Romantic Escapes

£199

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what's included?

one night stay
two people
breakfast and a romantic gift included

Your gift break voucher is presented in a stylish silver envelope together with full booking information and details on accommodation choices available.

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break information

If you’re looking to treat someone to a romantic weekend break away, why not surprise them with this Romantic Gift break for two.

Once you have purchased your Romantic Gift break, you will be able to spend time selecting the perfect location for your break from the wide range of locations featured on the right.

A romantic getaway is always a popular choice with couples, but there are definitely certain places which inspire passion more than others: a night in an elegant hotel that may have a four poster bed or a jacuzzi bathroom provides an idyllic way to escape from the world, enjoy a relaxing break in the heart of Cornwall, a visit to Bury St Edmunds where traditional Georgian elegance meets contemporary design in a former coaching inn or choose chariming surroundings in Brighton.

Romantic Escapes will make someone feel very special. A romantic gift has been included with each stay so maybe your preference would be chocolates and champagne or flowers. The choice is yours at our wonderfully romantic selection of hotels. The romantic gift you receive will be dependent upon your hotel choice as gifts vary according to location.

locations

Cambridgeshire

Although the city of Cambridge is dominated by the University with its fascinating history, amazing buildings and occasionally arcane traditions, Cambridgeshire has plenty more to offer visitors to the area, and you might find that a short break is just long enough to fall in love with the area. As the site of one of the earliest Neolithic settlements in the country, and notable for a mention in the Domesday Book, Cambridgeshire has a rich social history and because of the exceptionally flat landscape is home to several air bases built during the Second World War. In recognition of this the only American burial ground in the country can be found in Madingley with a chapel which also includes a museum. Aircraft enthusiasts can also enjoy aerial displays and exhibitions at the Imperial War Museum at Duxford, which was an RAF site during the First World War and played a prominent role in the Battle of Britain. Visitors can see the only airworthy B-17 Flying Fortress in Europe, witness amazing formation displays by the Red Arrows and regular flights by Spitfires, Hurricanes and Tiger Moths. If winged creatures are more to your taste than winged machines, then Cambridgeshire has plenty of treats in store for you with plenty of places to spot indigenous bird species which are rarely seen elsewhere in the country. The Whooper Swan and Bewick’s Swan favour the Ouse Washes, making them nationally important to the breeding colonies, and the area is also favoured by wintering birds of prey such as the Hen Harrier, Peregrine Falcon and Short-eared Owl. A short break to Cambridgeshire is also a great opportunity to visit one of the area’s many stately homes, such as Anglesey Abbey in the village of Lode. The Abbey itself was formerly a priory, but is now run by the National Trust, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds featuring classical statuary as well as impressive examples of topiary and flowerbeds. A large pool believed to be the site of a disused mine and the water mill was recently restored to its 18th century working order and sells flour to visitors. As if that wasn’t enough for most people, the city of Cambridge is also an ideal destination for anyone taking a short break in Cambridgeshire. With all the beautiful architecture of the colleges which make up the famous university, it is a haven for academia and a seat of learning which dates back hundreds of years. A punting trip is a great way to see the sights, hear about the history of the area and enjoy the tranquillity of river transport. Wherever you choose to visit in Cambridgeshire, your short break is bound to be an eye opening experience.
Cheshire

