A Guide To The Top 10 Romantic Places to Visit in UK 2022
Romantic Places to Visit in the UK
The UK is home to some of the most romantic destinations in Europe, including the coasts and woodlands, so it's no wonder you can find so many holiday options here. For couples looking for some romance on vacation, the UK is the perfect place for you. This blog covers the top 10 romantic places to visit in the UK to help you choose.
Maybe you're not so convinced that the UK is romantic? What are you waiting for? Perhaps it's time to witness some views, eat food, and explore. You'll see what everyone else has been raving about firsthand and experience spots that rival the likes of Paris or Venice without paying the expensive flight costs and excessive food prices.
The A Couple Things To Do Team is more than qualified to do this as we have lived in 6 of the most famous cities in the UK, but we've also explored many other spots. So, we decided to bring together this guide on the top 10 romantic visits in the UK to help with your travels and romantic weekends.
What Makes a Place Romantic?
People often associate the countryside with romantic vacations. But, what makes a place romantic?
Many things make a place romantic, and the most common factor is the scenery. A beautiful and serene location can be an instant mood booster and create a feeling about an area that transcends over a visit.
For example, people who visit Paris often talk about how the city is so beautiful that it makes them feel more romantic. This applies to many of the top 10 romantic places in the UK.
Another factor influencing romance is the food and drinks available in a particular location. If you go to a restaurant for dinner, for example, you enjoy your meal with your sweetheart. You will probably start to feel the romance blossom between you.
Lastly, music can also play an essential role in making people feel more romantic because it is closely related to emotions like happiness and love.
The Top 10 Romantic Places to Visit in the UK
#1 Bath
Those of you that have been to Bath will know exactly why this city has made the top spot. The history, scenery, food, culture and date spots make this the most romantic place to visit in the UK. The city is literally oozing with an ambience of amour. Based on this blog's featured image, you can tell that we love it!
The best restaurant with a view in Bath - Chez Dominique
Date night at Clayton’s Kitchen, Bath
Are you planning a romantic visit to Bath? You have to visit the Roman Baths at the Thermae Bath Spa. Not only are there fantastic photo opportunities, but you can also connect with your partner on a deeper level as you explore 2000 years of history.
After exploring the Roman Baths, head up to the Royal Crescent. If the weather is good, you can sit in the park and enjoy the stunning 30 terraced houses that make up the crescent. If you want to make this spot even more romantic, grab some picnic items from the nearest shop.
Once you've taken in the view, head down to one of the bars or restaurants in the city, our favourites are The Dark Horse (voted the best bar in Bath) and Menu Gordon Jones (a restaurant with a surprise taster menu!).
Bath is also a fantastic place to go for a wedding! Here, Henry was Best Man for Holly and Zac’s wedding.
If you'd like to get more recommendations in Bath, please get in touch, and we can send you a complete list of top restaurants, bars and "things to do".
#2 Edinburgh
Edinburgh makes number two on the list because of the different options for a romantic getaway. Whether you're looking to do some shopping, go to a fancy restaurant, explore some history, dance the night away or walk up the stunning Arthur's Seat to enjoy the view, Edinburgh has it all!
And if food is the language of love, Edinburgh is fluent in this too. It offers an impressive gourmet scene, with restaurants serving up traditional Scottish dishes and modern dining options, all set against the beautiful backdrop of these winding alleys.
Edinburgh is a perfect example of how an ambience can create romance - the history, stunning scenery, and culture combine to give it a feel that can't be described. One of our favourite evenings in the city was a walk from Edinburgh Castle down to The Scran and Scallie - our favourite restaurant in the area!
How many cities allow you to walk through a castle, explore the countryside and take in some of the best food that the UK has to offer? Look no further than Edinburgh for quality time with your other half.
The Third Most Romantic Place To visit In The UK - The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is the best place for a romantic escape in southwest England. From scenic walks and quaint tea shops to historical landmarks, lavender fields, and wildlife parks, the Cotswolds is perfect for a couple's weekend break.
