Weekend Breaks in the UK for Couples

One of the top travel destinations in the world, the United Kingdom has plenty of great things to do for couples. Whether the kids have grown or simply don't factor into the equation any longer, couples are spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing a romantic UK weekend getaway.

Adventure seekers, in particular, have plenty of options and often simply "head for the hills" once Friday rolls around. Those who do so are rewarded with some of the most stunning scenery to be found anywhere, from the endless hiking and biking trails in the Brecon Beacons of Wales to the idyllic rolling hills of the Lake District in England. Scotland, of course, is equally attractive, with some of the best Scottish couples getaways in lovely Loch Lomond.

For culture lovers, spending time together in the nation's larger towns and cities can be extremely rewarding, too. Favorites include the historic Scottish capital of Edinburgh, along with the English capital, London. Both offer superb accommodations for couples, plenty of cultural attractions, including some of the world's top art galleries and museums, as well as great dining and entertainment.

And getting there is easy. You'll find even the remotest places to visit in the UK are accessible by train, with stations located in even the smallest of villages and towns. Rail travel can also be affordable, especially with advance planning using useful websites like Trainline and National Rail, both of which offer visitors from overseas substantial discounts.

Find the most romantic places to visit with our list of the top weekend breaks in the UK for couples.

Edinburgh's Romantic Views

When it comes to couples' getaways, few places in the UK can match Edinburgh's romantic setting. The Scottish capital boasts no end of great views over its most important historical landmarks to enjoy. Highlights include catching a glimpse of a stunning sunset behind Edinburgh Castle, a great place to spend a day exploring, or relaxing on Calton Hill with its spectacular views across Princes Street. These views are especially good from Calton Hill's famous folly, a replica of the columns from the Acropolis in Athens.

After taking in these and other top Edinburgh tourist sites, including the lovely Royal Mile and the city's Royal residence at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, treat your loved one to a sumptuous dinner at one of the city's top restaurants. Some of the best come with stunning views over landmarks such as the castle, including one of our favorites, The Outsider. Given its spectacular views over the city's rooftops toward the castle, you'll want to plan ahead and reserve yourself a window table.

If great theater and cultural activities are your thing, try to time your visit to include such world-renowned events as the Edinburgh Fringe (August), a 25-day celebration of the arts, or the equally popular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August). In winter, it's all about the city's great Christmas Market (December).

Getting There: If you're visiting from London, the 400-mile, 5-hour (ish) trip from London to Edinburgh seems to flash past as fast as the scenery. If you can, upgrade to a first-class ticket for additional comfort as well as a great lunch. While it's certainly doable to make the trip by car, the nearly 8 hours drive time isn't for everyone and certainly cuts into your weekend away.

London for Couples

Thanks to its immense size, it doesn't take a great deal of imagination to find fun things for couples to do in London.

Given its endless opportunities for sightseeing, it's possible to satisfy the preferences of both partners, whether this involves attending world-class theater in the West End, a musical performance at the iconic Albert Hall, or visiting its many museums and art galleries, such as the splendid Victoria and Albert Museum ( V&A).

Even those who prefer walking can be accommodated. London is extremely easy to get around on foot, and where greater distances are involved, such as from St. Paul's Cathedral to Greenwich, there's no end of public transit to get you close enough to key points of interest, where a pleasant stroll can be included.

Other favorite strolls include the South Bank, a popular cultural destination with a superb classical music program, and then crossing the majestic Tower Bridge over the Thames to the Tower of London. In fact, time your walk right, and you may even see the sunset behind the bridge. One other popular stroll takes in amazing Regent Street, famous the world over for its high-end luxury shopping and attractive architecture.

Getting Around: Thanks to its excellent transit system of underground trains (the "tube") and buses, it's also an incredibly easy city to get around. And getting to London from the country's major airports, such as Heathrow (16 miles) and Gatwick (39 miles), is fast and easy by train, too.

The Hot Springs of Bath

Bath, the most attractive of the UK's many smaller towns, is the perfect weekend break for couples who enjoy plenty of pampering. One of the smallest of the UK's many attractive cities, Bath has been providing travelers with somewhere to soak weary body parts for over 2,000 years, ever since the first Brits recognized the healing qualities of the hot springs that still gush, countless centuries later, at an impressive 275,000 gallons a day.

