A romantic escape doesn’t have to mean tropical beaches. How about beautiful landscapes ideal for scenic walks, luxury resorts for two, and charming towns with cozy pubs for curling up in a corner together next to a crackling fire? You’ll find all of that and more in the United Kingdom. It’s filled with romantic places that can rival even the likes of Venice or Paris, including these.
Portree - Isle of Skye, Scotland
From the moment you drive onto the Isle of Skye, your breath will literally be taken away with scenery so spectacularly romantic you’ll have to pinch yourself to believe it’s real. Gaze up at soaring mountains blanketed in heather and laced with countless waterfalls while rugged cliffs with unique rock formations give it an otherworldly feel. There are deep lakes, coral beaches for peaceful strolls, and idyllic spots for picnics like the Fairy Glen with its enchanting Fairy Pools. The main town on the island is Portree, known for its pastel-colored cottages along the waterfront and scenic harbor that make it an ideal base. You’ll find plenty of enticing eateries and shops to explore here as well.
St Ives - Cornwall, England
Located in the far southwest of England, Cornwall is home to 300 miles of dunes and cliffs, medieval harbors, and forested creeks, while offering everything from swimming with seals and basking sharks to climbing down the stepping-stone cliffs to explore rock pools. In St. Ives, you can stroll hand in hand along the sands of Porthminster Beach, enjoy seaside wining and dining, and catch a dreamy sunset from St. Ives Head. A serene boat tour is a must for enjoying the scenery from the water while bringing the chance to spot marine life like dolphins and seals.
York, England
York’s medieval streets are jam-packed with history and magnificent buildings that make it ideal for a romantic city escape. It’s been surrounded by walls since Roman times, and substantial portions still remain, with more miles of intact wall than any other in the country. Take in a view from the imposing Clifford’s Tower, which is all the remains of York Castle, and wander the cobbled streets, enjoying the aroma of chocolate-making in the air. You can’t miss the majestic York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral north of the Alps and the very spot where Duke of Kent wed Miss Katherine Worsley in 1961, its first Royal wedding in York Minster since King Edward III married Philippa of Hainault there in 1328. Of course, you’ll want to enjoy the evocative surroundings, including North York Moors where Emily Bronte penned Wuthering Heights, a story of unrivaled love between Cathy and Heathcliff.
Canterbury, England
The historic city of Canterbury sits along the River Stour. The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets, historic walls, and a stunning cathedral with medieval stained glass. There are many viewpoints and intimate hotels that are ideal for couples seeking romance, and you can even enjoy “punting” on the river, where you’ll relax in a traditional boat as someone else gently floats you down the river. You’ll cruise past adorable bridges and lush gardens for an especially romantic excursion that brings the chance to snuggle up close under tartan blankets as the vessel follows the winding path.
Bushmills and the Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
The Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland is one of the most romantic destinations on the planet. It’s filled with places that are perfect for popping the question, from the stunning ruins of Dunluce Castle overlooking the Atlantic and the Dark Hedges to the world-famous basalt columns at Giant’s Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. The stunning nature reserve of Banagher Glen with its dense oak woodland stretches for miles, providing the opportunity for romantic strolls, while the town of Bushmills offers a perfect base for enjoying it all with romantic hotels as well as being home to Bushmills Distillery, where you can enjoy a tour and a tasting.
Castle Combe, England
Located in the heart of the Cotswolds, one of the most picturesque and romantic areas in England, Castle Combe is filled with honey-hued stone cottages with sloping slate roofs, medieval bridges, meandering streams, colorful blooms, and a 13th-century church with a faceless clock said to be one of the oldest in the country. This storybook town in New England looks like something out of a fairytale, and its charming looks have led it to be featured in numerous films, including the original “Dr. Doolittle” and “Stardust.” If you weren’t in love before entering, you will be by the time you leave.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Often making lists of the world’s most romantic cities, Edinburgh is stunning with its magnificent architecture and cobbled streets, overlooked by an 11th-century castle while the sounds of bagpipes waft through the streets. Couples will feel transported back in time while wandering through the Scottish capital, discovering secret spots for stealing a kiss. A foodie paradise, there are many fantastic restaurants for romantic meals, whether you’re looking for traditional bites or international fare, while the surrounding countryside is breathtaking. There is a lot to see and do here, as you can climb to Arthur’s Seat for a jaw-dropping view over the city or see the tranquil Water of Leith filled with the peaceful sounds of the river and the songs of the birds.
