If you’d rather not join the hoards at the airports but still want a blissful holiday with your other half, what are your options? The good news is that the UK is jam-packed with diverse and amazing places from city breaks to secret hideaways. Take a look at our top 10 staycations for couples ideas.
1. Go on a domestic safari
Who says you have to endure a long hot flight to enjoy a safari?! Head to Kent, to Port Lympne, a hotel and reserve which is part of the Aspinall Foundation. Here you can enjoy a sleepover with a difference. For couples, we recommend the romance of stargazing in ‘The Bubble’. Alternatively, sleep in a lodge overlooking the tigers or in a safari tent looking out on to the very African looking Kentish plains with giraffes and zebra.
2. Head to the New Forest
There’s pretty much something for every type of couple in the New Forest. Whether you’re after adventure or a quiet countryside retreat, you’ll find it here. Couples will love the romance of a private hot tub in the luxurious treehouse bedrooms.
3. Discover the Scottish Highlands
If it’s just the two of you, head up to the Highlands and indulge in a Scottish spa experience, perfect for after a day exploring the mountains. An authentic and lavish option awaits guests at the Craigellachie Hotel. Even better, if there’s a pooch in your relationship, they can come too. While exploring the Scottish Highlands, be prepared for impressive mountains and rugged coastline.
4. Wander the lanes of the Cotswolds
Accessible to many, the Cotswolds is ideal for a long weekend staycation in the UK. Enjoy ambling amongst the golden stone buildings, taking a peek into some of the most English of English gardens. To really feel part of it, stay at Barnsley House http://www.barnsleyhouse.com/ where couples can make the most of their divine spa. To enjoy the height of romance book into the Secret Garden Suite or the Potting Shed.
5. Have a city break in Bath
Bath is a city crying out for couples to wander the streets and soak up the history. You can round it off with a fabulous shopping spree before heading to the world famous spa. If you miss out on a summertime experience in Bath, don’t worry. Before Christmas, Bath Christmas Market is a wonderful place for couples to mooch, enjoy mulled wine and listen to carol singers. Whatever the time of year, couples will adore Bath.
6. Smuggle your way to Cornwall
Feel like you’re in the south of France by heading down to the coast of Cornwall. Snuggle up on a beach enjoying fish and chips or indulge in a cream tea. Discover secret coves and smuggler’s hideouts. Instead of chocolates, buy your loved one some fudge!
7. Enjoy the Lake District
Dreamy fells and mirror-glass waters wait for you in the Lake District. Appreciate a romantic excursion on a rowing boat or challenge each other to a hike. Relish the panoramas and take in the breath-taking views. A fabulous spot for couples to stay at is the Gilpin Hotel and Lake House on Lake Windermere. Look at their ‘Magical Escapes’ to find out more. The lake district is also popular for it’s fantastic walking routes, discover some of the best walks in the lake district here.
8. Soak up culture and architecture in York
Another city break ideal for a UK staycation is York. Dominated by the York Minster, you’ll find no shortage of sights to wow and delight. In the evenings you can head to a bar with a buzz, or find a small quirky restaurant. There is a wealth of boutique hotels here so you can really take your pick.
9. Go back to nature in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland
Discover spectacular night time views from the comfort of a four-poster bed when you stay in a bubble dome at Finn Lough Resort. You really will feel at one with the countryside around you, yet be able to enjoy a waterfall shower and even your own telescope.
10. Head to the capital in London
Millions of tourists flock each year from every corner of the globe to visit our capital. There’s a good reason for that – it’s incredible, iconic and bursting with something for absolutely everyone. Couples can enjoy days seeing the sights such as the London Eye before an evening in the West End. If the sun is shining then a romantic tour of the city on the top deck of an open top bus is memorable.
Use a staycation as an excuse to explore the plethora of different places in the UK.