But it was the Romans who built the first structures here. These include the spectacular Roman Baths, largely unchanged since those first visitors from far and wide availed themselves of these therapeutic waters.

Best of all for couples, it's still possible to partake in many of the same rituals as these ancient bathers. After touring the Roman Baths and its ancient pump house, head to the modern equivalent, the Thermae Bath Spa. Located just around the corner, it's here you can dip your toes (okay, your whole body) in these same warm waters, whether in the facility's impressive rooftop pool at sunset or in one of its two thermal baths.

A variety of special packages are available for couples, including massages for two with a lovely meal included. An alternative spa experience can be enjoyed at the historic Cross Bath, an 18th-century open-air facility that can be booked for private 1.5-hour sessions.

In addition to its ancient springs, romantic Bath offers many other fun things to see and do. Must-visits include the stunningly attractive Royal Crescent, an area of outstandingly well-preserved Georgian architecture that is partly responsible for the city's UNESCO World Heritage status.

The highlight here is popping into No.1 Royal Crescent. Set up as a museum, this exquisite townhome has been preserved exactly as it would have been in the 18th century when England's upper classes flocked to Bath to get away from the noise and pollution of London.

Getting There: A distance of 115 miles, if you're traveling from London to Bath by train, bus, or car, it's an easy trip. Making the journey by train will save you at least an hour's travel time over a car, and will deposit you in the heart of this always busy tourist destination. That said if you do insist on driving, you can at least make use of Bath's excellent "park and ride" program.

Hiking the Brecon Beacons

Like Scotland, Wales is another superb destination for couples, particularly adventurous couples. One of the top places for couples to visit in South Wales, Brecon Beacons (recently renamed Bannau Brycheiniog after the region's Welsh name) is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise where you'll find no end of excitement, from hiking and biking adventures to camping and even stargazing.

You can head for the hills and start walking along any one of the many well-marked trails. One of the most popular is the spectacular Four Falls hike. As the name of this great walk suggests, it takes in the park's most scenic waterfalls: Cwm Porth, Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and the Sgwd yr Eira Falls, and is a fun hike can take upwards of four hours.

Another nice waterfall to explore is the 90-foot Henryd Falls. The country's tallest falls, it's a relatively easy hike that can be enjoyed even by those of moderate stamina.

Other fun things to do in Brecon Beacons include paying a visit to Merthyr Tydfil, a picturesque town that serves as a starting point for cyclists hitting the UK's National Cycle Route. From here, you can also hop aboard the excellent Brecon Mountain Railway, an authentic steam train journey taking in some of the park's most stunning scenery. Join a gorge walking experience, a wet adventure that will have you swimming and climbing over some of the same waterfalls mentioned earlier.

For those planning on hiking this beautiful area, check availability at any one of the many fine places to stay in or near the park. Favorites include The New White Lion Hotel, a great choice for its proximity to the park just a short walk away, as well as traditional Welsh hospitality.

Getting There: While it's a little trickier to access by rail from London, the 180-mile distance is manageable if you break the trip up with a stop in the Welsh capital of Cardiff; this 3-hour journey makes using the city as your base for the weekend a good option. From here, it's less than an hour by bus to Merthyr Tydfil and your Welsh outdoor adventures. If you do have a car, you can expect to spend around 3 hours driving each way from London.

Cambridge for Couples

Those seeking a romantic weekend break couldn't do much better than visit the university city of Cambridge. Less than an hour north of London by train, it's easy to get to and a lot of fun to explore on foot, so leave the car behind.

Start your Cambridge adventure with an exploration of the city's many magnificent university colleges. There are 31 of these historic colleges here, together providing an endless array of architectural eye-candy, with historic attractions that date back as far as the late 1200s.

It would take weeks to visit them all, so if you're pressed for time, be sure to include King's College in your Cambridge itinerary. It's notable for its large well-manicured grounds and river views, and its stunning chapel. Better still, try to time it for choir practice or church service; early evenings are also good times to visit.

For the ultimate romantic selfie, head to the 15th-century Queens' College with its many well-preserved medieval buildings, and look for the old Mathematical Bridge for an unforgettable backdrop.

