Despite its modest size, there are limitless possibilities for romantic getaways in the UK.
Cities that date back to Roman times await you alongside mediaeval castles that have withstood their share of turmoil (as have the strongest relationships, you might say!).
Prefer to reconnect among ancient woodlands, pretty valleys, coastal villages, and beautiful islands? The British countryside has plenty of those too.
Whether you are looking for something nearby like a romantic staycation or you want to get away somewhere that feels completely different from home, you can find that without your passport and often with a simple train ticket or road trip.
Get inspired with these 13 weekend breaks in the UK for couples.
Where to go in the UK for a romantic weekend?
Seriously, there are so many places in the UK that are perfect for romantic weekend getaways. There are destinations to suit urbanites, country lovers, concert-goers, and foodies.
For cheap UK getaways, just look at places within an hour or so from home to keep costs low. This is a great way to uncover a local gem that’s escaped the attention of international travellers.
No car? The UK is pretty well-served by train, coach, and bus – but do keep an eye out for strike action and weather warnings that might disrupt your travel plans.
In addition to the four capitals, culture-minded and nightlife-loving couples can peruse other large cities. Northern cities such as Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, and Newcastle are packed with up-and-coming restaurants and live music venues. These cities are great for finding romantic UK getaways on the cheap. Birmingham and Bristol are also cool spots for the arts and culture further south.
Southern cities such as Oxford, Bath, Cambridge, Canterbury, and Exeter yield historical sights aplenty. These places tend to be pricier but there are always bargains to keep costs low.
For the purpose of this article, we’ll focus on countryside destinations, small towns, villages, and islands.
Best time to plan romantic getaways in the UK
The best time to plan a romantic weekend will depend on the destination you have in mind. British cities may be enjoyed at any time of year although shoulder seasons of spring and autumn/fall are better for weather and getting outdoors.
Summers in the UK are surprisingly hot, especially further south. The beautiful towns of Cornwall and Devon will trick you into thinking you’re in the Mediterranean. However, these popular counties fill up with families and tend to be best visited outside of July and August.
The best time for finding cheap UK getaways is the low season months of January and February. However, hotels will likely spike their rates over Valentine’s Day – Brits are surprisingly overzealous around this holiday.
May tends to be the cheapest month in spring before rising temperatures in June draw Brits out of hibernation. Early July is worth considering for some summer romancing but mind that tourist spots swell the second the schools close later in the month.
Late November and December is a nice time to visit cities and towns in the UK. This coincides with Christmas markets, festive light installations, and ice skating. A bounty of reasons to sip mulled wine by the fire and hold hands!
Most romantic getaways in the UK
This guide pulls together a mix of cities, villages, national parks, and islands.
Whether you are looking to splash out on a top-end stay at a boutique hotel or spend quality time together in the great outdoors, this list of romantic UK breaks has something for everyone.
Hiking in the Lake District or simply hopping on a boat to take in the sights is one of the most romantic getaways in the UK for nature-loving couples.
1. Lake District – best romantic getaway in England for outdoorsy couples
The Lake District National Park is one of the classic weekend breaks in the UK for couples who crave the great outdoors.
Located in the northwest county of Cumbria, the region comprises lakes, villages, and fell mountains.
There are hundreds of hiking trails on offer ranging from easy to challenging. However, you can visit the towns of the Lake District as a romantic getaway without getting muddy. Row yourselves across the crystal-clear lakes and toast your boasting skills in traditional British pubs and tea rooms.
As the quintessential Lake District town with exceptional hotels, restaurants, and activities, Windermere is always a good starting point for visiting the area. But be mindful that it does get busy and is popular with families over summer and school holidays although there are several adult-only hotels in town.
Further north, Keswick is located on the northeastern corner of the picturesque lake, Derwentwater. The market town is brimming with museums and cute places to eat. Meanwhile, the Castlerigg Stone Circle, Lodore Falls, and the Catbells are right on your doorstep when you want to stretch your legs without overexertion.
Although it sits just beyond the park boundary, Kendal is considered the gateway to the Lakes and is an appealing base for couples.
