England is a fabulously diverse country, packed full of iconic landmarks, quaint villages, bustling towns and cultural cities, not to mention the breathtaking coastline and countryside.
From spectacular hiking in the Lake District to relaxing breaks in the Cotswolds, or outdoor adventures the Peak District, a romantic cottage holiday in England can be magical.
If you love to be beside the seaside then you’ll be spoilt for choice, from the beautiful sandy beaches of Cornwall and Devon, to the wilder and quieter shoreline of Northumberland, and the traditional heritage and charm of seaside towns such as Whitby, St Ives and Bournemouth.
Membership with English Heritage is a great way to see some of the best of England, including some of the most iconic stately homes, castles, gardens and monuments.
England really does have it all! What better way to enjoy a romantic holiday in England than from the comfort of a hand-picked romantic holiday rental?
2,453 properties found
Penrith, The Lake District and Cumbria
2 1 1 Yes
This cottage is a traditional cosy bolthole for two set in the tranquil surroundings of Matterdale near Ullswater. Its a great value base for two people keen to get out and explore all that this picturesque area has to offer. Set up a winding lane, Matterdale is a tiny hamlet less than 3 miles from the shores of Ullswater. Widely thought to be one of the most beautiful of the Lakes, Ullswater affords fabulous opportunities for walking, cycling, eating out and messing about in boats. Just down the road lies the neighbouring hamlet of Dockray where you’ll find the Royal Hotel offering excellent pub food, local real ales and a warm welcome. If youd like to venture slightly further afield the vibrant Lakeland towns of Keswick and Penrith are both only 20 minutes drive from the cottage. For the keen fell walkers among you this cottage is exceedingly well placed with Matterdale Common stretching out behind the property as well as the fells of the mighty Helvellyn range within easy striking distance. Its also just a 2-mile potter down to the beautiful Aira Force. Why not catch one of the stately Ullswater launches from nearby Glenridding and let it transport you around the lake taking in the glorious views or giving you the opportunity to explore other areas of the lakeside? if you’re feeling more energetic you could hire a boat or kayak for a more hands on approach to the water. Whether youd like to make the most of all the outdoor opportunities or investigate the great food and real ales in the nearby pubs this cottage makes a great value base. Entry to the house is from the back of the property where youll first come into the living room. The cosy lounge has two armchairs and a small dining table. It also has a small TV with built in DVD player. The owners have left a good selection of books and several DVDs for whiling away evenings. From the living/dining area you go through to the small kitchen; it has a fridge, microwave, an electric oven and halogen hobs. The bedroom is a lovely light space with a four poster king-size bed, built in wardrobe, chest of drawers, dressing table and armchair. The en-suite bathroom has a full bath with hand-held shower attachment. Outside the cottage there is parking and a small garden with a summer house which is shared with the neighbouring cottage. Its a real haven for nature and sitting outside or in the summer house on a pleasant evening should offer you many opportunities to see visiting bird life and enjoy the peace and quiet of this lovely area.
Weekly prices from £360.00
Exeter, Devon
2 1 1 Yes
Steal away for a romantic retreat in rural Devon discovering walks from your doorstep and a cosy space to unwind at the end of each day. This characterful reverse level cottage is located on the grounds of the owner’s property where peace and quiet is assured, ideal for two hoping to enjoy the calm of the Devonshire countryside. Authentic original features including vaulted ceilings, brick walls and original beams add to the charming farmhouse nature of this pretty accommodation, whilst surrounding gardens and an acre of orchard space is perfect for spending time outdoors and exercising your four-pawed companion. External steps lead to the first floor of this pretty barn conversion, a building complete with climbing vines and stunning greenery in warm months. You’re instantly met by a bright open-plan living/dining room where evenings can be spent with your feet up. Comfortable sofas face a smart TV for logging in and picking up where you left off with your favourite shows. This storey also contains a compact but highly resourceful kitchen for preparing meals to be enjoyed at the dining table or on the patio space. Follow the spiral staircase to the ground floor to discover a comfortable king-size bedroom, complete with fresh linens and an electric fire-effect wood burner that keeps the space cosy and warm. A short car journey leads to the Dartmoor National Park (5 miles), a fantastic beauty spot that offers walks in mystical woodlands and unbeatable walking routes. The cathedral city of Exeter is 15 miles away and a cultural hub to explore, while beautiful Haldon Forest Park is 20 miles. For a trip to the coast, travel 27 miles to Exmouth which gives way to the Jurassic Coast, a 96-mile heritage walking route.
