Best romantic weekend getaways near London

From UK countryside getaways to romantic escapes by the great British seaside, plan your next couple’s weekend break with these top destinations for two near London.

Whether your passions lie in art and architecture or country walks and nature, find the best spots in the UK for romantic weekend breaks near London.

Romantic weekend getaways for art and history lovers

Panoramic view on the Radcliffe Camera, the Bodleian library and the city of Oxford on a sunny day.

Discover a treasure trove of world-class art, history and culture, with a romantic weekend break in Oxford.

See the impressive university buildings that have inspired many famous figures and film plots, visit a few of Oxford’s incredible museums, go punting down the river Thames or enjoy a picnic or afternoon tea for two, before strolling hand in hand through the cobbled streets of this romantic city steeped in history.

Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately one hour from London. Take a direct train from London Paddington to Oxford.

What are the best tours to Oxford? Discover Oxford as part of a day trip, with the best Oxford tours from London.

Romantic weekend getaways for wellness lovers

View on the Roman Baths churchyard by a cloudy day with the building reflecting on the water.

Head to the elegant Unesco-listed city of Bath for an enchanting couple’s weekend away featuring gorgeous architecture, pampering and cultural gems.

Wander the cobbled streets and marvel at some of the UK’s most beautiful Georgian architecture, including the sweeping Royal Crescent. Explore Bath's independent shops, cafes and restaurants, before rounding off your romantic break with a dip in the natural thermal hot springs at the Thermae Bath Spa, a modern-day equivalent of the ancient Roman Baths.

Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately one and a half hours from London. Take a direct train from London Paddington to Bath Spa.

What are the best tours to Bath? Discover Bath as part of a day trip, with the best Bath tours from London.

Romantic weekend getaways for countryside charm
 
Small cottage with thatched roof in Stratford-upon-Avon

What could be more romantic than exploring the birthplace of William Shakespeare with your other half? Pack your bags and travel to the charming medieval market town of Stratford-upon-Avon for a memorable weekend break.

Wander quaint cobbled streets lined with period houses, independent shops and ancient pubs. Visit fascinating museums and learn about the life and work of the world’s most famous playwright. Then watch the sunset as you stroll along the river Avon.

Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately two and a half hours from London. Journey by train and bus to Leamington Spa or Stratford-upon-Avon (with usually one stop en route).

What are the best tours to Stratford-upon-Avon? Discover Stratford as part of a day trip, with the best Stratford-upon-Avon tours from London.

Romantic weekend getaways for rural scenery
 
View of traditional stone houses alongside a path bordering a river in the countryside.

Surprise your special someone with a lovely weekend escape to the picture-postcard villages and rolling hills of the Cotswolds.

Explore quintessentially English towns and villages brimming with quaint cottages, winding country lanes, ancient pubs, bustling markets and beautifully preserved medieval churches on this romantic getaway.

Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately two and a half hours from London. Take a direct coach from London Victoria.

What are the best tours to the Cotswolds? Discover the Cotswolds as part of a day trip, with the best Cotswolds tours from London.

Romantic weekend getaways for all-round fun

White Cliffs of Dover plunging into the blue sea on a clear day.

Can’t decide between coastal towns or countryside villages? Historic sites or sandy shores? Pack it all in, with a long couple’s weekend away in Kent!

Marvel at the incredible architecture of world-famous Canterbury Cathedral, visit the historic medieval fortresses of Leeds Castle and Dover Castle, taste delicious oysters by the sea in Whitstable, enjoy old-school arcades before going for a dip in Margate and be swept away by the magnificent views of the English Channel at the White Cliffs of Dover.

Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately two hours from London. Various train and coach services can take you from central London to different destinations in Kent. Check online for the best itinerary.

What are the best tours to Kent? Discover Kent as part of a day trip, with the Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich tour from London.

Discover more days out and day trips within easy reach of London.