30 January 2024 , 14:09
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Whether you're looking for a Valentine's Day getaway or want to plan a romantic staycation with your partner, the UK is full of romantic destinations that need to be on your radar.
For those in search of countryside retreats there are some classic hotspots such as Lake District and the Cotswolds which are jam-packed with charming villages and pretty views, while if it's a weekend on the coast you're after then the Caribbean-worthy beaches to be found in the Isles of Scilly or Cornwall need to be on your radar.
Check out our top pick of the UK's most romantic destinations below - and where to find deals for some memorable UK holidays!
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1. The Cotswolds, England
The Street, Castle Combe, Wiltshire (Getty Images/age fotostock RM)The Cotswolds have long been a firm favourite with couples thanks to the picture-perfect countryside, quintessentially British pubs, gorgeous walks and villages with their cobbled streets and landscape gardens. If you're short on time, then you may want to head straight to Bourton-on-the-water, which has been tipped as the UK's most romantic village thanks to its boutiques, restaurants and bars, and riverside views.
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Alternatively Britain's most beautiful village, Castle Combe, may well be of interest, although one reporter warned that you may not want to plan an entire holiday there. Still, the Cotswolds boast plenty more gorgeous spots and there are so many beautiful cottages you can hire - Cotswolds Hideaways has heaps of tempting options.
2. Edinburgh, Scotland
General view of Edinburgh in Scotland, looking towards Edinburgh Castle and the Balmoral Clock (PA)The Scottish capital has long drawn in honeymooners from around the world thanks to its beautiful surroundings, local cuisine and eye-catching landmarks. The more active can enjoy a hike up to Arthur's Seat for unrivalled views of the city, while Edinburgh Castle offers the perfect location for whiling away an afternoon.
Then of course there's the impressive foodie scene, from restaurants serving up traditional Scottish dishes (think haggis!) as well as modern gourmet dining options. For those looking for a stay that's a little extra special, Tripadvisor has a guide to some of the city's most romantic boutique hotels that may prove handy!
3. York, England
The West Front of York Minster (Universal Images Group Editorial)If your other half is a big fan of all things history and architecture, then York could be the ideal city break. Packed with beautiful buildings and landmarks such as the York Minster cathedral, you can take plenty of guided tours of the city to see the highlights - or for something a bit different, why not try one of the quirky Ghost Walks? In the evening you'll have plenty of choice for date night from the bustling bars and clubs to cosy restaurants. Not to mention there are some beautiful boutique hotels throughout the city - including budget-friendly options too!
4. London, England
A view of the London Eye (Getty)London doesn't exactly have a reputation for being budget-friendly, but it does deliver if you're the kind of couple who love a busy itinerary. You can actually see all of the major sights such as Buckingham Palace and the London Eye for free by following this handy map, although it's worth noting you'll need to buy tickets if you want to go inside.
If you've got your eyes on a West End show for date night, there are plenty of ways to find cheap tickets with the likes of LoveTheatre and TodayTix (the latter is for those leaving it last-minute!). For cheap accommodation, Expedia has a handy guide to some of the best cheap hotels in London, while there are also plenty of budget-friendly options such as Travelodge and Premier Inn too.
5. St Ives, England
St Ives, Cornwall, England (Getty)There's nothing like the fresh sea air to leave you feeling like you're truly escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life. Cornwall is famous for its incredible seaside towns and resorts, but there's something extra magical about St Ives with its cosy B&Bs, independent restaurants and gorgeous views from harbours to beaches.
Holiday Cottages has a great selection of self-catered homes and hideaways across the town, or if you're after hotels then Lastminute.com can be a good source for deals. A word of warning; it gets incredibly busy during the peak holidays so if you are wanting to plan a trip, try and opt for dates outside of the school holidays or in late spring/early autumn to avoid the crowds.
6. Bath, England
Bath's Roman Baths (PA)Bath holds the title of Europe's most underrated city break, and it has everything you could want for a romantic getaway. The gorgeous spa town features winding streets lined with majestic Georgian architecture, not to mention it's home to the world-famous Roman thermal baths that draw in tourists from all over the world. Then of course that means there are plenty of brilliant spa hotels in the area too whether you're after luxury or just want to leave an afternoon on the itinerary for a spot of pampering.
7. Peak District, England
Peak District National Park (iStockphoto)With its spectacular sweeping landscapes, the Peak District provides an idyllic setting for any getaway - let alone for a romantic one. While away an afternoon taking a stroll through the rolling green hills, challenge yourselves on a longer hike... or if it's raining, why not snuggle up in a cosy cottage, or indulge at one of the luxury hotels where you can find some pretty decent prices outside of the peak seasons.