Weekly prices from £488.00
Plymouth, Devon
2 1 1 Yes
Within a mile of the spectacular Wembury Beach, this stylishly designed and light-filled reverse-level property makes a wonderful retreat for couples exploring this beautiful part of South Devon. Providing ample accommodation for two, this bright, fresh and airy coastal holiday home offers fantastic sea views and makes a tranquil, relaxing getaway. Plymouth is just a few miles to the north and is a fabulous base for keen walkers discovering the sheltered coves, sandy beaches, quaint villages and spellbinding countryside of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Entering this breezy and fresh detached property, head up the oak staircase which opens directly into the open-plan first-floor lounge/kitchen/diner. Featuring a characterful apex ceiling with light flooding in through the skylights, this is an ideal space to unwind in. The central dining area is perfect for sharing a romantic meal which you can cook in the light and fully equipped kitchen. The lounge is perfect for snuggling up together with a movie on the Smart TV, and features patio doors which open onto a charming glass-fronted balcony. There’s plenty of space here to dine alfresco and to take in the stunning views across to Great Mewstone. Returning to the ground floor you will find the cosy king-size bedroom along with a refreshing and stylish bathroom. Patio doors lead from the bedroom into the garden which features a lawn and outdoor furniture. The picturesque village of Wembury has some friendly pubs and restaurants and is known for a gorgeous sandy beach popular for its surfing and rock pools. There’s plenty to see in the area, with local attractions including Wembury Marine Centre, Wembury Woods and Wembury Point. Plymouth (7 miles) has plenty of great places to eat and drink as well as popular attractions including the Barbican, The Box and Plymouth Hoe.
Weekly prices from £644.00
Okehampton, Devon
2 2 1 Yes
This stylish pod with al fresco dining, lakeside views and modern fittings is perfect for couples looking to retreat to the countryside. Bring your four-legged friends for walkies around stunning Devonshire scenery and return to feeling at home with nature. If you’re bringing the kids, they’ll love the cute bunk room. Hidden away on the outskirts of Dartmoor National Park, the setting is breathtaking and is the major draw to staying in this unique home. Step into this beautiful hideaway and discover an open-plan lounge/kitchen/diner/bedroom with wooden panels surrounding you. Relax on the sofa among the rustic decor with a furry friend at your feet and indulge in a few aperitifs. Rustle up romantic dinners for two (and titbits for the pups) and serve outdoors with the sparkling lake as your backdrop. Indulge in a steamy shower at the end of a day of exploration and climb into the comfort of the king-size bed when the time comes. In the morning, enjoy pastries and coffees out in the fresh air and lose yourselves in the incredible scenery. Don your walking boots and make your way over to Dartmoor National Park for picturesque trails, wild moorland and rare wildlife, so don’t forget your binoculars! After exhilarating hikes, pop into one of the dog-friendly pubs for a plate of fish and chips and a pint of Devon’s finest ale. Further afield, the city of Exeter provides a fun-filled day of high street shopping (26 miles) or, for a more independent experience, venture into the charming market town of Okehampton, for its specialised stores, supermarkets, boutiques and takeaways.
Weekly prices from £529.00
Norwich, East Anglia
2 1 1 Yes
Perfect for two, this former coastguard’s hut has been transformed into a quirky, cosy retreat with sea views in the village of Mundesley. The nearest beach is within 500 metres of your front door, meaning romantic walks along the sand or active adventures on the Norfolk Coast Path are within easy reach. Enjoying open-plan living, this space has been designed to encourage guests to relax with a neutral colour scheme and home comforts. The blinds offer privacy, whilst on sunny days you can throw them open and make the most of the light, bright area. A quaint dining table for two offers a place to sit for breakfast, lunch and dinner, whilst the modern kitchen set-up ensures you have everything you need to cook a meal. Upstairs, the bedroom has a sloping ceiling and a double bed which overlooks the sea. The room is equipped with a stylish table and chairs set beside the window allowing you to sit and sip your morning coffee whilst taking in the scenery. Completing the first floor is the relaxing en-suite shower room. Mundesley is an ideal location from which to explore the Norfolk coast, with Cromer (7 miles) and Sheringham (12 miles) amongst a few of the best destinations to visit, all offering blissful days out on the sand. Further inland, a trip to the Norfolk Broads whilst staying in the area is a must. Head to Wroxham (15 miles) and you can book yourself onto a sightseeing boat trip to learn of the history of the area and keep your eyes out for fascinating water birds. Blakeney National Nature Reserve is also well worth a visit for lovers of wildlife, with opportunities for seal-spotting boat trips and diverse wildlife in the varied landscapes.
