In 2024, let's make it a priority to schedule time for rejuvenation and quality time with our significant others. The daily grind can leave us craving an escape, a chance to unwind and reconnect. This year, why not break away from the ordinary and embark on a journey through our handpicked list of the best weekend UK getaways for couples?
From nature retreats to eco-friendly spas, we've curated a diverse selection of destinations to cater to all preferences and budgets. Embrace an experiential approach to weekend escapes, where the focus isn't just on the location, but on the unforgettable moments and shared adventures that create lasting memories. Read on to find out our top 5 picks from a range of prices and experiences as we explore the weekend getaways designed to reignite the spark in your relationship.
1. Broughton Sanctuary - Yorkshire Dales - Wellness Retreat
https://broughtonsanctuary.co.uk
Nestled in the stunning Yorkshire Dales, Broughton Sanctuary offers a haven for individuals seeking a revitalising escape in nature. This wellness retreat provides a calming atmosphere that encourages self-care and pure relaxation. With the breathtaking views of Yorkshire as the backdrop, the sanctuary offers a variety of well-being retreats designed to promote both physical and mental rejuvenation. Whether guests opt for customised experience retreats or choose from the diverse packages offered, they can indulge in activities that nurture the mind, body, and spirit.
The sanctuary's commitment to holistic wellness is evident in its peaceful ambience and the range of tailored offerings available. For those longing for a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Broughton Sanctuary offers a place for tranquillity and renewal.
Activities: You can engage in guided meditation sessions, yoga classes, and mindfulness practices amid the serene landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales. Nature walks and hikes provide opportunities for exploration and allow guests to unwind while breathing in the fresh countryside air.
Additionally, the sanctuary may offer workshops on holistic healing, nutritional guidance, and stress management. You can delve into your spiritual side by taking part in one of their moon baths with guided meditation. For those seeking more adventurous activities, Broughton Sanctuary offers plenty of options such as outdoor fitness classes, wild swimming spots and mountain biking trails.
Packages: A range of well-being retreats are available as well as bespoke experience retreats (enquire for prices).
Price range: From £480.00 to £1,920.00 (a minimum of 3-nights)
Address: Avalon Wellbeing, Broughton Sanctuary, Skipton, Yorkshire, BD23 3AN
2. Penhein Farm - South Wales - Glamping - Outdoorsy
Dive into the world of digital detoxing with no Wi-Fi or TVs in sight, social media will just have to wait. Enjoy the simplicity of life and being fully present with your partner in a world where we are all ruled by our phones. This is the perfect place for no mindless scrolling, just fresh air and strolling through the hills of South Wales.
Fill your days with stunning walks in the nearby Dean and Wye forest exploring Penhein Farm or even treat yourselves to a pampering session with the on-site therapist offering facials and manicures to hot stone massages!
Price range: 2 nights stay starting from £350
Address: Penhein, Llanvair-Discoed, Chepstow NP16 6R
Things to do in the local area:
As we have mentioned before, take yourselves on a romantic and breathtaking hike through the Dean and Wye forest, where you’ll discover ancient ruins and wild rivers. This location is a playground for nature lovers, complete with a rich history and an abundance of wildlife. Whether you're in search of a peaceful getaway or an action-packed adventure, there's an array of unforgettable experiences to choose from.
Cafés, pubs, and restaurants nearby:
- Chatterbox coffee shop - good options for veggies, vegans and gluten-free (5 miles from Penhein)
- The Greyhound Inn — a lovely pub in Llantrisant about 4.7 miles from the glamping site
- Mango House - serves Indian and Bangladeshi food, vegetarian and vegan friendly, with gluten-free options available (4.2 miles away)
3. Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, Kent - Wildlife Park - Experience Oriented
https://www.aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne/
Romantic stay for nature and animal lovers.
About the site: Get ready to sleep with the Lions (quite literally) in Europe's most esteemed wildlife reserves, courtesy of The Aspinall Foundation. Nature lovers, your hearts are going to flutter like a butterfly at the Port Lympne and Howletts Wild Animal Parks. The sanctuary is home to over 900 animals, including the largest herd of black rhino in the UK, western lowland gorillas, giraffes, tigers, lions, leopards, bears and so much more.
Activities: The stay includes complimentary access to both parks, along with a variety of monthly themed trails, safaris, guided walks, and conservation talks.
If you and your significant other are fans of exploring the great outdoors and learning about magnificent creatures, then Port Lympne is the ideal destination. Spend your entire weekend exploring the grounds and participating in their incredible safaris.
Or head up to the clouds, yes, go up, up and away for a romantic date in the sky you will never forget with Kent Ballooning or book a cooking course with Kent Cookery School and cook up a storm together with a delicious main and mouth-watering dessert.
Price range: Bear Lodge costs from £182.50 per person (£365 per tent, these can sleep up to 8 people), they also have the Pinewood Lodges from £139 per night, or really treat yourselves and go all out for the Lion/Tiger Lodges which cost up to £2,250 per night! You will be staying in the most luxurious lodge with your windows looking in on the lions or tigers enclosure.
