Join us as we explore the most exquisite and captivating hotels for a romantic sojourn in the UK. From charming countryside retreats adorned with centuries-old charm to lavish urban sanctuaries where history and modernity intertwine, this collection of hotels captures the essence of romance and are perfect for an indulgent Valentine’s escape.
Home House, London
One of London’s most exquisite boutique hotels hides discreetly within a magnificent Georgian townhouse on the distinguished Portman Square in Marylebone. This well-kept secret is none other than Home House, an exclusive members-only club spanning three adjacent houses, offering an extravagant and lavish labyrinth of restaurants, bars, a chic boutique gym, a luxurious health spa, a picturesque courtyard garden, and 23 elegantly appointed bedrooms.
Each of these bedrooms exudes a distinctive period charm, adorned with opulent chandeliers, charming chintz fabrics, original fireplace mantels, and exquisite antique furnishings. For the ultimate in romantic indulgence, enjoy a stay in the Lady Patricia Portman room, featuring intricate 1820s hand-painted Chinese Chi’en Lung silk wallpaper, enchanting courtyard vistas from its windows, and an Art Deco ensuite bathroom complete with a claw-footed bathtub.
Wander down from your room to experience an elegant dining affair within the historic Lady Home’s 18th Century house. Creative pre-dinner cocktails can be sipped in The Bison Bar, whist Classic British cuisine is given an innovative twist at The Restaurant or enjoy laid back sharing platters and light bites with your loved one – stay as long as you like, the vibe is relaxed, stylish and welcoming.
Read our review of lunch at Home House
Prestonfield House, Edinburgh
Located next to Edinburgh’s Holyrood Park and a short drive from the city’s Old Town stands the resplendent Prestonfield House. This theatrically decorated 5-star hotel affords timeless elegance, rich history, and sumptuous surroundings. Grand architecture is set among extensive manicured gardens where peacocks roam creating the feel of a country estate. Also, home to the only helipad in the city (with no landing fees for guests). Inside is a world of opulence and grandeur; a masterful display of period furniture, richly coloured lavish fabrics, antique artwork and flawlessly executed service throughout this hotel really makes a statement.
Each of the 23 uniquely designed bedrooms and suites are a tribute to the hotel’s commitment to luxury, comfort and gloriously over-the-top style. Expect ornate antiques, sumptuous fabrics, and dim lighting that combine to create a refined yet cosy atmosphere.
There isn’t a bar in which to convene, instead take a pre-dinner drink in the drawing room by the open fire, before enjoying an exquisite culinary affair at the renowned fine-dining restaurant Rhubarb. At Prestonfield House, you’re not just a guest you’re a welcomed long-lost friend!
Read our review of Prestonfield House
Galgorm Resort & Spa, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
Escape to a haven of tranquillity, just 30 minutes from Belfast, where Galgorm Resort & Spa reigns as Northern Ireland’s premier luxury destination. Set within a sprawling 450-acre estate of lush parkland by the majestic River Maine, Galgorm offers a truly one-of-a-kind setting and is home to a collection of 125 sumptuous guestrooms, encompassing 48 deluxe rooms, Junior and Signature Suites, as well as an array of Log Cabins, Cottage Suites, Shepherd’s Huts, and exclusive Residences, designed to accommodate discerning individuals.
At the heart of Galgorm lies the extraordinary Thermal Spa Village, a masterpiece of rejuvenation that stands as the first of its kind in Ireland. It seamlessly merges award-winning spa facilities with impeccable service, creating an oasis where tranquillity thrives. The resort also boasts a curated selection of exquisite restaurants and bars for a romantic dining experience.
With its lavish amenities and renowned warm hospitality, Galgorm is the quintessential escape for those seeking a romantic escape in the breathtaking beauty of the North Antrim Coast.
Le Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons, Oxfordshire
Set within the roaming Oxfordshire countryside, sits the Le Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons. Created by acclaimed chef Raymond Blanc OBE, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons is not only one of the country’s most cherished manor house hotels but a haven for food lovers. With a celebrated two Michelin-star restaurant, its own organic kitchen garden, mushroom valley, orchard and The Raymond Blanc Cookery School and The Raymond Blanc Gardening School, guests can indulge in a fine dining experience and try to recreate superb dishes themselves – a perfect way to spend time with your loved one.
Beyond, the kitchen guests will find 32 individually crafted hotel rooms and suits within the elegant manor house. Each room is thoughtfully inspired by Raymond’s global voyages, ensuring that no matter your choice, you’ll encounter a harmonious blend of luxurious amenities and captivating decor that fashion an irresistible sanctuary.
