Dreaming of the ultimate honeymoon in the UK? Here’s what you need to know about where to go and top tips for planning your special vacation.
First up: A mini Geography lesson.
The United Kingdom (otherwise known as the UK), is comprised of four individual countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
While each is similar, they all offer a totally unique experience. From the rugged beauty of Scotland and the castles of Wales to the green views in Northern Ireland and the historic landmarks of England, a UK honeymoon is an excellent option.
In fact, you might be surprised to discover that the UK actually features stunning and diverse landscapes such as mountain ranges, beaches, islands, rolling hills, flat plains, and raging rivers.
Add to this a banging culinary scene (don’t laugh, we promise there’s good food to be had), iconic attractions, and luxury hotels to boot, and you’re in for an epic honeymoon.
Ready to plan the ultimate UK honeymoon? Let us help you with this handy guide to the top destinations and tips you need to know.
Why Honeymoon in the UK
Where do we begin?
Whether you want to visit all four countries, stay in one, or some combination, the UK truly has something to suit every couple’s wants and needs. Known for mythology, legends, and folklore, the UK is more than capable of adding a little extra mystery and sparkle to your honeymoon.
Whether you dream of taking a step back in time while visiting ancient castles and museums, hiking along the coast, clinking drinks at traditional pubs, eating your way through all the major cities, or maybe even catching a glimpse of the Loch Ness monster, the UK has got you covered.
We’re sure you’re already sold. But read on to discover the best honeymoon destinations in the UK.
Best Honeymoon Hotels & Resorts in the UK
Driftwood
Cornwall, England
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Best for a Seaside Honeymoon
Situated in Cornwall, Driftwood is one of the best honeymoon hotels in the UK for couples. Praised for its stunning views, attentive staff, and private beach, Driftwood is a cozy yet budget-friendly option.
This romantic and intimate hotel has a restaurant on site that serves dinner and high tea. Though there is also a coffee house, bar, and snack stand should you get peckish.
The hotel features a picnic area, a sun deck with outdoor furniture, and beachfront property complete with a private beach area as well as a terrace and garden.
There’s a spa on site that provides an abundance of services and treatments. Though, while staying at Driftwood, most couples enjoy the surrounding areas by hiking, snorkeling, boating, fishing, and surfing.
Waldorf Astoria
Edinburgh, Scotland
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Best for a Historic City Break
Surround yourself with beautiful Scottish architecture on a uber-romantic Edinburgh honeymoon. The Waldorf Astoria is a five-star hotel that has opulence and indulgence more than covered.
This hotel is situated just moments from Princes Street – quite literally where all the action happens – and, better yet, boasts views of Edinburgh Castle. Rooms are elegantly furnished, featuring Egyptian cotton sheets and marble-laden bathrooms.
But beyond aesthetics, this hotel has plenty to brag about: The Waldorf Astoria Spa, an incredible breakfast, and luxury afternoon tea available in the on-site Peacock Alley are just a couple of standout features.
Carbis Bay Hotel and Spa
Cornwall
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Best for a Luxury Beach Honeymoon
Another Cornwall favorite is Carbis Bay Hotel and Spa – it’s widely considered a top luxury honeymoon UK option.
Situated on the picturesque Cornish coast, couples can choose from numerous accommodations like guest rooms in the main house, beach lodges, beach suites, and cozy cottages. But, if you really want to splurge, you’ll want to book the Sunseeker Motor Yacht.
The spa on-site offers couples their very own candle-lit treatment room, an outdoor sauna, an infinity pool overlooking the water, and even a hot tub with views of the beach.
But why stare at the sea when you can get involved? The Carbis Hotel and Spa provide kayaks, paddle boards, sailing, and sea safaris for couples, so don your wetsuit and prepare to dive right in.
Summer Lodge
Dorset, England
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Best for a Countryside Honeymoon
The Summer Lodge is one of the most sought-after honeymoon destinations in the UK – and it’s no surprise, really.
The luxury lodge caters to honeymooning couples by offering different packages that include turn-down service, daily fresh fruit and flowers, homemade shortbread biscuits, and even a Press for Service button. We like the sound of that.
There are several dining options onsite, many of which use local ingredients grown in the hotel’s garden – you can’t get much fresher than that.
The hotel also boasts a sauna, jacuzzi, heated indoor pool, tennis courts, a golf course, and a gym. And, if you’re in the mood for something really fun, guests are able to enjoy activities such as hiking, horseback riding, shooting, sailing, fishing, and even taking a hot air balloon ride.