4. Shepherd’s Hut, Rick Stein - Padstow, Cornwall - For the Food Lovers
https://rickstein.com/accommodation/shepherds-huts/
This is one for the food lovers!
A little bit about the accommodation: Embark on a quest for tranquillity and warmth, Rick Steins Cornish Shepherd's Huts await. Nestled within their cosy confines, you'll discover the perfect space for dining and relaxation, complete with a shower room and kitchenette to satisfy your every need. This shepherd’s hut will feel like a 5* hotel. Savour a steaming mug of coffee or a soothing nightcap on your secluded patio. Breathe in the crisp air and unwind with the whispers of serenity.
Price range: £160 per night
Address: Churchtown, St Merryn, Padstow, PL28 8ND
A bit about the local area: The idyllic town of Padstow beckons to all food connoisseurs, a must-visit destination for those who seek to savour the delectable flavours of the UK. Though small in size, this town boasts an impressive array of high-quality restaurants that will leave a lasting impression.
Legendary chefs such as Rick Stein and Paul Ainsworth have graced the town with their exquisite culinary creations, paving the way for other culinary wizards to follow suit. While the town's scenic beauty and other attractions draw visitors from far and wide, some travel over to specifically indulge in the large variety of dining options that the town has to offer.
Whether you seek a delicious single dinner or a full-blown foodie holiday, Padstow's diverse range of eateries cater to every palate, promising a journey of culinary enchantment.
Restaurants to check out:
- Paul Ainsworth at No.6 - fine dining experience
- Rajano’s - rustic Italian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes
- Prawn on the Lawn - mainly fresh seafood
- BinTwo - perfect for an intimate meal with a fantastic glass of wine
5. Gainsborough Hotel & Spa - Bath, Somerset - City Break
https://www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk/pages/accommodation.html
A little bit about the accommodation: Behold this magnificent Grade 2 listed hotel, a living tribute to its vibrant past. Its graceful, timeless décor exudes a rare blend of refinement and warmth. Stepping through the majestic doors, you shall be greeted with open arms.
Originally built in the 1800s, the Gainsborough Hotel is centred around Spa Village Bath where you can let all your stresses of daily life melt away. This hotel has the exclusive privilege of having access to the natural, mineral-enriched thermal waters - the same springs that the Romans would have used. If staying in the Gainsborough Hotel, make sure you book yourself in for a day living like a Roman!
Price range: From £170 a night
Address: Beau Street, Bath, BA1 1QY
What to do in the area:
6. Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa - Newquay, Cornwall - Check-in and Chill-out
https://fistralbeachhotel.co.uk/
Experience Cornwall's rugged natural beauty at this adults-only spa hotel.
A little bit about the accommodation: Indulge in a long weekend at this luxurious Cornish gem - the perfect coastal spot to relax and unwind with your travel partner. Set against the backdrop of the rugged North Cornwall coastline, Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa is home to an abundance of restorative spa treatments, ranging from hot stone massages to nourishing lifting facials using GAIA Skincare - the talented therapists can even guide you through creating your own bespoke treatment! Relax in the Vitality Suite which includes a heated 11m pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna - the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the wild Atlantic coast. Guests don't have far to travel for delicious cuisine, thanks to the hotel's 2 AA Rosette restaurant - Dune. Crafted with seasonality in mind, Dune's ever-changing menu showcases head chef Daniel Kerr's knowledge of incredible flavours. The best part? Dine with unforgettable views of the breathtaking Cornish coastline as you sample "locally-landed" dishes. Finish the night at Bay Bar - the hotel's coastal-chic lounge where guests can enjoy afternoon tea, locally-roasted coffee as well as a delicious menu of cocktails (we recommend the Spicy Watermelon Margarita). You can even book a cocktail masterclass with the hotel's expert mixologists!
Price Range: From £50 per night
Address: Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1PT
A bit about the local area: Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa overlooks one of the UK's best surf spots and guests can enjoy the vibrant coastal town of Newquay nearby with its array of restaurants, cafes, bars, as well as endless opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy the incredible beaches. There's 7 picture-perfect beaches to explore within walking distance of the town centre, each offering plenty of activities including SUP, surf lessons, beach yoga and more. Our favourite is Watergate Bay as it's dog friendly all year round, Lusty Glaze for incredible views and Great Western. As it's the UK's surf capital, Newquay is the place to go if you're looking to learn the art of surfing. We recommend Women + Waves, a women's surf collective, as well as the highly rated Newquay Activity Centre. Whether it's a weekend-stay or a fortnight, Newquay is a bustling coastal gem that is sure to leave you with life-long memories.
Restaurants to check out:
- Verbena - fine dining experience
- Lewinnick Lodge - boutique restaurant with awesome views
- The Fish House - fresh seafood & rustic dishes