Summer of Love: The 6 most romantic UK getaways
12 August 2024
In an age where time is our most precious commodity, nothing quite compares to escaping for a romantic UK getaway with your beloved.
Whether you're celebrating a milestone, thinking of popping the question, or simply yearning for quality time together, Britain's landscape is dotted with havens of tranquillity and luxury that promise to elevate your romantic UK breaks.
From riverside retreats to castle getaways, we've handpicked a selection of experiences that go beyond the ordinary, each offering a unique blend of sumptuous comfort, gourmet delights, and unforgettable moments. These aren't just hotels; they're gateways to creating cherished memories, set against the backdrop of the British Isles’ most picturesque locales.
Join us as we explore six extraordinary destinations where love blossoms amidst stunning scenery, exquisite cuisine, and unparalleled hospitality. Each of these retreats offers a distinct flavour of romance, tailored to ignite the spark in every couple's journey.
Riverside Romance
Nestled in the heart of the Chiltern Hills, the Relais Henley offers a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary luxury. This elegant boutique hotel, set alongside the river in the charming market town of Henley-on-Thames, provides an idyllic escape for couples seeking a romantic UK break away from the bustle of city life.
As the sun dips below the horizon, embark on a private boat cruise along the Thames. The hotel's dedicated team can arrange a bespoke experience, complete with a gourmet picnic hamper filled with local delicacies and chilled champagne. Find a secluded spot along the riverbank to savour your feast and each other's company, as the gentle lapping of water provides a soothing soundtrack to your evening.
For those who prefer terra firma, the surrounding Chiltern Hills offer breathtaking walks through landscapes that have inspired literary giants for centuries. Follow in the footsteps of Chaucer, Oscar Wilde, and Roald Dahl as you forge your own romantic narrative amidst the rolling hills and ancient woodlands.
Upon returning to the hotel, indulge in a quintessentially British afternoon tea. Sink into plush armchairs by a crackling fire, overlooking the river, as you're served a parade of delicate sandwiches and pastries.
Dining Under the Stars
For those seeking a more secluded romantic UK getaway, Sopwell House in St Albans offers an enchanting option that feels worlds away from the ordinary. The hotel's private dining gazebo overlooks manicured gardens and a serene carp pond, and provides an intimate setting for celebrating life's most precious moments.
Imagine proposing as the sun sets, casting a golden glow across the landscape, or toasting to years of love on your anniversary, surrounded by the beauty of nature. The culinary team at Sopwell House rises to the occasion with bespoke menus crafted to suit your palate and the significance of your celebration.
The sommelier is on hand to guide you through an extensive wine tasting experience, ensuring your chosen vintage perfectly complements both the food and the mood. For a truly special touch, consider concluding your evening with the hotel's signature Lord Mountbatten Cocktail, a sophisticated blend that encapsulates the essence of British elegance.
A Cotswold Love Story
Perched on the outskirts of Cheltenham, Ellenborough Park stands as a testament to timeless romance. This 15th-century manor house offers couples a chance to step back in time while enjoying modern comforts.
The hotel's Romantic Retreat package is thoughtfully designed for couples seeking to reconnect. Begin your stay with a chilled bottle of champagne in your room, setting the tone for a weekend of indulgence. As evening falls, savour a gourmet dinner showcasing the best of local produce, with a generous allowance ensuring you can explore the menu to your heart's content.
For those looking to truly unwind, the hotel's spa offers a haven of tranquillity. Book a couples' treatment and let skilled therapists work their magic, easing away the stresses of everyday life. Afterwards, take a hand-in-hand stroll through the Cotswold countryside, where rolling hills and quaint villages provide a romantic backdrop for creating new memories.
A Highland Romance
For couples seeking a truly extraordinary romantic UK getaway, Glenapp Castle's ultimate romantic adventure package offers an unparalleled experience. This journey combines the opulence of castle living with the rugged beauty of Scotland's western isles.
Your romantic odyssey begins with two nights in one of Glenapp's sea-view Master Suites, where you'll be treated to candlelit dinners and champagne. But it's the next stage of your adventure that truly sets this experience apart - two nights of luxury glamping on the Isle of Jura.
Wake up together under canvas, surrounded by pristine wilderness, attended to by your personal butler and chef. During the day, explore the breathtaking Hebrides aboard the Glenapp Castle boat, with an experienced skipper navigating you through hidden coves and past dramatic coastlines.
This bespoke adventure can be tailored to include surprise elements - perhaps a secluded picnic on a deserted beach or stargazing from your private island camp. It's an unforgettable way to celebrate your love, combining luxury with the raw beauty of Scotland's wild places.
Spa Serenity for Two
Sometimes, the most thoughtful gesture is the gift of relaxation. The Elms, a Queen Anne mansion set in the heart of Worcestershire, offers couples a chance to unwind and reconnect in sumptuous surroundings.
Their couples' retreat package begins with a warm welcome - champagne and handmade truffles await you in your room. The centrepiece of your stay is a visit to The Greenhouse Spa, where you can enjoy full access to the wellness facilities before indulging in a blissful couples' treatment.
As evening falls, make your way to Badgers Restaurant. Here, amid elegant surroundings, you'll be treated to a gourmet dinner that celebrates the best of local, seasonal produce. It's the perfect setting for intimate conversation and shared enjoyment of exquisite cuisine.
Gastronomic Delights
For couples who believe that the way to the heart is through the stomach, Farlam Hall in Cumbria offers a celebration package that's sure to impress. This country house hotel, surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodland, provides a serene backdrop for a romantic UK getaway.
Upon arrival, you'll find your room adorned with a bouquet of seasonal flowers, alongside a bottle of champagne and handmade chocolates - small touches that set the tone for a special stay. The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the seven-course tasting menu, each dish carefully paired with wines chosen to enhance the flavours.
This culinary journey, enjoyed in the intimate setting of Farlam Hall's dining room, offers more than just exceptional food. It's an experience to be savoured together, creating memories with each course. From the amuse-bouche to the final sweet morsel, every bite is an opportunity to share in the pleasure of discovery and the joy of each other's company.
Romance and Restoration
If you’re seeking a longer trip, consider delving into the Romance and Restoration PoB Break. This curated road trip weaves together multiple destinations, offering a rich tapestry of experiences. Begin in London's green spaces, then meander through St Albans' historic charm and Dedham Vale's artistic landscapes. Explore medieval Lavenham, soak in Newmarket's equestrian allure, and finish amid Peterborough's architectural splendour. Each stop presents unique date ideas, from indulgent spas to sunset river cruises.
For your own pick of our selection of romantic hotels, write your love story with the Romance Collection. This carefully curated selection showcases properties that excel in crafting UK couples holidays. Whether you're drawn to city sophistication or countryside serenity, you’re sure to find a retreat that resonates with your personal style of romance.
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