Offering some of the countryside's most picturesque villages, the Cotswolds is England's quaintest region. Come for fantastic food, local rich ales, honey-coloured houses with stunning slate roofs, ancient bridges, winding rivers and breathtaking walks through small, well-kept villages.
With traditional cosy interiors, stripped back Cotswold stone walls, delicious food, local ales, and roaring fires, the region's pubs are among its many gems. Another reason that the Cotswolds are loved by so many is because of their stunning gardens.
If you're looking to have some lunch in the UK, head for a pub's snug area and enjoy some local delicacies. If you're more interested in dinner, then head for one of the romantic restaurants nearby.
Has the weather let you down? No problem - snuggle up by the fireplace instead and make the most of this peaceful haven away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
#4 Windsor
Windsor is most commonly known for Windsor Castle and its connection to royalty, but, in our opinion, it is also one of the most romantic places in the UK.
Situated on the south bank of the River Thames, Windsor is a charming town with many shops, restaurants and other attractions for both locals and tourists. You'll find primarily high-end retailers dotted around the city and some more unusual finds, including quirky cafés, fudge stores and chic boutiques.
If you're planning a romantic weekend in Windsor, we recommend you book into ADD HOTEL before walking over to Windsor Castle and St George's Castle. Once you've explored some history, you can fit in some culture at Theatre Windsor Royal and Windsor Duck Tours! We recommend you go for a drink at No5 St Leonards Road, a Boutique Champagne & Cocktail Bar that brings the romance.
#5 Brighton
The beautiful seaside town, once known as a place for a quiet getaway from parents or children, has now been gentrified, bringing a whole new class level, perfect for a getaway with your partner. There are plenty of attractions at the delightful beach, including a pier, boardwalk, and 5 miles of sun-soaked shoreline.
It's worth taking your time to explore the town and the surrounding areas. You'll have the opportunity to spend time in a quintessentially English-style house and explore and dine at the great eateries and restaurants. Or wandered down the famous Lanes for some spontaneous shopping.
Brighton is filled with tourist attractions. The ones that stood out best to me were the exquisite Royal Pavilion (built for King George IV) and its collections of period furniture.
Couples who enjoy cultural activities and are on the lookout for a spring break should try to time their stay at the Brighton Festival this March. This is a three-week festival that includes musicians from classical to jazz.
Brighton also hosts a Marathon every year in April. One half of the hungry couple ran the marathon in 2022! However, do not fear! If running is not quite your thing, but you want to take part, you can always do the 10k, which is held on the same day too. The Brighton Marathon's uniqueness is the amazing scenic view from the last stretch, which I found motivating when on our last legs!
Our room in the Hotel du Vin, Brighton
To check out the stunning hotel that we stayed at (above) feel free to use this link.
6th Most Romantic Place To Visit In UK: Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland
Seeing the Giant's Causeway in person is something that anyone would be envious of. Even better is experiencing this fantastic spectacle with someone you love where you can be star-struck together. This place will provide a lasting moment, and so will the story and pictures to tell the tale.
This otherworldly wonder can be found at the bottom of some giant basalt cliffs. Here, over 40,000 hexagon-shaped columns protrude from the sea, cliff sides, and walkways. The sheer number is mind-blowing and we had such fun climbing over some of the more accessible columns.
We just couldn't believe our eyes when we visited the causeway; it truly is magical, and it makes sense why it's Northern Island's one and only UNESCO World Heritage Site. We'd recommend bringing a picnic basket and enjoying the view while (touch wood) you soak up the sun!
#7 London
On our way to a date night in London
Yes, we know what you're thinking - London makes it onto every top 10 romantic places to visit in the UK list; what makes this so different?
With half of A Couple Things To Do living in SW London, we have had our fair share of romantic trips in London. We can guarantee you that London can be romantic without ruining your bank account when done right!
Whether you're visiting in Summer or Winter, you're bound to find excellent spots to spend with your other half, and there's simply every cuisine you could ever ask for.