Where to stay in the Lake District
Three minutes from Windermere Station, the adults-only Applegarth Villa Hotel & Restaurant occupies a splendid Victorian mansion. This 5-star property is one of the best romantic getaways in the UK with a hot tub – several suites feature spa tubs. Supplement your stay with a negroni at the Apple Bar or a classic afternoon tea. Book a stay at Applegarth Villa Hotel & Restaurant here.
Evoking the spirit of a country estate, the Mary Mount Hotel sits on the southeast shores of Derwentwater and looks toward the Catbells. The hotel provides a packed lunch to take with you as you row a boat across the lake. This dog-friendly hotel is perfect for romantic weekend getaways in the UK with Fido in tow. Book a stay at the Mary Mount Hotel here.
See the location on Google here.
How can you not fall in love all over again when you sit together taking in these views of the Isle of Skye?
2. Isle of Skye – best romantic getaway for stunning Scottish scenery
The Isle of Skye is the largest of the rugged Inner Hebrides archipelago in the Western Isles of Scotland. As it’s connected to the Scottish mainland, it’s actually one of the easiest Scottish isles for couple getaways in the UK.
The natural wonders of Skye will bond you and your significant other for a lifetime. Do plan a hike to see the Old Man of Storr: a series of craggy rocks that loom over the moorlands.
Elsewhere, the ethereal blues and greens of the Fairy Pools will lead you to believe that magic really does exist. Remember to pack your swimsuits if you fancy taking a dip; wild swimming in the Isle of Skye is a wonderful experience.
Last but not least, Mealt Falls (Kilt Rock) will wow you as the waters crash down the coastal cliffs and into the ocean.
Digest all the scenery over a whisky by visiting a distillery on the island or taking a tour. Skye Distillery Tours handles the driving and manage trips to Talisker, Torabhaig, and Raasay distilleries.
Raw nature paired with whisky distilleries, tranquil fishing villages, and Scottish pubs make Skye one of the coolest weekend breaks for couples in the UK.
Where to stay in the Isle of Skye
Conveniently located near Portree, the best rooms for couples at the Skeabost House Hotel come with a deluxe clawfoot tub. Garden rooms are botanically styled and offer more privacy. Evenings may be spent watching the sunset over Loch Snizort or sipping whisky by the fire. Book a romantic getaway at the Skeabost House Hotel here.
Stones Luxury B&B whisks you up to the northern village of Uig. Panoramic rooms face the sea while fluffy bathrobes and Egyptian cotton bedding add a deluxe touch. An outdoor hot tub is installed on the terrace ready to banish all traces of stress. Book a stay at Stones Luxury B&B here.
See the location on Google here.
This cute little town is a perfect weekend escape for those that want a quiet place to relax while still having plenty to see and do.
3. Haworth – best romantic getaway in the UK for literary lovers
Not only is Haworth one of the prettiest villages in West Yorkshire but its wild moors inspired Emily Brönte to pen her intense love story, Wuthering Heights. Nowadays, the rectory where the Brönte sisters grew up recreates the Brönte family home as the Brönte Parsonage Museum and is a must for literary-minded couples.
Right outside the village, hiking trails thread through the moorlands to the Brönte Waterfall and Top Withens. This is the perfect spot for a rosy-cheeked selfie to remember your romantic getaways in the UK!
The Haworth Moor and Top Withens Circular hike takes around 3 hours to complete but the Waterfall Circular hike is half the time.
Upon return to the hilltop settlement, Haworth’s Main Street is peppered with adorable tea rooms and old-worldly boutiques. Traditional English pubs with open fires (and rumours of residence ghosts) beckon you in for an atmospheric dinner with your favourite person. Longtime favourites including the Old White Lion and the Black Bull offer lodging which is a special experience although cottages off Main Street tend to be more geared toward romantic weekend getaways.
Getting to Haworth is part of the fun – it’s the closest you’ll find to the Hogwarts Express. Check the latest schedule with Keighley and Worth Valley Railway (KWVR); they run heritage steam trains to the village from the town of Keighley.
Where to stay in Haworth
Ey up, Steamy Cottage is steamy in more ways than one! This Airbnb-style rental home comprises one bedroom with a freestanding tub plus a private steam room. The fully-equipped kitchen unfurls into a quaint backyard where you can catch a ray during summer over a glass of wine. Book a romantic getaway at Steamy Cottage here.
