Step back into time with our collection of romantic retreats with a history of note. Some of our holiday cottages and romantic hotels go back as far as the 1500’s giving them bag fulls of character and a perfect start to your romantic weekend away.
How cute is this little cottage? We thought you would love its chocolate box exterior, private gardens with countryside views, open fire and stylish country interiors. And with the market town of Aylsham or the Georgian town of Holt nearby, you’ll be spoit for choice for things to do.
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Still some availability for this spring and summer! We’ve found a very special pint-sized retreat in the most romantic of settings. Earl Grey is part of a stunning Palladian style Georgian model farm, built by the local Earl to remind his wife of her native Italy. Finished to a very high standard and with views of the nearby castle and countryside, it’s like staying in a boutique hotel room but with your own kitchen and wood-fired private hot tub.
For a quirky yet stylish hideaway in rural Devon, check out Bothy. Dating back to the 16th century it is set alongside the owner’s home down an unmade track in a romantic 4 acre wild garden. Inside, you’ll find character and history everywhere you look, along with an impressive collection of books adding to the bohemian feel. Upstairs this theme continues with the vaulted bedroom boasting original art and antiques. And best of all, this romantic bolthole is dog friendly.
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How cute is this romantic cottage? With its sea views, beamed ceilings, handcrafted kitchen and relaxed furniture we think it’s the perfect place to have a romantic break. You’ll love Polperro; a true Cornish fishing village frozen in time with lots to see and do. Park your car on the edge of the village, walk down to the pub or shop and feel your shoulders relax… And bring your pooch - this cottage is dog friendly too.
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The Little House is a picture perfect Cotswold hot tub cottage for couples. Built from the warm, honey-coloured stone and set in beautifully landscaped grounds with stunning views we think it’s hard to find anything more quintessentially English. And the inside doesn’t disappoint either; carefully chosen antique pieces sit happily alongside modern furniture and there are plenty of original features like painted oak beams, flagstone floors and a huge sandstone fireplace.
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We know it’s been hard to find your perfect holiday cottage in the UK this year but they are still out there! We’ve put together this list with availability in different parts of the country so you can find the best last minute deals.
For the ultimate Scottish hunting lodge experience come and stay in Highland Heather, a boutique hot tub cottage for couples bursting with character. With its vibrant and characterful interiors it’s like you’re on a period drama filmset. This pretty cottage is part of the breathtaking Dunskey Castle estate, stretching for 2000 acres along the stunning coastline of Dumfries & Galloway, one of Scotland’s forgotten corners, making it perfect for a romantic getaway off the beaten track. And it’s pet friendly too!
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Are you looking for a last minute romantic and rural holiday cottage? Our partner Rural Retreats has plenty of romantic properties with late availability in some of the best places in the UK to get your much needed holiday or romantic fix. Click here to see their availability now.
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This retreat would make the perfect venue for a couple who want to explore some of England’s most picturesque counties – as you’ll find Hen House right on the edge of Worcestershire, Shropshire and Herefordshire. In a previous life, this romantic cottage used to be the home for dozens of happy chickens, and now it has been lovingly recreated as a cosy coop for couples. It’s right in the countryside, so come prepared for some great views and laid-back country sunsets.
Enjoy some lavish luxury at this romantic hot tub cottage near Reepham in Norfolk. This one has it all. From a huge swimming pool to your own private hot tub, effortlessly stylish interiors and drop-dead gorgeous surroundings. Sleeps up to 3 so you can bring a little one too. And the location is fabulous - historic Reepham offers plenty of independent shops, cafes and restaurants and you’re only a 30 minute drive from some of Norfolk’s best beaches.
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This romantic retreat is a little haven of peace, with gorgeous views over the Sussex countryside. It’s an easy 90 minute hop from London right into an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The owners at Bewl Water View have created this hideaway to offer the ultimate luxury break for couples and an especially attractive sanctuary for anyone hoping for a week of fresh air and country walks.
For those in search of the perfect combination of mountain views, seclusion, walks and plenty of great pubs within walking distance we recommend The Stables at Oak Bank. This romantic Lake District cottage for couples is set on the edge of the village of Elterwater in the stunning Langdale Pikes, one of the most dramatic areas in The Lakes.
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We love this romantic cottage in The Lake District; it’s rare to find an authentic Lakeland cottage but with all the comforts you’d want on a romantic break. And Kentmere is such a romantic location, hidden away from the crowds and with spectacular mountain walks on your doorstep.
