written by Phoebe Lowndes
updated 16.11.2023
Discover the most romantic places in the UK, whether it's a countryside stroll or a sunset cocktail in one of the world's greatest cities. Here are our top picks.
The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for visiting the world.
If paradise is strolling out of your back door and straight into the mountains, then the Brecon Beacons is one of the best romantic places in the UK for you. Holiday cottages situated within this seemingly boundless national park offer couples with outdoorsy spirits a chance to commune with nature.
Walking, mountain biking and pony trekking are fun ways to explore the uplands and valleys of the Black Mountains. Afterwards, if you’re not tired out from the day’s adventures, the area is scattered with proper pubs boasting serious gastro credentials.
Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales © stocker1970/Shutterstock
Seeking the ultimate romantic weekend? Look no further than London. Smart, edgy and buzzing with a multicultural atmosphere — the diversity of this buzzing heartland is perhaps its star quality.
The Shard’s viewing platform is a magnificent way to soak up some atmosphere with your amore. You can also cop a thriftier view by boarding the Thames Clipper from Tate Britain to Tate Modern. Or take a stroll up the infamous Parliament Hill to watch the sun go down over this sprawling city.
Also, explore our guide to where to stay in London and find more attractive accommodation options.
The London Eye, River Thames, London, UK © Paul Daniels/Shutterstock
In the most far-reaching corner of the British Isles dwells Cornwall. This county is known fondly for its sandy beaches and cream teas, but also as a place that exudes myth from every mound. Tintagel Castle is perhaps the most evocative, as one of the greatest medieval sites in the entire country, and the alleged birthplace of King Arthur.
Think wizardry, tales of damsels in distress and knights in shining armour. The winding paths and sea views along Tintagel’s ruined battlements are simply enchanting.
Tintagel Castle - one of the most romantic places in the UK © Valery Egorov/Shutterstock
Escape to one of the ultimate romantic places in the UK — the Peak District — for a rural sojourn. In August, when the moorlands yield vibrant purple heather, this hearty hinterland (stomping ground of Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre) is breathtaking.
Make sure you book into one of the many characterful cottages available in the area. A great way to spend a day is at the stunning stately home of Chatsworth House — the historic seat of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and the setting of many famous love stories.
Ashopton Viaduct, Ladybower Reservoir, and Crook Hill in the Derbyshire Peak District National Park, England © Rob Thorley/Shutterstock
A UNESCO World Heritage site interwoven with literary history, the Georgian city of Bath is the perfect setting for a romantic weekend. Stroll through town to the Royal Crescent and observe Palladian architecture at its most magnificent. Or take the chance to visit The Pump Room for champagne tea overlooking the Roman Baths.
Explore independent galleries and shops to find a perfect memento, and conclude your day by indulging in a soothing soak in the naturally warm rooftop pool at Thermae Bath Spa. The breathtaking city views from this tranquil oasis add to the charm of this one of the most romantic places in the UK.
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This tailor-made trip to Northern Cornwall includes fantastic and romantic scenery. You will start your journey in London with some unique activities to get to know the city, before setting off on a 5-day walk across Cornwall. End your trip in Bath and explore the backdrop of Bridgerton.
Bath © ThinAir/Shutterstock
Undulant and unspoilt, the rugged scenery of Skye is some of Scotland’s most captivating. The island’s hub is Portree, a picturesque town of colourful harbour buildings and a good base for those looking to explore the island.
Keen wild swimmers should head for the enchanting Fairy Pools near Glen Brittle – a memorable spot for taking the plunge. And whisky fans mustn’t leave without a trip to the Talisker Distillery, where you can warm those cockles with a tasting tour.
Portree © Aeypix/Shutterstock
Journey to the northeast coast of Northern Ireland to see the sunset over the horizon from atop Giant’s Causeway. A brisk walk will bring you to this remarkable natural phenomenon, created by an ancient volcanic eruption, where approximately 40,000 hexagonal columns interlock to produce an undulating ridge of basalt rock.
If the symbolism of perfect natural unity isn’t enough to get you all gooey-eyed, the aura of myth and legendary stories surrounding this site will surely captivate your hearts.
The fascinating Giant Causeway in Northern Ireland © Kanuman/Shutterstock
Elope to Scotland’s capital for an elegant weekend away and to experience the fabulous contrast between medieval and cosmopolitan. You’ll find chic bars and restaurants nestled amongst landmarks steeped in centuries of history.
Book a table for dinner at The Outsider with a castle view to enjoy modern Scottish cuisine in the heart of the Old Town. A climb to the peak of Arthur’s Seat (an extinct volcano) will reward you with stunning views of the city and Edinburgh Castle.
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On this tailor-made trip to vintage England and picturesque Scotland, you will visit two traditional capitals, London and Edinburgh, and enjoy a trek through the Loch Lomond national park. This trip will let you discover peaceful Scottish islands on foot, with several days of detailed walking tours included.