Portmeirion, Wales
Enjoy some Italian romance right in Wales with a visit to Portmeirion, which was designed in the style of an Italian village. Often named one of the most postcard-perfect places in the country, some say it was inspired by the fishing village of Portofino, something you can easily see in the iconic buildings, pretty squares, and colorful streets. There are more than 19 miles of pathways meandering through exotic woodlands, white sandy beaches at Dwyryrd Estuary for tranquil strolls, a fabulous spa, and opportunities to dine with a gorgeous view. After a romantic meal, share some traditional gelato for dessert at an Italian Gelateria.
Grasmere - Lake District, England
Nature lovers won’t want to miss the chance to visit the Lake District in northwest England. Two centuries worth of poets and painters provide testament to its romance factor. Wild, emotive, and awe-inspiring, it boasts 2,000 miles of scenic trails winding through woodlands, lush green valleys, hills, and mountains, often bringing beautiful lake views. Explore on foot and then head to the heart of the region to the village of Grasmere, with plenty of cozy pubs where you can pop in and enjoy a glass of cider or local ale, perhaps next to a roaring fire.
Kirkwall - Orkney Island, Scotland
One of the most beautiful destinations in Scotland, the Orkney Islands are often named among the most romantic spots to visit in the entire United Kingdom, with dramatic, magical landscapes that have long provided a source of inspiration for artists, poets, writers, and musicians. It’s home to numerous standing stones like the Ring of Brodgar, also known as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, as well as the Standing Stones of Stromness, both on the mainland. The largest town of Kirkwall is incredibly charming with its picturesque waterfront and the grand Saint Magnus Cathedral, a stunning Romanesque-style building that dates back to the early 12th century. The “Light of the North” is the northernmost cathedral in Scotland and dominates the town’s skyline – inside, discover the medieval dungeon and stone mason markings from the Viking ages.
Bath, England
Romance and history ooze through the walls of the Romanesque and Georgian buildings of Bath, while the River Avon adds to its amorous feel. Arguably the most beautiful city in England, it was named for its natural hot springs that flowed into ancient Roman baths two thousand years ago. In fact, this is the only place in the UK where you can soak in naturally hot mineral-rich waters as the Romans did. You’ll find numerous rooftop spas for enjoying pampering treatments, swimming in perfectly warm pools, and soaking in thermal baths. It’s also rich in architectural treasures like the Roman baths and home to interesting museums like the Jane Austin Centre, a shrine to the city’s most famous resident. Be sure to take a stroll across Pulteney Bridge and marvel at the 18th-century Royal Crescent that borders beautiful Royal Victoria Park.
Stratford-Upon-Avon, England
Stratford-Upon-Avon is a Tudor town jam-packed with history and charms. Nestled along the River Avon, it was once home to William Shakespeare, and the writer’s presence can be felt throughout, including the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, where you can catch one of his plays. Tour his birthplace, explore the grounds at Shakespeare’s New Place, and wander the streets lined with half-timbered homes. Just a mile walk will bring you to Anne Hathaway’s romantic, thatched-roof cottage, and you can also enjoy a short boat cruise on the river to see the sites from a duck’s-eye view.
Llanrwst, Wales
Nestled in the beautiful Conwy Valley along the banks of the River Conwy, Llanrwst is picture-perfect with Pont Fawr, an elegant 16th-century stone bridge its focal point. It lies next to a 15h-century cottage that’s one of the most photographed buildings in the region, known as Ty Hwnt I’r Bont, or the House Beyond the Bridge. Many people travel here from far and wide to enjoy some of its famous cream tea followed by a riverside picnic.
Abereiddy
Where there aren’t much more than a few houses that sit along the Pembrokeshire coast here in Abereiddy, the town often ranks as one of the most romantic in the United Kingdom, with its star attraction a coastal pool with surreal blue water that might make you think you’ve somehow landed in the Caribbean known as the Blue Lagoon. On a warm day, you might leap into the jewel-colored lagoon for a refreshing dip, an especially ideal thing to do after a walk along the coastal path. You’ll find beautiful beaches that are ideal for spending alone time together while gazing out at the waves.