Dating back as far as the Domesday Book, Cheshire is a rural county which has been used as a settlement for thousands of years and is a fascinating place to visit for a gift break. There is plenty to do, and whatever your interests you will find something in Cheshire which will make it a break to remember. Cheshire has plenty to offer anyone who is interested in history – remains of the Roman fortress and walls can still be seen, although they are relatively modern compared to the prehistoric burial grounds which have been found in the area. Visitors to Cheshire can explore medieval buildings in local sandstone, timbered residential and commercial buildings from the 15th to 17th centuries and ornate brickwork from the Victorian period so there’s something for any history fan. For anyone with an interest in gardening there is plenty of natural appeal in Cheshire: Tatton Park, a regency mansion set in beautiful parkland, is a great place to visit for anyone who likes the chance to spot wildlife whilst taking in the incredible landscape; at Dunham Massey Hall Gardens you can see fallow deer grazing beneath ancient trees, marvel at the plantsman’s gardens and even take a stroll around the orangery, Victorian bark house and well house; Walton House and Gardens and Arley Hall and Gardens also offer the opportunities for anyone who appreciates the sheer work that goes into creating an immaculate garden as a work of living art. For those who like to delve into the industrial history of an area, Cheshire is home to the Anson Engine Museum, where a variety of examples of the internal combustion engine are exhibited, telling the story of how engines have shaped and changed the world. And it goes back further – salt mining is still one of Cheshire’s most important industries but it was the Romans who first realised the potential importance of the process and introduced it to the area. A visit to the Weaver Hall Museum, formerly the Salt Museum or the Lion Salt Works will give visitors an insight into the history of Cheshire’s chemical industry right up until the modern day. Cheshire is also a great place to visit if you like to live it up with a night on the town, with plenty of fantastic places to eat and drink and an array of entertainment including live music, comedy and theatre. You can indulge your cultural passions, enjoy fine dining or just take a stroll to a local pub and enjoy some northern hospitality. Cheshire really has something for everyone from beautiful countryside to amazing opportunities for shopping and nightlife, so whatever your pleasure, a gift break to Cheshire is a perfect idea.
Co. Wicklow

Situated beneath the Wicklow Mountains, the largest continuous upland region in the whole of Ireland, County Wicklow offers everything a visitor could want, from fishing and hiking, monastic settlements and even Ireland’s first offshore wind farm is located off the coast at Arklow Bank. The Wicklow Mountains are an imposing sight and their influence on the area’s heritage is felt wherever you go, particularly if you visit the spectacular Powerscourt Estate. Originally a 13th century castle, had been altered throughout its history until it was gutted by a fire in 1974, since when it has been lovingly restored so that visitors can see what it looked like when it was a purely residential property. The gardens retain the features introduced in the 19th century including Japanese and Italian gardens, walled gardens, the so-called Pepperpot Tower, designed to emulate a favourite condiment dispenser, and a pet cemetery where the tombstones contain surprisingly personal messages. The estate is also home to the Powerscourt Waterfall, which stands at 121 meters making it the highest in Ireland and the perfect spot to take some stunning photographs. If you enjoy the great outdoors and discovering why Ireland richly deserves the nickname of the Emerald Isle, then Wicklow has plenty to see and do under the open skies. A visit to the Sculpture in Woodland exhibition combines a beautiful setting and incredible trails for walking, hiking and biking with the chance to see some beautiful sculptures specifically chosen to bring out the natural beauty of the area and demonstrate the versatility and appeal of wood as an artistic medium. As if that wasn’t enough, you can also take a trip to the Indian Sculpture Park which features 25 sculptures inspired by Indian traditions set in 22 acres of open country and forest. For a cultural experience with a uniquely Irish charm, Wicklow has several events which showcase the very best of traditional and modern entertainment. Dunlavin hosts a festival of the arts where visitors can enjoy displays of visual arts, crafts, music, drama and street performances as well as literary events and workshops in which visitors can take part. The coastal town of Bray is also a hub of festival entertainment, hosting an annual Summerfest which sees artists and performers putting on musical events, workshops and a craft and food market as well as an air show and a fireworks display. Bray Jazz festival attracts performers and fans from all over the world for their programme of concerts featuring all styles of jazz from Latin and Gypsy to rock fusion and traditional. Whatever you look for in a short break, you can find something to suit your interests in County Wicklow and once you have visited the area you will see why it is such a popular destination amongst tourists from across the world. With so much to see and do, you can indulge your interests, discover a new hobby or just relax and soak up the atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. You might even decide that one visit isn’t enough and find yourself planning your next trip straight away.
Cornwall

