The best places for couples in the UK come in all shapes and sizes. If you’re celebrating a big anniversary or simply needing some quality time away, many exciting and vibrant cities in the UK offer totally different experiences for couples.
Luckily, Avanti West Coast has trains to many different cultures and environments throughout the UK. Keep reading, below, so that you can pick the place most suited to you when travelling with your partner.
The most romantic places in the UK for couples
The UK is filled with romantic mini breaks, from romantic things to do in Chester or date ideas in Manchester. It could be argued that the UK has some of the most romantic places in Europe, from countryside retreats and rural hillsides, to arty and flourishing towns.
Bath
Located in Somerset, Bath is a city steeped in history and known for its culture of health and well-being. Bath plays host to the only naturally occurring hot springs in the UK and is famous for its relaxing waters.
This location is a great choice if you are wanting to treat your partner to relaxation and natural beauty that has been admired since the time of ancient Rome.
As well as the natural beauty available, Bath also boasts strong art and literature connections with many museums and art galleries for an enriching couple’s getaway.
Jane Austen’s novels were greatly inspired by the charms of this city so you and your partner can get swept up in the romance and inspiration when visiting the Jane Austen Centre.
When travelling to Bath, travel to Bristol Temple Meads and change for a train to London Paddington. From there, you can get off at the earlier stop of Bath Spa, and be in the centre of the city, ensuring quick access to all it has to offer.
Edinburgh
For a northern couples retreat that offers culture and unique experiences, book a train to Edinburgh. The Scottish capital boasts incredible views of its landscape, with the option to visit and look out from the incredible Edinburgh castle.
Your partner will be blown away by the city’s long-standing beauty and architecture, promising a romantic trip to remember.
If you’re planning a couple’s trip with adventure, then a visit to one of Edinburgh’s immersive experiences may be a memorable outing for you and your partner. One such example is to get lost in illusions when visiting Camera Obscura and World of Illusions. This is an interactive tour of magical visuals and puzzles that is sure to make your romantic trip memorable.
You could also add a spooky twist to your romantic city break and take a walking tour with Mercat Tours and learn of Edinburgh’s ghostly tales whilst taking a walking tour of the underground vaults.
For couples seeking a getaway that is less intense and ghoulish, a trip to Edinburgh Zoo may be the ideal option. If your partner is an animal lover they will be able to spend the day surrounded by a whole menagerie of animals, from koalas to penguins. Getting to Edinburgh is simple, catch a train from Carlisle station to Edinburgh Waverley station to take you into the heart of the city.
Cambridge
When choosing a romantic trip that includes local culture, history, and amazing architecture, Cambridge stands out as an ideal choice.
This bustling city is home to the prestigious university colleges, all of which boast stunning architecture that is guaranteed to captivate you and your partner.
If you start feeling peckish, be sure to get a taste of what the city has to offer by visiting any of the independent restaurants, chocolate shops and bakeries. Cambridge is also home to a longstanding, bustling market square with plenty of food stalls to choose from.
After you have dined in the heart of Cambridge, you could then have a leisurely afternoon of punting along the River Cam or taking in the history at one of the many museums.
When journeying to your romantic destination, catch a train to Ely from London King Cross. Get off at the earlier station of Cambridge, and then it is just a short walk to Cambridge market.
London
As the capital of England, a weekend visit to London is a brilliant choice when choosing romantic places to go as a couple in the UK.
With plenty of restaurants, afternoon tea options, cafes and street foods; an incredible culinary experience is easy to find when choosing London as your romantic destination.
Whilst in this diverse and busy city, you could choose to take your partner on a walking tour of Covent Garden, take in the sites at the London eye, or combine both cuisine and spectacular views, with a romantic meal at The Shard.
For a romantic getaway with added discovery, why not take a tour of the Natural History Museum or the Science Museum? You could also treat your partner to a shopping trip on Oxford Street, or catch a show together in one of the many theatres in the West end.
Depending on what your couple's trip entails, you could catch a train to one of several London stations. Once in the city, the London Underground makes travelling stress-free and speedily gets you to your desired destination, so you have more time to enjoy the sights.
Oxford
Like Cambridge, Oxford promises a romantic break that is filled with culture, architecture and history.
If you and your partner are a fan of architecture, there are many historical buildings to admire, including the multiple colleges and universities, the Bodleian Library, and the Bridge of Sighs.
You could also take the opportunity to visit the extensive collections at the Oxford Museum of Natural History and Ashmolean Museums. Then, after a day of admiring the beauty and history this city has to offer, you could wind down with your partner in one of the many cocktail bars that Oxford has to offer.
When travelling to this location, an earlier stop on the Bournemouth train will allow you to get off at Oxford station. From there you and your partner will be in the heart of all the romance this characterful city has to offer.
Lake District
For a couples trip with a more rural feel and setting, kick back on a train to The Lake District for the perfect getaway.
The romantic appeal of this location is, of course, the beautiful, sprawling lakes. Whether you both take advantage of row boating or swimming, should the weather permit, across the lakes, or enjoy visiting the picturesque towns dotted around the area, these natural pools are the perfect backdrop to unwinding with your partner.
Other rural activities include a visit to the Stone Circles, several landmarks of free-standing stones that have been present since prehistoric times. You can also admire nature as you take the challenge and walk up Scafell Pike, England’s highest point. For a less daunting hike, the Beatrix Potter trail is a more relaxed and equally charming date activity that is sure to create a key memory in your romantic getaway.
Travel together with Avanti West Coast
Make the most of your romantic weekend by taking the stress out of travelling with the Avanti West Coast app.
Our quick and easy ticket booking, seat picker and live train tracking within the app make it easier than ever to travel around the UK. Download the app today and let the romance begin!
