Romantic Breaks: Be inspired by fiction’s most loved couples

Opening the door to inspiration, whether that be cosying up together by the fire, exploring a capital city or indulging in food together, we’ve enlisted the help of some of the world’s most loved, fictional couples to suggest the utmost in romantic getaways this year.

Home to countless love stories, from Notting Hill and Love Actually to Shakespeare in Love, London is a city bursting with seductive sights, intimate experiences, decadent dining and drinking haunts tucked far away from the hustle and bustle. Located in London’s fashionable Belgravia neighbourhood, and just moments away from some of London’s most renowned attractions and a vibrant shopping scene, where else could we expect to find iconic duo Barbie and Ken for a romantic city break escape than at The Goring? As one of the city's most sought after hotels, The Goring boasts luxury service and indulgent suites.

Whether it be cosied up by the fire in the winter or in the beautiful garden in the summer, a tantalising aperitif can be enjoyed at The Goring Cocktail Bar, a destination in itself, before a candle-lit dinner at one of the many eateries found at nearby Knightsbridge or Mayfair.

After an evening spent amidst the city’s buzzing nightlife, we have no doubt that Barbie and Ken would sink into a serene slumber in one of The Goring’s impressive rooms or suites, including the silk-lined Royal Suite with its gorgeous views of The Goring Gardens from the private balcony.

Renowned for their shared love of books, art, and culture, The Darcys would surely be searching for the most unique cultural weekend they could find, and Kilworth House fits the bill. Fitted with its very own private open air theatre, Kilworth House combines not only an indulgent hotel stay in a gorgeous countryside setting, but also access to the best of London theatreland in the heart of rural south Leicestershire.

The Darcys would surely have been fans of the romantic poets, and would be able to live out their passions at the Wordsworth Restaurant for a pre-show lunch, followed by a leisurely amble around the extensive grounds, admiring the timeless elegance of the estate and debriefing about the show.

The rolling hills and moorlands of Dartmoor National Park are no better location for Heathcliff and Cathy to embark on a wild country weekend escape. Natural surroundings, untouched outdoor space and a huge variety of wildlife  really is an ideal way to immerse you and your loved ones into nature, disconnecting with busy everyday life and reconnect with each other and the natural world .

After a peaceful day exploring the walking trails that meander through the forests and woodlands of Dartmoor, head back to historical manor Bovey Castle and warm up by the fire with an aperitif, before delving into delicious and authentic dishes at Smith’s Brasserie that serves up a Mediterranean inspired menu against a striking backdrop of the River Bovey.

Why not experience all of what the area’s nature has to offer with one of Bovey Castle’s outdoor activities and experiences, including a refreshing walking tour of Deer Park guided by the estate’s deer keepers who will offer an engaging insight into these fascinating creatures and their role in Bovey Castle Estate’s conservation model. Other outdoor activities include falconry, clay pigeon shooting and fly fishing - there is something for everyone of any taste.

Relax weary legs in one of Bovey Castle’s elegant, individually designed rooms and suites, or luxurious private estate lodges, ready for another day spent like Healthcliffe and Cathy discovering the wild moors.

A Royal favourite, The Relais Henley is a 16th-century coaching inn in the historic market town, next door to the banks of the River Thames, making it the ultimate waterside retreat for loved up water babies such as Disney’s Ariel and Prince Eric.

Now reimagined for a life well lived today, The Relais Henley invites guests for a romantic weekend in Oxfordshire, a new style of waterside escape by the Thames Riviera. Whether self-driven or skippered, lovers can soak in the beautiful landscapes on a relaxing river cruise with The Relais Henley’s fleet of boats, in partnership with Hobbs of Henley.

Spend long afternoons under the sun celebrating love with a glass of bubbly on a champagne picnic, watch the rowers and boats as they pass along the river, or experience life as a merman or mermaid with wild open-water swimming.