Finally, no visit to Cambridge would be complete without hopping on one of the many people-powered punts. These distinctive flat-bottomed watercraft are used to move people around the city's shallow canals and on the River Cam. Punting is a delightful way to spend an hour or two with a loved one and provides views of this historic college town you may otherwise have missed, as well as the chance for some quality time together.

Getting There: If you do decide to drive the 60 miles from London to Cambridge, you'll need to factor in additional time for traffic and parking, which can be tight, especially on weekends. That said, the city's five park-and-ride locations mean you can ditch the car for the weekend as you explore the city on foot.

• Read More: Tourist Attractions in Cambridge

Loving the Lake District

The Lake District in Cumbria is one of those unique destinations that encapsulates the quintessential English scenery, its gently rolling hills and pleasant pastures interspersed with lovely lakes and charming villages, ensuring a timeless appeal. Whether you're simply looking for a place to rest your heels while enjoying the views, or are seeking something a little more adventurous, this collection of 16 gorgeous lakes, moors, and valleys is ideal.

Hill-walkers are spoiled for choice thanks to the large Lake District National Park, home to the tallest peaks, including England's tallest mountain, Scafell Pike, and the prettiest lakes. There are trails suitable for all levels, from gentle lake-side affairs to those that require a little more fitness but are well worth the effort for the spectacular views. Park highlights include a great visitor's center in Kendal, a variety of boat tours, and numerous lovely old villages in which to stop and rest awhile over a well-deserved lunch or dinner.

If you want lakeside views, stick close to the shores of the region's largest lake, Windermere. Most of the Lake District's tourist attractions and related things to do are to be enjoyed here, including pleasant lake cruises that carry guests from quaint village to village. There's also the fun Haverthwaite Steam Railway, which travels through the spectacular scenery of the Leven Valley.

There are also numerous lovely spots for a picnic or great restaurant patios for a romantic lunch or sunset dinner..

Getting There: Given the fact it's around 260 miles from central London, getting from London to the Lake District means you'll need to spend at least a half-day traveling. About six hours each way from London whether you travel by car or train. If you're starting from somewhere closer to the Lake District, it makes more sense. It's an ideal destination if you're visiting Scotland as it's only a 90-minute drive from Glasgow Airport.

Loch Lomond: The Queen of Scottish Lakes

Scotland also boasts its very own lake district: the stunning Loch Lomond. A pretty 25-mile route that'll take you around 45 minutes to drive from central Glasgow, Loch Lomond, famously dubbed "The Queen of Scottish Lakes" by writer Walter Scott, offers no end of fun things to do for couples. Don't have a car? Don't despair! Rail services to Balloch, where you can begin your Loch Lomond adventure, run regularly, and take around the same time as a journey by car.

Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn here not just for the superlative fishing (the lake's trout and salmon are often found on menus at the region's top restaurants), but for experiences such as hiking and mountain biking. The best trails are part of the spectacular Western Highland Way and through the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Rock climbing on Ben Lomond, as well as water sports like kayaking, are also popular.

Those preferring more relaxed pursuits can enjoy the beautiful scenery from the comfort of one of the many boats that cruise the waters or, for that matter, from the comfort of their room or suite. Such views are certainly not hard to come by from the lake's top hotels and resorts.

• Read More: Tourist Attractions & Things to Do around Loch Lomond

Explore the Channel Islands

When it comes to choosing the perfect couples' getaway, make sure you include the English Channel Islands on your shortlist. Although closer to France than they are to England, this collection of small islands consists of, in descending order of size: Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and Herm.

While it might be tempting to base yourself on Jersey for the duration of your stay, you'd be missing out on some truly amazing sites if you do. While this might mean spending a little longer than just a two-day weekend (stretch it out over a bank holiday weekend), an extra night or two will allow you to explore beautiful Guernsey. You'll then be able to hop aboard a locally operated charter for a quick exploration of Alderney or Sark, each of which is delightful to explore on foot.

Getting There: The islands are surprisingly easy to get to from the mainland, with regular 90-minute flights available from London. Prefer to make the trek by water? Ferry rides from Portsmouth take around 4 hours, and ferry services are also available from mainland France.