Weekly prices from £507.00
Penrith, The Lake District and Cumbria
2 1 1 Yes
This is a fantastic apartment in the quiet New Streets conservation area of Penrith, just a short walk from the centre of the bustling town. The accommodation is laid out over the second and third floors of a beautiful Victorian townhouse; from its elevated position, the apartment has wonderful views over the neighbouring rooftops to the fells beyond. Head up the communal stairs to the second floor and youll find the kitchen, king-size bedroom and shower room, whilst the dining room and living room can be found on the third floor - really making the most of the stunning views on offer. Penrith is an historic market town with a great selection of shops and eateries. The ruins of Penrith Castle are sure to intrigue history fans, as is the Penrith Museum and Tourist Centre in the middle of town. A walk up to Penrith Beacon is a must for stunning views over the area. Visit Brougham Castle, once written about by Lakes poet William Wordsworth, and the historic houses at Dalemain and Hutton-in-the-Forest, or treat yourselves to a spa day at the North Lakes Hotel. Penrith also has its own station and there are plenty of bus stops throughout the town, making it a great choice if youre travelling by public transport. With both the beautiful Eden Valley and the picturesque Lake District within easy reach, there are plenty of fantastic walking opportunities to be found close by. Head up nearby Askham Fell for stunning views of Ullswater. If youd prefer to be closer to the water, why not hire a boat, or the well prepared can try some wild swimming? You can always hitch a ride on the stately steamer if youd rather somebody else did the hard work! Enjoy a walk along the peaceful River Eamont or explore the beautiful Lowther Valley. From the communal entrance hallway, head up two flights of stairs to find the property - a lovely apartment for two just a short walk from the centre of Penrith. Laid out over the second and third floors, the accommodation is spacious but home-like, with stunning views over the rooftops to the Lakeland Fells beyond. On entering the apartment on the second floor, the first room you to come to is the great, newly fitted kitchen. Well equipped, in here youll find an electric oven and induction hob, fridge-freezer, handy microwave and useful dishwasher. Theres also a washing machine should you wish to make use of that during your stay. Also on this floor is the lovely bedroom. With a king-size bed, why not indulge in a long lie? You are on holiday after all! The shower room has a WC, washbasin and modern shower cubicle, perfect for refreshing tired muscles after a day out exploring. Onwards and upwards to the third floor where youll find the rest of the living accommodation. Located in the eaves, the rooms up here do have slightly limited head room but are still lovely and bright thanks to the large Velux windows up here. The dining area is the ideal spot for sociable mealtimes and the cosy living room is perfect for relaxing evenings in. The views from the living room over the rooftops to the fells beyond are simply stunning; theres also a flat screen TV with Blu-Ray player and HDMI ports for entertainment - if you can tear yourself away from the view that is! On street parking is available close to the apartment.
