According to the Office for National Statistics International Passenger Survey, there were 40.9 million visits to the UK in 2019. In both 2018 and 2019 the UK was ranked as the world’s 10th biggest tourist destination!
From the rolling hills of the English Cotswolds and rugged Welsh Mountains to the hustle and bustle of city life in London, Edinburgh, Belfast and beyond, the UK has a lot to offer tourists and couples looking for a romantic break or kid-free adventure.
It may appear to be a small island, but it’s packed with a diverse range of scenery, architecture, museums, history and culture.
With the coronavirus lockdown severely impacting and restricting everyone’s travel plans, I am now keener than ever to have a weekend away with my husband. I’m dying to see something other than my local neighbourhood and begin to scratch that travel itch!
Not from the UK? If you are travelling from abroad then make sure you check the UK visa requirements and the latest travel advice to ensure a smooth journey.
If you’re in the UK then a staycation is a great idea. The UK has so much to offer for couples and families alike.
See some of my favourite recommendations below.
10 amazing places to visit in the UK for couples
1. Snowdonia, Wales
Snowdonia is the largest National Park in Wales and has the highest mountain in England and Wales. It also has the largest lake in Wales and, having experienced it in person, Snowdonia has the most breathtaking scenery.
I recommend a hike up Cadair Idris mountain, a stroll along Aberdovey beach and taking the scenic coastal train for some great views, stopping at Harlech Castle for a dose of Welsh heritage.
2. Gower Peninsula, Wales
Declared an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Gower Peninsula in Wales is home to long sandy beaches, rugged coastlines, sand dunes, pebbly coves and more.
It’s perfect for long romantic walks along Rhossili Bay or Oxwich Bay.
If you’re a fan of nightlife then check out The Mumbles for a touch of liveliness in the evenings.
3. Bristol, England
If you want a city that doesn’t feel quite so crowded and hectic as big cities but is rich in creativity and uniqueness, then Bristol is a must-see.
It’s regularly named one of the friendliest cities in the UK, brimming with indie businesses, a good-feel vibe and plenty of character.
Clifton Suspension Bridge is a must-see as is Millennium Square, Bristol harbour and the famous colourful houses.
Stay in a boutique hotel, visit Brunel’s SS Great Britain (the number one thing to do in Bristol as ranked by TripAdvisor users) and eat at one of their thousands of eateries.
4. Cornwall, England
The most southwesterly region of England with bustling nightlife in Newquay and Falmouth for those couples who love to party after dark, quaint Cornish fishing villages such as Polperro and Mevagissey to explore in the day times and around 200 stunning beaches!
It’s one of the sunniest spots in the UK and has the longest stretch of coastline in the UK, so it’s perfect for beach-loving couples.
5. Forest of Dean, England
If you’re looking for a unique getaway with a bit of thrill-seeking, then the Wooden Wigwam glamping experience at the National Diving and Activity Centre in the Forest of Dean is perfect.
I highly recommend booking their VIP wigwam which has a more secluded spot and a hot tub!
During the day you can venture off-site to explore the expansive forest or enjoy the on-site activities from Segway to zip lining!
The forest itself is filled with tourist attractions from the magical Puzzle Wood to Clearwell Caves, as well as numerous tranquil forest bathing walks.
6. London, England
London is one of the world’s leading tourism hotspots and it’s no wonder why – it has plenty to offer for all budgets and tastes.
A trip to England is not complete without experiencing its capital. From visiting free museums and sightseeing on foot to a ride on the London Eye and a tour of Buckingham Palace.
From a bustling nightlife, fine dining, bustling markets and impressive architecture.
Ride the famous red buses, hear Big Ben chime and enjoy the view from The Shard.
There is something to suit all couples in one of the most famous capital cities in the world.
7. Brecon Beacons, Wales
If you’re an outdoorsy couple and love to hike, then I have another Welsh mountain suggestion for you. Climb Pen y Fan for the most beautiful views in Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales!
A walk not to be missed if you’re in the locality is the iconic four waterfalls walk where you’ll see stunning waterfalls in a woodland setting.
You can even walk on the rocks directly behind one of the waterfalls – a great experience!
8. Outer Hebrides, Scotland
One on my bucket list, not least because it’s possible to catch a glimpse of the remarkable Northern Lights which just have to be seen once in a lifetime.
Also, these Scottish islands boast pristine white sands, turquoise seas and unspoilt landscapes.
9. Giant’s Causeway
Voted the 10th most romantic spot in the UK, Giant’s Causeway is an epic site of around 40,000 hexagonal-shaped stepping stones made from volcanic basalt.
You can book The Romancer mini break with National Trust for stunning sunsets, cosy spots, great restaurants and boutique accommodation.
Final word
There we have it, nine amazing places to visit in the UK as a couple and lots of activity ideas too!
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These are wonderful ideas! I’d love to visit the Forest of Dean.
Wow beautiful places!