• Read More: Exploring the Attractions of the Channel Islands

A Not-So-Hard-Day's-Night (or Two) in Liverpool

Few bands have had as lasting an impact on a country's cultural scene as The Beatles, quite possibly the one band in the world both individuals in a couple can agree to actually like! Nowhere is this more evident than in the Fab Four's hometown.

Popular things to do in this once again hip port city include hopping aboard any one of the many guided tours that will whisk you to the best-known Beatles landmarks. These include the better-known spots such as the informative The Beatles Story, a museum dedicated to the band's time in Liverpool and on the world stage. It just so happens to be located in the Albert Dock area, so be sure to spend time exploring this old harbor area with its modernized wharves and warehouses.

Those who enjoy a little exploration on their own would do well to pick up a Liverpool map and mark out a route that takes in some of the other Beatles-related points of interest. Be sure to include the Cavern Walks, a series of murals created by John Lennon's first wife, Cynthia, in the downtown area. Then head further afield to places like 20 Forthlin Road, the childhood home of Paul McCartney, and now a museum. Also worth a visit are sites such as Lennon's old home on Menlove Avenue, along with the selfie opportunities along Penny Lane and at Strawberry Field.

Getting There: If a rail ride of around three hours duration works (add an hour if traveling by car), the 200-mile journey from London to Liverpool is certainly worth it.

England's Seaside Getaway: Brighton

For generations, Brighton was known as the place for couples to escape to for a "quiet," no-frills weekend away from prying parents and crying kids. This delightful seaside resort town overlooking the English Channel has cleaned up its act in recent decades, gentrification bringing a new reputation as a classy place to travel to for time away with a sweetheart.

This is an idyllic setting. Boasting a charming old pier, a lovely promenade, and a five-mile-long beachfront on which to sit and soak up the sea air, you'll definitely enjoy spending a romantic weekend here with your loved one.

In addition to walking along its waterfront, be sure to delve a little deeper into the town center and its outlying regions, too. You'll be rewarded with Regency-era terraced homes, plenty of great shopping along the famous Lanes pedestrian area, as well as plenty of great food options, from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants.

Brighton's top attractions are also well worth spending time exploring, especially the very elegant Royal Pavilion, built as a summer home for King George IV, and now housing collections of period furniture and related artifacts.

For couples who enjoy cultural activities, try to time your weekend break to coincide with the popular Brighton Festival. A good excuse for a spring break, this three-week marathon includes worldwide talent in the fields of classical and jazz music, theatrical performances, as well as comedy.

Getting There: Traveling the 60 or so miles from London to Brighton is definitely easy, especially if taking the train. Fast, efficient, though often busy rail services depart Victoria and London Bridge stations throughout the day, and the hour journey time is between 30 - 60 minutes faster than driving, depending on the time of day.

Take a Stroll through York's Shambles

Few cities anywhere in England have so deep a connection with romance as the city of York. Located in North Yorkshire in the northeast corner of the country, this beautiful city is rich in stunning historic architecture, including the majestic York Minster, as well as the country's longest and best-preserved medieval city walls. It's also home to countless picturesque lanes, and all look like they're straight out of a storybook, a fact that has resulted in York becoming England's unofficial pre-wedding celebration destination.

It's this spectacular setting, not to mention its association with weddings and celebrations, that also makes York one of the best places to visit for a romantic weekend getaway. And nowhere's more fun to explore with your significant other than York's famous Shambles. Laid out (or rather, thrown together!) in the 1300s, the area features numerous old timber-framed buildings that seem to defy gravity, as their fronts literally protrude over the narrow cobbled streets.

The name, in fact, has less to do with the seemingly chaotic design of these streets than it does the once plentiful butcher shops and meat stalls that were to be found here, which at the time was referred to as "The Great Flesh Shambles." They are now a mix of boutique shops, tearooms, and eateries.

Hungry? Just steps away from the Shambles and York Minster, The Bow Room Restaurant is making a name for itself as one of England's top restaurants. It's certainly one of the most romantic, with spectacular garden views that also take in York's famous city walls. For the ultimate experience, book a night or two at Grays Court Hotel, the historic hotel that owns the restaurant.