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We’ve found a hidden gem! Set in the glorious Shropshire countryside and with far reaching views, this hot tub retreat has been lovingly restored with plenty of character and comfort. Perfect for a romantic break or honeymoon cottage in Shropshire and with plenty of availability.
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We think this is the ideal place to surprise and spoil your partner – it has a look of complete relaxed luxury. Water Cottage has all the history, and wooden beams, to take you back to the past, and it’s set in one of South England’s most beautiful villages. Kersey, a favourite subject for artist’s, will win you over in a moment. It’s a great retreat for Londoners, as it’s only 90 minutes away.
We all love to be beside the seaside! And where better to go next summer than Devon, Cornwall or Somerset? This selection with our partner Luxury Coastal is made up of properties perfect for couples who love the seaside - click here to check availability.
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New to the market so with plenty of availability. This Grade II listed property is a quintessentially English chocolate box cottage. Tastefully refurbished it boasts lost of original features such as oak beams and fireplaces as well as art and antiques. We love the bedroom with its vaulted ceiling and the gorgeous new bathroom. This cottage is only a short distance away from all the favourite trappings of the Cotswolds such as Lower Slaughter, Broadway and the amazing Hidcote Manor.
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Can’t find what you’re looking for in Devon or Cornwall? Try your luck in Dorset! This amazing county offers great beaches, outstanding weather, stunning countryside and lots of great country pubs. Click here to view the last minute availability with our partner Dorset Hideaways.
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Looking for somewhere different to stay? Then try The Cowshed Barn, a fabulously up-cycled barn conversion. Not only does it have everything to indulge in a true luxury break, its location means you also have some of England’s finest cities and countryside on your doorstep.
Feeling the pinch? There are some great special offers out there for lovely romantic cottages on the South Coast and in the West Country with our partner Toad Hall Cottages. Click here to view them now.
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Stay in a contemporary luxury apartment mixing the old with the new in the prestigious Grade I listed Royal William Yard. With stunning views across the Plymouth Sound, this place is a foodie heaven with no less than seven restaurants within the stylish development along with a number of bars and cafes. And if you fancy some more culture then Plymouth’s historical town is just down the road. Perfect for a romantic food & culture break in Devon.
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Where better to go in summer than beautiful Cornwall? This rugged county is still the nation’s favourite when it comes to a beach holiday with a touch of class. And our partner Cornwall Hideaways still have some Cornish cottages with late availability - click here to see their properties.
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Get some early summer sunshine in fabulous Suffolk. Known as one of England’s sunniest counties, it offers cute villages, ancient country lanes, great food and everything needed for a romantic break before the schools break up! Click here to view the last minute availability with our partner Suffolk Hideaways.
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The West Country or The New Forest? We think either would make a great destination for a well deserved romantic retreat during 2024. Click here to view the collection of romantic retreats on offer with our partner Toad Hall Cottages.
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What could be more romantic than a last minute escape to the quintessentially English countryside of The Cotswolds? Visit some of the country’s best gardens - don’t miss Hidcote - enjoy some scenic drives through picture perfect villages or just soak up the sunshine in a country pub. Click here to view the last minute availability with our partner Cotswolds Hideaways.
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Stay for less in one of England’s prettiest areas. The New Forest has great scenery, pretty villages and a stunning coastline. And now you can find some very romantic holiday cottages at reduced rates with our partner New Forest Cottages. Click here to view them now.
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New to the market with plenty of availability. Looking for something extra special? We think there’s no better place to celebrate your anniversary, enjoy your honeymoon, plan a romantic surprise break or even pop the question. Pottergate Tower is a unique holiday cottage, set on the edge of Alnwick and overlooking the medieval town and castle. This is one of Europe’s most special holiday cottages and the couple lucky enough to stay here will likely never forget the experience.
This historic retreat is set in a real romantic hotspot – it’s Grade II listed and full of charm and has been restored to impress couples who are searching for a retreat with a taste of luxury. We think Palmers Lodge is a perfect size and its location is pretty impressive, on the grounds of the 25,000-acre Holkham Estate, which played host to Hollywood film stars Keira Knightley and Ralph Fiennes for their filming of The Duchess. All in all a perfect pet friendly boutique honeymoon cottage in Norfolk.
New to the market so with plenty of availability. Located within walking distance of the centre of this desirable town, Holly Tree Cottage is perfect for enjoying Bradford-on-Avon’s cafe and restaurant culture. Recently refurbished to a very high standard, this is an ideal romantic cottage for couples in Wiltshire.
