The United Kingdom, a realm steeped in history, folklore, and breathtaking landscapes, offers a wealth of opportunities for romantic escapades. Forget the predictable chocolates and roses; instead, embark on an unforgettable journey with your loved one, whether it’s navigating a perplexing maze, commissioning bespoke jewelry, or stargazing under a velvety night sky. From charming villages that seem to have sprung from the pages of a fairytale to secluded cottage hideaways, 17 Best Romantic Things to Do in the United Kingdom abound. Whether you prefer the tranquility of the countryside or the vibrant pulse of a city like London, the UK provides a diverse canvas for igniting or rekindling the flame of love. Turn your honeymoon or anniversary into a chapter ripped from a romance novel with a visit to these nostalgic and captivating destinations.
Here are 17 Best Romantic Things to Do in the United Kingdom, for an unforgettable experience:
- Take a Cruise on Lake Windermere:
A visit to the Lake District is incomplete without experiencing the serene beauty of Lake Windermere. This majestic body of water, stretching over 10.5 miles and plunging to depths of 200 feet, reigns as England’s largest natural lake. Begin your romantic voyage from the charming locales of Bowness, Ambleside, or Lakeside, and embark on a leisurely cruise along the lake’s narrow expanse. As you glide along, immerse yourselves in the captivating history narrated by your guide and marvel at the panoramic mountain vistas that provide picture-perfect moments. For a more intimate experience, opt for a smaller launch boat, ideal for couples seeking seclusion. Alternatively, a larger "steamer" offers a comprehensive 75-minute round-trip journey. To enhance your day, combine your cruise with a visit to a nearby attraction, creating a cherished memory together.
- Soak at Thermae Bath Spa:
Indulge in the ultimate relaxation and romance at Thermae Bath Spa, where natural mineral-rich waters await. Located in the historic city of Bath, this spa offers a unique opportunity to rejuvenate your senses together. Immerse yourselves in the rooftop pool, filled with naturally heated 92°F water, brimming with over 42 minerals and trace elements known for their therapeutic properties. Let the warm waters soothe your muscles and heal your bones during a blissful two-hour spa session. For an even more intimate experience, retreat to the on-site massage rooms for a couple’s massage, designed to melt away stress and enhance connection. Alternatively, book the Wellness Suite and luxuriate in the Georgian Steam Room, the Infrared Room, and the Celestial Relaxation Room, each designed to transport you to a state of pure bliss.
- Sip Tea at Lucy’s Tearoom:
If your travels take you to the enchanting Cotswolds, a visit to Lucy’s Tearoom is an absolute must. Nestled within a 300-year-old stone cottage in Stow’s Market Square, this quaint, family-run establishment exudes warmth and charm. Step inside and admire the traditional architecture, featuring flagstone floors, exposed beams, and a large bay window that floods the space with natural light. Savor the quintessential British experience of afternoon tea, complete with traditional cream teas and freshly baked toasted teacakes. For those seeking healthier options, Lucy’s Tearoom also offers a selection of plant-based fare. To extend your romantic getaway, consider booking one of the two tea-themed rooms at their cozy bed and breakfast upstairs.
- Get Lost in Puzzlewood:
Venture into the mystical realm of Puzzlewood, located in Gloucestershire’s ancient Forest of Dean, for an outdoor adventure filled with wonder and intrigue. Don your hiking boots and prepare to be captivated by a landscape of twisted trees, winding paths, bridges, and panoramic lookout points. Explore this otherworldly forest, where fascinating rock formations and underground caves, known as scowles, await discovery. These unique formations were created by the erosion of carboniferous limestone, revealing hidden features over time. As you traverse the trails, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls Puzzlewood home, including badgers, deer, foxes, rabbits, and a variety of bats. After your exploration, unwind at the cafe with delicious baguettes and a comforting cup of tea.
- Have a Brief Encounter:
Relive the magic of classic cinema at Carnforth Station in Lancashire, the filming location for David Lean’s iconic film, Brief Encounter. The station has been meticulously refurbished to honor its cinematic heritage. Arrange to meet under the clock featured in the film, or create your own modern-day encounter at London’s beautifully restored St. Pancras International Station. Capture a memorable selfie with Paul Day’s towering 30-foot statue, The Meeting Place, and then indulge in a glass of champagne at the station’s world-renowned champagne bar, the longest in Europe.
- Shop for Custom Jewelry:
For a truly unique and lasting symbol of your love, venture into Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, where approximately 40 percent of the jewelry crafted in the United Kingdom originates. This vibrant district is home to a multitude of talented designer-makers, many of whom trained at the district’s esteemed college. These artisans create exquisite pieces to your exact specifications, often at a fraction of the cost you might expect to pay for custom work elsewhere. While you await the completion of your masterpiece, admire the dazzling array of gemstones at a diamond shop or savor a glass of wine at one of the district’s trendy cafes.
- Visit the Sexy Giant:
Embrace a playful and provocative experience with a visit to the Cerne Abbas Giant, arguably the sexiest ancient monument in the British Isles. This colossal chalk figure, sculpted into the hillside above the village of Cerne Abbas, depicts a "naked, sexually aroused, club-wielding giant," according to the National Trust. Couples seeking to add a spark to their relationship are drawn to amorous encounters near the Giant’s most prominent feature. In the past, some have even spent the night under his watchful gaze. If you find yourself at a loss for words on Valentine’s Day, a trip to this ancient drawing proves that sometimes a picture can speak volumes.