The south east of England has long been regarded as an ideal holiday destination, benefiting as it does from some of the warmest weather in the country. A break to Cornwall is a great way to enjoy an area which has long considered itself to be a separate cultural entity from the rest of England, and honours many longstanding traditions. The history of Cornwall features long periods during which tin mining was one of the major industries in the area, joined by copper mining in the 19th century and only overtaken in the 20th century when improvements in transport meant that tourists could finally see what life was like in this far flung region. Those who came liked what they saw, and Cornwall has been a popular tourist destination ever since, boasting a wealth of attractions, activities and opportunities to have a great time. If you enjoy spending time by the sea drinking in the salty air and listening to the waves, then Cornwall is a perfect destination – surrounded on three sides by water, Cornwall has many miles of beaches and cliffs which are perfect for strolling along as you work up an appetite for some of the amazing local cuisine. The area’s fishing industry provides the freshest seafood for its local restaurants, which is why it has been chosen as the location for some of the country’s most renowned restaurants, owned by famous chefs such as Jamie Oliver and Rick Stein. If fine dining is your idea of heaven, then Cornwall makes for an ideal short break destination, and for those who want to really indulge themselves, a traditional Cornish cream tea with clotted cream which will definitely leave you appreciating the local cuisine. For anyone who likes an active break, Cornwall makes an ideal location for almost any sport or pastime. If you fancy a leisurely stroll along a coastal path then you can take in some spectacular views and maybe even spot a little wildlife. However, if you fancy something which will get your adrenaline pumping, then Cornwall is the perfect place for a spot of rock climbing, coasteering or even kite surfing so you can pursue a fun filled break in whatever way suits you best. Cornwall’s unique location is also ideal for trying out some more unusual activities, meaning that you could enjoy a boat trip – perfect for a relaxing cruise, a great way to get visit some of the area’s most amazing attractions such as Smuggler’s Cottage, Trelissick Gardens and St Anthony’s Headland. If you fancy something a little different then why not try a sea safari where you can expect to see some of Cornwall’s sealife frolicking in the waters off the coast. Cornwall doesn’t just benefit from some of the best weather in the UK, but some of the most incredible views, exciting activities and fantastic food. Whatever your pleasure, Cornwall makes an ideal gift break destination and with so much to offer any visitor you will find everything you need to enjoy a weekend away.
Cumbria

However you enjoy spending your time, Cumbria has plenty to offer on a short break and there is nothing quite like indulging your passions to make a trip enjoyable. Populated for over 5000 years, Cumbria’s mountains provided a source of stone used for axes, examples of which have been found all over Britain. Hadrian’s Wall is another example of how Cumbria’s history shapes it landscape. Stretching 84 miles spanning Cumbria and Northumbria and offering beautiful views of the countryside, Hadrian’s Wall also provides a fascinating insight into the scale of Roman fortification. As home to the Lake District National Park, Cumbria has plenty to offer anyone who loves the chance to get back to nature on a weekend break and with so many lakes and fells it makes for a great spot to embrace the great outdoors. It’s no surprise that poets and authors have long been inspired by the captivating landscapes, and Wordsworth in particular produced plenty of work directly inspired by his surroundings. The Lake District National Park also includes the highest peaks in England, meaning it’s an ideal destination for anyone who enjoys a little fell walking and appreciates the invigorating feeling of looking down upon the countryside from an unrivalled viewpoint. If art appreciation is your thing, then a short break in Cumbria has plenty to offer including the Keswick Art Gallery which opened in 1898 and has remained largely unchanged since. The museum contains exhibits including a 500 year old cat and a set of musical stones which have enthralled visitors for years and was even taken to London for a performance before Queen Victoria. The Lowes Court Gallery in Egremont contains a changing programme of monthly exhibitions of work from both new and established artists and is a perfect place to purchase a piece of original artwork. Gardening enthusiasts will be overwhelmed by the choice of places to visit in Cumbria, such as Hill Top in Ambleside, famously the home of Beatrix Potter who sketched the gardens and animals she saw in them for her books, many of which were written while she was living there. Another must-see is Dove Cottage in Grasmere which was home to William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy, where he composed much of his poetry and she wrote the journals which later made her almost as famous. Much of their lives were centred around the garden and orchard on which the Wordsworth worked tirelessly. Cumbria has many unique historical features, perhaps the most famous of which are the series of small stone buildings designed and built during the reign of Edward I to resist counter attacks from the Scots who disapproved of his attempts to impose English rule upon them. Today many of these towers have become incorporated into the landscape, some as parts of working farms, some in stately homes and some built onto churches acting both as defensive towers and bell towers. Wherever you look there are lingering signs of Cumbria’s varied history, from Roman remains of roads and forts to stone circles and ancient crosses. Combined with the incredibly beautiful landscapes and vibrant city centres, a visit to Cumbria is guaranteed to open anyone’s eyes to what the area has to offer.
Devon

