The Most Beautiful Honeymoon Destinations in the UK

South over the Quiraing, Isle of Skye | © User:Colin/Flickr
South over the Quiraing, Isle of Skye | © User:Colin/Flickr
Photo of Sarah Dawson
Sarah Dawson
28 July 2017

Forget the Maldives and St. Lucia, the UK is the place to head for the ultimate jaw-droppingly beautiful honeymoon. Whether exploring the rugged wilds of the Scottish Highlands or losing yourself in the winding lanes of a pretty coastal village, it’s all right here and waiting to be discovered.

Lake District

When it comes to breath-taking scenery, the Lake District seriously delivers. Recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, England’s biggest national park is famous for towering mountains, vast lakes, pretty stone cottages and stunning landscape, which have inspired writers and poets for centuries. It’s hard not to be taken in by the romance of the area, whether hiking up fells, taking in the sights from a steamboat on one of the lakes or cosying up in front of a roaring fire at a traditional pub. For relaxed luxury–think roll-top baths and private terraces–stay at Brimstone Hotel in Ambleside.

Brimstone Hotel, The Langdale Estate, Great Langdale, Ambleside, Cumbria, United Kingdom, +44 015 394 38062

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds were made for romantic getaways, with charming chocolate-box villages, rolling green hills and an excellent foodie reputation. Named as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the South of England, it’s a dream come true for newlyweds. Hike, bike, pack a picnic, and spend a day exploring the picturesque villages and quiet countryside. Dormy House, on the edge of Broadway, is a real gem of a hotel with a dreamy spa and an incredible restaurant in which to indulge.

Dormy House, Willersey Hill, Broadway, Worcestershire, United Kingdom, +44 013 868 52711

Scottish Highlands

There’s something magical about the Scottish Highlands. The epic landscape of majestic mountains, spectacular lochs and waterfalls, ancient castle ruins and colourful heather is everywhere you turn. Adrenaline-junkie newlyweds will find plenty to do here, including mountain biking and white-water rafting. If you’re after a more chilled honeymoon, take a walk through the awe-inspiring scenery, visit some of the most beautiful castles in the world, and then settle down for some of the best food and drink Scotland has to offer. For a unique honeymoon experience, stay at The Duck’s Nest, a cosy eco-lodge in Cairngorms National Park.

The Duck’s Nest, Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shire, United Kingdom, +44 01 479 821 092

Isles of Scilly

Although the Isles of Scilly are just off the coast of Cornwall, they feel a world away. Uncrowded, unspoilt and with an enviable laid-back way of life, head here to really get away from it all with your new Mr or Mrs. The five inhabited islands each have their own vibe, from the subtropical charm of Tresco, to the untamed beauty of St. Agnes. Stay at Hell Bay, a luxurious hotel tucked away in a secluded cove on the ruggedly beautiful island of Bryher.

Hell Bay, Bryher, Isles of Scilly, United Kingdom, +44 017 204 22947

Causeway Coast

Take a road trip along the iconic Causeway Coastal Route, and discover the beauty of Northern Ireland. Starting off in Belfast, this world-famous drive will take you past ancient castles, the gorgeous Glens of Antrim, picturesque coastal villages and, of course, the Giant’s Causeway–a magnificent natural wonder that will take your breath away. For a bit of luxury, book Galgorm Resort and Spa, which boasts riverside hot tubs and beautiful countryside surroundings.

Galgorm Resort and Spa, Galgorm, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, +44 028 2588 1001

Devon

If it’s beaches you’re after, head to Devon for everything from long, sandy stretches to secluded pebble coves. Packing in two stunning coastlines, two national parks and five official Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you definitely won’t be stuck twiddling you thumbs for things to do. Explore the many little hidden villages along the coast, and then relax in a country pub with some tasty food and a pint of local ale. Book into the unbelievably romantic Tree Top Escape on Millbrook Estate. Your inner-kid will love you for it!

Tree Top Escape, Millbrook Estate, North Devon, United Kingdom, +44 01769 629 069

Isle of Skye

Prepare to fall head over heels for this Scottish beauty. Skye, the largest of the Inner Hebrides, is home to some of the most captivating scenery in the world. Rugged mountain ranges, miles of wild coastline, brooding castles and charming villages come together to create an unforgettable landscape. Spend your days exploring the natural wonders of the island before heading back to one of the pretty towns or villages for a warm welcome and a glass of local malt whisky. Foodies must book a night at The Three Chimneys, a world-renowned Scottish restaurant and lodge with beautiful rooms right on the shore of Loch Dunvegan.

The Three Chimneys, Colbost, Dunvegan, Isle of Skye, United Kingdom,+44 01470 511258

Pembrokeshire

In south-west Wales, you’ll find Pembrokeshire, a county packed with award-winning beaches, glorious coastline and Victorian seaside towns. Enjoy a bracing cliff-top walk with staggering views out to sea, lose yourself in the history of Carew Castle or just sit and watch the world go by with an ice cream at Tenby Harbour. Penally Abbey, with its stylish coastal vibe, makes the perfect base to explore the area.

Penally Abbey Hotel, Penally, Nr Tenby, Pembrokeshire, West Wales, United Kingdom, +44 01834 843033

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