Romantic Breaks UK
The Ultimate Guide
I don't conform to traditional romantic ideals, so my criteria for planning a 'romantic trip' don't involve grand gestures or overt declarations of love. What matters most to me during any getaway is the opportunity to deeply connect with my companion. I'm drawn to places that facilitate this connection effortlessly. Offer late checkouts as a standard feature? Count me in. Provide digital room service to avoid phone calls to reception? Consider me sold. If you're expecting rose petals on the bed and heart-shaped chocolates, you won't find them in my ideal romantic retreat. However, if you're interested in discovering my perspective on the most romantic getaways in the UK, perfect for Valentine's, a date night, or a snug weekend away, keep reading
Romantic Breaks in the UK under £170
1. The Rose, Deal
In the quaint coastal town of Deal in Kent, you'll find an array of independent shops, a pebble-strewn beach, and even a castle. For an exceptional overnight stay, The Rose is the ultimate choice, located just 2 minutes from the beach and boasting remarkable interiors. Recognized by The Telegraph as one of Britain’s most romantic hotels, and with Room Four earning a spot in The Times’ list of the 30 most romantic hotel rooms in the UK, The Rose is a standout choice.
With a history spanning over 200 years, this establishment is owned by Chris Hicks and his wife, Alex Bagner. Since their acquisition in 2016, The Rose has undergone an impressive transformation. It now features 9 bedrooms with interiors reminiscent of Wes Anderson's style, and it houses a restaurant. Attention to detail is a hallmark of The Rose; guests can anticipate exquisite toiletries from the Norfolk-based brand Austin Austin, bedrooms equipped with record players, and the delightful addition of whisky nightcaps complementing the tea and coffee stations.
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If it's not something I'd choose for myself, I won't suggest it to you.
Photo's Courtesy of The Rose, Deal
2. The Bear Inn, Hodnet
The recently established The Bear Inn, having debuted last summer, underwent a splendid transformation from a former 16th-century coaching inn. Boasting 12 uniquely crafted rooms, characterized by floral headboards, vibrant interiors, and original artwork, it stands out as a distinctive destination.
The highlight is the Rowan Suite, spanning two floors and featuring a captivating roll-top bathtub. The pub downstairs offers a cozy setting for an intimate meal for two, with a menu dedicated to British cuisine and the added charm of locally sourced Shropshire beer on tap
Photo's Courtesy of The Bear Inn, Hodnet
3. The Pilgrm, London
While planning a romantic getaway in the UK, London may not be the immediate choice that comes to mind. However, having lived there for four years, I have a perpetual fondness for the city. Its constant evolution and the distinct character of each neighborhood create an atmosphere where every venture out of the tube feels like stepping into a different world.
When considering a trip to London, the usual images might involve either budgeting for an expensive hotel stay or compromising on design and comfort to save money. The introduction of The Pilgrm in 2017 disrupted this norm. The hotel boasts beautiful design, featuring numerous snug corners, artwork, and plants, complemented by an outdoor terrace for delightful al fresco drinks. Situated just across from Paddington station, it offers a perfect base for a leisurely walk down to Little Venice, undeniably one of London's most romantic neighborhoods.
Photo's Courtesy of The Pilgrm, London
4. The Artist Residence, Oxfordshire
The Artist Residence hotels rank high on my list for a romantic getaway in the UK. Renowned for their excellent cuisine, strategic locations, and each establishment showcasing remarkable art and outstanding design, they consistently deliver a memorable experience. The Oxfordshire branch, distinct from the city settings, stands just beyond The Cotswolds. Nestled in a rustic village pub, it exudes a fairytale ambiance, making it an ideal retreat for a romantic escape. As a classic pub with rooms, guests can enjoy board games by the fireplace before retiring to one of the eight bedrooms above. For those seeking a unique experience, there's even a shepherd's hut nestled at the garden's edge.
Photo's Courtesy of The Artist Residence, Oxfordshire
Luxury Romantic breaks in the Uk
5. Wilderness Reserve, Suffolk
Nestled within a tranquil Suffolk estate spanning 8,000 acres, Wilderness Reserve offers an unparalleled romantic retreat in the UK. Comprising a collection of holiday cottages and luxurious farmhouses, it promises a staycation experience beyond the ordinary.
During our stay at The Tabernacle, it became evident that this was among the most extraordinary accommodations I've experienced in the UK. This one-bedroom cottage boasts a freestanding bathtub, provided Pashley bikes for exploring the extensive grounds, and an outdoor pizza oven. The highlight? The Tabernacle comes with its private lake, featuring a sunken hot tub at its center. There's nothing more romantic than leisurely paddling around your personal moat in a rowing boat. Wilderness Reserve offers a complete escape from the routine of everyday life; play your music loud because there's no one around to hear it. The decor aligns perfectly with my taste, showcasing vibrant colors and contrasting prints that complement the local 'Suffolk pink.' Anthropologie details add the finishing touch with lively rugs, blankets, and cushions.