Devon has everything anybody could possibly want from a short break, from seaside to moor land, temperate weather to tiny ponies - whatever you enjoy doing with your free time you are sure to find an outlet on a break in Devon. Animal enthusiasts will love the wide variety of attractions in the south west, including the National Marine Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the UK and home to sharks, rays, tarpon and many other underwater creatures including an exhibition of Weird Creatures where you can see some of the most unusual fish in the world. Anyone who is looking for a chance to walk down memory lane will find just what they are after on a break to Devon, in particular the charm of Bygones, the Old World Street where visitors can walk back in time and visit the ironmongers, apothecary and forge to enjoy the sights and smells of Victorian England. Including a miniature world with a model railway and a host of other tiny attractions, a chance to hear some stories of years gone, Bygones has plenty to educate, entertain and impress any visitor. For visitors with an interest in transport, one of the most popular destinations for visitors to Devon is the Seaton Tramway, a fleet of narrow gauge trams running between Seaton, Colyford and Colyton. The tramway offers unparalleled views of the surrounding countryside such as the Axe Estuary where you might be lucky enough to spot rare birds and because the trams are open topped, it’s a great opportunity to take some stunning photos. The Jurassic coast is another thing which makes Devon a unique place for a short break. Offering visitors the chance to experience 185 million years of the earth’s history through the fossils which dot the coastline, the area has been designated a World Heritage site and is a great place to walk through time from the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. Devon is also perfectly adapted to outdoor activities of any kind, from gentle strolls through woodland or across moors to coastal paths which offer a chance to see the seaside from almost any angle you prefer. Anyone with a sense of adventure can take on more challenging trails or even water sports in the temperate tides off the coast, or perhaps a little fishing, golfing or perhaps a chance to go horse riding. Any visit to Devon wouldn’t be complete without some fantastic food and the area is famous for its cream teas which are the ideal indulgence after spending a day drinking in the sea air and working up an appetite. Seafood is also abundant in this area, and anyone who loves lobster or fancies some fish is sure to find something to tickle their taste buds on a short break to Devon. Whatever you enjoy doing, a trip to Devon is a great way to indulge an interest, experience new things or just take some time out to relax and enjoy the fabulous scenery – the south west has plenty to offer and once you have visited you will want to go back.
Dorset

As one of the jewels of the South West, Dorset’s stunning scenery and fascinating history make it an ideal place to visit for a short break, no matter what your interests or hobbies. One of Dorset’s oldest attractions is the Jurassic Coast - 95 miles of coastline which has been designated as a World Heritage Site which is not only beautiful, but has 185 million years of history contained in the rocks in the area. Anyone who enjoys a look back through time will be pleased to learn that they can go fossil hunting on the beaches around Dorset where they can find their very own historical artefact and learn about the process by which our planet’s past is captured in stone. But don’t think that Dorset only has historical intrigue to offer, because there are plenty of other activities and attractions to enjoy on a visit to the area. If you enjoy the great outdoors, there is plenty of fun to be had in the area known as a walker’s paradise. With vast swathes of unspoilt countryside, you can either take a relaxing stroll along the coast or through some of the dense forest which covers the area, and there are plenty of longer and more challenging walks. You can take the South West Coast Path which will lead you through some of the most incredible countryside taking in Golden Cap, the highest point along the south coast and Chesil Beach, 17 miles of pebble beach lying between West Bay and Portland. For animal lovers, a short break to Dorset is a treasure trove of wonder, from the abundant wildlife which can be spotted all over the area to some more exotic beasts. Monkeyworld is an ape rescue centre nestled in the countryside of Wareham, where the devoted owners rescue abused and abandoned primates from around the world and rehabilitate them within social groups. Often requiring specialist care, both medical and emotional, the apes that live there have been given a new lease of life by the highly skilled workers who tend to them and the public can visit them in their purpose built enclosures and see the difference that a little love makes to these beautiful creatures. If you prefer more traditional pastimes such as golf, then an overnight stay in Dorset offers the chance to play on some of the most beautiful courses in the world. Whatever your handicap, you can find the perfect course for you whether you want a challenging round which tests you to your limits or just a chance to play against a backdrop of the glorious coastal views. For those who just want to get out and hit some balls, there are several pitch and putt and even crazy golf courses where even the best golfers might find they have trouble conquering the obstacles. No matter what your idea of a perfect getaway, Dorset makes a great choice of destination, from shopping and nightlife to leisurely picnics on the beach and a chance to get back to nature with bird spotting and incredible sea views. You can indulge all your senses, from the taste of fresh seafood which is widely available in the area to the feeling of the sea lapping at your toes if you brave a paddle so a short break to Dorset will be on you always remember.
East Sussex
Gloucestershire

