Winter doesn’t feel quite so cold when you’ve got someone to snuggle up to. Why not treat your significant other to a winter holiday this year, where love is sure to be in the air? From cosy country pubs in the Cotswolds to outdoor adventures in the Lake District, these romantic breaks will melt the iciest of hearts.
Romantic Winter Breaks in the UK
At Holiday Lettings (part of TripAdvisor), we used a special algorithm to search every rental review on our site, identifying town and village getaways across the UK with the highest percentage of winter reviews mentioning romance. What are left are some of the top romantic winter breaks that travellers rave about—where you’ll find fewer visitors and more tranquillity than a bustling city spot. So, whether you’re looking for a chocolate-box cottage or an elegant apartment, you’ll have plenty of romantic rentals to choose from on Holiday Lettings.
#1 Broadway, The Cotswolds
Nestled in the breathtaking Cotswold countryside, Broadway is a beautiful romantic bolthole, at any time of the year. Pottering around the Broadway Museum & Art gallery is a great way to spend a rainy day. At the Broadway Tower, enjoy spectacular views of 16 surrounding counties, bathed in the crisp, winter sunshine. The chestnut tree-lined High Street with its honey-coloured cottages is the perfect place to take a stroll, hand-in-hand with your loved one, before settling down to dinner at one of the many restaurants in this scenic town. It’s a romantic winter break you’ll treasure for years to come.
Book a break in Broadway this winter
#2 Windermere, Lake District
Outdoorsy types will love a romantic winter break in Windermere. From boating in Bowness to hiking on the windswept hills, there’s plenty to keep couples entertained. At 10.5 miles long, one mile wide and 220 feet deep, Windermere is the largest natural lake in England. But that’s not this area’s only claim to fame; it’s also the inspiration for Arthur Ransome’s book, Swallows and Amazons. After a day spent exploring, cosy up at your private holiday rental or wine and dine your significant other at one of the many restaurants nearby.
Whisk your loved one away to Windermere
#3 Pitlochry, Perthshire
The bustling town of Pitlochry has been welcoming visitors for centuries. Queen Victoria enjoyed a stay at this picturesque town in 1842 and, over 150 years later, the outstanding scenery and fresh countryside air continues to wow its visitors. Despite still being a small town, Pitlochry is packed with things to see and do. The Main Street is a hive of activity, with its quaint shops and the renowned Pitlochry Festival Theatre, while to the east is Scotland’s smallest traditional whisky distillery. Book a break in Pitlochry to feel the love this winter.
#4 Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
With its elegant Georgian architecture, stylish shopping and fine dining restaurants, Leamington Spa has plenty to offer couples looking for a romantic winter break. Take a gentle meander around the beautiful Jephson Gardens where you can stop off at the pretty cafe for tea and cake. In the evening, take advantage of Leamington’s fantastic cultural scene and take in some live music or theatre before dining out at one of the many fantastic restaurants. Finish the night off with a cocktail (or two) before strolling back to your private rental. Love will certainly be in the air when you book a break in Leamington Spa this winter.
Choose a romantic rental in Leamington Spa
#5 Harrogate, Yorkshire
Harrogate’s Victorian elegance will easily melt the chilliest of hearts. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, the sprawling and spectacular Yorkshire Dales is on your doorstep. Have a go at mountain biking, climbing or abseiling, or maybe just a romantic stroll across the fells. Back in town, warm up by indulging in a luxurious Turkish bath or treat yourself to a spot of afternoon tea with your significant other. And if you’re thinking of popping the question, there are some great jewellery shops in the town along with a range of quirky independents and high street retailers.
Pick a winter escape in Harrogate
#6 Shrewsbury, Shropshire
Feeling flat after the Christmas festivities? Warm up your winter with a romantic break in the historic town of Shrewsbury. The centre is lined with half timbered Tudor buildings which give it an air of charm and romance. Head to Shrewsbury castle where you can take a walk round the beautifully maintained gardens and the well preserved Laura’s Tower with its unique views over Shrewsbury. Just a few miles out is Haughmond Abbey; another site full of romantic scenery. Round off your day with a meal for two back at your private holiday rental.
#7 Llandudno, North Wales
One of the highlights of the dark winter months following Christmas is Valentine’s Day – what better time for a romantic winter break? If you’re looking for beautiful scenery, historical sites and good food and shopping then Llandudno will fit the bill. This coastal town in North Wales is known for its North Shore Beach and 19th-century pier. Neighbouring Conwy is just a couple of miles away so you can enjoy all the attractions that both places have to offer. And with a variety of holiday rentals to suit all lovebirds, Llandudno is a great choice for a romantic weekend getaways for couples.
Look for a romantic rental in Llandudno
#8 Torquay, Devon
With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, a romantic winter break in Torquay could be the way to your loved one’s heart. Visit Torre Abbey with its beautiful rooms, art exhibitions and interactive displays to find out more about this seaside town’s colourful history. Go back millions of years on a fascinating tour of the prehistoric Kents Cavern. Torquay offers a wide range of places to eat, from cool cafes and gastro-pubs to fine dining restaurants, so there’ll be plenty of opportunities to play footsie or hold hands across the table.
Choose a romantic rental in Torquay this winter
#9 Reading, Berkshire
This vibrant town on the Thames and Kennet rivers is famous for its annual rock music festival in the summer. In winter, Reading has plenty to offer couples looking for a relaxing break. The shops and riverside restaurants in the town centre are well worth a visit. If the weather’s not being kind, take shelter in Reading Museum where you’ll find exhibits on the town’s history and a Victorian replica of the Bayeux Tapestry. For a romantic walk, head to the ruins of the 12th-century Reading Abbey to soak up the atmosphere before strolling through the picturesque Forbury Gardens.
Choose a romantic rental in Reading
#10 Bournemouth
Not far from the Jurassic Coast, the cosmopolitan seaside town of Bournemouth is packed full of things to see and do. Visit the oceanarium, where you can get hands-on with the marine life through interactive activities. Take a romantic saunter through Bournemouth Lower Gardens, which are less than a five minute walk from the centre. And with miles of pristine sandy beaches to explore, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to wrap up warm and enjoy a quiet walk with your loved one. At the end of a busy day, head back to your self-catering rental where you can cook up something tasty for your beau.
Book a break in Bournemouth this winter
Tags: romantic towns UK
