Romantic Getaways in the UK: Unforgettable Escapes for Couples

The UK is home to an array of romantic destinations, offering everything from breathtaking countryside retreats to luxurious city stays. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a proposal, or simply craving quality time with your partner, the UK has something to offer every couple. Here, we’ve curated a list of the most enchanting romantic getaways, spotlighting their standout dishes, menus, ambiance, and locations.

1. The Scarlet Hotel – Cornwall

Nestled on the rugged Cornish coastline, The Scarlet Hotel is a haven for couples seeking relaxation and romance. This eco-friendly luxury hotel combines stunning sea views with a serene ambiance, making it the perfect destination for a romantic escape.

  • Ambiance: The Scarlet is an adults-only retreat, ensuring tranquility throughout your stay. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of Mawgan Porth Beach, and the outdoor hot tubs add an extra touch of romance.
  • Menu Highlights: The hotel’s restaurant serves seasonal, locally-sourced dishes with a contemporary twist. Signature dishes include Cornish crab risotto and roasted monkfish with a seaweed beurre blanc. The wine list is equally impressive, featuring a selection of biodynamic and organic wines.
  • Location: Located in the heart of Cornwall, The Scarlet is a short drive from iconic landmarks such as the Eden Project and Tintagel Castle. Beach walks and cliff-top trails offer endless opportunities for adventure.

2. Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa – Wiltshire

For couples dreaming of a countryside escape, Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa delivers timeless elegance. This 18th-century manor house is surrounded by 500 acres of parkland, making it one of the most idyllic romantic getaways in the UK.

  • Ambiance: With its stately interiors, roaring fireplaces, and manicured gardens, Lucknam Park exudes old-world charm. The on-site spa offers couples’ treatments, ensuring relaxation is always on the agenda.
  • Menu Highlights: The Michelin-starred Restaurant Hywel Jones is a culinary highlight. Dishes such as pan-seared venison with elderberry jus and lavender panna cotta exemplify the use of seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients. For a more casual option, the Brasserie offers wood-fired pizzas and hearty salads.
  • Location: Situated just outside Bath, this hotel provides easy access to the city’s historic Roman Baths and Jane Austen Centre, perfect for a romantic day out.

3. Chewton Glen – Hampshire

Chewton Glen is a quintessential English country house hotel with a modern twist. Known for its luxurious treehouse suites, this Hampshire gem is ideal for couples looking to combine seclusion with luxury.

  • Ambiance: The treehouses, perched above the forest floor, offer unparalleled privacy and stunning views. Private hot tubs and breakfast hampers enhance the romantic experience.
  • Menu Highlights: The Dining Room at Chewton Glen showcases British cuisine at its finest. Signature dishes include New Forest venison carpaccio and Dorset crab thermidor. Afternoon tea on the terrace is a must for sweet-toothed couples.
  • Location: Close to the New Forest National Park, the hotel is a gateway to scenic walks, bike rides, and wildlife spotting. It’s also near the Jurassic Coast for those looking to explore dramatic seaside cliffs.

4. The Witchery by the Castle – Edinburgh

Perched on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, The Witchery by the Castle offers an opulent escape for lovers of history and luxury. Its gothic-inspired suites and intimate dining spaces make it one of the most unique romantic getaways in the UK.

  • Ambiance: Each suite is lavishly decorated with antique furnishings, velvet-draped beds, and candlelit bathrooms. The atmospheric setting is perfect for couples seeking something extraordinary.
  • Menu Highlights: The Witchery’s dining room serves classic Scottish fare with a twist. Highlights include fillet of Highland beef with haggis bonbons and smoked haddock gratin. The extensive wine cellar ensures every meal is perfectly paired.
  • Location: Situated near Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery is ideal for exploring the city’s historic landmarks, cobbled streets, and vibrant cultural scene.

5. Cliveden House – Berkshire

Cliveden House is the epitome of English luxury, offering couples a regal retreat in the Berkshire countryside. With its rich history and stunning grounds, it’s a destination that promises both romance and grandeur.

  • Ambiance: The palatial interiors and meticulously maintained gardens create an unforgettable setting. Private boat rides on the River Thames add a touch of magic to your stay.
  • Menu Highlights: The Cliveden Dining Room offers refined dishes such as lobster bisque and roast Herdwick lamb. For a special treat, enjoy the renowned afternoon tea, featuring freshly baked scones and champagne.
  • Location: Just an hour from London, Cliveden is conveniently located for a weekend escape. Nearby attractions include Windsor Castle and the charming village of Bray, known for its Michelin-starred restaurants.

6. Gidleigh Park – Devon

Tucked away on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, Gidleigh Park is a secluded sanctuary perfect for food-loving couples. This Tudor-style mansion combines culinary excellence with natural beauty.

  • Ambiance: With its cozy nooks, roaring fireplaces, and picturesque gardens, Gidleigh Park feels like stepping into a fairytale. The tranquil setting ensures complete relaxation.
  • Menu Highlights: The Michelin-starred restaurant showcases tasting menus that celebrate local ingredients. Signature dishes include Exmoor venison with wild mushrooms and honey-roasted parsnips. The wine pairings are expertly curated to complement each course.
  • Location: Dartmoor’s rugged landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for romantic walks and outdoor adventures. The nearby Devon coastline offers additional opportunities for exploration.

Conclusion

From coastal retreats to countryside estates and historic city escapes, the UK offers an abundance of romantic getaways for couples. Each destination on this list combines luxurious accommodations, exquisite dining, and enchanting settings to create unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the serenity of Cornwall, the grandeur of Berkshire, or the charm of Edinburgh, these romantic escapes promise to leave you and your partner with cherished memories.