Chewton Glen
Hampshire, England
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Best for a Fairytale Honeymoon in the Forest
Chewton Glen is a 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel and spa and is perfect if you’re dreaming of a classic honeymoon in the UK.
The resort sits along New Forest National Park, so peace and tranquility are practically guaranteed. Honeymooners can choose from rooms, suites, and even tree houses (our fave).
Chewton Glen is home to an award-winning spa offering numerous holistic and wellness treatments. They host various yoga classes, spa packages, tennis and/or golf lessons, massages, and more. There are swimming pools, hydrotherapy pools, and a sauna and steam room. Relaxation is covered.
But it’s not just about the hotel (as wonderful as it is), as there are so many things to see and do while staying at Chewton Glen. You can take cooking classes, art classes, archery lessons, shoot clays, get involved with axe throwing, sheep walking (squeal!), visit the farm, or even explore the area on two wheels.
Gravetye Manor
Sussex, England
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Best for a Peaceful Honeymoon
Honeymooners staying at the gorgeous Gravetye Manor are treated to rooms and suites that combine old-world charm with luxury amenities. In fact, the rooms are named after trees that grow on the estate and are furnished with restored antiques, which we think is completely adorable.
While there are no packages specially designed for couples, they always have deals and offers that can be used for honeymoon breaks while in the UK.
The manor grounds feature over 35 acres of finely manicured gardens that evoke a sense of calm and tranquility. Great qualities to carry over to marriage, we think.
There are plenty of options for dinner, too. The onsite restaurant features floor-to-ceiling glass windows so you can enjoy the view of the gardens as you eat. Though Gravetye Manor also offers private dining options that are perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion (we think a honeymoon certainly qualifies).
Fitzwilliam Hotel
Belfast, Northern Ireland
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Best for Luxury on a Budget
We cannot quite believe the value for money that Belfast’s stunning Fitzwilliam Hotel has to offer. Rooms are very reasonably priced, yet the five-star hotel boasts enviable amenities.
Bedrooms are seriously spacious, decked out in stylish accessories, and boast impressive views of the city below.
Not to mention that the central location means Belfast’s top attractions are right on your doorstep. Which makes soaking in the lively Irish nightlife before stumbling back to your (ridiculously comfy) bed even easier.
UK Honeymoon Tips: What You Need to Know
How to Get to the UK
Major Airports in England
The two busiest airports in England are London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and Manchester Airport (MAN).
Major Airports in Scotland
Most people traveling to Scotland fly through Edinburgh (EDI) or Glasgow (GLA) Airports.
Major Airports in Wales
If you’re looking to fly into Wales, you have to fly into Cardiff Airport (CWL).
Major Airports in Northern Ireland
For Northern Ireland, you’ll want to fly into Belfast International Airport (BFS).
Once you’ve arrived in the UK, it’s pretty easy to get around through all the countries. One of the most convenient, quickest, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly ways to travel is by train.
The Best UK Honeymoon Destinations
Lake District
Situated in Cumbria, in northwest England, the Lake District is a top honeymoon UK place to visit. The area features lakes (obviously), mountains, and historical sites.
The Lake District National Park is England’s largest national park and has recently been designated a world heritage site. The park is popular for hiking, boating, cycling, and stargazing at night and offers epic views.
If you’re feeling brave, you can check out the nearby Muncaster Castle, rumored to be UK’s most haunted castle. And, if you’re really made of stronger stuff, you can book a “ghost sit” where you can spend a night in one of the most haunted parts of the castle. ‘Cos nothing says romance like snuggling up in bed, completely terrified.
Otherwise, you can visit the castle for afternoon tea, take a daytime tour of the castle and visit the gardens.
St Ives
As far as honeymoons in the UK go, St Ives in Cornwall is one of the most visited for a quaint seaside vacation.
St Ives is known for its beaches. While some are quiet and secluded, others have beachfront bars, restaurants, and shops. Some of the most notable beaches for couples are Carbis Bay Beach, Porthminster Beach, Porthmeor Beach, and Fistral Beach.
Fancy an active honeymoon? Taking a surf lesson is another great experience you can have on the St. Ives beaches.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan is another great spot for couples to visit on their honeymoon. It’s one of the most visited botanical gardens in the UK. The site features aged and colossal rhododendrons and camellias, a series of lakes fed by flower and vegetable gardens, an area filled with subtropical ferns, and Europe’s only remaining pineapple pit.