For a 5-star hotel experience, check in at Ashmount House. The former home of the physician to Charlotte Brontë now consists of eight individually styled rooms with four-poster beds and complimentary sherry. This is also one of the best romantic UK getaways with a hot tub; three suites have a private spa tub. Book a stay at Ashmount House here.
See the location on Google here.
The beauty of the Isle of Wight makes it one of the most spectacular places to take a weekend getaway in the UK, especially if you have a three-day weekend and can do some exploring around the island.
4. Isle of Wight – Best romantic getaway in the UK for stargazing
Floating just across the Solent between Bournemouth and Plymouth, the Isle of Wight is the largest of England’s islands.
Noted for its mild year-round climate, the island is awash with hiking trails and beaches to explore. Savour each other’s company with walks along sandy beaches such as Sandown Bay or the rugged Compton Bay.
Officially a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Isle of Wight is where you’ll find some of the darkest skies in the UK. Surprise your other half with a stargazing date night that they’ll never forget.
The Milky Way, Cassiopeia, Orion, and the Plough are frequently spotted in the inky-black skies that trace the southern side of the island. Autumn, winter, and spring yield the best times for stargazing, but you’ll want to avoid travelling in the days leading up to the full moon. Check out the Astronomy Calendar of Celestial Events if your partner is starry-eyed for astronomical activities.
Remember that the Isle of Wight does get busy during the school holidays and summer holidays. You should plan your romantic escape around these peak periods.
The Isle of Wight is an easy ferry or hovercraft ride from Southampton, Portsmouth and Lymington. You can travel as a foot passenger or take a car. As access is via boat, romantic UK breaks to the island feel like a proper getaway – it’s almost like going to the Mediterranean.
Where to stay in the Isle of Wight
Haven Hall Hotel combines shocking views, supreme luxury, and amenities galore. The fact that there’s a helipad available to guests is a hint that this isn’t the place to fish for cheap romantic UK getaway deals! Standard rooms are furnished with antiques whereas suites are like miniature holiday cottages. No two units are the same but all are equal in terms of quality. Book a stay at Haven Hall Hotel here.
The Boathouse is a boutique inn installed above a bistro and offers panoramic views of the Solent. Light and airy rooms mimic the views outside with the best ones granting uninterrupted sea vistas. Book a stay at the Boathouse here.
See the location on Google here.
Broadstairs is such a cute little beach town and a perfect getaway from London for the weekend.
5. Broadstairs – best getaway in the UK for seaside serenading
Broadstairs, a tiny coastal town in the Thanet district of east Kent, was once the favoured holiday destination of Charles Dickens. It’s been revamped as a relatively cheap UK getaway for couples based in London and the southeast.
Expect to spend your weekend gorging on artisanal coffee and gourmet cuisine at the town’s upscale grills and bistros. There are several gorgeous beaches within access of the town which offer quieter conditions than the local family spot, Viking Bay. Journey north to Botany Bay for a spot of rock-pooling and fossil hunting.
Often overlooked in favour of the better-known Whitstable and Margate, Broadstairs is a more peaceful destination for romantic getaways in the UK. However, you can easily access these neighbouring towns by bus or rental car from your Broadstairs base.
Dreamland Margate is a fun day out at a vintage theme park near the seafront.
Historic Ramsgate and its World War II tunnels are a pleasant hour-long walk along the coastal path. You can reward yourself with a full English breakfast at the vintage warehouse, Petticoat Lane Emporium, or fish and chips on the sand.
Served by fast trains from London, Broadstairs is convenient for residents of the capital seeking a break from the city.
Where to stay in Broadstairs
Ebenezer’s Place is a kooky bed and breakfast where top rooms feature clawfoot baths. After polishing off a full English breakfast, Viking Bay and Victoria Gardens are right across the street. Book a stay at Ebenezer’s Place here.
Self-catered accommodation is king in Broadstairs. The Willow Inn has free parking and a kitchen. It’s secluded and modern with a sunny breakfast terrace for morning coffee. Book a stay at the Willow Inn here.
See the location on Google here.
Plenty of benches to enjoy a romantic rest on a weekend in Bath and the architecture is pretty spectacular, too.
