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12 January 2024
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There’s something magical about getting away for a top romantic weekend – just the two of you, escaping routines to create memories that last. After exploring countless UK hideaways for our book Couples’ Weekends Away: UK, we’ve handpicked these five exceptional destinations where love blossoms effortlessly. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a surprise getaway, or simply craving quality time, these escapes offer the perfect mix of adventure and intimacy. From stargazing in wild moorlands to sharing whisky by castle firesides, let us guide you to Britain’s most romantic corners. Whether you’re craving countryside serenity, coastal charm, or historic city romance, these five locations promise unforgettable moments for two.
Why it’s romantic: Rolling hills, cosy pubs, and starry skies set the scene for a love story. Perfect for couples who enjoy hiking, hearty food, and quiet village charm. Whether you’re cuddled up in a shepherd’s hut listening to the distant bleat of sheep or toasting with locally brewed ales in a 16th-century pub, the Dales have an uncanny ability to make the world feel wonderfully small – just you, your love, and endless open skies.
Stargazing in one of the Dales’ Dark Sky Discovery Sites, where minimal light pollution reveals a glittering canopy.
Cheese tasting at Wensleydale Creamery (Wallace & Gromit approved!), followed by a picnic in the countryside.
A twilight spa session where side-by-side massages melt away stress.
Yorebridge House (Luxury suites with private hot tubs overlooking the River Ure).
The Devonshire Arms (A spa hotel on the Bolton Abbey Estate, blending grandeur with coziness).
Grassington Lodge (A stone-built B&B in a postcard-perfect village).
The Angel Inn (Michelin-starred dining in a 17th-century pub).
The Secret Garden (Riverside plant-based dishes in Malham’s oldest house).
Laburnum House Tea Room (Clotted cream scones by a crackling fire).
The Verdict: Between its dramatic landscapes and intimate hideaways, the Yorkshire Dales secures its spot among the top romantic weekends in the UK. Next, we trade moorland for Georgian elegance in Bath—where history and luxury intertwine.
Why it’s romantic: With its beautiful Georgian architecture and natural thermal springs, Bath is a love letter to history, relaxation, and candlelit romance. Wander hand-in-hand down cobbled streets, soak in rooftop thermal pools at sunset, and dine in vaulted cellars lit by flickering candles—it’s no wonder this UNESCO-listed city ranks among the top romantic weekends in the UK.
Rooftop soaks at Thermae Bath Spa, where thermal waters and skyline views melt away stress.
Private twilight tours of the Roman Baths, avoiding crowds for an intimate glimpse into ancient history.
Punting on the River Avon, gliding past Pulteney Bridge with a picnic basket (or prosecco!).
The Gainsborough Bath Spa (Five-star luxury with direct access to thermal waters).
No. 15 by GuestHouse (Whimsical boutique hotel with a cozy library and free sweet shop).
Bath Boating Station (Riverside lodges for couples craving quiet charm).
Sotto Sotto (Italian fine dining in a candlelit stone cellar).
The Olive Tree (Bath’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, perfect for anniversaries).
The Pump Room (Elegant afternoon tea with live classical music).
The Verdict: Bath blends timeless elegance with pampered indulgence, making it a standout choice for top romantic weekends. Next, we’ll whisk you away to Edinburgh—where cobbled alleys and castle views ignite passion.
Why it’s romantic: A fairytale city of cobbled alleys, castle views, and whisky-fueled snugs, Edinburgh blends Gothic charm with modern magic. Climb extinct volcanoes at sunset, explore hidden closes where history whispers, and toast with Scotch in a candlelit speakeasy—it’s no wonder Scotland’s capital ranks among the top romantic weekends in the UK.
Sunset hike up Arthur’s Seat, where panoramic city views reward your climb.
Private whisky tasting at The Scotch Whisky Experience, A must do for Scotch lovers, an immersive tour with fun tricks for tasting.
A red bus afternoon tea, sightseeing Edinburgh’s landmarks while sharing finger sandwiches and fizz.
Cheval The Edinburgh Grand (Art Deco suites with roll-top baths and skyline views).
