Romantic UK Beach Breaks for Couples

1. Hastings

Medieval Hastings, with its narrow alleyways, antique shops and cafés, is one of Britain’s best romantic hideaways.  Away from the charming Old Town, it’s a characterful Victorian seaside resort with grand houses, elegant parks and dramatic cliff top views.

Image of cliffs above Hastings @Amy Simpson

See

On your romantic weekend away, first take the East and West Hill Lifts to the cliffs above the town. The old fashioned funiculars make for an interesting ride and fantastic views from the top over the coastline and town below. For more beautiful, secluded scenery, head next to Hastings Country Park – over 600 acres of romantic woodland glens and cliffs in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that’s perfect for picnics and peaceful strolls.

Back in town, spend an afternoon wandering through the charming vintage shops. For couples who want to buy something special, Pearl & Queenie (16 George St) is a Victorian boutique with handmade British jewellery that’s well worth browsing.

Stay

Only five minutes from the Old Town but surrounded by gardens and a swimming pool, The White House B&B in Hastings is one of the most romantic places to stay in the area. Secluded and peaceful, yet close to all the sights, it’s perfectly situated for a romantic weekend away. The elegant Victorian rooms, spa treatments and stunning sea views add to the feeling of decadence and luxury.

Eat

Thanks to its coastal location, Hastings can offer some delicious fresh fish and seafood. Enjoy the best local catches at White’s Bar, a bustling but casual seafood restaurant in the Old Town. Couples with love the fresh sharing platters for two. For a more intimate atmosphere, Trattoria Italiana is a family run Italian restaurant with classic Mediterranean style and good food and wine.

2. Dartmouth

Quaint Dartmouth is the ideal choice for quiet holidays for couples. Surrounded by the beautiful Devon countryside and coastline, it feels much more private and intimate than nearby resorts such as Torquay.

Image of Dartmouth beach @Tom Gotze

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Wander hand in hand along Foss Street, a charming road that dates back to the 1200s and runs up to the quaint St Saviour’s Church – it feels like you’re stepping back in time. St Petrox Church is also well worth a visit on a romantic weekend away. Boasting some of the most stunning views in Devon, it’s a picturesque spot to spend an afternoon. Take a river taxi there to add more excitement.

If you prefer to spend your time relaxing on the beach, Blackpool Sands is the best place for couples near Dartmouth. An unspoiled cove at the north of Start Bay, it’s flanked by steep wooded cliffs and has a tranquil, private feel.

Sleep

If you’re looking for romantic places to stay in Dartmouth, Strete Barton House is the top pick for an indulgent mini break. This lavish 5 star B&B is set in a 16th century manor house with extensive grounds and enjoys superb sea views in a relaxing environment. From the moment you arrive, everything about Strete Barton House is pure luxury - homemade cakes and tea are served in the stylish drawing room in front of a log fire in winter or on the terrace in warm weather.

Eat

For something a little different, try a private lunch for two on the Picnic Boat whilst you cruise the tranquil River Dart. In Dartmouth itself, The Cherub is a cosy old fashioned inn with just the right combination of period charm and decadent but rustic food.

Taylor’s Restaurant, meanwhile, is just the spot for an indulgent treat. With great views over the harbour, Taylor’s sets the scene with sparkling chandeliers, exposed brick walls and local specialties on the menu.

3. Penzance

With its mix of art galleries, cobbled streets and tropical palms, Penzance is the perfect backdrop for a romantic weekend away. The stunning North Cornwall coast is a haven of secluded beaches and tiny harbor towns.

Image of Sennen Cove @Tom Harding

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A few miles along the coast stands St Michael’s Mount, an ancient church that stands like a fairytale castle on its island during high tide. Explore the winding alleys and historic landmark before turning back for some stunning views of Cornwall and Penzance.Heading south, the tiny village of Sennen Cove makes for some great photos and dolphin spotting in the bay. From here, it’s a dramatic walk along the cliff path to Land’s End – a very romantic place for a picnic or just to take in the views of the crashing waves below and feel like you’re the only two people in the world.

Penzance itself is well worth a stroll around winding alleys to the quaint harbour. During the summer, Minack Theatre is an excellent place for evening entertainment. The open air playhouse is carved into the cliff for an interesting twist on the theatre experience.

Sleep

A few miles outside of Penzance, Higher Faugan is romantic hideaway on the Cornish coast. With elegant rooms and stunning views over the house and acres of private gardens, this classy B&B is an idyllic place to unwind. Each morning, breakfast is served in your room for a romantic breakfast in bed.

Eat

The Coldstreamer Inn (Gulval) is just the place for quiet holidays for couples. Sip a glass of wine in front of a crackling open fire and tuck into local fish from Newlyn and fresh meat from the butcher in Penzance. For something a little livelier, Bar CoCo’s (12-13 Chappel Street) is a quirky modern wine bar with Matisse prints, tapas and great people watching.

Cover image Ashley Coombs on Flickr