Planning a honeymoon in Great Britain? From luxury in the Scottish Highlands to beach breaks in Cornwall, these UK honeymoon ideas cover a range of options.
If you’re based in the UK, the thought of taking your honeymoon on home turf might seem a little unusual. After all, the norm is to jet off to somewhere far flung, with paradise beaches, balmy temperatures or spectacular landscapes. When I last checked, the most popular honeymoon destinations were The Maldives, Mauritius and the Caribbean.
While I agree that these are stunning destinations for a holiday, there are lots of great options in the UK too. After the events of the last year, some may be looking to book something that is less likely to be cancelled by travel restrictions. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and support local.
I have friends who are scared of flying, so the thought of nine hours on a flight would not scream ‘best trip of my life’! There are economic benefits too. Those international honeymoons add up fast, especially after an expensive wedding!
What do most of us look for in a honeymoon…? Relaxation. Luxury. Romance. Good food. Natural beauty. Oh, and a seriously beautiful place to stay. Well, these UK honeymoon ideas tick all of those boxes.
From the outstanding natural beauty of the Lake District (which boasts the most fabulous food scene too), and the epic mountain views of the Scottish Highlands, to the charm and relaxation of the New Forest and the adventure activities of North Wales, I’ve picked out the best honeymoon destinations in the UK.
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Honeymoon in the Lake District
We’ve been to the Lake District several times and fall in love with it a little more every single time we go back. With spectacular rolling hills, stunning lakes and lots of activities, this region is perfect for honeymoon couples who love the outdoors, natural beauty, photography and great food.
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To take in the beauty of the region, go on a romantic walk to the summit of Cat Bells. You’ll be rewarded with the panoramic views the Lakes are famous for, looking out over the mirror-like shimmer of Derwentwater below.
If you’re feeling adventurous, how about renting kayaks, paddle boards or a boat? After all, you can’t visit this part of England and not get out on the water!
Dine at…
There are plenty of amazing Michelin starred restaurants in the Lake District. For an extra special treat, book a table at Simon Rogan’s L’Enclume in Cartmel. With 2-Michelin stars to its name and innovative and creative cuisine on offer, it’ll be a meal you’ll never forget.
Our favourite restaurant in the Lake District is Cottage in the Wood – an intimate ‘restaurant with rooms’ near Keswick. This Michelin-starred restaurant showcases the region’s incredible produce with their 6-course Taste Cumbria menu.
Stay at…
If you’re looking for honeymoon hotels in the UK, definitely check out Gilpin Hotel. This luxurious spa hotel is in a stunning location with views to the moors, and has a mix of rooms, suites and chic spa lodges.
The spa lodges would be my choice for a honeymoon in the Lake District. Each lodge has treatment rooms, steam room, outdoor sauna and hydrotherapy hot tub. It’s definitely one of the most romantic hotels in the UK.
You can check prices and availability at the Gilpin Hotel here.
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You can check prices and availability at the Gilpin Hotel here.
If you’re looking for self-catered accommodation, check out our guide to the best cottages in the Lake District.
Honeymoon in the New Forest
The New Forest is a part of England that oozes romance. It’s a destination with magical forests, rugged heaths, quaint villages and wild ponies roaming freely. As well as the wildlife, there’s a great food scene too, with country house hotels such as The Pig, Lime Wood Hotel and Chewton Glen boasting excellent restaurants.
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You’re guaranteed to see lots of wildlife during a break in the New Forest. As mentioned there are wild ponies all over the region, and it’s a magical experience seeing them roaming around.
On my last trip I had a close encounter with some friendly donkeys who sidled right up to our car. If you’re an animal loving couple, it’s a wonderful place for a honeymoon.
Dine at…
You might have heard of The Pig. There are a few dotted around the south of England, each one focusing on food. The Pig in Brockenhurst has a large kitchen garden where you’ll see all sorts of ingredients growing, before sampling them in the restaurant at night.
The dinner menu is captioned the ’25-mile menu’ as that’s the furthest any item has had to travel. Food is excellent, with creative menus without too much fuss.