If you fancy a drink and there's sport on, we recommend heading down to Vinegar Yard in London Bridge. If you really want to push the boat out, you should book a night in the Shard and one of the many bars & restaurants it has to offer.
A hidden gem that we love to head towards is Greenwich. Not only do you have the Emirates Air Line, but you also have a fantastic view of London that you can enjoy as the sun sets on your romantic evening in the capital.
#8 Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond is a beautiful place and, as such, has been given one of the UK's most romantic accolades among tourists. Trossachs National Park is Scotland's first national park and takes its visitors through an enchanted Scottish landscape. There's a lot to see in this country- from pretty countryside walks to fairy tale towns - and lots of opportunities for water-side drinks too. It's easy to think you've left the UK entirely!
The outdoors are a big draw for the region due to its excellent fishing, hiking, mountain biking and more. The area's trout and salmon are often found on restaurant menus. The Western Highland Way and Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park are some of the most scenic trails in the region. Activities like rock climbing and kayaking are also available in this park.
Those wanting to have a more relaxing holiday can go on a boat tour and enjoy the scenic views while they're at it. These beautiful sights are easily seen from your room, so it's entirely up to you to pick to relax in the beautiful highlands.
In our opinion, Loch Lomond and the surrounding area trump the Peak District and Lake District any day of the week!
#9 Cambridge
There are picture-perfect canals all over Cambridge that have a reputation for being romantic. If you want to do it yourself, gently punt up the waterways and recite your favourite poem from Keats to your loved one. But if you're not confident with the punting, take one of the boat tours - there are plenty of companies in town that offer them.
Cambridge has a long history, and its beautiful college grounds, which are situated on the river, add an elegant atmosphere. As both a student town and business hub, Cambridge provides plenty of bars and restaurants close by to suit your needs.
Cambridge is the home of the famous university and contains 31 colleges, each providing its own architectural features. If you are new to Cambridge, it is a good idea to explore these unique and historic sites - they're one of the best things about Cambridge.
If you are only on a fleeting visit, you must include Kings College on your to-do list! It's noted for its extensive grounds, including a view of the River Cam and its stunning chapel. If you're lucky enough to be visiting at the right time, try to go to choir practice or service.
Queens' College is a must-visit for any romantic couple looking for a beautiful background for their selfie. The 15th-century campus houses medieval buildings and an old bridge (perfect for that insta shot!)
#10 The Brecon Beacons
For couples looking to explore more of the United Kingdom, Wales is another fun option. Wales' Brecon Beacons National Park is one such area that's easily accessible from London and Cardiff. Hikers, cyclists, campers and even amateur astronomers will find something that suits their interests.
Up for a challenge? There are many trails suitable for the whole family. One famous here is Four Falls, a walker's delight and one of our most popular trails. –The five most scenic waterfalls in the area include: Cwm Porth, Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and the Sgwd yr Eira falls. If those waterfalls don't quite cut it, try Henry Falls, a big, 90-foot waterfall (the country's tallest) that's also popular among hikers. It's an easy hike that most people can enjoy.
Us on a weekend away to the Brecons
There's more to do in the Brecon Beacons and the surrounding area than just hiking. For example, cycling is a popular pursuit here, and you can follow National Cycle Route from Merthyr Tydfil. You can get on a steam train experience from here with the excellent Brecon Mountain Railway, which has some fantastic views to enjoy on your romantic getaway.
Top 10 Romantic Places to Visit in the UK Guide Conclusion
Now we've shared some of the top romantic places to visit in the UK, be sure to let us know if you think we've missed anything on the list! If you believe your city or town should be on the list, drop us a message! We're always up for trying new places.
Some notable places that didn't make the list include Stratford Upon Avon, St Ives, The Fairy Pools at The Isle of Skye, Durdle Door and some fantastic market towns across the UK were close but didn't make the top 10 romantic places to visit in the UK list!
These top 10 places to visit in the UK for couples are only our thoughts - if you'd like us to come and try a restaurant, hotel or experience near you, drop us a message. Romance and good food usually come hand in hand!
