The UK honeymoon or minimoon craze is more popular than ever, with newlyweds flocking to the UK’s most romantic cities to indulge in some much needed respite from the stress that comes with planning a wedding. So, we’ve compiled the most romantic cities for a honeymoon in the UK – and all you need to know about where to stay, what to do, eat, drink and more.
A honeymoon in the UK is a great way to wind down after the big day, whilst avoiding some of the expensive costs that come with a typical honeymoon, as well as encouraging loved-up couples to explore more of their own city, or one that’s further afield.
To ensure you have the best and most romantic honeymoon possible, we’ve teamed up with DesignMyNight who reveal their top choices for a romantic city break and honeymoon in the UK.
The Most Romantic Honeymoon Locations in the UK
Edinburgh
Dubbed the most romantic city in the UK, Edinburgh remains a firm favourite for a mini-moon location. Whilst you’re there, stay at The Fingal, one of the most luxurious and unique stays in Edinburgh. The 28 suite hotel sits upon Edinburgh’s waterside at Alexandra Dock.
For dinner, head to Brown’s Brasserie, an art-deco style restaurant with a seasonal menu and an extensive cocktail list. For drinks, we recommend quirky West-End bar The Raging Bull – the perfect spot for coffee lovers offering six variations of the ever so popular espresso martini. Looking for a little more magic? Take a trip to The Cauldron for a lesson in molecular mixology, and try your hand at ‘potion making’.
Bristol
The city of Bristol is steeped in history and culture, making it the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. We recommend a stay at Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa, a boutique hotel with an underground spa and impressive freestanding baths.
In the day, opt for something a little different and see sights of the city you wouldn’t usually discover on The Cheese Crawl Bristol, discovering cheeses from local award winners. For dinner (if you’re not full from all the cheese!), visit Kibou Clifton and sample their award-winning sushi and cocktails. Want to make a night of it? Sip on illicit cocktails at prohibition-inspired bar The Milk Thistle (if you can find it…).
Bath
Having risen in popularity as a staycation location following the wildly popular Netflix show Bridgerton, Bath is now widely recognised as one of the most romantic cities in the UK. The Royal Crescent Hotel, a sanctuary in the heart of the city, should be the base for your trip – home to a spectacular spa and surrounded by stunning grounds.
Founded by the Romans and known as the UK’s original spa town, a trip to Bath isn’t complete without visiting their Roman Baths. Afterwards, satisfy your cravings at The Olive Tree, the city’s only Michelin starred restaurant. Still thirsty? Head to Sub 13 for their incredible chocolate orange martini.
Glasgow
If you haven’t yet visited the world’s friendliest city, you’re missing out. With gorgeous surroundings, epic sights and a vast array of bars and restaurants, Glasgow should be at the top of your list for mini-moon destinations.
Base yourself in the heart of the city at Dakota Hotel Glasgow and enjoy the luxury amenities that come hand in hand with the hotel. In the day, grab your walking boots and enjoy one of these gorgeous walks, from highland cow spotting at Pollok Country Park to the exotic plants of Glasgow’s botanical gardens. Afterwards, enjoy traditional Scottish fare at Ubiquitous Chip, followed by drinks at Tabac – a venue which, despite its unassuming exterior, is so much more than a tobacconist.
Cambridge
Enjoy the cobbled and historic streets of Cambridge at Hotel Du Vin. Upon arrival, unwind in one of their fabulous freestanding baths before embarking on a tour of their extensive wine cellars.
Are you a bit of a gin lover? Try your hand at a molecular mixology craft brought to life by Cambridge Gin laboratory – which is overseen by a qualified PhD chemist, by the way – before heading to dinner at Chophouse, a restaurant serving quintessential British food with a focus on meat, unsurprisingly. Post dinner, make your way to Hidden Rooms for one of the UK’s only clear espresso martinis.
York
Beautiful buildings, a rich history and a varied range of things to do are just a handful of reasons to visit York. Book a stay at Grays Court and enjoy their luxury boutique rooms and enchanting garden bar. Afterwards, take a step back in time upon the Countess Of York, and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea inside a Victorian carriage.
Take advantage of dinner at The Star Inn in good weather for Michelin-star cuisine overlooking the River Ouse. Post dinner, take a stroll down to York’s oldest street to Evil Eye – a weird and wonderful emporium that previously received a Guinness World Record for serving the most gins!
London
When it comes to mini-moons, the UK’s capital city shouldn’t be overlooked. Escape the hustle and bustle at the world’s first super boutique hotel The Londoner, and take advantage of their opulent suites and spa.
Embark on an immersive journey through Victorian London and help solve unsolved mysteries (with the help of plenty of cocktails) at H Division. After a tiring day of solving crimes, indulge in a romantic meal at 14 Hills, combining seasonal menus with beautiful interiors decked out in foliage. Post dinner, track down speakeasy bar Oriole and enjoy cocktails that take inspiration from Asia and Africa, as well as their legendary live jazz nights.
Brighton
Breathe in the sea air in Brighton at Hotel Una, a home away from home that sits directly overlooking the beach; take your mini-moon to the extra level by booking a suite that comes with its very own in-room whirlpool for a truly intimate experience.
Then, take a well earned moment of relaxation at Brighton’s Harbour Spa and feel your wedding-planning stress slip away in their heated pool. In the evening, head to The Salt Room for a picturesque dinner on the beachfront. Sip like a local at The Joker, dubbed Brighton’s coolest cocktail bar with an ever changing menu.
Oxford
The Belmond Le Manoir hotel is worth the journey to Oxford alone. Home to a Michelin starred restaurant, a cookery school and expansive grounds, you won’t be short of things to do here.
See Oxford from a different perspective onboard a picnic river cruise and take in views of the picturesque buildings and cobbled streets. Then, after a day of sightseeing, enjoy award-winning Sri Lankan street food at The Coconut Tree and head to to The Breakfast Club and track down their Smeg fridge; behind it, you’ll find a secret bar / tropical paradise serving up apple pie-inspired sips.
Belfast
Belfast is swiftly becoming one of the UK’s coolest cities, home to a famous history and heritage, epic nightlife and world famous hospitality. Base yourself at The Merchant, a five-star hotel with a best in class spa and its very own jazz club.
Keep an eye out for the tropical flowers and birds of paradise at Belfast’s Botanical Gardens, dine at Michelin starred seasonal restaurant Ox, and fall through the looking glass at Alice In Wonderland-inspired bar The Perch.
Looking for more city break inspiration from across the UK? Visit DesignMyNight and follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
Read More:
- 14 Luxury UK Minimoon Hotels to Visit Without Breaking the Bank
- Vanbrugh House Hotel, Oxford: The Perfect UK Honeymoon for Romantics
- The Top Honeymoon Trends We’ve Seen So Far For 2022 & Where To Book
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