Love is in the air: Valentine’s Day escapes in Britain for 2020
A chance for couples, newlyweds and young families to say ‘I love you’ in an unforgettable setting, Valentine’s Day could not be better spent than on a romantic British getaway. From grand houses nestled in lush woodlands to boutique hotels with history steeped in soulful literature, there is something to warm the hearts of every couple. Here are some of the most atmospheric places to stay, drink and dine in Britain this Valentine’s Day…
Glitz, glam and treehouses: London and south England
The Ritz, London
Known across the globe as the height of class and sophistication, a stay at The Ritz could be the ultimate romantic gesture when celebrating in London. Walk through 112-years of history, sleep in a bed fit for royalty, and treat a partner to a five-star massage or beauty treatment. For a more budget-friendly option, why not enjoy an unforgettable afternoon tea in this world-famous establishment?
Price: Room prices for 14 February 2020 vary, please see The Ritz for details. Afternoon tea starts from £58.
The Rosewood, London
For a taste of modern interior design and delicious cocktails, opt for a stay at the Rosewood. In addition to revelling in modern comfort in one of the hotel’s high-end contemporary rooms or suites, guests can slip downstairs to enjoy a cocktail or two in Scarfes Bar. The romantically-lit hotel bar comes complete with a crackling fire, snuggly velvet armchairs and an impressive collection of antique books to set the scene. Full of cosy corners to cuddle up in and with a vast range of drinks and live music to savour, the Rosewood and Scarfes Bar make a Valentine’s trip to London extra special.
Price: Room prices for 14 February 2020 vary, please see the Rosewood for details.
Tinkers Treehouse, East Sussex
Located in Downash Wood on the East Sussex border, Tinkers Treehouse features a wraparound balcony, a waterfall shower and a firebowl for nights under the stars. Add to that its proximity to the The Bull Inn, a 13th-century pub and restaurant located just a stone’s throw away, and the chance to spot badgers, owls and deer as they patrol the wood, and this treetop escape has all the ingredients required for a cosy couple’s retreat.
Price: Room prices for 14 February start from £665 (minimum three-night stay).
Cliveden House, Berkshire
Once home to dukes and princes, Cliveden House is a stately home turned five-star hotel. Steeped in over 350 years of history, the rooms and suites are beautifully decorated in regal style. The hotel also offers hot tub rooms, Mansion House rooms and a separate Spring Cottage, a more family-friendly option that sleeps up to six. Looking for a romantic daytime activity? Hop into a boat and row serenely across the lake, while tucking into a picnic basket or sipping champagne.
Prices: Rooms and suites vary in price, but guests can take advantage of a three-nights-for-the-price-of-two offer, starting from £890, or a special engagement package, starting from £325 per person.
Literary inspiration and woodland retreats: south-west England
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath
Romantic literature buffs can recreate their own Mr Darcy moment while staying at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa in Jane Austen’s former home, Bath. Made up of two of the city’s striking Georgian townhouses, the accommodation offers 18th-century architecture complemented by modern luxuries. Choose from extravagant suites and stylish rooms, all of which include marble bathrooms, robes and slippers. Indulge in a spa day retreat and savour fine dining in the Dower House Restaurant, which is perhaps best known for its traditional afternoon tea.
Prices: Room prices for 14 February vary, please see The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa for details. Spa treatments start from £30. Afternoon tea starts from £37.50 per person.
Summerhouse Cottage on Tyntesfield Estate, Somerset
Tucked away in verdant woodland, this former hunting lodge is nestled next to a stunning 19th-century National Trust property and offers couples a self-catering summerhouse within its impressive estate. With cosy private outdoor space, a traditional open coal fire and access to the property’s formal gardens in the evening, Summerhouse Cottage is a charming Valentine’s Day delight.
Prices: £452 for two nights over Valentine’s Day (14-16 February 2020)
Fine cuisine and coastal scenery: Wales
The Grove, Wales
Having been awarded AA Hotel of the Year for Wales 2019/20, The Grove of Narbeth is a luxury boutique accommodation offering ‘the warmest Welsh welcome’. Wake up in one of the hotel’s individually styled rooms, stroll around its eclectic gardens and dine in one of the finest eateries in the country, the three AA Rosette award-winning Fernery Restaurant. Nestled close to Pembrokeshire Coastal National Park and some of Wales’ most beautiful beaches, The Grove makes an unbeatable base for a romantic countryside retreat in Wales.
Price: Room prices for 14 February vary, please see The Grove for details. A three-course dinner set menu is available from £69.
Romantic poets and emerald lakes: north England
The Wordsworth Hotel & Spa, Lake District
2020 marks the 250th anniversary of William Wordsworth’s birth, so why not make this a Valentine’s Day getaway surrounded by romantic poetry? The Wordsworth Hotel & Spa is a country house hotel in Grasmere that features the poet's signature on its signage. Located in the heart of the Lake District, the region that inspired many of Wordsworth's greatest works, the property is a popular choice among literature lovers. And with fine dining and a holistic spa, it’s a great place to celebrate a significant other this Valentine’s Day, whatever their literary persuasion.
Prices: Room prices for 14 February vary, please see The Wordsworth Hotel & Spa for details.
High-end glamour and candlelight dining: Scotland
Prestonfield House, Edinburgh
Looking for a romantic escape brimming with high-end opulence? Why not celebrate in style at Prestonfield House in Edinburgh this Valentine’s Day. Located next to Arthur’s Seat, the hotel’s dramatic setting is only matched by its theatrical interior design. Expect rooms and suites styled with jewel colours, rich fabrics and grand antique furniture, plus facilities including a croquet lawn, an 18-hole golf course and a helicopter landing pad.
Lovers on a budget can still experience the hotels’ unique atmosphere in Rhubarb restaurant. Designed by the creator of The Witchery by the Castle, this glamourous establishment offers fine Scottish cuisine made with locally-sourced produce, in a candle-lit setting just made for Valentine’s Day.