Romantic breaks in Britain

Star in your own romcom at the home of Wales’ patron saint of lovers, Santes Dwynwen. Back in the fifth century, Dwynwen became a nun and set up a convent on the island – you can see the ruins of it today. Make a pilgrimage here with that special someone, and stroll hand-in-hand along sandy Llanddwyn Beach for a date to remember. House of the Dragon was filmed here in 2023. 

Curving over the waves, this lofty stone arch sits just off a pretty shingle beach – and can be reached on foot from Lulworth Cove, down a steep staircase carved into the cliff. It is Dorset’s most photographed landmark, shaped by the sea from natural sandstone.

A fairytale castle with romantic ruins and swoon-worthy gardens, Sudeley is a Cotswolds heart throb. It’s the only private castle in England with a queen – Queen Katherine Parr, King Henry VIII’s last wife – buried in its grounds. Step into 1,000 years of history and see the castle’s great historical treasures, including Tudor paintings. You can even get married here! 

One of Britain’s most iconic landscapes, this natural wonder sees cloud-piercing rock pinnacles rise high above the Sound of Raasay – a monumental meeting of land and sea. For the best view, follow the Storr Walk: a leg-pumping trail of 2.3 miles (3.8km), which will take you right to the top. It can be tough in muddy conditions, and requires a decent level of fitness – so ensure you’ve got the right gear and navigational know-how. 

A highlight of the North Pennines National Landscape, Low Force waterfall is a spellbinding spot. The area is also a Dark Sky Discovery Site, so paradise for stargazing. While it may not be as dramatic as nearby High Force, this series of fast-flowing cascades is well worth a visit. Start your walk to the falls at the Bowlees Visitor Centre, which hosts displays from local artists. 

A little slice of the Amalfi Coast in north Wales, this quirky resort was designed in the style of an Italian village by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. Visit for the day, or stay in its plush hotels and suites: they’re dotted throughout the village, many overlooking the water. The village took centre stage in the TV shows The Prisoner (1967 – 1968), Brideshead Revisited (1981) and romantic drama Cold Feet (2003). 

A highlight of the Lochaber Geopark, discover the fascinating geological heritage of Glencoe – ripe for outdoor adventures. It provides a suitably imposing backdrop for James Bond’s ancestral home, Skyfall Lodge, and you can also spot it in productions such as Outlander and Prometheus.  

This island getaway, as seen in House of the Dragon, has to be seen to be believed. It sits just off the coast of Marazion, in Cornwall, with a magnificent castle and garden at its peak, plus a quaint harbour, village and stone-built church – all yours to explore. Whether you love history or hiking, wild swimming or paddleboarding, there is so much to do here, and the sea is never more than a few steps away. The island’s cafe and restaurant serve local delicacies and seafood galore.

Part of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, Calton Hill is where you’ll find some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, including the National Monument, Scotland’s memorial to its fallen soldiers and sailors in the Napoleonic Wars. In 2020’s Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams enjoy the views from Calton Hill – they’re especially beautiful at sunrise.  

In the foothills of north Wales, this Victorian vision was a first of many things – the initial laburnum arch and magnolias in Britain were found here in Bodnant Gardens. These pioneering gardens were filled with plants collected by global explorers and today you can find national collections, sweeping lawns and gardens with rare varieties of plants, all cared for by the National Trust and set against the stunning backdrop of the Carneddau mountains.

Whether easy riverside rambles or long-distance hikes through ancient woodlands, the Yorkshire Dales is blessed with countless rewarding walking routes – so which will you try first? Highlights include the glacial gorge of Gordale Scar, the picturesque waters of Janet’s Foss, and the amphitheatre-shaped rocks of Malham Cove. From easy access to all of the above trails and many more, the village of Malham is an ideal base. Recognise the Limestone Pavement at the top of Malham Cove? It featured in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010) when Harry and Hermione camp out searching for Horcruxes.

Full of vibrancy and family fun, the Needles Landmark Attraction at Alum Bay is the place to be for any activity lover. Soar above the cliffs on the iconic chairlift overlooking the island’s chalk stalks and take a ride on the traditional Victorian carousel. Watch sweet makers craft sugary treats, try your hand at Jurassic golf and learn the art of glass blowing.