8 Romantic British Hotels Perfect For A Valentine’s Day Escape 2023
From grand country estates hidden among rolling hills to elegant manor houses where crackling fireplaces, Michelin-starred dining and centuries of history create the perfect backdrop for a romantic escape, the UK offers no shortage of memorable places to check in and switch off.
Whether you’re planning a Valentine’s Day getaway, celebrating an anniversary or simply looking for an excuse to disappear into the countryside for a few days, these luxury British hotels combine exceptional hospitality with beautiful settings and thoughtful experiences designed for two.
From the honey-hued villages of the Cotswolds and the wild coastline of Cornwall to the grandeur of Edinburgh and the timeless elegance of Berkshire, these are some of the most romantic hotels in Britain for couples seeking a little luxury.
For more romantic travel inspiration, explore our guide to Valentine’s Day luxury travel guide, discover Romantic Bridges in London, or browse our collection of Luxury UK Hotels.
Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Oxfordshire
Cotswolds charm meets French flair at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, a Belmond Hotel in Oxfordshire. The passion of Chef Patron Raymond Blanc OBE shines through every detail, from the two-Michelin-starred restaurant to the individually designed suites. Surrounding the honey-coloured manor are 11 flourishing gardens, ranging from a Japanese Tea Garden to organic vegetable plots and heritage orchards. Inspiring classes are hosted at The Raymond Blanc Cookery School and The Raymond Blanc Gardening School. When not indulging in afternoon tea or in-room wellness treatments, guests can enjoy horse riding and cycling, or head out to explore Oxford, the Cotswolds and Blenheim Palace. Couples exploring Oxfordshire may also enjoy our guide to Luxury London Hotels, perfect for extending a countryside escape with a city break.
Thyme Southrop, Cotswolds
Thyme boutique hotel – 17th-century cottages and refined rooms dotted throughout Southrop Manor’s 150-acre estate – encapsulates a William Blake-penned vision that’s lured London’s fashion set (a certain supermodel proved its pull by holding her nuptials nearby). With an on-site farm and fruitful kitchen garden, the hotel’s cookery school is revered among foodies, too. Love birds can enjoy cookery school, the spa, farm and kitchen gardens, afternoon teas and have a game at the tennis court.
The London Edition, London
A few steps from Oxford Street, the London Edition is most famous for its Jason Atherton restaurant, Berners Tavern – which packs more paintings on the walls than necessary (but looks good) and could not be further from your average taverna (there are elaborate cornice ceilings and chandeliers, for a start). Even the lobby is a special place to sit, with its metallic ball suspended from the ceiling, cozy velvet sofas and fireplace.
Dwell in the lobby for a game of snooker before cocktails (and of course a ladle of punch) in the speakeasy-style Punch Room – and then retire to your sleek, mostly wooden suite.
The Balmoral, Edinburgh
The Balmoral was ranked as the Top Hotel in The U.K. in the Condé Nast Traveler 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards. Standing proud since 1902, the historic building’s majestic clock tower still dominates the Edinburgh skyline. The hotel’s dedicated Concierge team can open doors to some of the most unique experiences in Scotland. From tickets to the world-famous Edinburgh Festival events, access to the city’s royal establishments – Holyrood Palace and the Royal Yacht Britannia – to the hotel’s Tartan Butler Clan Tour, you’ll find the best of Scotland at your finger tips.
The perfect marriage of tradition and modernity, each of the 167 rooms and 20 suites has been individually designed by Rocco Forte Hotels’ Director of Design Olga Polizzi. Elegant and stylish with unmistakably Scottish accents, the suites at The Balmoral are generous with magnificent views.
Cliveden, Berkshire
Situated in the royal county of Berkshire, on the banks of the River Thames, Cliveden House is a stately 48 bedroom country hotel and home away from home for the city’s fashion set. Just 30 minutes outside London, in the heart of the English countryside, Cliveden has provided a luxurious and romantic setting to rest and retreat since 1666. The property’s rose garden Spa, with the UK’s oldest listed outdoor pool, was the first place to offer Sarah Chapman’s sought-after facials outside London. Her treatments are loved by A-listers looking to relax, from Victoria Beckham and Naomi Campbell to Gigi Hadid and Jourdan Dunn.