Visitors can also book a boat trip to Seal Island to view the resident Grey seal colony. You can also see anglerfish, dogfish, and sea anemones, and you’ll usually be able to spot some basking sharks, dolphins, or porpoises and very rarely, a humpback whale. There’s even a shipwreck you can see which has been there for centuries.
Exmouth
Another seaside town, Exmouth is also located on the mouth of River Exe. This honeymoon destination is very popular with watersports lovers looking to take river cruises, go sea kayaking, and kite-surfing.
Though, we think a more unique experience is to go fossil hunting. As the area is home to part of the Jurassic Coast, you can find things like ammonites, brachiopods, and prehistoric fish. Pssst… The best beaches for fossil hunting are Beer, Seaton, Sidmouth, and Pinhay Bay.
Brighton
If you’re looking for a taste of city life, you should visit Brighton. The city is known for its vibrant and diverse communities, large LGBTQ+ population, art and music scene, as well as eclectic shops, and fun nightlife.
Palace Pier is an exciting place to visit no matter what age you are – but if you’re looking to have some nostalgia-inducing fun, it should be at the top of your Brighton agenda. You can go on rides or play more traditional fairground games.
Looking for a romantic spot? British Airways i360 is an observation deck that treats you to staggering views of the surrounding area. You’ll ride up 162 meters (about 530 feet) in a pod. It takes about 20 minutes to get to the top but, fear not, there is even a sky bar where you can enjoy a drink while sipping in the views.
Rye
From its historic streets to charming pubs and delicious food, Rye is a ridiculously romantic honeymoon destination in the UK.
In fact, Mermaid Street is one of the most photographed places in England. The street is made of cobblestone and is lined with homes made of timber that each have flowers and vines growing on the outside.
Edinburgh
The capital of Scotland is known for its cobblestone streets, historic literary importance, and whiskey-fuelled walks.
The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is split into two parts known simply as the Old and New Town. Both have beautiful architecture and an abundance of brilliant places to dine, drink, and shop.
The Royal Mile is one of Edinburgh’s top attractions, stretching across the Old Town. On one end is Edinburgh Castle and on the other is the Holyrood Palace. Shops, pubs, and restaurants line this famous street.
London
You didn’t think we would write a guide to UK honeymoon destinations without London, did you? This iconic city is home to Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and Tower Bridge, among many other famous attractions.
Some of the top places to visit in London are Covent Garden, Soho, London Bridge, and Shoreditch. These neighborhoods are where you’ll find the best restaurants and bars for boozy date nights. Oh, and remember to swing by Borough Market for an epic lunch made up of tasty street eats.
For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you can spend the night in the London Zoo. London Zoo Lodges have secret guest houses set in the Land of the Lions. Your stay comes with an after-hours tour, a two-course dinner, and entry to the zoo.
Portmeirion
An adorable little Welsh village, Portmeirion looks like something you would spot on a postcard from a rural Italian town. Colorful houses, cute tearooms, and tranquil scenery await you.
While we don’t recommend staying in Portmerion (hotel options are very limited), it’s definitely worth a day trip as part of your Wales honeymoon. You’ll find yourself transported to a quaint Cinque Terre-esque town.
Giant’s Causeway
Remember the myth and folklore we mentioned earlier? Well, here’s where you’ll find it in spades.
Giant’s Causeway is a magical UNESCO site in Northern Ireland. The landmark is made up of around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that were actually the result of a volcanic eruption, but it’s way more fun thinking that the famous giant Finn McCool made them.
The Best Time to Visit the UK
The best time to visit the United Kingdom is in the spring and fall. Spring typically begins in late march and lasts through early June while fall starts in September until November.
The busy season is, of course, summer. But the shoulder seasons offer honeymooners great weather, fewer crowds, and cheaper rates.
How Long to Spend on Your UK Honeymoon
There is so much to see and do within the UK. Depending on which countries you want to visit, you may want to spend anywhere from 7-14 days in the UK. We think around 2-3 days in each place is about right (unless it’s London, then anywhere up to a week is ideal).
How Much Does a UK Honeymoon Cost?
On average, a 10-day honeymoon in the UK will cost you about $7,000 USD. As always, this is dependent on a lot of factors: The cost of your flights, how long you’re staying, if you’re staying in just one county or traveling around, etc.
One of the best ways to stick to a budget is to book accommodations that offer honeymoon packages in the UK.