Dreaming of a romantic escape with your partner but worried about the cost? You're not alone. The desire to create special memories shouldn't come with a hefty price tag. That’s why we’ve curated a definitive guide to the best cheap romantic getaways UK has to offer. Forget endless scrolling and budget-induced stress. This guide focuses on handpicked, high-value experiences that deliver on romance and relaxation without stretching your finances.
We’ll explore a variety of options, from tranquil countryside retreats to charming coastal escapes. Each entry is designed to be a complete planning tool. Inside, you will find:
Approximate price brackets to help you budget effectively.
"Best-for" suggestions, whether you're seeking a spa break, an adventure, or a foodie haven.
Sample 1-2 day itineraries packed with ideas.
Money-saving tips for booking and timing your trip perfectly.
Travel times from major UK cities to simplify your logistics.
Our goal is to give you everything needed to plan a perfect, affordable break for two. Let's find your next unforgettable getaway.
1. The Coastal Charmer: A Seaside Escape in Cornwall
For couples who find romance in salty air and dramatic cliffside walks, a trip to Cornwall is unbeatable. By avoiding the peak summer season, you can discover the county’s enchanting fishing villages, hidden coves, and artistic spirit at a fraction of the cost. This makes it a perfect destination for one of the best cheap romantic getaways in the UK. Base yourselves near a town like St Ives or Falmouth to blend coastal exploration with cosy pub dinners and gallery visits.
Itinerary & Activities
Day 1: Artistic St Ives & Coastal Paths. Arrive in St Ives and check into your budget-friendly accommodation. Spend the morning exploring the town’s cobbled streets and independent galleries. After a traditional pasty for lunch, visit the Tate St Ives (£10.50 per person) for some culture. In the afternoon, take a scenic walk along the South West Coast Path towards Zennor, soaking in the breathtaking sea views before returning for a seaside dinner.
Day 2: Maritime History & Hidden Gardens. Drive to Falmouth and explore the National Maritime Museum Cornwall (from £17 per person). Afterwards, lose yourselves in the lush, subtropical world of Trebah Garden (£15 per person), a stunning ravine garden that leads down to its own private beach on the Helford River. It’s a beautifully secluded spot perfect for a quiet, romantic moment.
How to Save Money
The key to an affordable Cornish getaway is timing. Travel during the "shoulder seasons" of spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). You’ll find significantly lower prices for accommodation and fewer crowds than in July and August. Booking self-catering cottages or rooms via platforms like Airbnb can also be much cheaper than traditional hotels. Pack a picnic for your coastal walks to save on lunches.
Need-to-Know Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Price Bracket | £150 - £250 for a two-night stay (off-peak) |
| Best For | Coastal walks, art lovers, foodies |
| Travel from London | ~5 hours by train, ~5.5 hours by car |
| Travel from Bristol | ~2.5 hours by train, ~3 hours by car |
| Experience Voucher Idea | Use an Activity Superstore voucher for a Surf Lesson for Two in nearby Newquay to add a splash of adventure to your romantic trip. |
2. Using Deal Sites for a Luxury-for-Less Hotel Break
For couples who dream of boutique hotels and spa retreats without the hefty price tag, using a members-only travel site can be the ultimate insider tool. These platforms often specialise in flash deals on hand-picked luxury hotels and holidays, frequently including exclusive perks like a bottle of prosecco on arrival, room upgrades, or spa credit. It’s an ideal way to secure one of the best cheap romantic getaways in the UK, transforming an otherwise expensive stay into an affordable indulgence.
How it Works & Top Tips
Step 1: Simple Sign-Up. Access to the deals is usually free but requires a quick sign-up with an email address. This unlocks the ability to see heavily discounted prices and curated sales. Set up email alerts for UK spa breaks or specific regions like the Cotswolds or Lake District to be notified as soon as relevant deals go live.