Alternatively, dine at Lime Wood Hotel’s restaurant Hartnett Holder & Co and enjoy seasonal Italian menus, designed by top chef Angela Hartnett.
Stay at…
5* hotel Chewton Glen is the ultimate honeymoon hotel in the New Forest. The hot tub suites look incredible, with large bedrooms, dressing rooms, bathrooms and of course, that bubbling jacuzzi!
Alternatively, for an even more memorable stay you could check into one of Chewton Glen’s treehouse suites. This chic accommodation offers forest views and all the luxurious amenities you could imagine!
You can check prices and availability at Chewton Glen here.
Honeymoon in the Scottish Highlands
If you’re an outdoor loving couple, have you considered a honeymoon in the Scottish Highlands? This magical area of outstanding natural beauty offers a mix of mountains, moorland, lochs and castles. You’ll feel like you’re walking through the pages of a romantic novel or a fairy tale!
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Pack a backpack and go for a romantic hike through Glencoe. The scenery here is staggeringly beautiful, with towering mountains, shimmering lochs and endless trails to explore.
Take a drive to the picturesque 13th century Eilean Donan Castle. Set on its own little island, overlooking the Isle of Skye, and surrounded by forests and mountains, it’s one of the most romantic views in Scotland.
Or for another of the most romantic views in the Scottish Highlands, head to Glenfinnan Viaduct and watch a steam train pass elegantly through the dramatic landscapes.
Dine at…
The Isle of Eriska Hotel is located on a private island off the west coast of Scotland, making the experience of visiting even more magical. The restaurant here is top notch, with delicious ingredients such as turbot, scallops and duck regularly spotted on the 3-course menu.
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What could be more romantic for a honeymoon in Scotland than staying in a real Scottish castle?
Inverlochy Castle is in a breath-taking position, perched on a lake with forest and mountains (including Ben Nevis) behind. There are 17 bedrooms and suites, styled in a traditional way, with four-poster beds and spectacular views out to the rugged scenery.
You can check prices and availability at Inverlochy Castle here.
Honeymoon in Cornwall
Cornwall is one of the best UK honeymoon destinations as it offers so much. The most southerly part of mainland Britain is where you’ll find some of the prettiest beaches in Britain.
With that gorgeous coastline comes the bonus of amazing seafood. If you and your other half are looking for a 50/50 split of exploring and eating, Cornwall could be the perfect spot!
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You’ll want to plan plenty of walks for your trip to Cornwall. Highlights include the adorable fishing village of Port Isaac, the epic beach at Bedruthan Steps, the famous island of St Michael’s Mount and the stunning combination of turquoise water and rugged rocks at Kynance Cove.
Dine at…
Foodies will want to head straight to Padstow – the culinary heart of Cornwall. While there, eat at Paul Ainsworth’s Michelin-starred restaurant, No.6. He elevates simple local ingredients to create sophisticated, beautifully presented dishes.
Alternatively, dine at one of Rick Stein’s restaurants. He has quite the Padstow empire, from a fish and chip shop all the way to fine-dining restaurant The Seafood Restaurant. His menu reflects his love of travel, with dishes from around the world.
If you’re looking for other recommendations for great restaurants in Cornwall, check out our guide to the best restaurants in Padstow.
Stay at…
The Scarlet is an eco-focused, adults only boutique hotel located on the coast in Mawgan Porth. With a relaxing spa, chic rooms and mesmerising views over the cliffs to the Atlantic, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
To make your honeymoon even more memorable, you could book a couple’s massage or take a dip in one of The Scarlet’s cliff top hot tubs. What a romantic place to relax together!
You can check prices and availability at The Scarlet here.
Honeymoon in Snowdonia National Park
Until last year I hadn’t been to Snowdonia National Park since I was a kid. I remembered it was beautiful, but I’d forgotten just how epic the views are.
I’d recommend a honeymoon in Snowdonia for an adventure-loving couple or those on a budget. There are some amazing outdoor activities on offer, and being in the mountains definitely adds to the romance.
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If you’re adrenaline addicts, book tickets for ZipWorld in Penrhyn Quarry. It’s home to the world’s fastest zip line – a 1,555 metre ride of pure exhilaration that passes over deep turquoise water. Even better, you can fly through the air on zip lines next to one another, you know, for that extra bit of honeymoon romance!