Because it incorporates areas of the Cotswold Hills, the valley of the River Severn and the entire Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire makes an ideal short break destination for anyone who wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives to relax in the unspoilt beauty of nature. Bourton-on-the-Water is one of the places in the area which have become synonymous with the picturesque tranquillity which sometimes seems all but lost in today’s world. Known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, the path of the River Windrush runs through the middle of a village, spanned by a selection of bridges at strategic points, and giving the whole area an air feeling of other worldly charm. If you are interested in the more beautiful areas of the country, then a short break to Gloucestershire is a great opportunity to visit the Painswick Rococo Garden. As the only complete rococo garden in England, this spectacular display of horticultural expertise dates back to a brief period in the 18th century when the trend for formal gardens gave way to an enthusiasm for less structured designs. The team of gardeners at Painswick have been painstakingly restoring the gardens to their original glory, and visitors today can enjoy woodland walks, the anniversary maze planted to mark the 250th birthday of the garden and the extensive kitchen gardens. All of this is hidden away in a valley of the Cotswolds and offers beautiful views in every direction, making it an ideal place for a romantic stroll, a horticultural lesson or just a chance to soak up the atmosphere. Wildlife enthusiasts can visit the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust at Slimbridge where they can see a vast array of wildlife, from voles and hares to swans, geese and even flamingos, some of which can be hand-fed by visitors. The Slimbridge Wetlands Centre offers a chance to take a Land Rover safari where a knowledgeable guide will point out some of the best spots to see rare animals and birds. Whatever your interests, you can indulge them on a short break to Gloucestershire.
Gwynedd

Lying to the north west of Wales, Gwynedd is named after an old Welsh kingdom and whilst it is the second largest Welsh counties it is sparsely inhabited and includes a large Welsh speaking population. One of the most impressive places to visit on a short break to Gwynedd is the Snowdonia National Park, a must-see spot for anyone with an interest in natural history and wildlife. As home to the highest mountains in Wales, the park is popular with those who like to embrace the great outdoors and of course those who are driven to conquer the highest peaks in each country of the UK. For those who want to enjoy the amazing views from the peak of Snowdon but don’t quite have the stamina for the climb, the Snowdon Mountain Railway which is a tourist attraction in its own right, runs to the summit. As the only rack and pinion railway still in public use, there are some visitors for whom the chance to take a trip on the train is the main attraction and the incredible journey that it takes just an added bonus. If that wasn’t enough to whet your appetite for the great outdoors, then a trip to Llŷn Peninsular is sure to give you plenty to write home about. Extending thirty miles into the Irish Sea, the area is notable for the abundance of protected sites, including a stretch of National Heritage Coastline, a National Nature Reserve and twenty Sites of Special Scientific Interest. The volcanic hills and mountains which dominate the area make it a haven for flora and fauna which thrive on the unusual makeup of the landscape. Whether you are considering a short break to Gwynedd for the chance to embrace the wilderness which forms a large part of the countryside in the area, an opportunity to relax or just the chance to explore a new part of the country, Gwynedd offers visitors plenty to keep them entertained.
Hampshire