Step 2: Browse & Book. The deals are often time-limited, sometimes lasting around ten days, so it pays to act decisively if you see something you love. Each listing clearly outlines what’s included, from breakfast to late check-out, ensuring there are no hidden costs. Pay close attention to the available dates, as flexibility is key to grabbing the best bargains.
How to Save Money
The entire premise of these sites is saving money on luxury stays, with discounts of up to 60%. The biggest savings are often found on last-minute deals or by booking for mid-week stays. Always check the "exclusive extras" included in a package; a deal with included dinner or spa credit can offer significantly more value than a room-only offer elsewhere. A best-price guarantee on many deals provides extra peace of mind.
Need-to-Know Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Price Bracket | £120 - £250 for a two-night stay (deal-dependent) |
| Best For | Spa breaks, boutique hotels, last-minute luxury |
| Access | Free to join at sites like SecretEscapes.com |
| Key Features | Members-only pricing, flash sales, bundled extras |
| Experience Voucher Idea | Many deals feature spa access, which pairs perfectly with Activity Superstore's range of overnight spa breaks for couples if you're looking to build a longer, more indulgent trip. |
3. The Voucher Hunter's Dream: Finding Vetted Hotel Breaks
For couples who love the thrill of a good deal without sacrificing quality, deal-vetting websites are an essential resource. It’s not a destination itself, but a platform where a team of experts often vet and negotiate exclusive offers on hotels, spas, and restaurants. This makes it an incredible tool for finding high-end romantic breaks at surprisingly low prices, often bundling extras like prosecco, dinner, or a spa treatment to create a complete package.
How It Works & Top Finds
1. Find Your Deal: Browse curated collections, such as "UK hotel breaks under £150," or popular weekly "Top 20" lists. Deals clearly show what’s included, the saving percentage, and available dates. You might find a two-night stay in a Lake District inn with breakfast for £149 or a Cotswolds spa hotel stay with dinner for £129.
2. Purchase a Voucher: Most deals operate on a voucher system. You buy the voucher through the platform, which locks in the special price. These vouchers often have long and flexible validity periods (e.g., valid for stays until March next year), making them fantastic for planning ahead or giving as a gift.
3. Book with the Hotel: Once you have your voucher, you follow the instructions to contact the hotel directly to book your specific dates, quoting your voucher code.
How to Save Money
The entire premise of these platforms is saving money, but you can maximise it by being flexible. Check the "valid for" dates and blackout periods carefully; midweek stays are almost always cheaper. Signing up for newsletters ensures you see the best limited-time offers as soon as they are released. The voucher model also lets you lock in a great price months in advance, protecting you from future price rises.
Need-to-Know Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Price Bracket | £99 - £199 for a one or two-night stay (deal-dependent) |
| Best For | Spa breaks, countryside inns, last-minute deals, gifting |
| Key Feature | Deals are editorially vetted and tested for quality and value |
| How to Use | Purchase a voucher, then contact the hotel to book dates |
| Experience Voucher Idea | Complement your getaway with an Activity Superstore Romantic Break for Two voucher, perfect for adding another special occasion to the calendar. |
4. Finding Deals on Package Getaways
For couples who love the thrill of a good deal, sites like Groupon UK can be a treasure trove of discounted hotel stays and package deals. They often stand out by bundling accommodation with attractive extras like a bottle of prosecco, a three-course dinner, or spa access, creating a complete package for a surprisingly low price. This makes them an essential bookmark for anyone planning cheap romantic getaways in the UK, especially if you have a flexible schedule.
Itinerary & Activities
These platforms don't offer a fixed itinerary; instead, they provide the building blocks for one. A typical deal might look like this:
Day 1: Spa Relaxation. Arrive at a countryside spa hotel booked via a voucher. Your package might include a cream tea on arrival. Spend the afternoon using the spa facilities (pool, sauna, steam room) that often come with the deal, before enjoying an included two-course dinner at the hotel's restaurant.