Le Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons is a Belmond Hotel.
Read our guide to the best hotels in Oxfordshire
Glenapp Castle, Ayrshire, Scotland
Glenapp Castle is a place to be inspired, reflect, recharge and reconnect. Located in a truly scenic landscape, the luxury, award-winning five-star hotel provides an intimate level of service with genuine attention to detail. Its period furnishings and interiors create an enchanting ambience which extends beyond its walls to the breathtaking gardens, forest, and seascapes that surround that castle.
Luxury and grandeur describe the choice of rooms and suites guests, that are traditionally furnished to reflect the rich history of the castle. The Castle Penthouse suite boasts a private rooftop terrace presenting 360-degree views of the estate and coastline, along with a private chef and personal butler, make it the perfect space for entertaining – keep it all for yourself (and chosen one) for a truly indulgent romantic escape.
No stay is complete without enjoying a fine dining experience in the elegant surroundings of the Castle’s dining rooms – and with 3 AA Rosettes, Glenapp Castle is a leading destination for delicious cuisine. And, with the introduction of Azalea (situated in the Victorian Glasshouse & Bothy) which offers a unique informal setting for private dining, there is a perfect blend of dining experiences.
This is an immensely romantic retreat for all ages.
The Greenway Hotel and Spa, Cheltenham
Enjoy a blissful and romantic break at this historic 16th-century manor house, hidden away just outside the Cotswold Hills near the Regency town of Cheltenham. The elegant house presents guests with a choice of 21 individually designed bedrooms, all of which encapsulate country-chic charm and supreme comfort. Choose the Manor Four Poster for the best views in the house along with an open top four poster bed, beautiful seating area and luxurious bathroom.
Take time out to relax at the hotel’s spa (which includes a sauna, steam room, samarium, hydrotherapy pool and al-fresco hot tub) is inspired by the hotel’s Cotswold location; exposed brickwork, historic beams, jewel-rich colours set the scene and decadent TEMPLESPA products are used for a range of excellent treatments.
Award-winning cuisine is served with a choice of two restaurants, where guests can savour the delights of modern British cuisine, revel in the art of fine dining, and explore an extensive array of world-class wines – the perfect way to enjoy a romantic dinner for two. Service at the restaurant and throughout the hotel, is discreet, well-informed, and attentive nature, ensuring that guests experience a truly memorable stay.
www.thegreenwayhotelandspa.com
The Pig, Canterbury
Hidden away in the historic village of Bridge, three miles south of Canterbury, sits The Pig at Bridge Place, which oozes character and charm. One of the pigs, within the Pig Hotel group, this hotel retains many of the original features of the intriguing building that has been home to many a famous parties and gigs.
Boasting expansive vistas of the picturesque Kentish countryside, each of the bedrooms exudes a charming blend of rustic textures, quintessentially English ambience, sumptuous velvet fabrics, and opulent colours. And beyond a romantic stay for two there are various accommodation choices including 7 character-filled bedrooms in the main house, 12 airy and generously sized rooms in the Coach House, 2 family-friendly lodges, and The Barn—an enchanting, two-story romantic retreat nestled within the historic stables.
With an open kitchen and rustic vibe, the food here is British cuisine at its best. Driven by its own kitchen garden and forager supplies, the menu is simple seasonal and truly delicious. Fresh fish, local beers, amazing meat, juicy fruit and award-winning English wine are the serve of the day – the perfect recipe to fuel a romantic break in the country.
Read our guide to the best hotels in Kent
The Gilpin, Windemere, The English Lake District
Love and laughter are at the heart of the stunning hotel set within 21 acres of breathtaking landscape in the Lake District. Within this splendid estate, guests will find two exceptional dining establishments: the Michelin-starred SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel and the more informal yet delectable Gilpin Spice, specializing in pan-Asian cuisine. Enjoy the pre-dinner drinks at the Champagne Bar, or while away the hours in the welcoming lounge and inviting terraces.
Guests can choose from a range of rooms and suites; including spa suites, garden suites to a classic bedroom – all of which (30 in total) are beautifully appointed with stylish and relaxing interiors. For the ultimate romantic retreat opt for a Spa Suite – which has a beautiful ‘outdoors / indoors’ vibe, a bedroom that ‘floats’ over the pond with views to the mountains, a spa room, steam room, sauna, infrared lounge bed, and a state-of-the-art automated massage chair, stone-built hot tub and so much more.
Extraordinary service, exquisite décor and stunning culinary experiences – the perfect combo for a romantic escape!