For an even more romantic York experience, try to swing a visit in the period leading up to Christmas. A section of the Shambles known as Snickelways is lit up to spectacular effect, its narrow laneways lined with stalls and vendors selling gifts, food, and hot beverages as part of what is one of the country's best Christmas markets.

Round your weekend stay with an afternoon tea at The Grand, York. This fine historic hotel is also a great place to stay, and you'll soon want to come back and do it all over again.

Getting There: While driving the 200-plus miles to York from London takes around 4 hours, high-speed rail services can get you there in half that time, making it a clear winner for those wanting a stress-free weekend getaway.

Read More: Tourist Attractions in York, England

Get Cuddly in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds possess what's widely considered one of the most romantic landscapes in all of England.

Covering an area of 800 square miles, the Cotswolds' idyllic scenery consists of rolling hills and farmland, lush green valleys and woodlands, as well as the country's most picturesque villages. It's a romantic setting that has been immortalized in everything from paintings to poetry, as well as movies and TV.

Whether you're adventurous or amorous, or possibly both, a weekend break in the Cotswolds is just the ticket for couples seeking quality time away together. With countless cottage rental opportunities in the countryside or quaint Cotswold village B&Bs and inns, you'll find no end of great accommodation options to suit your preferences and budget, too.

Favorite places to visit during your stay include Castle Combe and Bourton-on-the-Water, both of which also serve as excellent bases for hikers. They're also within easy reach of the 102-mile Cotswold Way National Trail. Stretching all the way from the city of Bath to Chipping Camden, this well-marked route takes in the beautiful Cotswold Hills' along with some of the region's most picture-perfect villages.

Getting There: Fortunately for travelers, it's easy to get to. A distance of just 80 miles, getting from London to the Cotswolds only takes about 90 minutes whether you travel by train or car. But to get the most out of your Cotswold weekend getaway, you really would benefit from having a car to get you to the remoter corners of this area of outstanding natural beauty.

Historic Canterbury and its Majestic Cathedral

Located in the heart of Kent, a county famously known as the "Garden of England," the city of Canterbury offers plenty of good reasons to be included on lists of the best UK weekend breaks for couples.

Canterbury is immensely walkable, with the top attractions, the best accommodations, and countless fun attractions all located within its historic city center. And if you do drive, a number of handy park-and-ride locations are dotted on the city's outskirts.

The main attraction here is undoubtedly Canterbury Cathedral. Dating all the way back to the 11th century, this majestic place of worship dominates the city's skyline, so it's hard to miss. While a guided tour is a good way to learn more about the building, you'll also want to dedicate time to exploring the cathedral grounds, as well as the many well-preserved old townhomes and shops dotted around its gatehouse.

For a truly unforgettable romantic weekend break in Canterbury, check into the accommodations on offer at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge. Owned and operated by the cathedral and set within its grounds, the lodge offers luxurious rooms and suites with garden views, as well as guest-only access to areas of the property that are usually closed to the public.

Getting There: An easy train ride south of London, you'll find yourself covering the 60 miles between London and Canterbury in an hour if taking the train, or around 90 minutes by car.

Portmeirion: A Little Piece of Italy in Wales

Book a stay in beautiful Portmeirion in North Wales, and you'll have to convince yourself you're not on Italy's Amalfi Coast.

Established in 1925 and a labor of love for its owner, Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, it was only completed in the 1970s. The Italian flourishes are everywhere here, from the bright Mediterranean-themed buildings to the alleys and laneways that connect them, and the beautiful gardens and fountains dotted here and there.

The best part, though, is having the place to yourself once the gates shut, and the general public go home. Come closing time, guests staying at the resort can wander the property at their leisure, even enjoying a romantic meal on-site at one of the resort's two restaurants. Afterward, wander down to the water and enjoy the sunset from the riverside lower village.

In addition to being famous for its unique brand of Portmeirion pottery, available from the on-site shops, this unique resort property is often recognizable to visitors and guests from its appearance on TV and movie screens.

Getting There: This makes an ideal weekend getaway for those already in Wales or visiting northern England. The cities of Manchester and Liverpool are just 120 and 110 miles away, respectively, compared to London's 230 miles.

Address: Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd

Official site: www.portmeirion-village.com

Map of Weekend Breaks in the UK for Couples