The Witchery by the Castle (Gothic luxury with four-poster beds and secret dining nooks).
Radisson Blu Royal Mile (Ideal for culture lovers, steps from Edinburgh Castle).
Timberyard (Michelin-starred seasonal feasts in a reclaimed warehouse).
L’escargot Bleu (French-Scottish bistro with intimate booth seating).
3 Blind Mice (Cosy candlelit pizzeria and cocktail den).
The Verdict: Edinburgh’s mix of history and charm makes it irresistible for lovers. with Magical links to Harry Potter if that’s what you’re into! Next, we’re off to breathtaking views and a wild swimmers dream…the Lake District.
Why it’s romantic: With its mirror-like lakes, dramatic fells, and charming stone villages, the Lake District is a love letter to nature-loving couples. Whether you’re soaking in an infinity pool overlooking Windermere or holding hands on a misty mountain walk, this UNESCO World Heritage site delivers the ultimate blend of adventure and intimacy—securing its place among the top romantic weekends in the UK.
Sunset cruise on Windermere, England’s longest lake, with a glass of local gin in hand.
Private hot tub stargazing at Low Wood Bay Spa’s infinity pool, surrounded by mountain silhouettes.
Scrambling through hidden gorges, jumping into crystal-clear plunge pools (then warming up in a cosy pub afterward).
Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa (Luxury lakeside retreat with a waterfall-view spa).
Aphrodites Boutique Suites (Jacuzzi suites with fell views and rose petal turndowns).
Storrs Hall (Georgian mansion on Windermere’s shores, perfect for champagne picnics).
The Forest Side (Michelin-starred foraging-to-table dining in a Gothic mansion).
Afternoon Tea at Cedar Manor (Finger sandwiches by a roaring fire in a 19th-century manor).
Boardwalk Bar & Grill (Lakeside dining with locally sourced Cumbrian beef).
The Verdict: From adrenaline-fueled cliff climbs to fireside pub nights, the Lake District proves romance thrives in the wild. Next, we’ll trade mountain peaks for coastal drama along the Causeway Coast—where cliffside castles and whiskey tastings await.
Why it’s romantic: Where rugged cliffs meet fairy-tale castles and whiskey warms the soul, Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast is a cinematic escape for couples. Walk hand-in-hand across the legendary Giant’s Causeway, brave the swaying Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, and cozy up in seaside pubs with live folk music—this road trip-worthy coastline delivers drama and intimacy in equal measure, earning its spot among the top romantic weekends in the UK.
Golden hour at Giant’s Causeway, wandering the 40,000 basalt columns (UNESCO-listed and steeped in myth).
Whiskey tasting at Old Bushmills Distillery, Ireland’s oldest licensed distillery, with a peat-fire toast.
Beachcombing at White Rocks Beach, where limestone cliffs frame turquoise waters (pack a picnic!).
Ballygally Castle Hotel (A 17th-century castle with sea-view rooms and a ghostly “lady in grey” legend).
The Fullerton Arms (Quirky coastal inn with whiskey barrels as tables and Game of Thrones-themed rooms).
Aurora North Coast (Luxury self-catering pods with hot tubs under the stars).
Ursa Minor Bakehouse (Fresh sourdough and cinnamon rolls in a hygge-filled hideaway).
The Tartine at Distillers Arms (Cozy gastropub with Irish stew and live trad music).
Bilberry Mill Café (Riverfront lunches with homemade soda bread and local seafood).
The Verdict: From mythical landscapes to fireside drams, the Causeway Coast proves love thrives on the edge of adventure.
Whether you’re soaking in a rooftop spa in Bath, stargazing in the Yorkshire Dales, or chasing coastal legends along the Causeway Coast, these escapes are made for making memories. Each destination offers its own unique blend of adventure and intimacy—perfect for rekindling romance or celebrating love. Personally we recommend trying them all!
Inspired? Discover more hidden gems and detailed itineraries in our book, Couples Weekends Away: UK—your ultimate guide to unforgettable escapes.
Which romantic getaway will you choose first?