- Stay the Night in a Castle:
Immerse yourselves in history and luxury with an unforgettable stay in one of the UK’s many castle hotels. These magnificent structures, transformed into unique and opulent accommodations, offer a glimpse into a bygone era. Imagine yourselves ensconced in a turret room, surrounded by ancient stone walls, a crackling fireplace, and regal tapestries. Castle hotels like Langley Castle Hotel blend historical charm with modern amenities, offering four-poster beds, lavish bathrooms, picturesque landscaped views, moats, and battlements that ignite your most romantic fantasies.
- Hold Hands on a Beautiful Beach:
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the UK’s coastline with a romantic stroll along one of its many stunning beaches. Carved by the wind and glaciers of the ice age, these beaches offer remarkable landscapes that inspire awe and wonder. The National Trust of Wales has even designated some of these beaches as ideal locations for popping the question. Watergate Bay, with its two miles of pristine sand, is a haven for surfers. Saunton Sands, another popular surfing destination, borders Braunton Burrows, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The tranquil coastal village and beach of Sandsend offer a serene escape from the city’s bustle, transporting you to a fairytale world.
- Lose Yourselves in Leeds Castle Maze:
Embrace the playful challenge of navigating the intricate hedge maze at Leeds Castle, a site steeped in history and romance. In the heyday of English maze design, mazes were considered places for flirtation and secret rendezvous. Visit during the day, when the crowds are thinner, and enjoy moments of privacy as you navigate the thick yew hedges. Leeds Castle’s maze is particularly challenging, featuring a circular pattern within a square layout, making it easy to lose yourselves for hours.
- Stargaze at Brecon Beacons:
Escape to the Brecon Beacons National Park in South Wales, an outdoor paradise for couples seeking adventure and romance. Hike along miles of scenic trails, embark on a horseback ride through the countryside, or mountain bike on winding roads and hillside tracks. This park is also an International Dark Sky Reserve, offering unparalleled views of the night sky. On clear nights, you can witness the Milky Way, major constellations, bright nebulas, and meteor showers with the naked eye. Book a camping or glamping experience, snuggle up with your loved one under a blanket, and marvel at the incredible celestial display.
- Stroll Through a Lavender Meadow:
Immerse yourselves in the fragrant beauty of Norfolk Lavender, home to the National Collection of Lavenders. Wander hand-in-hand through fields of over 100 different varieties of lavender, inhaling the soothing aromatherapy. Take a guided tour of the distillery and witness the transformation of the plant from flower to perfume. Afterward, indulge in lavender-infused cake and tea at the Lavender Lounge Tearoom.
- Row Your Way Through Cambridge:
Experience the timeless charm of Cambridge with a romantic punting tour along the River Cam. These traditional flat-bottomed boats, similar to those used in Venice, offer a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks. Book a private tour for a more intimate experience, as a skilled operator guides you down the waterway. Admire the Mathematical Bridge, King’s College Chapel, the impressive Wren Library, and pass under the Bridge of Sighs. For more privacy, rent a punt and navigate the river yourselves.
- Take a Walk in Dartmoor:
Discover the idyllic beauty of Dartmoor, home to the Emsworthy Mire, a moorland nature reserve where thousands of bluebells bloom every spring. Explore miles of trails through open moorlands and deep river valleys within the protected Dartmoor National Park. Venture along an abandoned railway or embark on an archeological walk, and you’ll soon find yourselves alone, surrounded by pristine landscapes perfect for a romantic picnic.
- Ice Skate at London’s Somerset House:
During the winter months, London transforms into a wonderland of ice rinks, but few are as romantic as the one at Somerset House. Glide hand-in-hand across the ice, illuminated by the neoclassical landmark, and soak in the magical atmosphere. Enjoy artisan food and drink at Chalet Barragiste with Jimmy Garcia, and during the holidays, marvel at the towering 40-foot-tall Christmas tree adorned with twinkling lights.
- Take a Stroll Through Bibury:
Step back in time with a visit to Bibury, an ancient village nestled along the banks of the River Coln. Poet William Morris once described Bibury as "the most beautiful village in England." Admire the cobblestone houses adorned with meandering ivy vines as you stroll along Arlington Row. Visit the Bibury Trout Farm, where Rainbow and Brown Trout are bred for restocking waterways. For an unforgettable romantic getaway, rent a cozy cottage or stay at the riverside Swan Hotel.
- Take a Steam Train Ride Through Scotland:
Embark on a nostalgic journey through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes aboard an iconic steam train. Harry Potter fans will recognize the train as it traverses ancient villages and picturesque lochs. A trip over the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Inverness evokes the magic of the films. Book the West Highland Line for this experience. Other journeys take you deep into the highlands or pass by villages and beaches where you may spot herons, eagles, and otters.
With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and captivating experiences, the United Kingdom offers an abundance of opportunities for romantic getaways. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the 17 Best Romantic Things to Do in the United Kingdom provide the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable memories with your loved one.
