Romantic Breaks in the UK

Distance from London: 90 miles (145 km), drive time approximately 2 hours.
Distance from Oxford: 30 miles (48 km), drive time approximately 50 minutes.

Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore the Cotswolds at your own pace. With scenic country roads and charming villages scattered throughout the region, having your own vehicle offers flexibility and convenience—especially for visiting hidden gems that are less accessible by public transport.

Romantic things to do:

• Wander around Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the "Venice of the Cotswolds," with its charming low bridges and riverside cafés.
• Enjoy a romantic afternoon tea at a countryside manor, surrounded by rolling hills and manicured gardens.
• Stroll hand-in-hand through beautiful Bibury, known for its picturesque Arlington Row cottages and tranquil riverside paths.
• Visit Sudeley Castle and Gardens for a tranquil, romantic setting steeped in history and royal connections.
• Take a scenic drive through the Cotswold hills, stopping at quaint villages like Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Campden for antique shopping and cosy pubs.
• Book a couples’ spa treatment at a luxury retreat such as Cowley Manor or Barnsley House.
• Explore Hidcote Manor Garden, a National Trust gem with intimate garden rooms and quiet corners perfect for couples.

Distance from London: 115 miles (185 km), drive time approximately 2.5 hours.
Distance from Bristol: 13 miles (21 km), drive time approximately 30 minutes.

Romantic things to do:

• Relax together in the rooftop pool at the Thermae Bath Spa, with stunning views over the city.

• Take a romantic stroll along the Pulteney Bridge and wander along the banks of the River Avon.

• Dress up in period costume and walk in the footsteps of Jane Austen at the annual festival in her honour.

• Explore the historic Roman Baths by torchlight and take in the magical, intimate atmosphere.
  

Distance from London: 250 miles (402 km), drive time approximately 5 hours.
Distance from Manchester: 90 miles (145 km), drive time approximately 2 hours.

Romantic things to do:

• Take a boat ride on Lake Windermere or rent a rowing boat and see how well you row in rhythm together.
• Drive the Keswick Loop via Buttermere and Borrowdale and take in some of the most beautiful views in the lake district.
• Do the circular walk at Tarn Hows, taking the detour to Tom Gill waterfall. It takes about 2 hours through stunning scenery.
• Visit Rydal Mount, William Wordsworth’s home, and stroll, hand-in-hand through its romantic gardens.

Distance from London: 250 miles (402 km), drive time approximately 5 hours.
Distance from Exeter: 70 miles (113 km), drive time approximately 1.5 hours.

Romantic things to do:

• Watch the sunset over a picnic at Land’s End or Porthcurno Beach.
• Explore the pretty streets of St Ives, known for its art galleries and seafood restaurants.
• Walk along the South West Coast Path for dramatic cliffside views and plenty of fresh sea air.
• Visit the UK’s version of Mont St Michel, the iconic St Michael’s Mount, a tidal island with a historic castle accessible at low tide by a cobblestone causeway.
  

Distance from London: 580 miles (933 km), drive time approximately 10 hours.
Distance from Inverness: 110 miles (177 km), drive time approximately 2.5 hours.

Romantic things to do:

• Go wild swimming in the Fairy Pools near Carbost in the West of Skye, known for their crystal-clear waters.
• Take a scenic drive to Neist Point Lighthouse, on the most westerly tip of Skye, for breathtaking coastal views.
• Explore Dunvegan Castle and Gardens, steeped in history and beauty.
• Do the Quiraing circular walk to see the dramatic landscape, formed by a massive landslip. The walk takes around 2 hours, but you will definitely want to stop and take photos along the way.