Weekly prices from £393.00
Northallerton, Yorkshire Dales
2 1 1 Yes
This impressive holiday getaway for two has it all: gorgeous character, an array of modern comforts and a charming village setting. Walk in the stunning landscapes all around or discover nearby market towns, before heading back for a drink in the local pub and a peaceful night in your superb, boutique-hotel-style bolthole. A double-height, gabled ceiling with magnificent exposed beams gives the open-plan living space of this converted farm building impressive style. Underfloor heating ensures cosy toes, and light floods through the room thanks to glazed doors at one end. The superb kitchen, with its mirrored splashback and island hob, is brilliantly equipped for preparing romantic meals a deux, and as you dine at the glass table you can connect to the BOSE Bluetooth speaker and play some smooth melodies. After supper, stretch out on the comfortable sofa and set up a movie marathon on the Smart TV. When you’re feeling tired, it’s three steps up to the king-size bedroom, another impressive space with a high, beamed ceiling. An elegant bed, stylish artwork and colourful textiles set the scene for a great night’s sleep, with an en-suite offering luxurious showering space. As for al fresco enjoyment, simply step through the sliding doors and onto your private patio, where you can sip a morning coffee, pour a sundowner or take a meal outside to enjoy in the fresh air. Just 300 metres from a pub serving real ales and home-cooked food, the cottage is located in North Cowton, mid-way between the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales. A walker’s paradise! Wainwright’s coast-to-coast walk passes through the vibrant market town of Richmond, 9.5 miles, with its landmark Norman castle and host of independent shops and great places to eat, and you can reach the historic Kiplin Hall in 6.5 miles.
Weekly prices from £584.00
Penrith, The Lake District and Cumbria
2 1 1 Yes
This restful property is the largest of the five renovated properties on a site that was once a working farm. Its rustic stone walls contain a sweet dwelling with one super-king-size bedroom, making it ideal for a nature-loving solo traveller or couple. The location is truly wonderful, surrounded by pretty fells you can climb, and 1 mile from the fantastic glacial lake that is Ullswater – and all an easy 7.5-mile drive from the M6. After ascending three steps to reach the glass front door, you’ll step into an open-plan living space with a comfy sofa, Smart TV and plenty of floor space for tired pets to doze. The decor is contemporary rustic, with plenty of wooden accents and neutral colours like cream and grey. You’ll have a handy desk and chair for if you need to attend to any business during your stay, and the farmhouse-style kitchen has a stylish apron sink. The Victorian dining table provides an elegant space for enjoying meals together. Rest up in the stylish super-king-size bedroom with handy en-suite bathroom. Stepping outside, enjoy the stunning views from the dwellings enclosed outdoor seating area, complete with furniture and a fire bowl. The surrounding area is rich in scenic beauty and outdoor adventures, with plenty to discover without even needing the car. Set out on foot to climb up Little Mell Fell (1 mile) or Gowbarrow Fell (2.5 miles), two of the Lake District’s 214 Wainwrights, or if you fancy something lower key, enjoy a pint of local ale in the pub nearby (1 mile). A little further afield, be wowed by the mesmerising Aira Force waterfalls (4.5 miles), or take the pets up to Helvellyn, Englands third-highest peak (7 miles). For cafés, shops and restaurants, follow the water along to the village of Pooley Bridge. Here you can board a steamer boat to Howtown (7 miles by road), where you’ll find a lovely tea room, or stay on until Glenridding (6 miles by road), known for its sailing centre.
Weekly prices from £625.00
Whitby, North York Moors and Coast
2 1 1 Yes
Listen to the sound of the babbling brook or toast beside a roaring wood burner when you make your romantic retreat to this delightful former chapel in Yorkshire. Nestled in picturesque Danby Dale, within the North York Moors National Park, the one-bedroom hideaway sleeps just two guests and offers sweet seclusion and the chance to be close to nature. Welcoming four-legged friends too, it is 1 mile from Botton and 15 miles from Sandsend, on the North Yorkshire Heritage Coast, and enjoys fabulous walks right from the doorstep. Make your way into this charming haven, dating back to 1853, to find a warm welcome. The open-plan lounge/kitchen/diner will quickly become the heart of the holiday home during your stay. Light the wood burner in here to bring a cosy glow to the space; prepare a delicious dinner for two in the kitchen area, then open a bottle of fizz and simply relax. Watch a movie on the Smart TV together or take your book up to the mezzanine level and enjoy some quiet time up there for a spell. When night falls, head up to the double bedroom on the first floor. Wake up to the sight of the mist rising from the moors before beginning the morning with a hot soak in the well-appointed shower room. Dine outside in the enclosed, leafy garden on fine days and sit out under the stars on clear summer nights. Take your pet to dip their paws in the stream, always supervising them. Follow footpaths through the woods and out across the moors. Plan a day trip to Whitby, 18 miles away, to visit the famous abbey or spend time on the beach. Pick up the Cleveland Way here and follow it out along the coast. Attempt the 7-mile section between Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay.
Weekly prices from £581.00