The range of activities and experiences available is extensive, spanning from archery and axe throwing to spoon carving and yoga. For those seeking the epitome of romantic seclusion, Hex Cottage is the ideal choice. This thatched cottage, devoid of electricity for a perfect digital detox, feels like a setting straight out of a Disney fairytale.
Photo's Courtesy of Wilderness Reserve, Suffolk
6. Thyme, The Cotswolds
Thyme is a rural estate featuring a country-house hotel with 31 bedrooms, a cookery school, spa, restaurant, bar, and pub. Being family-run, the establishment exudes a genuine outpouring of love reflected in every detail. Guests have access to on-site amenities like a tennis court, numerous country walking trails, and complimentary bicycles. However, opting to stay within the hotel's grounds promises a delightful experience. There's an unparalleled romantic charm in waking up in a four-poster bed amidst the picturesque Cotswolds countryside.
Photo's Courtesy of Thyme, Cotswolds
7. Babington House, Somerset
Babington House, affiliated with the Soho House group, is a Grade-II listed members club and hotel situated in 18 acres of Somerset countryside. The expansive grounds include two swimming pools, a lake, cricket pitch, tennis courts, and a walled garden. The library, complete with an open fire, provides a cozy retreat. Additionally, exploring the charming towns of Frome and Bruton, located nearby, offers a delightful experience in some of England's most beautiful locales.
Photo's Courtesy of Babington House, Somerset
8. The Fish, Cotswolds
The Cotswolds, renowned as one of the most romantic destinations in the UK, is home to some of the country's finest hotels. Situated on The Farncombe Estate, The Fish shares the grounds with fellow hotels Dormy House and Foxhill Manor. Accommodation options include rooms, huts, and treehouses scattered across the estate. For special occasions, consider reserving Boaty McBoatface (yes, that's its name). This exclusive option features a luxurious roll-top bath, a hot tub, and a private lake with a paddle boat, offering a secluded and indulgent retreat. Even if you decide to venture out, the nearby village of Broadway is renowned for its picturesque charm.
Photo's Courtesy of The Fish, Cotswolds
Romantic Spa breaks in the Uk
9. Another Place, The Lake District
The Lake District stands out as one of the most romantic destinations in the UK, and Another Place is an ideal choice for an overnight stay. As the sister hotel to Watergate Bay in Cornwall, Another Place is nestled on the shores of Ullswater within 18 acres of the national park. What sets this hotel apart is the plethora of activities available, ranging from open-water swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking to cycling, skiing, and sailing. The option to explore the Lakes on foot is also there.
The hotel features a 20-metre indoor swimming pool that offers stunning views of the private lake. With a kitchen garden supplying fresh produce daily to the restaurant, guests can enjoy a culinary experience. There are 40 rooms to choose from, some with scenic views of the lake. Additionally, shepherd's huts and treehouses will be added to the accommodation options this summer.
Photo's Courtesy of Another Place, The Lake District
10. Finn Lough, Northern Ireland
Setting the standard for romantic hotels in Northern Ireland, Finn Lough is a spa hotel that promises an unforgettable stay. With a deep connection to nature, the hotel truly shines in its Elements spa trail. This self-guided journey leads you through a series of cabins in the forest, including two saunas, a float room, a hot tub, a relaxation room, and for the adventurous, a chance for a dip in the lake.
While any of the rooms would offer a delightful experience, opting for a forest dome elevates your romantic break to unparalleled heights. These transparent bubbles provide a fully immersive experience—gaze at the stars from the comfort of your bed and wake up to the sun casting its glow over the picturesque Northern Irish countryside. For a special occasion, the premium bubble dome even boasts its own freestanding bathtub.
Photo's Courtesy of Finn Lough, Northern Ireland
11. Dormy House, Cotswolds
The adjacent hotel to The Fish, Dormy House comprises 38 bedrooms, a spa, two fitness centers, and a 16-meter swimming pool. The House Spa occupies multiple floors and features amenities like a sauna, a salt-infusion therapy room, a flotation tank, and an outdoor hot tub. With six treatment rooms, including one designed for two called the 'Couple's Closet,' the spa provides a range of options. Additionally, there are three restaurants to cater to various tastes, ranging from The Back Garden's local menu to MO's chef's table experience. For a post-dinner treat, head to The Shed, equipped with a wine dispenser—simply top up a card and enjoy your selection.
Photo's Courtesy of Dormy House, Cotswolds
Romantic breaks with a hot tub in the Uk
12. Kip and Nook
Identifying itself as the "ultimate Yorkshire hideaway," Kip and Nook consists of three shipping containers, each accommodating two guests, and a converted barn with a capacity for eight. For a romantic getaway, opt for the 'OG' accommodation, featuring a hot tub, wood-burning fireplace, and a skylight above the bed, providing an ideal setting for stargazing. If hunger strikes, the team offers exceptional sourdough pizzas delivered right to your door, ensuring you don't have to budge an inch.