Day 2: Local Exploration. After an included breakfast, check out late (another common perk) and explore the local area. Whether it’s a nearby market town, a national park, or a historic city, you can build your day's activities around your pre-booked, value-packed accommodation base.
How to Save Money
The entire platform is built around saving money. To maximise value, be flexible with your dates; weekday stays are almost always cheaper than weekends. Always read the "Fine Print" section on each deal carefully to check for blackout dates, supplementary charges for weekend stays, and the voucher's expiry date. Create an account to receive alerts for new deals in your preferred regions.
Need-to-Know Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Price Bracket | £79 - £179 for a one or two-night stay (deal-dependent) |
| Best For | Spa breaks, last-minute deals, all-inclusive packages |
| Travel from London | Deals are available UK-wide, so travel time varies |
| Travel from Bristol | Deals are available UK-wide, so travel time varies |
| Experience Voucher Idea | You can complement your hotel stay with an Activity Superstore voucher for a Vineyard Tour and Tasting for Two to create a well-rounded and sophisticated romantic escape. |
5. Using Deal Sites for Spontaneous Stays
For spontaneous couples who love the thrill of a good deal, popular deal sites like Wowcher are a treasure trove of possibilities. These platforms specialise in time-limited discounts, making them a fantastic resource for finding last-minute, cheap romantic getaways in the UK. You can often find packages that bundle an overnight stay with dinner, a bottle of prosecco, or even spa access, providing exceptional value for money.
Itinerary & Activities
Day 1: Spa Relaxation & Indulgent Dinner. Purchase a deal for a one-night spa break at a country house hotel. Check in and head straight to the spa to use the facilities like the swimming pool and sauna. Enjoy your included treatment, such as a back massage, before getting ready for the three-course dinner that often comes as part of the package.
Day 2: Leisurely Breakfast & Local Exploration. After a leisurely breakfast (frequently included in the deal), check out and spend the day exploring the local area. Many hotels featured on these sites are located near charming villages or areas of natural beauty, so you can enjoy a scenic walk or browse local shops before heading home, feeling refreshed and reconnected.
How to Save Money
The entire premise of these sites is saving money, with deals often advertised at over 50% off the standard price. To maximise savings, be flexible with your dates as weekend availability can sometimes incur a surcharge. Always read the fine print of the deal carefully to understand exactly what is included and check the hotel's reviews independently before purchasing. Signing up for their newsletter will alert you to the latest offers.
Need-to-Know Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Price Bracket | £79 - £159 for a one-night stay with extras |
| Best For | Last-minute deals, spa breaks, all-inclusive packages |
| Travel from London | Varies by deal location |
| Travel from Bristol | Varies by deal location |
| Experience Voucher Idea | Complement your stay with a separate Activity Superstore voucher for a local experience like a Vineyard Tour and Tasting for Two to create a well-rounded and affordable romantic getaway. |
6. Using Gift Experience Sites for All-in-One Packages
For couples who love the idea of a romantic break but prefer the simplicity of an all-in-one package, gift experience websites are a fantastic resource. These sites consolidate hundreds of short breaks, hotel stays, and spa packages into giftable vouchers. It’s an ideal way to browse for cheap romantic getaways in the UK by theme, whether you fancy a city break, a countryside retreat, or a relaxing spa escape, often with extras like dinner or prosecco included.
Itinerary & Activities
As these sites offer packages rather than a single destination, the itinerary is built into the voucher you choose. The beauty is in the variety and simplicity.
Example 1: The One Night Country Escape. Select a voucher like the "Charming Getaway for Two" (prices vary but often around £99). Redeem it at a partner country house hotel in a region like the Cotswolds or Yorkshire. Your stay typically includes a double room, breakfast, and sometimes a two-course dinner, leaving your days free to explore the surrounding villages and scenic countryside at your leisure.