6. Bath – most romantic getaway for a UK spa break
Bath is a handsome city in the county of Somerset. Founded by the Romans in the 1st century AD, it’s one of the most affluent cities in the UK. The city centre is compact and walkable with grand Georgian buildings, green squares, and cute cafes.
The two main attractions are the Roman Baths and the, err, other Roman Baths.
The Roman Baths is an original public bathhouse that was used for hygiene purposes as well as worship of the goddess, Sulis Minerva. Bathing is strictly off-limits but you can tour the historic bathhouse and sip water from the drinking fountain.
When planning weekend UK breaks for couples, the Thermae Bath Spa should feature at the top of your weekend in Bath itinerary. This modern complex is built atop a Roman foundation and consists of thermal swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms, and a heated rooftop pool that overlooks the city.
In terms of where to eat, Ponte Vecchio comes highly recommended. Authentic Italian and homemade limoncello in a romantic, riverside setting – bliss.
Where to stay in Bath
Accommodation in Bath doesn’t come cheap so you might as well suck it up and treat yourself to a stay at the lavish Gainsborough Bath Spa. Bathtubs are fed directly by the thermal springs in the top suites. Book a stay at the Gainsborough Bath Spa here.
If you have a car, you can stay in rural Somerset. The Garden Suite at Norwell View Farm is one of the most romantic getaways in the UK with a hot tub in an idyllic countryside setting. Book a night at Norwell View Farm here.
See the location on Google here.
The beautiful Cotswolds are the perfect romantic UK getaway for couples that want to cozy up in a cute little B&B and explore the picturesque villages.
7. The Cotswolds – best romantic getaway in the UK for foodies
With its idyllic villages and rolling hills, the Cotswolds is one of the dreamiest romantic UK getaways in south England. The density of wedding venues tells you something!
Of the countless beautiful towns in the Cotswolds, Burford serves as an excellent base for couples to discover the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The High Street stretches down from the River Windrush and provides several hours’ worth of pottering around cafes, bakeries, and independent boutiques.
Buses depart from The Hill and help you connect to nearby palaces, abbeys, and attractions. Cycling in the Cotswolds is highly recommended for adventurous souls but nobody will judge you if you spend the weekend doing little more than hopping from cafe to pub.
Burford is abundant in cosy inns where you can check in for the night or plan on a date night down the local. Award-winning restaurants vie for their share of attention if you can’t resist a Michelin star. The Cotswolds is an excellent destination for foodies with tons of great restaurants to enjoy.
Keep your eyes peeled for the likes of Kate Winslet and Hugh Grant who call the Cotswolds home.
Where to stay in the Cotswolds
The ivory-clad Swan Hotel in Bibury looks like a painting but it’s real! Choose from a room in the main property or splurge on one of the private cottages. Whooper Cottage is one of the loveliest romantic getaways in the UK with a hot tub and breakfast is included in the rate. Book the Swan Hotel here.
Charmingly traditional, the Lamb Inn dates back to the 15th century. It comes with all the trimmings: open fireplaces, flagstone flooring, and country-chic rooms. Some have four-poster beds and garden views. Book a stay at the Lamb Inn here.
See the location on Google here.
If you don’t already live in London, this is perhaps one of the best UK getaways in the country. There are countless things to do in this city from museums to live shows, amazing restaurants to romantic hotels. London has it all for a weekend away.
8. London – top romantic getaway in the UK for rom-com energy
Despite its vastness and chaotic streets, few can deny that London is one of the most captivating cities in Europe. With castles, glorious parks, West End shows, world-class restaurants, and cutesy neighbourhoods to wander, the prospects for wooing are endless.
When planning romantic UK breaks to London, the trick is not to pile so much pressure on seeing all the sights. Rather, use the opportunity to find unusual things to do in London off the beaten track.
Enjoy a leisurely handheld stroll along the canals of Little Venice while pretending that you’re in Italy. Head to Maritime Greenwich for kooky museums and deer-spotting in Greenwich Park. Skip Mayfair for the uber-cool restaurants in East London.
Kensington Palace is far calmer in comparison to more famous landmarks in Westminster. Plus, you can coincide your visit with an afternoon tea at the Orangery.
Coffee-loving couples could spend an afternoon pursuing the delights of Chiswick High Street before catching an arthouse flick at the glamorous Electric Cinema in Notting Hill.
