Romantic breaks
Relish some solo time together with a romantic break at one of these swoonworthy South West destinations
Cary Arms & Spa, Torquay
Spoil your special someone by whisking them away to this seaside bolthole at Babbacome Bay. Combining the traditional charm of an English inn with the contemporary style of a boutique hotel, Cary Arms & Spa has an understated luxury vibe, complemented by its waterside restaurant, spa and range of characterful accommodation.
Whether you choose to stay in one of the luxury seaview rooms or suites, chic beach huts or cosy cottages, you’ll be treated to a stunning vista of turquoise waters. When you’re not admiring the view from your room, you can drink it in from the restaurant while also indulging in dishes reflective of the surrounding land and sea. The kitchen team specialise in gastro food cooked simply to allow the local ingredients to shine – from line-caught seafood to Devonshire beef.
Lean into relaxation mode during your romantic break with a trip to Cary Spa, splitting your time between a waterfall hydrotherapy pool, relaxation area, steam room, sauna, exotic experience shower and gym. To dial up the romance, book a massage in the couples treatment room.
Homewood, near Bath
Loved-up couples won’t want to leave the charming environs of this Georgian country house and spa near Bath. Famed for its quirky artworks, fun vibe and luxury facilities, Homewood has all the ingredients needed for a memorable break.
Each of the individually styled bedrooms would make for a fabulous stay, but we’d recommend pulling out all the stops for the occasion with a break in the luxe hot tub suite or, better yet, the spa suite. The latter of which is kitted out with a private hot tub, barrel sauna and plunge pool for a more intimate feel. More tempting wellness experiences await at Homewood’s high-spec spa, which recently underwent a refurb that has resulted in guests being able to relish thermal therapy alfresco.
Spending quality time together continues over delicious produce-led dishes and a glass of Tattinger rosé in the Olio restaurant and terrace. Clash forks over generous feasting platters and indulge in Med-influenced small plates and sumptuous puds, all under the warm glow of a cluster of chandeliers.
Sign of the Angel, Lacock
Where better to be swept off your feet in a traditional romantic swoop than the very filming location of BBC’s Pride and Prejudice? The National Trust village of Lacock, with its cobbled streets and stone cottages, oozes olde-worlde charm, and The Sign of the Angel is at the heart of it all.
The 15th-century coaching inn is steeped in history, reflected in its rustic and characterful aesthetic. Wooden beams, wonky walls and inglenook fireplaces with roaring log burners create a cottagecore-esque atmosphere that’s complemented by quality modern British cooking. Who could deny the romantic lure of a candlelight cosy dinner by the fire?
The restaurant’s new head chef Ross Harper has taken the gourmet offering up a notch, putting sustainable Wiltshire produce front and centre in well-executed classics such as treacle-cured venison haunch with smoky mash, crispy mushrooms, pickled shallots and black garlic cream sauce.
The lack of televisions in the rooms is a perfect reminder to leave the cosy confines of the inn and stroll the postcard-perfect surrounding area.
The Manor House, Castle Combe, Cotswolds
The Manor House exudes a magnetic energy beginning the moment you make your way up the winding drive leading to the 14th-century country retreat. From manicured Italian gardens and a nearby quintessentially Cotswolds village to an 18-hole championship golf course and Michelin-starred dining, this is an idyllic destination for the discerning couple.
There are various dining options, but it would be remiss not to indulge in a tasting menu experience at the hotel’s Bybrook restaurant. Executive chef Rob Potter and his passionate kitchen team create seasonal dishes that showcase quality ingredients from artisans and specialist producers.
Stay in the historic main house or cosy up in one of the beautiful mews cottages – one comes complete with hot tub. For full-blown romance, book the Totally Romantic package which includes a bottle of Ridgeview English sparkling wine, box of Montezuma’s chocolates and scattering of rose petals on the bed.
Housel Bay, Helston
If your idea of a dream getaway includes escaping the crowds and spending quality time together surrounded by nature then a romantic break at Housel Bay on Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula could be just the ticket.
Perched on a cliff overlooking the wild Atlantic, this foodie hotel is ideal for those who want to embrace the great outdoors. The South West Coast Path passes the hotel grounds and whether you chose to venture left or right from the garden gate you’ll be spoilt for stunning views of the coastline. There’s even a secret cove just a few steps from the front door for those bold enough to brave the winter waters.
Enjoyed reading our pick of romantic breaks? Dive into our South West town guides and discover more excellent places to stay, drink, dine and shop.
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