Example 2: The Two Night Spa Retreat. Choose a more indulgent spa package, perhaps in a location like Kent or Cheshire. These experiences often include two nights' accommodation, breakfast, a dinner allowance, and access to the spa's thermal facilities. Many also include a mini treatment for each person, making it a complete relaxation-focused getaway without any extra planning required from you.
How to Save Money
The best way to secure a bargain on these sites is to look out for their frequent sales and promotional codes, which can offer significant discounts. Always check the "special offers" section. Another key tip is to be flexible with your dates; redeeming your voucher for a mid-week stay will almost always be cheaper and avoid the weekend supplements that many hotels charge.
Need-to-Know Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Price Bracket | £99 - £300+ for a one or two-night break voucher |
| Best For | Gifting, spa lovers, hassle-free planning |
| Travel from London | Dependant on the chosen hotel location |
| Travel from Bristol | Dependant on the chosen hotel location |
| Experience Voucher Idea | The platform is the voucher provider. Use an Activity Superstore voucher for a local Vineyard Tour and Tasting for Two to complement your hotel stay, wherever you choose to redeem it. |
7. Finding Flexible Voucher Escapes
For couples who love a good deal but aren't ready to commit to dates, many sites offer a treasure trove of pre-packaged romantic breaks. It’s common for gift-experience websites to curate hundreds of one and two-night stays in boutique hotels, spa resorts, and country inns across the UK. By purchasing a voucher, you lock in a great price and have the flexibility to book later, making it an excellent platform for planning cheap romantic getaways in the UK without immediate pressure.
Itinerary & Activities
Day 1: Choose Your Destination. The first step is the most exciting. Browse the website, filtering by "Romantic Breaks" and your preferred region. You could choose a Two Night Memorable Break (from £99) which gives you access to dozens of hotels across the country. Let's say you pick a charming inn in the Cotswolds. Arrive, check in, and enjoy the included perks, which often feature a bottle of wine or breakfast.
Day 2: Relax and Redeem. Your voucher often includes breakfast, leaving your day free. Many hotel partners are chosen for their location, so you can easily explore nearby attractions like quaint villages or scenic walking trails. Enjoy a relaxed day, knowing the core cost of your stay is already covered, before heading out for a romantic dinner at a local pub.
How to Save Money
The biggest advantage of voucher sites is their frequent use of promo codes, so always look for a discount before purchasing. Their "special offer" and "under £100" filters are brilliant for finding budget-friendly options. Vouchers are often valid for 12 months or more, allowing you to book during off-peak seasons when hotels have better availability and may not charge supplements. Exchanging your voucher for a different experience is also possible if your plans change.
Need-to-Know Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Price Bracket | £99 - £250 for a one or two-night stay voucher |
| Best For | Gifting, flexible planning, spa breaks |
| Travel from London | Dependant on chosen location |
| Travel from Bristol | Dependant on chosen location |
| Experience Voucher Idea | Consider a Romantic Comedy Night for Two from Activity Superstore to complement your trip with an evening of laughter. |
7-Item Comparison: Cheap Romantic Getaways in the UK
| Offer | 🔄 Booking complexity | 💡 Resource requirements (cost & flexibility) | ⭐ Expected quality / value | 📊 Expected outcomes / impact | Key advantage / Ideal use case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Two Night Pod Escape at Stanley Villa Farm for Two | Low — buy eVoucher, redeem (weekday only) | Low cost (£99), self‑catering, 18‑month voucher; ⚡ fast eVoucher delivery | ⭐ High value for price — cosy glamping, scenic views | 📊 Relaxing 2‑night lakeside break; limited hotel services | Affordable romantic weekday escape / surprise or anniversary gift |
| Deal Sites (e.g., Secret Escapes) | Medium — members‑only sign‑in; time‑limited purchases | Moderate — negotiated rates, must be flexible on dates | ⭐ High — curated boutique/spa hotels with extras | 📊 Upscale stays at discounted prices; availability can sell out | Curated, high‑value hotel packages for couples seeking perks |