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8. Isle of Skye, Scotland
Portree harbour on the Isle of SkyeThe Isle of Skye is often crowned one of the UK's most beautiful destinations thanks to its rugged hiking trails, pretty harbours and tranquil countryside. Portree tends to be particularly popular with its colourful pastel buildings, not to mention the breathtaking scenery with dense green trails to be explored.
It's an idyllic retreat for couples who love the great outdoors thanks to the vast amount of hiking and walking trails on offer - highlights include the ethereal Fairy Pools, as well as the Old Man of Storr. Just make sure to pack plenty of layers as the weather can be quite volatile!
9. Llanddwyn Island, Wales
Known as final resting place of St. Dwynwen; the Welsh patron saint of lovers, it's no wonder that plenty of couples journey here for a romantic break. (She's basically the equivalent of St Valentine). Not quite an island, Llanddwyn sits on the mainland of Anglesey, right on the water's edge. Expect rolling dunes, eye-catching rocks and plenty of historic sites; it's a brilliant picnic spot too if the weather holds out. The mainland offers a wealth of romantic accommodation too, from chateaus to snug cottages.
10. Stratford-upon-Avon, England
William Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-Upon-Avon (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Shakespeare wrote some of the world's greatest love stories, and it's not difficult to see where he got some of his inspiration when you take a stroll through the picturesque streets of this medieval market town in Warwickshire. Visit the Bard's birthplace or wife Anne Hathaway's cottage, or check out one of the many museums and farms on offer.
11. Grasmere, Lake District, England
If you're both fans of the great outdoors and love being surrounded by the best of the British countryside, then you may want to head to Grasmere, a picturesque village in the centre of the Lake District. While away a few hours walking through the rolling green hills, stop off in the cosy pubs for some proper British grub, or snuggle up in front of the fireplace at the end of the night and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Whether you're after a cheap and cheerful break or looking for a luxury hotel to mark an anniversary in style, Booking.com offers up 30 brilliant hotels nearby to suit every budget.
12. Durdle Door, Dorset
Durdle Door (Getty Images/iStockphoto)One of Dorset's most famous landmarks, Durdle Door makes for the ultimate backdrop for any romantic moment whether for a proposal or just a beautiful backdrop to a romantic break. In fact, it's even been named one of the world's 100 most beautiful beaches for 2024 by Lonely Planet. The iconic stretch of sand lies about 25 miles away from Bournemouth and is known for being home to one of the most famous stone arches in the world.
Then of course there's plenty more of the Jurassic Coast to explore for scenic strolls or lazy beach days. Expedia offers up some cosy and luxury hotels near Durdle Door that won't break the bank.
13. Tresco, Isles of Scilly
The second-biggest island of the Isles of Scilly in Cornwall is a picture-perfect, postcard-worthy spot. Think turquoise waters, lush greenery, white sand beaches, unspoilt landscape... the list goes on and on. They're said to be some of the best islands in the world and they're even a hit with the royals! It's basically the ideal spot if you've always dreamed of a holiday somewhere like the Maldives or Seychelles, but have a budget to stick to. Check out this round-up of Tresco's best hotels for a dose of inspiration.
14. Portmeirion, Gwynedd, Wales
Tipped as one of the 20 incredible places in Britain, you'd be forgiven for thinking this spot was on Italy's Amalfi Coast - but it's in Wales! This breathtaking village boasts a burst of colour thanks to the floral gardens, not to mention its beautiful fountains and pretty buildings with intricate architecture. There are 14 cottages and two hotels for those visiting but Hotel Portmeirion can make for a romantic home away from home.
15. Cambridge and the River Cam
Cambridge has everything you could want for a romantic break of a lifetime. For a start the whole city is steeped in history thanks to its breathtaking colleges, while the River Cam is ideal for an afternoon of punting to take in the views. And because it's a student hub, Cambridge is also home to plenty of great bars, restaurants and shops for a city break that's unlike any other. For something extra special, check out the best luxury hotels in Cambridge on TripAdvisor.
16. Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland
A must-visit for any Game of Thrones fans, the Giant's Causeway is a pretty epic sight - no wonder it was named one of the best UK experiences for any day out. Surrounded by myths and legends, this UNESCO-listed site offers up plenty of iconic spots and breathtaking views - and it makes for a pretty incredible backdrop for those once-in-a-lifetime romantic moments