Who says you need to go abroad for a romantic trip with your loved one? There are plenty of dreamy places right here on our doorstep. Whether you're planning a surprise weekend, going away for valentines, or celebrating an anniversary, we’ve picked out some of the most romantic hotels in the UK that are accessible by train.
From roll-top baths, fancy food and drink, and unique spaces, these hotels tick all the boxes for a romantic night away.
Scarlet Hotel, Cornwall: For an adults-only, eco-friendly retreat
Cliff-top hot tubs, a giant copper bath and swinging pods big enough for two - this eco hotel brings you relaxation at its finest. Every room has a beach or sea view providing stunning vistas over the local area. In the hotel’s restaurant, you can watch the sun dip below the headland as you dine on fresh, locally sourced food. The Ayurvedic-inspired Scarlet Spa is one of a kind with luxury tented treatment rooms lit by lanterns and far-reaching views. Slather yourself in rich mineral mud in the rhassoul experience, try your hand at massage guided by an expert therapist or join one of the complimentary spa classes, such as yoga, tai chi or meditation.
The two log-fired hot tubs perched on the cliff-top invite you to stargaze or storm watch, and a natural reed-filtered swimming pool beckons you in to enjoy its sea views. The atmosphere makes it the perfect place to unwind and concentrate entirely on each other truly - the Scarlet really is one of the most romantic hotels in the UK.
Getting to Scarlet Hotel in Cornwall by train:
Newquay station is the nearest stop. From here the Scarlet Hotel is around 30 minutes on a bus or 15 by taxi. The hotel offers a green discount to any guests who travel via foot, bike, rail or coach.
Hotel du Vin & Bistro, Cambridge: For a luxury room and bistro dining
Winding cobbled streets, towering spires, and elegant architecture - Cambridge ticks all the boxes for a romantic night away. Situated among stunning Grade II listed buildings is the Hotel du Vin, which is, very fittingly, an old converted university building. The interiors retain the character of the old building with exposed brick, restored fireplaces, and dark wood floors, while each room has amazingly comfy beds and a roll-top bath. If you're feeling hungry, you have to make the most of the amazing food and drink on-site, with classic dishes at the bistro, stunning drinks at the Cellar Bar, and even a hotel sommelier.
You can walk into Cambridge's historic city centre via a pedestrian bridge in under 20 minutes. Impress your partner even further and make a reservation at one of the best restaurants in Cambridge.
Getting to Hotel du Vin in Cambridge by train:
From Cambridge Station, Hotel du Vin is less than a 20-minute walk.
The Witchery, Edinburgh: For castle views and a unique hotel stay
One of the UK’s most romantic hotels, The Witchery by the Castle has 9 indulgent suites which are fewer hotel rooms and more gothic love nests. Set in a 16-century building on the Royal Mile, these intimate secret dens are each uniquely dressed in antique velvet drapes, silks and brocades, carved wood and embellishments. Located a short walk from the city centre, they sit by the gates of Edinburgh Castle waiting for you and your loved one to arrive. Book the Heriot Suite for a sumptuously-romantic four-poster bed hung with gold-embroidered velvets, a sitting room, a walk-in dressing room and a hidden gothic chapel bathroom! The drama continues in the atmospheric dining room, where Scottish menus are served by candlelight, alongside tapestries and a suit of armour.
This hotel’s elaborate interior coupled with its excellent location at the heart of Scotland’s romantic capital city makes it a perfect choice for lovebirds. Whilst you’re in Edinburgh, why not sample some of Edinburgh’s Secret Bars?
Getting to The Witchery in Edinburgh by train:
If you are taking the train to Edinburgh Waverly Station, you can walk to The Witchery in under 10 minutes.
Number 38 Clifton, Bristol: For a modern, elegant hotel
If you want to get romantic in a stylish setting, Bristol’s Number 38 Clifton will serve you well. An elegant B&B in buzzing Bristol, with vivid artwork and panoramic city views, you and your partner will be elated with your choice.
Up a lavender-lined front path, through a stained-glass door, you will find huge style and comfort, without a whiff of pretension. Bristol’s original boutique hotel consists of chic bedrooms in a recently refurbished Georgian merchant’s house at the top of the city. The bedrooms are all elegantly decorated in pastel colours and wood-panelled walls, with big beds, deep mattresses, splendid views and trendy bathrooms. For something extra special book one of the hotel’s suites, or if you can book Room 3 you can enjoy a freestanding bath perfectly placed for enjoying the view.
Getting to Number 38 Clifton in Bristol by train:
Get the train to Bristol Temple Meads, then take a 10-minute taxi ride or a 30-minute bus ride to Number 38 Clifton.
The Grand, York: For a 5* Luxury staycation
To show your loved one how much you really care this getaway, with stunning views of the Minster and the city’s ancient walls, fine dining and an array of relaxing spa treatments, The Grand is one of the most romantic hotels in the UK.
Built in 1906 as one of the great railway buildings of York, the hotel’s splendid Edwardian architecture is complemented by top-notch food and a luxurious spa complex which includes an indoor pool and treatment rooms. Why not book you and your partner in for a pampering treatment, before enjoying a gin and tonic afternoon tea together? Take a walk through York’s cobbled streets and return to the hotel for the 9-course tasting menu, accompanied by a live band.
Whether you choose the penthouse suite with a private butler or one of the state-of-the-art modern rooms, The Grand Hotel & Spa is sure to treat you to one of the most romantic getaways York has to offer.
Getting to The Grand in York by train:
You can walk from York Station to The Grand in under 5 minutes.
The UK is bursting with Romantic Hotels. Whether you're looking for a romantic city break, a romantic staycation, or looking to go the extra mile this Valentine's Day, you can always travel by train. CrossCountry has services running up and down the country to ensure you can get to the places you need to be. Whichever romantic hotel tickles your fancy, remember to book an Advance ticket via our website or our Train Tickets app.
Written by Seb