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Discover the real Lake District; stunning walks, quaint villages, an authentic pub within walking distance and best of all, no large crowds. Described by many of its guests as a hidden gem, The Groom’s Cottage is a perfect hideaway off the beaten track but with easy access to places like Keswick and Cockermouth. Winner of a 2018 Visit England Gold award and with its cosy interiors and thoughtful little touches this cottage ticks all the boxes for a romantic break in the Lake District.
This unique arch was originally crafted to impress passers-by. More than 200 years after the famous architect William Kent made this stand-out design it’s still got all its charms, and some more have been added now with a redesigned interior to match its eye-catching silhouette. A perfect pet-friendly boutique honeymoon cottage in Norfolk.
We’re all feeling the pinch at the moment but fortunately there are some great romantic holiday cottages with special offers. Click here to view some 5 star romantic retreats on offer with our partner Sykes Holiday Cottages.
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Still some availability this spring and summer! This romantic hideaway is perfect if you want your own spot of luxury in some of the ‘most English’ countryside in England. No 1 Rose Cottage is found among the rolling hills of South Lakeland, just four miles from the renowned Lake Windermere. This is famous writer territory – with no less than children’s writer Beatrix Potter and poet William Wordsworth inspired by the area – and when you arrive you will understand why.
Situated among the rolling valleys and peaks of Derbyshire Memorial Cottage is a cosy nook and is perfect if you’re looking for fresh air and fine walks. This hideaway is just a few minutes’ stroll from the centre of Eyam - a tranquil village with babbling brooks and quiet country scenes - perfect for a romantic break in The Peak District.
This charming hideaway brings luxury to the Lake District – so you can enjoy the best of the English countryside in style. No. 2 Rose Cottage is surrounded by hills and valleys, in the pretty South Lakeland village of Bouth. It has a romantic woodburning stove, luxury king size bed and is only a short drive from a Michelin Restaurant, making it a great location for a romantic getaway.
Dorset offers some of the best seaside escapes with stunning beaches, idyllic countryside and some rather upmarket towns with excellent watering holes and eateries. Our partner Dorset Hideaways has some great holiday cottages for 2024 on offer - click here for more information.
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Looking for a luxury romantic break for 2024? There is some great availability with our partner holidaycottages.co.uk - click here to see their collection of romantic retreats.
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Eclectic, with a sense of fun and definitely not your average cottage - this is Y Capel. Lovingly restored by owners Siwan & Jake, this romantic cottage is nestled in the middle of a stunning Welsh valley. With bags of character, a spectacular copper bath, private hot tub and unspoilt surroundings this is the ideal place to unwind and forget all about the fast pace of day to day life.
Head to the heart of the romantic Bronte countryside to discover a hideaway which mixes wild Yorkshire moors with luxury. Higher Scholes Cottage, next to the quaint town of Haworth, has its own hot tub, log fire and gorgeous four poster bed. The cottage has great views over the countryside that inspired the classic novel Wuthering Heights.
The Rose and Crown is an 18th century coaching inn set on the middle of three village greens in the picture postcard village of Romalkirk in the picturesque Teesdale valley. The Rose and Crown is, as The Sunday Telegraph phrased it, ‘seriously snug’ with its panelled walls, cosy sitting room, plenty of books and magazines, old prints and a crackling fire in the dog grate.
Dating back to 1624 and immaculately restored this beautiful little one bedroom boutique cottage simply oozes character. Asphodel Cottage has its own good sized garden and uninterrupted open country views. The cottage is located in the idyllic and peaceful village of Tarlton whilst being close to chic Cirencester and Prince Charles’ Tetbury.
This lovingly-renovated stone cottage is the kind of place that we dream of when the phones are ringing or we are stuck in traffic. The Stables at The Rookery offers a true break from the busy working world and is the perfect size for a couple. Its location, on the edge of the historic town of Malmesbury, in Wiltshire, offers guests the chance to explore the Cotswolds together from their own little romantic hideaway.
The beautiful Suffolk English countryside is an ideal place to wind down, with thatched cottages and rose gardens all around. This gorgeous pet friendly cottage is beautifully restored with lots or original features and on top of that it also boasts its own large hot tub.
This gorgeous wood-beamed retreat has a real feel of relaxed luxury. We can’t think of many better places to wind up for the weekend. Meddlars Cottage has kept the charisma from its 1600’s origins, while the owners have upgraded the rooms to offer a modern luxury feel. The result is that you have gorgeous ceilings and marble floors, mixed with an upgraded kitchen and a swish bathroom.
Orchard Bank Barn isn’t your usual bank conversion. Instead, this romantic retreat offers style, luxury and space with a contemporary twist. Here you’ll find yourself nestled in a private orchard with wild flowers and surrounded by the beautiful Devon countryside. Set on the edge of Dartmoor Nation Park, this cottage for couples is the perfect tonic for busy and stressful lives.