Or, see the sights from the road as you drive through the Llanberis Pass – one of the most famous driving routes in Wales, which takes you past the epic mountain peaks. There are lots of gorgeous lakes to stop at along the way too.
If you’re feeling up to a challenge, you could hike to the peak of Snowdonia together (a height of 3,560 feet). Alternatively, head to Llanberis and catch a train up on the Snowdon Mountain Railway.
Dine at…
Just across the Menai Bridge in Anglesey, not far from Snowdonia is teeny tiny Michelin-starred restaurant Sosban and the Old Butchers.
There’s no menu to choose from, but don’t worry, the food here is bold, innovative and features plenty of ingredients found in the North Wales larder. The most difficult part? Bagging a table for your honeymoon as it gets booked up so far in advance!
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You’ll feel like you’ve travelled to France when you arrive at Chateau Rhianfa, a beautiful French-style castle overlooking the Menai Strait in Anglesey. Or you could take a look at our other picks of the best hotels in Snowdonia.
It’s not right in Snowdonia National Park, but it has mountain views and is guaranteed to bring an air of fairy tale romance to your honeymoon.
You can check prices and availability at Chateau Rhianfa here.
Honeymoon in London
London is one of the most exciting cities on the planet, with plenty of luxury hotels, attractions and great restaurants. If you’re based somewhere quiet in Britain, a fun-packed few days in the capital might be the honeymoon for you.
Fill your days with sightseeing, cooking classes, spa trips or adrenaline activities, before unwinding together with a posh dinner or in a luxurious hotel room.
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If you’re looking for romantic things to do in London on your honeymoon you could start with a champagne flight on board the London Eye.
For a memorable lunch, book onto a Bateaux London cruise and enjoy the views from the Thames. You could book an indulgent afternoon tea or see a West End show.
For something a little quirkier, you could climb The O2, try an escape room or go on a speedboat ride on the river.
If you’re on a budget, I’d recommend walking through Hyde Park or to the top of Primrose Hill for a great view, take a trip to the Sky Garden (it’s free!) or stroll around the beautiful St Katharine Docks.
Dine at…
You’ll be spoiled for choice if you have your honeymoon in London! There are so many great options, from Michelin starred restaurants to immersive dining experiences and food markets. Here are a few recommendations, but believe me when I say it was hard to choose!
Restaurant Story – Telling stories through food with gourmet 6 or 10 course menus.
Restaurant Gordon Ramsay – One of the best restaurants in London, serving fine-dining French cuisine usually in a 9-course menu.
Clos Maggiore – One of the most romantic restaurants in London – book a table in the beautiful conservatory.
Hakkasan – Some of the best Chinese food you’ll ever eat in a chic dimly-lit, romantic environment.
Benares – Exceptional Indian cuisine elevated to a stylish fine-dining level.
Le Pont de la Tour – Classic romantic restaurant with white table cloths and an incredible view of Tower Bridge.
SushiSamba – Tasty Japanese / South American fusion food with mesmerising views of the city from the 37th floor.
Maltby Street Market – Food market with a great atmosphere, and options of dishes from around the world.
Stay at…
London has every hotel brand you’ve ever heard of, from the Mandarin Oriental to the Sanderson. Many of the 5* hotels in London have swimming pools, spas, top restaurants and chic furnishings.
It’s hard to pick one, but a favourite of mine for a honeymoon would be The Landmark London in Marylebone.
Not only is it a stunning building, it has an eight-storey atrium which is absolutely spectacular! Inside is the Winter Garden restaurant, where you can dine under palm trees. I’ve never peeked inside any of the rooms here, but it’s a 5* hotel and whenever I’ve visited the service has been impeccable.
You can check prices and availability at The Landmark London here.
I hope this has given you some inspiration if you’re planning a honeymoon in the UK. There are so many beautiful places to visit in Britain, it was hard to narrow it down to just a few.
Other places that would be perfect for a honeymoon in the UK include the Peak District, the Scilly Isles, the Pembrokeshire Coast and Edinburgh.
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