Whether you’re in the first, heady throws of passion or you’re long-term travelling companions on the journey of love, getting that perfect Valentine’s gift can be fraught and treacherous. But there’s one thing that’s guaranteed to go down well – to be whisked away from it all, to escape the humdrum of the everyday and hide away in a blissfully beautiful retreat. Let us lead you through some perfect homestays, near and far, guaranteed to raise your temperature…
With rolling countryside, oh-so-cosy inns, hidden paths to explore hand in hand and pretty villages to discover, the Cotswolds must be close to the top as a romantic destination, and at around two hours from London, it’s handily close too. For couples who love a bit of history, head to Number 36, our stunning cottage in Broadway. With a cosy wood burner, a wood-fired hot tub and swoon worthy interiors, this sandstone lovely is just exquisite. It’s also set close to many Cotswolds highlights, including pretty villages, wonderful walks and Michelin star restaurants.
If the siren call of the sea lights you up, head to Cornwall’s foodie capital Padstow where the gorgeous Oysters awaits. This bijoux beauty is a paradise of soft pinks and dove greys, with a crackling wood burner and bathtub for two to match. It’s also just steps from the sea and some of the best restaurants in the country - from Paul Ainsworth to Rick Stein – and as they say a way to a person’s heart is often via their stomach, it’s a sure bet!
Should you be seeking true wilderness with a luxurious touch, head to The Bothy, a stunning escape in the middle of Dartmoor, but with a concierge service on hand you’ll never need to step in your car for the whole stay. This beauty has its own shepherd’s hut with wood burner, so you can gaze out over the rolling moors, whilst nestled up in blankets. The lovely owner even leaves you a bottle of warming tipple and marshmallows to toast!
For those who like to tread the road less travelled, a trip to hidden Woodlanders in the stunning south Shropshire Hills is a must. Nestled amongst the trees with its own bubbling hot tub, wood burner and glorious views over the surrounding verdant green countryside, this is a tucked-away dream in a beautiful county that’s often overlooked. A lovely retreat with bragging rights as it also comes with its own little private wood!
Lovers of all things chic need look no further than The Coach House nestled in the Surrey Hills and less than two hours from London. Located in the pretty village of Shere (as seen in the film ‘The Holiday’), whisk your own Cameron or Jude to this blissful escape, where the master bedroom has its own deck overlooking rolling countryside, a dreamy dressing room and sumptuous super king-sized bed made for long lie ins.
For a truly unique coastal break, head to The Sea Room at Ropehawn, our stunning former Victorian boathouse that’s only accessible by boat or woodland path. Set on the water’s edge of St Austell Bay near Fowey in South Cornwall, this gorgeous, glass-fronted abode is about as tucked away as can be with its own private shingle beach – it’s dog friendly too. With a cosy table set by the window, enjoy meals together whilst overlooking the sea with only the occasional seal or fishing boat sailing by in front of you.
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our romantic retreats to swoon over…