This multi award winning, 5* romantic hideaway sits between two superb pubs (one of which is Gin Pub of The Year and has also been winner of The Best Rural Pub in Britain) and yet, despite its superb location it feels like a secret escape from the world. With copper hot tub style bath!
Wake up in a cottage in the meadows at this beautiful romantic retreat – complete with bubbling outdoor hot tub and toasty indoor fireside. Meadow View Cottage offers guests the chance of a romantic break in Suffolk, close to some of England’s relaxing coastline and a short hop from bustling historic cities Cambridge and Bury St Edmunds.
Step back into time in this very pretty holiday cottage in the medieval town of Saffron Waldon. Miller Cottage is an ancient romantic retreat with bags of character, a lovely walled garden and all the shops, cafes and restaurants on your doorstep. It’s pet friendly too so you can bring one or two dogs along to make your holiday complete.
Impress your loved one with a stay in this romantic boutique holiday cottage near Sudbury. Surrounded by acres of beautiful estate grounds and boasting large luxurious spaces, we think The Stables would be a perfect location for a romantic weekend, a proposal or even a mini-moon in Suffolk.
Deepwell Granary is the ultimate romantic retreat. With its private gardens and access to magical woodlands complete with campfires, hammocks and a bell tent you’ll be sure to unwind and relax in no time. Inside the double height open plan living area and mezzanine style bedroom add wow factor while the stylish antique furnishings add a touch of class. Pet friendly luxury.
Our Honeymooners Favourite. Since 1720 The Bakery provided bread for the old Grove Farm, now it is converted into an extremely cosy self-contained cottage. It has a very cosy open fire which you can sink back into the comfy sofa and watch as the ducks in the Orchard peck at the French doors for bread.
We think the Dordogne region of France is one of the most romantic places in the world. With castles, rivers, forests and fine wines around every corner, this sunny spot is a haven for fans of luxurious living. And, for those couples looking for a holiday to remember, we recommend the beautiful Château les Merles. This stylish and modern four star hotel is top notch.
This romantic cottage for couples is set in one of the greenest spots in England, the beautiful Eden Valley, and within the Yorkshire Dales National Park near the Lake District. This is a little haven of peace, and it makes an ideal romantic getaway. In the walled garden there is a fabulous outdoor roll top bath with views over the surrounding fells - a quirky take on a Lake District hot tub cottage. Shepherd’s Cottage has a historic heritage dating back to the 1500s when it was a lowly cattle barn. It has now been lifted to luxury status by award-winning owners. We think it’s got a lovely relaxed vibe, which makes for a laid back break.
If you have a creative streak then the large bright rooms in The Coach House make this an inspiring place to be. The country landscapes around Belchamp Walter have attracted artists who live here as well as inspiring world renowned John Constable and Thomas Gainsborough. Within an hour and a half from London, The Coach House is a place to escape the hustle and bustle and find your feet again.
It doesn’t take long to fall for the charms of Hillside Cottage in the South Hams village of Ashprington. This getaway has so many things going for it – with luxury inside, coupled with fresh countryside on the doorstep, and its close proximity to world renowned wine estate Sharphams as well as the hugely popular Riverford Farm. Get over here in a flash with fast trains from London Paddington to Totnes, just three miles from the cottage, or fly in from the north to Exeter airport.
It’s not often we find a romantic retreat which is located right on the beach. So when we came across Bank Top Cottage, we just knew we had feature it as part of our collection. Not only does it have the most fabulous sea views from its living room and private terrace, it is also located on one of the UK’s finest white sandy beaches, Druridge Bay in Northumberland. All in all a picture perfect honeymoon retreat.
The most famous of England’s poets made the Lake District their home, and we are confident that one visit will be enough to show you why they loved this unspoilt landscape so much. The Fold is an ideal retreat for exploring, offering an authentic countryside experience, set alongside a 17th century farmhouse at the southern slopes of Hallin Fell. Availability from December 22nd 2018, pet friendly.
Feel utterly spoiled at The Roebuck Inn, located in one of Cheshire’s many romantic villages. This old inn has it all; bags of character, delicious food, interesting wines, gorgeous rooms with roll top baths and a laid back vibe. Stay here for a night and or two and you’ll come away relaxed and revived.
With views across the River Tees and countryside, this five star gold rated romantic retreat has a lovely light and airy feeling. Cheeseborough House is a grade two-listed weaver’s cottage located in Thorngate, in historic Barnard Castle. While its history stems from centuries past, the cottage has been transformed inside, to give you a spot of luxury while you’re away.
