and spacious sitting area. For a longer stay with even more amenities, one- or two-bedroom condos are available with kitchens, dining areas, private balconies and jetted tubs.

Share laughs and friendly competition with your special someone over a game of disc golf, tennis, shuffleboard, pickleball, badminton, croquet or horseshoes. Or, celebrate a special occasion over an award-winning meal made with seasonal ingredients while taking in the beautiful surroundings. During the winter months, couples should have a cocktail at the Instagram-worthy outdoor Glacier Ice Bar where everything is made of ice – including the bar, barstools, chairs and drink glasses.

Address: 220 Warrenton St., Rockport, ME 04856

For a dreamy coastal Maine getaway, Ogunquit offers world-class dining and resort experiences with sandy beaches, dramatic rocky cliffs and a charming harborside town. Ogunquit means "beautiful place by the sea" in the Indigenous Abenaki language, and its name holds true to its translation. Smell the fresh, salty air as you put your arm around your partner during a coastal cliff walk or wander around the quaint shops, restaurants and galleries of the maritime town. You can also enjoy a romantic dinner at M.C. Perkins Cove in a dimly lit dining room with seaside views.

Explore the town by diving into the history of the area at the Ogunquit Heritage Museum, seeing a live performance at the S. Judson Dunaway Center or taking home a one-of-a-kind piece of art from the Abacus Gallery. Extend your stay with a night at The Beachmere Inn or the Meadowmere Resort, both of which offer the opportunity to cozy up, relax and enjoy some much-needed time alone with the one you love.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Maine

The Craignair Inn by the Sea: Spruce Head

Courtesy of The Craignair Inn by the Sea

The Craignair Inn by the Sea is surrounded by landscape that is stunning during all four seasons. To escape your hectic day-to-day obligations, plan a trip to this quiet escape and take advantage of the hospitality, cozy accommodations, authentic midcoast Maine cuisine and romantic setting at this historic bed-and-breakfast. Visitors highly recommend the food and loved the water views.

Stays include a gourmet breakfast and free Wi-Fi, plus access to a boutique art gallery and a fire pit surrounded by Adirondack chairs. Couples can enjoy spending some downtime reading a book from the library, playing the piano or guitar, sipping cocktails by the fire, trying their skill at a puzzle, or gazing out at the Atlantic Ocean. Guests can feel good about their stay since the innkeepers prioritize sustainable travel through electric vehicle charging stations, 100% organic linens, refillable soap and shampoo containers, and solar panels.

Address: 5 Third St., Spruce Head, ME 04859

As with many coastal Maine regions, Boothbay Harbor is a prime location for kayaking, sailing and yachting; it's also home to quaint shops, seafood eateries and historical museums. Rekindle the flame at one of the many inns, hotels, vacation rentals or even campgrounds. Available as a weekly rental in the summer or for shorter time periods other parts of the year, Seanook Cottage features a private dock and four decks in East Boothbay.

Dining in the area ranges from convenience stores and ice cream shops to fine dining and lobster bakes. The Tinnery restaurant, which sits on the site of Boothbay Harbor's old canning district, elevates casual "tinned" food (like sardines) using fresh local ingredients. You'll also find cheese and chocolate fondues on the menu. For romantic escapades in the area, there's no shortage of things to do on the land or water.

Explore the area by bike or boat, walk along the Boothbay Harbor Sculpture Trail, take a ferry to see puffins and seals, follow the historic walking tour throughout Boothbay Harbor, or ride an authentic steam locomotive. If you're visiting during the winter, grab a ticket to see the beautiful Christmas lights display at the nearby Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

Bear Mountain Inn + Barn: Waterford

Molly Breton | Courtesy of Bear Mountain Inn + Barn

The Bear Mountain Inn + Barn is set in a stunning wooded landscape at the base of Maine's White Mountains with easy access to a nearby lake. The 25-acre property dates back to 1850 and provides a modern farmhouse retreat that is perfect for a romantic interlude. A variety of rooms are available at the inn; amenities include water views, oversized fireplaces and jetted tubs. For a more private getaway, the Sugar Maple Cottage is a freestanding building with lake views, a clawfoot tub, a kitchen, a wood-burning fireplace, a private patio, a fire pit and a porch.

A signature three-course breakfast is included with the room rates, and the property offers a host of activity options and amenities, such as a beach with a floating dock, hammocks and rocking chairs, daily snacks, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and even a private massage cottage. Recent visitors gushed about this property, with some describing it as an experience straight out of a fairytale.

Address: 364 Waterford Road, Waterford, ME 04088

You might also be interested in:

• The Most Romantic Getaways in Vermont
• The Most Romantic Getaways in New Hampshire
• The Best Weekend Getaways in New England

22 Romantic Hotels Worth a Stay

Tags: Travel , New England Vacations , Couples Vacations

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• # 4 Bora Bora

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‘Dying for Sex’ Series at FX Casts Jay Duplass, Kelvin Yu (EXCLUSIVE)

By Joe Otterson

Joe Otterson

TV Reporter

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Jay Duplass and Kelvin Yu are the latest additions to the cast of FX ‘s limited series adaptation of “Dying for Sex,” Variety has learned exclusively.

The series is based on the podcast of the same name. Duplass and Yu join previously announced series lead Michelle Williams and cast members Jenny Slate, Rob Delaney, David Rasche, and Esco Jouléy.

The official description of the series states “Molly (Williams), a woman diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, leaves her husband of 15 years and begins to explore her sexuality. She gets the courage and support to go on this adventure from her best friend (Slate), who stays by her side all the way to the very end.”

Popular on Variety

As an actor, Duplass is known for his roles in shows like “Transparent,” “The Mindy Project,” “Industry,” “The Chair,” and “Percy Jackson and the Olympians.” Behind the camera, he and his brother, Mark, co-created the HBO series “Togetherness” alongside Steve Zissis. The brothers also co-created HBO’s “Room 104” and co-wrote and directed feature films like “Baghead” and “Jeff, Who Lives at Home” among several other collaborations.

He is repped by CAA and Odenkirk Provissiero Entertainment.

Yu is a seven-time Emmy nominee for his work on the writing team of “Bob’s Burgers,” winning the award in 2017 for best animated program. He also recently created the Disney+ series “American Born Chinese.” He has appeared on shows such as “The Afterparty” and “Master of None” as well as films like “Wonder Woman 1984” and “Milk.”

He is repped by Writ Large, WME, and Yorn Levine.

Liz Meriwether and Kim Rosenstock are writers, executive producers, and showrunners on “Dying for Sex.” Williams will produce in addition to starring. Katherine Pope, Nikki Boyer, and Leslye Headland will also executive produce along with Jen Sargent, Marshall Lewy, Aaron Hart and Hernan Lopez of Wondery Inc. 20th Television is the studio.

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