Are you looking to whisk away your loved one to somewhere truly extraordinary? Then a secluded romantic weekend break might just be the thing.
For those needing to get away from it all and reconnect, in the peace and tranquillity of spectacular surroundings, it's time to discover some of these enchanting places. From retreats with heavenly hot tubs to luxury lodges and shepherd's huts and more.
There's no better way to fall in love with your escape than by adding a little magic to your romance. Here at HELLO, we have found some of the best romantic retreats in the UK...
Godwick's shepherd's huts
This is the perfect romantic retreat for couples! Godwick's shepherd's huts are close to nature - quirky, rustic and extremely comfortable. They have wood burners and radiators, so they are cosy retreats even in the colder months. The three huts come with some fabulous mod cons - a double bed and ensuite shower room, a small kitchen and microwave and even a two-person hammock. As well as a comfortable night's sleep, guests can order a welcome breakfast hamper of Norfolk bread and cereal along with a host of other extras such as a bottle of fizz chilling in your fridge, a barbecue, or marvel at the stars with a fire pit, basket of wood, blankets, marshmallows and skewers. To book: Godwick's shepherds huts, £90/night minimum two night stay, TripAdvisor.
Penicuik Estate
© Alexander BaxterJust 30 minutes from Edinburgh, Penicuik Estate is an idyllic spot for a romantic weekend away. Set at the foot of the Pentland Hills, its cosy one-bedroom cottages, including Eastlin and Westlin, feature wood-burning stoves, roll-top baths, private terraces, and cedar hot tubs. For something extra special, Eskfield spa house has its own walled garden, sauna and plunge pool. Couples can enjoy breakfast hampers delivered to the door, private chef dining and in-cottage spa treatments, or unwind by the fire before exploring the estate’s 20km of trails, wild swimming at the High Pond, or hikes across the Pentland Hills. Rates: 1-bedroom cottage from £260 per night and 1-bedroom Eskfield from £350 per night.
Wildwood Spa by Ravendere Retreats
If you're looking for something different, you can now book a stay at the secluded two-person Wildwood Spa by Ravendere Retreats. Located in the coastal village of Lee, amongst 12 acres of private woodland on the North Devon coastline, I was transported to one of two magical hideaways. One being the cosy, pet-friendly Tree House and the other, the recently added Wildwood Spa. The private rental has been made exclusively for two people - and I thought it was the ideal sanctuary for romance. The design of the Wildwood Spa is unique, featuring two cuboid living spaces; the lounge and kitchen along with the bedroom and bathroom, parted by an open-air plunge pool and decking area.
The Gate Cornwall
Situated on the South East coast of Cornwall between the harbour town of Looe and the historic fishing village of Polperro, The Gate Cornwall is the perfect place to escape from the crowds and breath in the clean Cornish air. The luxury king-size hotel rooms and self-catered studios offer a staycation to remember. Less than two miles from Talland Bay Beach, the sea is within easy grasp, giving you the best of country and coastal living. Why not try the Luxury Shepherd's Hut? With far reaching views, an outside roll-top bath on the deck and it's own kitchenette and en-suite – it's the perfect pairing of rustic and luxe. To book The Gate Cornwall, visit Booking.com.
Daisy Chain Log Cabin
Nestled in the heart of East Sussex, Daisy Chain Log Cabin offers a serene and romantic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This beautifully crafted cabin, with its stunning wooden interiors and cosy furnishings, provides the ideal setting for a relaxing weekend getaway. For couples looking for some quality time together, this charming retreat boasts a private hot tub and a log burner, creating a warm and intimate ambience that's perfect for snuggling up together.
The surrounding woodland and rolling hills provide a breathtaking backdrop for a romantic stroll or a picnic for two. Equipped with modern amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable seating area, and a spacious bedroom with a luxurious king-size bed, this log cabin is a great place to unwind and recharge. Whether you're looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply want to escape for a few days, Daisy Chain Log Cabin is the ultimate destination for a cosy and romantic getaway.