Edinburgh, Scotland © S-F/Shutterstock
For the British coastline at its most arresting, pitch up on the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth. Here you’ll find campsites with far-reaching sea views and private beaches.
The picture-postcard limestone arches of Durdle Door make this weather-beaten landscape a dreamy location for long cliff-top walks, fossil hunting and a romantic break. Come twilight, cuddle over a campfire and if stormy weather threatens to cloud your stay, take shelter in the nearest cheerful pub – of which there are many.
Late evening light at Durdle Door Lulworth Dorset England © C Jones/Shutterstock
It’s easy to see why the Lake District National Park inspired William Wordsworth’s Romantic poetry. With its rolling green hills peering over clear expanses of water and quintessentially English towns and villages, the national park makes the perfect romantic getaway. Stay in a stone-clad cottage, light a roaring fire and enjoy the peace and quiet of this stunning region after a day admiring awesome views from the top of the fells.
It's away from the more obvious sights that the Lakes really begin to pay dividends as one of the most romantic places in the UK. The dramatic valleys of Langdale, Wasdale and Eskdale, as well as villages like Cartmel, a gourmet paradise, all create a charming, romantic atmosphere.
Dawn light over Ullswater and the Helvellyn range in the English Lake District. Taken from Place Fell © Shutterstock
The Highlands of Scotland region covers the northern two-thirds of the country and holds much of the mainland’s most spectacular scenery. The signature combination of mountains, glens, lochs and rivers, surrounded on three sides by a magnificently pitted and rugged coastline, guarantees wonderful moody views.
You may be surprised at how remote much of the Scotland Highlands still is. The vast peat bogs in the north are among the most extensive and unspoilt wilderness areas in Europe, while a handful of the isolated crofting villages on the west coast can still be reached only by boat.
On this tailor-made Highland Tour, you will discover the beautiful region of Perthshire, the famous Loch Ness and Inverness – the capital of the Highlands. Get a chance to admire Europe’s oldest mountain, stroll along sandy beaches on the Scottish West Coast, and visit the mysterious Isle of Skye.
Skye Island in Scottish Highlands, Scotland © David Redondo/Shutterstock
Just east of Zennor in Cornwall, lies the picturesque town of St Ives, a perfect romantic getaway. With its four hilly miles and steeply built streets, this charming town was once fueled by the pilchard industry. As the pilchard reserves dwindled in the early 1900s, St Ives evolved into a thriving artists' colony.
This vibrant community laid the foundation for renowned artists like Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth, Naum Gabo, and potter Bernard Leach. In the 1960s, a third wave of artists, including Peter Lanyon and Patrick Heron, followed in their footsteps, further enriching the artistic heritage of this enchanting destination.
Find more accommodation options to stay in St Ives.
Evening light on Porthmeor Beach St Ives Cornwall © ian woolcock/Shutterstock
Three rivers – the Yare, Waveney and Bure – meander across the flatlands to the east of Norwich, converging on Breydon Water before flowing into the sea at Great Yarmouth. In places, these rivers swell into wide expanses of water known as broads, which for years were thought to be natural lakes.
The Norfolk Broads are crisscrossed by roads and rail lines, but the best – really the only – way to see them is by boat. You can happily spend a week or so exploring the 125 miles of lock-free navigable waterways, visiting the various churches, pubs and windmills en route.
Thurne Mill on the waterside of Thurne River mouth in the Norfolk Broads @ yackers1/Shutterstock
Thrusting into the Bristol Channel west of Swansea, the nineteen-mile Gower (Gŵyr) peninsula is fringed by sweeping yellow bays and precipitous cliffs, caves and blowholes to the south. To the north, one finds wide, flat marshes and cockle beds.
Inland, amidst the brackened heaths, you'll discover scattered castle ruins, intriguing churches, prehistoric remains, and quaint villages. These all contribute to the allure of romantic places in the UK.
Spring dawn over iconic Three Cliffs Bay in Gower South Wales © Steve Pleydell/Shutterstock
Bourton-on-the-Water is the epicentre of Cotswold tourism. Beside the village green – flanked by photogenic Jacobean and Georgian facades in yellow Cotswold stone – five picturesque little bridges span the shallow River Windrush, dappled by shade from overhanging trees.
It looks lovely, but its proximity to main roads means that it’s invariably packed with people. Tourist coaches cram in all summer long and the little High Street now concentrates on souvenirs and teashops, interspersed with everything from a Model Village and Motoring Museum to a Dragonfly Maze and Bird Park.
Find more accommodation options to stay in Bourton on the Water
Bourton-on-the-Water village in the Cotswolds © Reimar/Shutterstock
For even more romantic destinations, check out our in-depth guide to the most romantic places in the world.
Feel inspired by our winter breaks in the UK? Check out the snapshot of The Rough Guide to Wales or The Rough Guide to England and start planning your perfect trip.
If you prefer to plan and book your trip to the UK without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.
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written by Phoebe Lowndes
updated 16.11.2023
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