During the summer months, you can snuggle up under the stars at an outdoor screening of a London-based film.
There’s a side of London for all couples.
Where to stay in London
Central yet far from the hotspots, the luxurious Treehouse Hotel London brings the woodlands of rural England to the capital. Select suites come with copper tubs and window loveseats overlooking the landmarks. Keep your eyes peeled for “wildlife” in the room! Book a romantic night at Treehouse Hotel London here.
Cheap UK getaways and London are rarely spotted in the same sentence. Hybrid accommodations like Wilde Aparthotels are the best way to keep costs low if you’re spending more than two days in London. These modern studios near Paddington Station come with a functional kitchenette and more space than the typical budget or mid-range hotel. Book a stay at Wilde Aparthotels here.
See the location on Google here.
There are tons of great hikes to do around Brecon Beacons and if you head here on an early morning, you can have some of these views all to yourself. What’s more romantic than that?
9. Brecon Beacons – best romantic getaway in Wales for outdoor pursuits
The Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) is one of the three national parks in Wales. Composed of gentle hills, beautiful lakes, and rivers, the landscape is a dreamy backdrop for romantic weekend breaks in the UK.
While the mountains aren’t as tall as Snowdonia, the scenery packs just as much punch as its neighbouring mountain range to the north. The Beacons provide quieter conditions overall and are one of the best places to visit in Wales for rural romancing.
The Brecon Beacons National Park is ideal for walking, cycling, horseback riding, and river tours. Ultimately, you have the choice to be as active as you wish.
Innumerable ruins of ancient castles stud the national park. Pay a visit to the likes of Crickhowell, Abergavenny, and Carreg Cennen to create decades’ worth of memories.
You can also ride the Brecon Mountain Railway; these vintage steam locomotives chug their way through the valleys while you sit back and soak up the views.
Where to stay in the Brecon Beacons
Surrounded by green hills, woodland, and flora, The Celyn is a dashingly rural bed and breakfast set on a working farm. Modern rooms offer panoramic views and breakfast is included in the rate. Book a stay at the Celyn here.
Mill Lodge-Brecon Beacons is an adults-only hotel in Gilwern, close to Abergavenny. Rooms are simple yet modern and cosy. This is one of the best places to stay for a cheap romantic UK getaway close to nature. Check rates for Mill Lodge here.
See the location on Google here.
The ruins and natural beauty of the Isle of Arran should not be missed if you are able to get here for a weekend trip.
10. Isle of Arran – most offbeat romantic getaway in the UK
The Isle of Arran is deemed “Scotland in miniature”. So, if a road trip to the Highlands and faraway isles isn’t viable, this incredible island is the perfect alternative.
The island offers a mix of gentle to moderate hiking trails. Goatfell, the tallest peak, is easily accessible for most. You can go horseback riding on the sandy beaches while keeping watch for seals, otters, and basking sharks. It’s also fun to take a boat trip to Holy Island.
Plan to visit Lochranza Castle at golden hour for an unforgettable sunset. This is conveniently located near the Lochranza Distillery where you can sample Arran single malt.
There’s no shortage of friendly taverns in the towns and villages of Arran where you can experiment with the delights of haggis!
Regular ferries (foot passenger and car) connect Ardrossan with Brodick. This makes Arran one of the most convenient romantic getaways in the UK for couples based in Glasgow or Edinburgh.
Where to stay in the Isle of Arran
Within walking distance of Brodick Ferry Terminal, The Douglas Hotel offers contemporary rooms with views of the sea and Goatfell. The best room for a romantic escape has a private sun terrace. Book a stay at the Douglas Hotel here.
For something more intrepid, Raven’s Gully comprises ultra-modern cabins with all the charm of a Hobbit House. Each unit has a kitchenette with all the gizmos plus a fire pit on the private terrace. Dogs are welcome but this is strictly an adults-only retreat. Book a stay at Raven’s Gully here.
See the location on Google here.
Enjoy a little sunset view over Bamburgh Castle or walk along the beach at sunrise. This is one of the most spectacular coastlines in the country.
11. Northumberland Coast – best coastal getaway in the UK for castles
The Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty consists of pristine sandy beaches, ruined mediaeval castles, and adorable towns.
