The UK’s most romantic destinations

The UK is home to some of the world’s most romantic places, perfect to spoil your loved one with a weekend break just for the two of you. From breath-taking hillside escapes in the Lake District, to a relaxing weekend in the elegant city of York, or soaking up the sun in a secluded coastal retreat in Devon or Cornwall, there are a plethora of romantic getaway ideas.

Enjoy a backdrop of magnificent castles, spectacular waterfalls and tranquil beaches, and let romance blossom with our highlights of the UK’s most romantic destinations:

The Lake District

The Lake District is renowned as one of the most romantic destinations in the UK thanks to its great English lakes, fell-top panoramas, picturesque walks, and welcoming tearooms and pubs with deep fireside sofas. Described by William Wordsworth as, “The loveliest spot that man hath found…”, the landscapes of the Lake District are intimately linked with romantic poetry and some of England’s finest writers.

Couples can get in the romantic spirit by renting a rowing boat and exploring the sparkling waters of Lake Windermere, taking a scenic stroll to the beautiful 300-year-old High Sweden Bridge (a popular spot for proposals), or relaxing with a picnic in the fragrant gardens of Rydal Mount, the family home of William Wordsworth. Explore the impressive countryside of the Lake District hand in hand during the day, and snuggle under a blanket by the fire in one of our romantic cottages after the sun goes down.

Romantic holiday cottages in the Lake District

Cornwall

With over 300 miles of stunning coastline full of wide sandy beaches and scenic coastal footpaths, magical walks through wild moorland, and pretty harbour towns, Cornwall is ideal for couples in search of romantic beauty spots.

The secluded golden cove at Bedruthan Steps is the stuff of legends, and the ideal place to spend quality time with someone special. Dotted with granite rocks said to be stepping stones for the giant Bedruthan, this old smuggler haunt is only accessible at low tide and the dramatic views rarely fail to provide a breath-taking experience.

Alternatively, enjoy a peaceful walk, hand in hand through enchanting ancient woodland with ivy clad trees and find St. Nectan’s Glen, one of Cornwall’s hidden treasures. Named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this dazzling 60ft high waterfall is a harmonious place to enjoy natures embrace, and has surely got to be one of the most romantic places to visit in the UK.

Romantic holiday cottages in Cornwall

The Cotswolds

Enjoy a quintessentially English escape and meander through the quaint honey coloured stone villages of the picture-perfect Cotswolds, admiring rustic cottages, rolling hills and wild flower meadows on the ‘Romantic Road’. This idyllic drive winds its way from Broadway passing a beautiful stately home and several Cotswold hill villages including Naunton, Upper and Lower Slaughter, and Bourton on the Water also known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’. The drive continues through the ancient market town of Stow-on-the-Wold before ending in Broadway with exceptional views and wonderful memories to take home. Make the most of your adventure and snuggle up in front of a roaring fire in your very own Cotswold stone cottage, what could possibly be more romantic?

Romantic holiday cottages in the Cotswolds

Scottish Highlands

If you’re looking for wild and windswept countryside, romantic drives and untouched coastlines, followed by a nightcap by the fire in a cosy cottage for two, the Scottish Highlands are hard to beat. They offer the perfect hideaway for intrepid romantics who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, experience rare peace and quiet and that elusive ‘away from it all’ feeling.

The awe-inspiring scenery of Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater body of water in mainland Britain, is perfect to enjoy with your partner on a romantic break. Fantastic for couples who love the great outdoors, there are a variety of activities to bond over, from cycling and horse riding to golf and climbing. On the lake itself, what could be more romantic than a tranquil champagne cruise? For thrill-seeking duos, there’s always water skiing or sailing, after which you can retire to the warmth of one of the many fine dining restaurants around the Loch. Let your love flourish in this heavenly setting.

Romantic holiday cottages in Scotland

North Devon

Fall in love all over again on a romantic holiday to North Devon, with its rugged cliffs, golden sandy beaches, windswept moors and cosy pubs. From long, lazy summer days on the beach to winter walks holding your sweetheart’s gloved hand, North Devon is hard to beat for the wealth of activities on offer for couples.

Escape the crowds and take a romantic boat trip from Bideford to the idyllic Lundy Island and revel in the unspoilt beauty of this unique haven for wildlife. Active couples can don their wetsuits and help each other catch a wave in the surf at Croyde or Woolacombe. Alternatively, savour a delicious cream tea in a comfy tearoom watching the world go by, then cosy up in one of our gorgeous North Devon cottages and spend some quality time together.

Romantic holiday cottages in Devon

York

York is a great destination for lovers and is often dubbed the most romantic city in England; legend has it that couples who kiss under the Minster’s Heart of Yorkshire Window will stay together forever. Be seduced by the charms of this historic walled city in North Yorkshire and discover its exquisite architecture, iconic cathedral, top restaurants and a network of cobbled streets and pretty alleys. Soak up the romantic atmosphere with a cool glass of bubbly by the River Ouse, delight in tea for two in the famous tearoom ‘Betty’s’ or follow the York Chocolate Trail to discover the city’s chocolate coated past, testing the produce along the way.

Romantic holiday cottages in Yorkshire

Llanddwyn Island

One of the most romantic places in the UK has undeniably got to be Llanddwyn Island, named after St. Dwynwen, the patron saint of lovers and Wales’s own St. Valentine. Located at the far end of a sweeping sandy beach off the west coast of Anglesey, this magical spot is romantic, not simply because of its association with love but also because of its windswept dunes, and mixture of historic buildings. The small tidal island boasts excellent views of Snowdonia and the Lleyn Peninsula, particularly stunning at sunset and is also part of a nature reserve.

Romantic holiday cottages in Wales