Peregrine Retreat by Bettws Court Retreats
This is one of three of the amazing retreats by Bettws Court Retreats - and I loved my two-night stay here very much. The dreamy haven, situated on Orcop Hill, will help you clear your mind with a hilltop picnic accompanied by panoramic views. With a super modern but homely feel, Peregrine Retreat is completely airy and screams relaxed minimalism. With brown wooden walls, cosy blankets and neutral fibre accessories, this Scandi lodge is the quintessential getaway.
Pool End Cottage
Escape for a peaceful short break in the picturesque surroundings of the Cotswolds AONB area. Pool End Cottage in the very pretty village of Willersey, makes a perfect couples retreat for guests wishing to enjoy a relaxing rural break in this beautiful and peaceful corner of the UK countryside. This traditional Cotswold Stone cottage that has bags of character with its exposed beams and vaulted ceilings to the spacious master bedroom that overlooks the village duck pond and green. Each room is beautifully furnished with excellent attention to detail.
This five star property also has a big enclosed garden, which comes with a BBQ and patio area for a spot of alfresco dining.Here, you are just minutes from beautiful Broadway. The area is surrounded by fields and mature woodland with countless walks for you to explore. Couples can relax in the comfort of the cottage, enjoy peaceful strolls and explore some of the nearby pubs and restaurants. To book, holidaycottages.co.uk – prices from £876 for 7 nights, sleeping four people in two bedrooms.
Willow Lodge
Willow Lodge, near Newark-On-Trent, is for those seeking a peaceful escape. Nestled in the charming village of Winthorpe, this beautifully designed lodge offers countryside seclusion and some much-needed relaxation.The open-plan living space is bright, stylish and immaculately presented, with a fully equipped kitchen that made cooking a joy. Mornings were best spent on the private decking, coffee in hand, soaking in the beautiful countryside views. Evenings were just as delightful, unwinding on the plush sofa with a film on the Smart TV. The bedrooms - one luxurious king-size and a cosy twin - were incredibly comfortable, making for restful nights after days spent exploring nearby Nottingham or strolling along the River Trent. With private parking and all the amenities you could need, Willow Lodge is a perfect getaway for couples looking to relax in style. We'll definitely be back! To book, visit sykescottages.co.uk
Port Lympne Reserve
A trip to Port Lympne Reserve in Kent is one to truly cherish, especially on a romantic couples retreat. The UK's first conservation hotel and reserve, which works with The Aspinall Foundation to help conserve endangered species in the world, and then return as many of them back to protected areas in the wild as possible, has stunning grounds more reminiscent of Kenya than Kent. You can choose to stay in a variety of beautiful accommodation options, from an exhilarating Lion Lodge or one of the special Treehouses, the latter of which has been a firm favourite with celebrities like Alex Scott and Lucy Mecklenburg. During our stay, we toured the 600-acre area in a safari truck, spending the day spotting giraffes, zebras, ostriches and more majestic animals.
Hansel & Gretel Cottage
This unique lakeside hideaway nestled in a 200-acre private wood on the Bradford Estate is a truly memorable spot for a romantic getaway, an off-grid escape, or an active weekend of walking, cycling and exploring. Located only 30 minutes from Birmingham city centre, this is the ideal place for a country retreat. The house presents the rare opportunity to stay in a wonderful place of history and heritage, with all the creature comforts and a few surprises on arrival that will make your stay one to remember. Email enquiries@bradford-estates.co.uk to enquire.
Buxton Crescent Hotel
© John AthimaritisNestled in the heart of the picturesque Peak District, I thought this place was a haven of relaxation. I was impressed with the hotel's overall elegant decor, bright, natural light, and was lucky to have views over the Buxton Slopes and Crescent from my room, which came complete with soft furnishing, a super King-sized bed, and more. After I made myself at home, I headed down to the fabulous facilities for a dip in the pool or a moment in the relaxing steam room. The spa is not merely a retreat; it's an experience that transcends the ordinary. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was transported to a realm of peace and quiet. The exquisite surroundings and unparalleled treatments make this spa a must-visit for anyone wanting the perfect city detox. From rejuvenating facials to blissful massages, each treatment is a bespoke experience tailored to your specific needs.