The south coast of England has an iconic heritage, and there is so much to see and do that a short break to the area might spark a new-found love of a county which has such a lot to offer. One of the most incredible ways to see the sights of Hampshire is with a scenic trip on the Watercress Line steam railway. Once used to transport produce to the markets at Covent Garden as well as passengers hoping to make their fortune in the capital, the railway has been lovingly restored by dedicated volunteers so that it can continue to offer a slice of history to modern travellers who want to relive the glory days of steam transport. The line passes through many picturesque towns and villages such as Arlesford, which retains many of the Georgian architecture and characteristics from its past, and Alton, a busting market town where you can immerse yourself in local life. The railway often hosts special events, so you might just get the chance to sample some real ales as you travel, enjoy a meal in the dining car or learn about the impact the war had on the area’s transportation system. If you’re interested in wildlife, then there is no better place to visit that the River Test, where despite the falling numbers elsewhere in the country, the local otter population is thriving. You aren’t guaranteed to spot one of these beautiful creatures, but you stand a better chance of catching sight of one in this area. The New Forest is also home to the herds of ponies which roam freely across the area, and much of Hampshire has red deer which have free reign over the countryside. There have been reports of Wild Boar in the area, so if you keep your eyes peeled, you might just spot one of these near-mythical creatures as well. Whatever you want from a short break, Hampshire has everything and more, making exploring the area an eye-opening experience for everyone.
Northumberland

Including miles of coastline designated as being of outstanding natural beauty, Northumberland makes a great destination for a short break if you enjoy spending your time in beautiful surroundings. There is plenty to do, no matter what your interests and you can have a great time exploring this fascinating county. Northumberland was once a part of the Roman Empire, and because of its location on the border with Scotland it was the scene of many battles between the English and the Scottish. Evidence of the bloody history of the county is ample and it has more castles than any other county in England as a result. One of the most famous of these is Lindisfarne, a dramatically located castle which sits atop a rocky crag which is only accessible at low tide. It was originally a Tudor fort and is now open for visitors who can see the interior for themselves, including a range of well-preserved lime kilns, and enjoy the exquisitely tended gardens. Hadrian’s Wall is another remnant of the tumultuous history of Northumberland and is a must-see spot for anyone on a short break. Long stretches of the wall remain intact meaning that you can actually see what the Roman soldiers who would have patrolled the wall would have seen. Winding its way across the countryside, there is a choice of walks, from strenuous routes following the trail of the patrols around some of the most dramatic parts of the wall, to more gentle paths where the views will be the only thing leaving you breathless. However you choose to spend your short break in Northumberland, you are bound to find that there is still more you want to see and do, and like many other visitors to the area, once trip to this fascinating county might not be enough.
Surrey
West Midlands
Yorkshire
Yorkshire

Those visiting Yorkshire on a short break will probably be unsurprised to discover the fierce pride that the locals feel about their home county and the nickname ‘God’s own county’ is indicative of the strength of feeling that the area engenders in its inhabitants. With huge areas of unspoilt countryside, including the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales, anyone with an interest in walking, climbing or just enjoying the peace and tranquillity of the beautiful landscape will find themselves spoilt for choice when it comes to which spots to visit. One of the industries for which Yorkshire is most famous is brewing which began in earnest in the 12th century. Today the county is home to several breweries producing traditional bitter. Some of the more famous, such as John Smith’s and Theakstons, have been brewing in the area for generations, but the popularity of the industry means that new breweries are opening all the time. One of the more recent brands is Copper Dragon, which opened in 2002 and is open to visitors who want to take a tour of the plant and learn all about how modern brewing techniques produce traditional flavours and continues the long-held traditions of the area. Yorkshire has a rich literary and cultural heritage, and there are plenty of places to visit where you can see examples of the impact that some of the famous names to come out of the area have had. Alan Bennet is one of the more contemporary Yorkshire men to have made his name in recent years, and his work is filled with references to traditional Yorkshire life. There are plenty of other prominent figures whose works have been influenced by their life in Yorkshire and a short break is an ideal way to learn more about them as well as enjoying all the other attractions and entertainment that the area has to offer.

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Romantic Escapes