“Our stay at The Stables was our dream weekend; we felt completely disconnected and enjoyed every minute of our peaceful retreat.” We think this guest comment really sums up what makes this romantic Essex bolthole so special. Located in a very secluded area with great access to footpaths and quiet lanes you can really escape everyday life and completely chill in these stylish surroundings. Pet friendly.
You know you must be in a relaxing place when your toughest decision of the day is which flavour ice cream to choose. That is what it’s like in the historic coastal town of Boscastle, and this luxury fisherman’s cottage, with romantic wood burning stove and peaceful views, is a great place for a romantic retreat. It’s pet friendly too.
Just look at those views! These in itself would be reason enough for us to stay in this romantic Suffolk cottage, but The Old Steam Mill has so much more on offer. For starters, it’s pretty huge so you get the luxury of space. It also sleeps four so you get a choice of two gorgeous bedrooms. The cottage also happens to be located in one of Suffolk’s prettiest areas with beautiful rolling countryside views everywhere you look and a host of historic villages, like Lavenham, on your doorstep. It’s pet friendly too so you get to enjoy all of this with your four legged friend.
Tucked away in it’s own hidden valley this romantic getaway is a stunning blend of both contemporary and rustic features including a hand made oak “tree bed”, cosy wood burner and indulgently sized wet room. With a mountain stream running past the front door and a Jacuzzi bubbling away in the private garden behind, this lovingly renovated stable is a slice of heaven in the heart of Mid Wales.
Forge Cottage is the perfect combination of a historic character property and all the modern comforts you could think of. Set on Broadgate Farm Cottages with its pretty brick buildings under clay tile roofs and surrounded by acres of glorious farmland, this really is a perfect escape from your busy everyday lives. This part of Yorkshire is a hidden gem with the gorgeous market town of Beverley on your doorstep. Perfect for pooches too with a safely enclosed large garden and lots of walks from your doorstep.
—New Year’s break now available due to cancellation—There is something about the countryside that is naturally romantic – on a sunny day it beats all the chocolates and red wine put together. If you love it like we do then you will love rural Herefordshire, and Goose Cotts is a great hideaway to share a fresh air break - with fantastic walks in the Brecon Beacons right from the doorstep.
A unique setting means you’ll never get bored at this romantic holiday cottage in Essex; there’s a host of boats passing the canal at the front, there are stunning views across the nature reserve at the back and the historic town of Maldon is just around the corner. It’s dog friendly too so you can share this break with your four legged friend.
When city living gets too much we know where we would love to escape. The Hayloft is a romantic wood-beamed home-away-from-home and is only 90 minutes from London. Leave the office at closing time and you could make it in time for dinner. This rural hideaway is set within the stunning countryside made famous by Constable and Gainsborough, and is part of a historic private estate that has been in the same family since 1611.
We aren’t allowed to have favourites, but this retreat pulled our heartstrings. The Granary Barn is a gingerbread house-style getaway in rural Suffolk with bags of country charm making it a wonderful place to escape to with your partner. From the outside it looks like something straight out of Little Red Riding Hood – with wooden cladding and a peaked little roof. Situated just outside the village, down a country lane, it is sheltered in its own peaceful patch.
Some of the most romantic countryside in the world can surely be found in the picturesque Cotswolds – and this beautiful thatched cottage puts you in a great place to explore all the area has to offer. Bells Cottage is a historic pet friendly hideaway – perfect for couples with their pooch – with enough charm to knock you over. It’s full of modern comfort, with a huge four-poster bed and swish kitchen perfect for time away, all twinned with 500 years of character and a gorgeous English garden.
Now this is what we call super romantic! How about a gorgeous restored Dutch barge moored at one of Suffolk’s loveliest small towns for your next romantic break? Complete with beautiful bespoke joinery and an open cockpit to relax, this barge has everything for a very special romantic getaway. Dog friendly.
In amongst the Perthshire hills, we have found a romantic retreat fit to impress the most luxurious of couples. Tallavey, in the tiny Hamlet of Enochdhu, is an hour and a half from Edinburgh Airport, and a world away from city life. With its top quality indoor sauna and private outdoor hot tub, we think it’s an ideal spot for some pampering time away.
This sleepy romantic cottage by the babbling River Tees is a sweet spot for a romantic break in County Durham. You’ll find this little luxury getaway on the gateway to Teesdale near Barnard Castle, one of the most picturesque parts of Northern England, with its waterfalls, castles, cycle routes and rolling hills leading on to the Pennines.