Stretching from Alnmouth up until Berwick-upon-Tweed on the Scotland-England border, you can take your pick from Bamburgh, Seahouses, and Craster to name a few.
Bookish couples should make a date to browse the piles of tomes at Barter Books, Alnwick. The eclectic bookshop is within a converted old railway station and has a cafe.
There are castles by the dozen but if you only visit one, make it Bamburgh Castle. The inhabited castle has a rich folklore history and provides jaw-dropping views across the North Sea. They host weddings too if you’re planning a romantic weekend of venue scouting.
When planning romantic getaways in the UK with a car you can easily jump around the towns and castles of the Northumberland coast. Otherwise, buses and trains are available via the Coast and Castles Connection Bus Service.
Where to stay in the Northumberland Coast
The beachfront Joiners Arms is turned out with atmospheric rooms furnished with plush fabrics, exposed stone walls, and clawfoot bathtubs making it perfect for your romantic getaways in the UK. Book a stay at the Joiners Arms here.
Doxford Hall Hotel and Spa comes with all the ingredients for romantic weekend getaways in the UK: an indoor pool, spa days, and a gourmet restaurant. The landscaped gardens have plenty of spots for popping that all-important question: which pub to pick for Sunday lunch? Check rates for Doxford Hall here.
See the location on Google here.
A hiker’s paradise, a weekend in the Peak District will allow you to have both a fun city break and a wonderful weekend enjoying mother nature.
12. Peak District – top romantic getaway in the UK for hiking (and breweries)
The Peak District is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK and is an especially fantastic romantic getaway in the UK if you enjoy a mix of hiking and pootling around small villages. After a wholesome day spent outside in the elements, there’s always a country pub waiting to beckon you in for a pie and a pint.
The region is pretty big and depending on where in the UK you are coming from, you may want to base yourself in different parts. A personal favourite base is Sheffield.
Staying just outside of the Peak District in this cool city is a great way to have both a wonderful day out in nature and a fun night on the town exploring the city that is home to the most breweries in the entire country.
From Sheffield, it’s about a 20-30 minute drive to hikes like the Stanage Edge Walking Route or the Mam Tor Walking Route.
Once back in town be sure to stop into Heist Brew Co, Kelham Island Brewery, and True North Brew Co for an evening bar crawl.
Don’t forget to stop at The Tap in the train station which has not only been stunningly refurbished but has a huge selection of locally brewed beers (including some of their own).
Where to stay in the Peak District
Located just on the western edge of Sheffield, Brocco on the Park Boutique Hotel puts you close to the Peak District hiking trails yet isn’t technically within the park limits. This strategic location means you can easily use buses to get into and out of town for a night out after you’re finished walking. The hotel is stylish and romantic, perfect for a weekend break in the UK. Book a stay at Brocco on the Park here.
Close to Hope Valley, the Losehill House Hotel and Spa has a full-service wellness centre and views of Win Hill. Contemporary rooms feature garden or mountain views and many have a clawfoot tub. Half-board rates are available. See availability for Losehill House here.
13. St Ives – best romantic getaway in the UK for European vibes
Can’t afford to fly your beloved to the Amalfi Coast? St Ives brings a touch of Italy to the southwest coast of England. Couple-friendly things to do in St Ives range from outdoorsy pursuits to visiting art galleries.
Firstly, the beaches are spectacular and provide opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Even if you’re not a pair of water babies, it’s a gorgeous area for coastal walks. There are several easy, moderate, and difficult walks locally as part of the South West Coast Path trail.
Back in town, you can peruse the exhibitions at Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.
As St Ives is so close to Land’s End, you can take a day trip down to see the westernmost point of the mainland. This is a 40-minute drive. Otherwise, the Land’s End Coaster spares the need to rent a car.
Where to stay in St Ives
Carbis Bay and Spa Hotel is a luxury beachfront hotel perfect for romantic getaways in the UK near the sea. The best units have sea views with a free-standing bathtub poised to catch the sunset. Book a room at Carbis Bay and Spa Hotel here.
Una St Ives is a swanky new resort comprised of self-contained villas and bungalows. Guests shared the wellness amenities such as a pool and hot tub while dogs are welcome to stay in the pet-friendly lodges. Book a stay at Una St Ives here.