Nearby points of interest include the Monsal Trail, a traffic-free scenic route for cyclists, walkers and runners, stretching for 8.5 miles along disused railway lines, as well as Chatsworth House and Gardens. The hotel is also a five minute walk to The Pavilion Gardens, with a children’s play park, lake and miniature railway.
Spink's Nest
One of Norfolk's most picturesque cottages, Spink's Nest is located to the north of the county and provides the perfect getaway for those looking to escape everything this summer and enjoy the best of the British countryside. Over two years in the making, the painstaking restoration of this gardener's cottage dating back to the mid-18th century, is the very definition of rustic luxe. Using curated, reclaimed and vintage materials and objects throughout, it's the juxtaposition between traditional textures and materials alongside premium upholstery and fabrics that truly secures the cottage's extraordinary charm. A very romantic bolthole in the coastal region.
Kettering Park Hotel
Although Kettering Park Hotel and Spa has the stunning Northamptonshire countryside on its doorstep, you will probably find yourself not wanting to leave the hotel. The friendly staff and luxurious interiors instantly made me feel relaxed and welcome. The spacious bedroom felt clean and comfortable and the additional extras such as White Company toiletries and fancy biscuits all made for the ultimate pampering experience. After unwinding in our room, we headed down to the spa and made full use of their onsite facilities, which included a swimming pool and jacuzzi, we also booked ourselves into one of their many relaxing treatments. The cosy bar and One Rosette restaurant were the perfect way to end our getaway with a selection of delicious meals and a dreamy cocktail list.
Reviewed by Katy Huke, SEO Manager
The Grove
© Chris TubbsRenowned for its sprawling 18-hole golf course, its array of luxurious restaurants and its elegant spa, it's easy to see why The Grove hotel is popular with so many. The jewel in the crown is the Grade-II listed mansion which houses the hotel's sumptuous bedrooms. I recently stayed in one of their deluxe 'Garden Rooms' - and I almost didn't want to leave… Complete with a charming view, a balcony, a plush king size bed and an enormous bathroom, every detail had been carefully considered and delivered to the highest standard. On an aesthetic level, the brushed velvet furniture and moss-green hues throughout had me swooning.
Its Sequoia Spa is a must if you're looking to slough off lingering cobwebs. It's a heavenly sanctuary decked out with an array of facilities including a large pool, a sauna, a steam room and a bubbling plunge pool. I was treated to the 'signature massage' which combines both Swedish massage, shiatsu and ancient Thai healing techniques. The lovely Sheen was able to deftly de-knot my shoulders whilst also alleviating built up tension and discomfort in my back. For added relaxation, she used an organic Bamford oil blend with soothing notes of lavender. The hotel's 'Glasshouse' restaurant also deserves a mention. As seen on Netflix's Million Dollar Buffet documentary with Grace Dent, an array of food stations offer up platefuls of knockout food, including Tandoori dishes, fiery pad thais, British classics and crispy pizzas. Save space for dessert, especially the crème brûlée which was pure perfection.
The Other House South Kensington
© JACK HARDYSometimes, even when you're spending the night away with your loved one, you still want the cosy comfort and familiarity of being at home. As its name suggests, The Other House in South Kensington delivers exactly that. Velvet sofas invite you to sink in, while each thoughtfully designed space comes complete with a kitchenette and dishwasher – ideal for longer stays. It's the smaller details that truly create the cosy atmosphere, from casually placed volumes of Shakespeare to the inviting living area and a bathroom vanity perfectly positioned for touch-ups before heading out for a night on the town. If you're feeling peckish, make your way to the hotel’s brasserie, The Other Kitchen, or settle in for a cocktail at the Owl & Monkey, where an imaginative drinks list is paired with tempting small plates. For a more indulgent escape, the wellness area beckons: take a dip in the pool, unwind in the spa and sauna, work up a sweat in the gym or choose from a menu of treatments, including holistic massage and sound healing.
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