Photo's Courtesy of Kip and Nook
13. Elmley Nature Reserve
Few places allow you to truly unwind, detach from the world, and escape everyday stresses, but Elmley Nature Reserve is one of those rare gems. Situated on the Isle of Sheppey, just a little over 40 miles from central London, the reserve gives you the sensation of being on an entirely different planet, making it an ideal destination for a romantic retreat in the UK.
During our stay, we chose The Damson, a charming shepherd's hut with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows at one end, providing breathtaking views of the reserve while remaining completely secluded from other guests. What sets Elmley apart is the privacy each hut offers, with separate entrances allowing you to roam freely, safe in the knowledge that you won't encounter any unwanted visitors, except perhaps a few ducks. The highlight of our hut was undoubtedly the outdoor bath, where we spent hours sipping wine, making friends with the local wildlife, and witnessing the mesmerizing sunset.
Photo's Courtesy of Elmley Nature Reserve
14. Glen Dye, Scotland
Glen Dye, located 25 miles from Aberdeen, is Scotland's best-kept secret, situated on a private estate spanning over 15,000 acres. The estate features a collection of cabins, cottages, and a 1955 Airstream, complete with a wood-fired hot tub. If you have a passion for the outdoors, it provides the ideal setting for a weekend getaway, surrounded by expansive forests and moorlands waiting to be explored. It's the perfect destination for a romantic break in the UK.
Established in 2018 after 20 years of meticulous restoration by Caroline and Charlie Gladstone, who traded their London jobs for a rural lifestyle, Glen Dye has garnered recognition, with The Times acknowledging it as one of the top cottages in the UK. The unique charm of this place is something that must be experienced to be truly understood.
Photo's Courtesy of Glen Dye, Scotland
Romantic breaks in the Uk by the Seaside
15. Scarlet, Cornwall
"Exclusively for adults." This phrase brings me instant joy. As someone without children, there's nothing less enjoyable for me than hearing the screams of other people's children when I'm trying to relax. The Scarlet hotel in Cornwall is an eco-friendly, adults-only establishment perched on the dramatic cliffs of Newquay. The hotel boasts an incredible eco-spa featuring a natural reed pool and clifftop wooden saunas with stunning views of the beach. If you need further evidence that this destination is an ideal romantic getaway, it has even served as the backdrop for several proposals among my friends over the years.
Photo's Courtesy of Scarlet, Cornwall
16. Port Hotel, Eastbourne
A beach trip is synonymous with British summertime, and in recent years, the coastal town of Eastbourne has witnessed the emergence of vibrant restaurants, bars, and, more recently, the establishment of Port. Situated on the Royal Parade, this boutique, dog-friendly hotel offers breathtaking views of the sea, featuring 19 bedrooms, a restaurant, and a bar adorned with pastel interiors. Six of the bedrooms provide a direct view of the beach, making it well worth the extra cost for a wake-up call with the soothing sound of the waves. For an especially indulgent stay, consider booking one of the four rooms equipped with freestanding bathtubs.
On the ground floor, the restaurant and outdoor dining area present a seasonal menu sourced locally from Sussex. Midweek, the menu showcases small plates ranging from charcuterie boards to spiced lentil dip. The brunch menu is extensive, featuring classics such as avocado toast and a full English, alongside more unique offerings like duck royale and waffle stacks.
Photo's Courtesy of Port Hotel, Eastbourne
17. Gara Rock, Devon
Gara Rock is the epitome of a comprehensive hotel experience. With its ocean views, two pools, cinema, spa, and generously sized rooms, some larger than apartments in London (which isn't hard, but still a notable advantage), it truly has it all. Positioned directly on the South West Coast Path, it's an ideal location for those who appreciate picnic dates while watching the sunset. The hotel is perched above Gara Rock beach, a sandy cove just a 10-minute walk away.
Should hunger strike, the Ox Grill on the terrace serves fresh produce from both land and sea during lunchtime, while the restaurant provides a more formal dining experience in the evening. For a touch of luxury, consider the 'waffle and caviar' for two—a delightful combination of buttermilk waffle, Exmoor caviar, crème fraîche, and herbs. If you're in a hurry, the Garavan offers a variety of snacks, bites, and drinks on the weekends for a quick and convenient option.
Photo's Courtesy of Gara Rock, Devon
How about trying something totally new and exciting?
Unplugged, Various locations
Where could be more perfect for enjoying uninterrupted, high-quality time together than a place where your phone is stowed away in a box? Unplugged offers a 3-night digital detox, specially crafted to help you unwind, disconnect, and rekindle your connections.
Pick your cabin (all locations are within an hour of London), secure your phone, and spend the next few days indulging in relaxation. Our time was filled with activities like cooking, playing board games, tackling a 1000-piece puzzle, reading, and strolling. Time seemed to stretch luxuriously, but in a "look at all we can accomplish without screen distractions" way. We emerged feeling genuinely close and committed to incorporating more screen-free moments into our daily lives. To me, this was the epitome of a romantic getaway—where you're compelled to share time together and rediscover the joy of each other's company.
Photo's Courtesy of Unplugged, Various locations
So, that's my take on the most romantic breaks in the UK!
Did I miss any gems?
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