| Voucher Sites (e.g., Travelzoo) | Low–Medium — voucher purchase then separate booking step | Moderate — low lead‑in prices, long voucher validity | ⭐ Good — vetted editorial deals, clear savings claims | 📊 Reliable bargains on countryside/spa hotels; some vouchers non‑refundable | Editorially tested deals and giftable vouchers with flexible redemption |
| Deal Sites (e.g., Groupon) | Medium — voucher buy + redemption; check blackout dates | Low — very low headline prices but merchant‑dependent | ⭐ Variable — price‑led; quality varies by provider | 📊 Cheapest headline offers with included extras; possible restrictions | Bargain hunting for low‑cost packages that include extras |
| Deal Sites (e.g., Wowcher) | Medium — time‑limited vouchers; redeem with merchant | Low — aggressive discounts suited to last‑minute plans | ⭐ Variable — strong discounts but merchant quality varies; “mystery” risk | 📊 Last‑minute budget getaways; may incur fees or variable outcomes | Fast, budget short breaks for spontaneous couples’ trips |
| Experience Sites (e.g., Red Letter Days) | Low — voucher purchase with flexible redemption | Moderate — wide partner network, promo codes; weekend supplements common | ⭐ Good — experience‑day quality and gift focus | 📊 Flexible gifting and regional coverage; venue availability applies | Easy gifting flow and broad regional choices for planned treats |
| Experience Sites (e.g., Buyagift) | Low — eVoucher or physical pack, redeem with provider | Moderate — frequent promo codes, exchangeable vouchers | ⭐ Good — broad selection and clear inclusions | 📊 Competitive prices and flexible gifting; peak‑date supplements possible | Wide selection and voucher flexibility for gifting or delayed plans |
Making Your Romantic Getaway a Reality
A truly memorable romantic escape is not defined by its price tag, but by the quality time and shared experiences it creates. Throughout this guide, we have journeyed across the UK, uncovering a wealth of opportunities for connection that prove you don't need to spend a fortune to make lasting memories. From the rustic charm of a pod escape at Stanley Villa Farm to the curated deals found across various platforms, the perfect cheap romantic getaways uk are well within your reach.
The key takeaway is strategic planning. By being flexible with your dates, considering off-peak travel, and leveraging the power of dedicated deal websites, you unlock a different tier of affordability. Whether you are a fan of spontaneous flash sales or prefer structured experience packages, there is a tool perfectly suited to your travel style and budget.
Your Next Steps to Romance
So, how do you turn these ideas into a booked-and-paid-for reality? The first step is to sit down with your partner and define what an ideal getaway looks like for both of you.
Define Your Vibe: Are you craving the tranquillity of the countryside, the invigorating sea air of the coast, or the buzz of a city break? Pinpointing your preferred atmosphere will immediately narrow down your search.
Check Your Calendar: Identify several potential travel windows. Having flexibility is your greatest asset when hunting for a bargain, as midweek stays and off-season dates often yield the best prices.
Set a Realistic Budget: Decide on a total amount you are comfortable spending, including travel, food, and activities. This figure will guide your search and help you filter options effectively on the platforms we've discussed.
Once you have these core details sorted, you can begin the exciting part: the search. As you prepare for your romantic escape, don't overlook practical considerations. For instance, if you're bringing special items, learn how to pack jewelry for travel to keep them protected throughout your journey. A little preparation ensures that small worries don't distract from the main event.
Ultimately, the most important element of any romantic trip is the intention behind it. It is about setting aside dedicated time to reconnect, explore somewhere new together, and simply enjoy each other's company. With the right planning and the fantastic resources available, a beautiful and affordable UK break is not just a dream, but an achievable and exciting plan.
Ready to find the perfect experience to complement your getaway? Explore thousands of unforgettable days out, from indulgent spa days to thrilling adventures, with Activity Superstore. Visit Activity Superstore to add that extra special touch to your next romantic escape.