The Newt, Somerset
The Newt in Somerset is a working country estate with 23 bedrooms located between Bruton and Castle Cary in Somerset and captures the essence of a Georgian country home. Its bucolic setting inspires a garden-led menu in the restaurant, and garden-scented treatments in the Spa. Guests are encouraged to embrace country living and explore the Estate, while enjoying home comforts and superb service. For the exclusive use of hotel residents, the world-class spa offers international treatments with an English country feel. Treatments include an authentic hammam and mud therapy in a private couples’ chamber, while facilities include an indoor/outdoor pool, halotherapy room and Wild Pool.
The Scarlet, Mawgan Porth
If you enjoy a relaxing, romantic and luxurious spa weekend then The Scarlet Hotel might be just right for you .Overlooking romantic Mawgan Porth beach, this luxury adult-only eco-hotel blurs the boundaries between inside and out, with glass walls, flat roofs covered in sea thrift and infinity pools that seem to reach to the sea.At its heart is the womb-like Ayurvedic spa, with tented pods suspended in the dark for deep relaxation. There’s also an indoor pool and reed-fringed, rock strewn outdoor pool, plus two cliff top hot tubs perched between boulders overlooking the ocean. Bedrooms are in clusters on several levels, soothing, with funky touches, excellent lighting, gorgeous beds and sea and sunset views. Cornwall continues to rank among Britain’s most romantic destinations, alongside our favourite Valentine’s Day Luxury Travel Destinations.
Babington House Somerset
Built in 1705, Babington House is a Grade II-listed manor set in 18 acres of English countryside in the heart of Somerset, 30 minutes from Bath. The Cowshed spa, their first spa began life in an old cow shed tucked away in the grounds at Babington House, offering a range of therapeutic treatments and natural products. 33 bedrooms are spread throughout the grounds at Babington House, from the Main House and Stable Block, to the Coach House and Walled Garden. There’s a number of beautiful eateries, two pools, a spa, a sauna and bikes to take out for a romantic country cycle. A blissful retreat you won’t want to leave.
Final Thoughts
Romance means different things to different couples. For some, it’s a candlelit tasting menu in a centuries-old manor house. For others, it’s a coastal sauna overlooking the Atlantic, a woodland spa retreat, or simply a quiet weekend spent together away from everyday life.
What unites these exceptional British hotels is their ability to create memorable experiences that linger long after checkout. Whether you’re drawn to the gastronomic brilliance of Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, the timeless elegance of Cliveden House or the coastal serenity of The Scarlet, each offers its own distinctive take on romance.
If you’re planning a special getaway, these luxury British hotels prove that some of the world’s most romantic escapes can be found much closer to home
FAQ SECTION
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most romantic hotels in the UK?
Some of the UK’s most romantic hotels include Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Cliveden House, The Scarlet, Thyme, The Balmoral and Babington House.
Which UK hotels are best for Valentine’s Day?
Hotels with exceptional dining, spa facilities and secluded settings such as Cliveden House, The Scarlet and Pretty countryside retreats remain popular choices for Valentine’s Day breaks.
What is the best luxury hotel for couples in the Cotswolds?
Thyme and Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons are among the most sought-after luxury hotels for couples visiting the Cotswolds region.
Are there romantic spa hotels in Britain?
Yes. The Scarlet, Cliveden House, The Newt and Babington House all offer excellent spa facilities designed for relaxation and wellness.
What are the best countryside hotels in England for couples?
Some of the finest countryside retreats include The Newt in Somerset, Thyme in the Cotswolds, Cliveden House in Berkshire and Babington House in Somerset.
When is the best time to book a romantic hotel in Britain?
Autumn and winter are particularly atmospheric thanks to roaring fires and cosy interiors, while spring and summer offer beautiful gardens, countryside walks and outdoor dining.
