Romantic holiday cottages for couples

With its rose-covered front, stone walls and white trimmed windows, Old Mill Cottage looks like it jumped straight out of a storybook. Walking through the garden is an adventure in itself as you cross over a stream on a wooden footbridge, past trailing willow trees, and along a winding path to get to the cottage. Step through its door and you’ll be greeted with a cosy, chocolate box interior with an inglenook fireplace and rustic exposed beams.

For the ultimate couple’s escape, how about a weekend away in a fairy-tale tower? First used as a reservoir in the 1860s, The Water Tower has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind holiday cottage in Cornwall. Climb the spiral staircase to discover circular-shaped rooms with gothic-style, arched windows. At the top of the tower, the kitchen overlooks Trelissick Garden with its meandering paths and exotic plants.

If you’re looking for a romantic setting where it’s just you, your loved one, and the great outdoors, then Rose Castle Cottage is the perfect fit. With no neighbours on the horizon and few of the trappings of modern life, it’s ideal for a couple’s weekend in the Lake District. There are miles of peaceful walks right on your doorstep so you’ll hardly need to get in your car during your stay.

Boatman's Loft is perched right on the sea wall in the picturesque 17th-century fishing village of Robin Hood's Bay. With views across the beach you can watch the tide roll in, or take a stroll into the village in search of a fish and chip supper for two.

Flooded with natural light, this country retreat boasts a stylish, open-plan interior. It sits on the edge of the hilltop settlement of Mortehoe which overlooks a wild and remote coastline. Walk to Morte Point to listen to the waves, or head into the village for a cream tea.

Fall in love with this cosy Cornwall holiday cottage on the stunning Roseland peninsula. Towan Beach is only a five-minute walk from the cottage, and is the perfect place for couples to sit and unwind. Or you could venture further afield to visit the galleries and shops in Falmouth.

Whatever's on your wish-list for a romantic getaway, this holiday cottage on Crom Estate can offer it all. Step out the front door and you'll be greeted by views of Lough Erne River on one side and lush woodland on the other. There is a jetty just 100 metres from the cottage so you could hire a canoe or bring your own and go for a paddle along the river.

Less than two hours from London, this holiday cottage is perfect for a Valentine’s break. Set on the banks of the Thames, it offers an idyllic location with views over the river. And we’re not the only ones who think this cottage is quite special. In 2017 it was used as a filming location for the romantic comedy Hampstead, starring Dianne Keaton.

Built using stone from the ruins of the 12th-century Fountains Abbey, West Gate Lodge offers a unique stay for couples. You’ll be on the doorstep of the atmospheric abbey and Georgian water garden, and when all the other visitors have gone home, you’ll have the grounds all to yourself. After a day exploring, return to the holiday cottage to snuggle up on the comfy sofas or enjoy a drink in your private riverbank garden.

This pretty, end-of-terrace cottage in the Cotswolds boasts a wood burning stove, private garden and old fashioned stable doors. Enjoy a tipple in the traditional village pub, or take a romantic stroll through the gardens of Snowshill Manor just opposite the cottage.

Wicket Nook is a characterful holiday cottage for couples who’d like to explore the quaint market towns and heather-covered moors of the Midlands. A former gamekeeper's cottage, it’s situated on a quiet no-through road with stunning views over Calke Estate.

With low beamed ceilings, wooden floors and countryside views, Chapel Lodge oozes romance. It sits in the grounds of Oxburgh Hall, a medieval manor house with a romantic past. Looking out from the cottage you can see the family chapel where RAF airmen married their sweethearts during the Second World War.

Tucked away at the base of Snowdon, this romantic, wooden cabin offers simple accommodation in a spectacular location. New for 2018, it's surrounded by rugged countryside and excellent hiking trails. After a day exploring the great outdoors, retreat back to the cottage to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Peace and quiet are guaranteed at this romantic retreat hidden amongst the trees. It was originally built as a 19th-century observatory and as night falls you can sit out together on the veranda and gaze up at the stars. When the sun rises, take for a gentle stroll to Rhaeadr Ddu Falls and see why its tumbling waters have been an inspiration for generations of writers and poets.

Completely secluded, just above the Helford River, Wood Cottage is a great choice for a romantic getaway. It sits on the edge of a small wood with water views peeking through the trees. The tiny, timber-built thatched cabin was once used as an apple store, but after a careful restoration it’s now a cosy one-bedroom nest for two.