Best Staycation Honeymoon Destinations
Photography by Brett Symes PhotographyStaycations, minimoons, whatever you like to call them: having your honeymoon in the UK is making a comeback. And why shouldn’t it? The UK boasts some of the most incredible rural landscapes, exciting tourist attractions and Michelin-star dining experiences. You just need to know where to look.
Having a UK honeymoon has its benefits. There’s no scramble to get your currency changed before you leave, no jet lag and your other half can’t forget the passports - even though it was definitely their job to pack them. Choosing a staycation can often be cheaper and could be considered the eco-friendlier option by eschewing air travel.
So, get ready to swap Monaco for Margate, trade up the Amalfi coast for the Jurassic and if you squint hard enough the Shard almost looks like the Burj Khalifa anyway, right? Here are our favourite UK honeymoon destinations:
The best staycation honeymoon destinations in the UK 2024
Donnington Valley Hotel and Spa
Donnington Valley Hotel and Spa is a luxurious and cosy home away from home. Located in Berkshire, this privately owned hotel boasts a luxury health club and spa, an 18-hole golf course and an award-winning two-rosette restaurant. The hotel has cosy and welcoming styling that instantly puts you at ease. With everything on offer at Donnington Valley, it makes the ultimate honeymoon staycation. But why not take it one step further and tie the knot here too? That’s right, Donnington Valley is also a wedding venue with several beautiful indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces. You can also marry 2 minutes away at The Post Barn wedding venue! With the friendliest staff to cater to your every need, you’ll feel pampered and renewed as you head into married life.
But that’s not all, The Rock My Wedding team were actually invited along for a trip to Donnington Valley where we dined on the most delicious food (potentially our fave food we’ve ever had!). The head chef, Darren, is a complete master of food and you can rest assured that you won’t be able to resist indulging in three delicious courses every night you’re there. When Darren’s cooking, there’s always room for more!
HOTEL DU VIN, MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
Hotel Du Vin has 19 different locations and offers a range of romantic packages, perfect for a UK honeymoon wherever you are! Whether you want a seaside destination, a city break or a countryside jaunt, Hotel Du Vin offers traditional luxury with a modern edge. Each of their boutique hotels hosts incredibly sleek décor with unique bedrooms that exude charm. Great for foodies; their incredible knowledge of wine and spirits, paired with classic French cuisine, is second to none. Who needs the Eurostar?
Rewild Things, Elmore Court Estate, Gloucestershire
Recommended Supplier, Elmore Court, is not only a beautiful wedding venue. They’ve also recently introduced ‘Rewild Things’ set on Elmore’s beautiful country estate. Rewild Things is the perfect romantic getaway, with 6 magical treehouse cabins, each with a unique feel and meaning. Sit back and relax while looking out onto the wetlands with outdoor baths and kitchens... incredible! Elmore Court in Gloucestershire is the perfect destination to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with the magic. With floor-to-ceiling windows, these luxe treehouses have gone all out with style, comfort and cosiness. Did you get married at Elmore Court? What a perfect way to celebrate your anniversary!
THE HONEYMOONERS HIDEAWAY, DUNDEE
The name says it all really! The Honeymooners offers all the extravagance of a five-star hotel, with the solitude and scenic views of private accommodation. This modern eco-lodge with underfloor heating is powered by renewable energy, for those after a sustainable UK honeymoon. Indulge yourselves with their dedicated honeymoon package, while taking in views of the Scottish countryside from the comfort of your private hot tub.
MIDDLETON LODGE, NORTH YORKSHIRE
Another of our Recommended Suppliers, Middleton Lodge is a gorgeous Georgian country estate and family home. Nestled in 200 acres of the Yorkshire countryside, the main house gives serious Bridgerton vibes! Take a leisurely promenade around the lush garden grounds, or hop on one of the estate bicycles to take it all in – it’s where most of the kitchen produce is sourced from. After choosing from a range of relaxing treatments or fun activities; like exploring nearby Aysgarth waterfall for example, sneak down to the hotel’s late-night cellar bar to toast your newfound love of Yorkshire.
LITTLE COTTAGE, RYE
On the contrary, bigger doesn’t always mean better and Little Cottage in Rye proves it! The epitome of a ‘minimoon’, it’s cosy, rustic and just big enough for two. The perfect spot to enjoy seaside walks for an intimate and slowed-down approach to UK honeymooning. Blink twice and you could just miss this whimsical hideaway.
THE SCARLET HOTEL, CORNWALL
The Scarlet Hotel is a luxury eco hotel ‘just for grown ups’. A haven of tranquillity, the biggest decision you’ll have to make is opting for views of gardens, cliffs, beaches or sea. Whether you embrace the Cornish elements, or opt for quiet contemplation at the Ayurvedic inspired spa, the Scarlet is the perfect UK honeymoon destination to decompress after your big day.
BURGH ISLAND, DEVON
Any Agatha Christie fans out there? This iconic Art Deco landmark (on its own tidal island!) featured in not one but two of the murder mystery writer’s novels. Spectacularly glamourous, Burgh Island is a step back in time to the fabulous 1930s. A location steeped in history and legendary guests, the hotel offers panoramic sea views plus luxurious suites and a whole raft of water-based activities.
StayCotswold Holiday Cottages, the Cotswolds
There's nothing quite like the Cotswolds for a UK wedding, with its beautiful landscape and quintessentially English villages. With StayCotswold, you can choose from a curated selection of luxury cottages near popular wedding barns and venues in the Cotswolds. Staycations at these holiday homes are ideal whether you're looking for a dog-friendly Cotswold cottage, a stunning barn conversion, or a cosy lodge.
THE NED, LONDON
If rolling hills and country walks aren't your vibe, the iconic London location and Recommended Supplier, The Ned will unquestionably be for you. It's smack bang in the middle of the city centre yet offers a comfortable, calm and secluded feel. Their elegant Studio Suites offer open-plan living and sleeping space to stretch out after a day of sightseeing. Think plush velvet, dark wooden features, and deep, earthy colour schemes.
LAKE VYRNWY, WALES
If you're looking for a hidden UK honeymoon gem, Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa is quite something. The extraordinary views of Lake Vyrnwy and the Berwyn Mountains look like they’ve been plucked straight from Canada. The Victorian building is one of timeless style, with plenty of tranquil activities and offerings to help you unwind from a day of exploring the surrounding market towns, castles and coast lines. They also offer a one-night romantic ‘Cwtch’ package (cwtch being Welsh for hug), how cute it that?
LIME WOOD HOTEL, HAMPSHIRE
The Lime Wood Hotel has something for everyone. Whether you want a cosy experience or all the bells and whistles, this New Forest retreat is pure laid-back luxury. With a particular focus on fresh and locally sourced produce, they offer a cookery school experience with their kitchen team! The Lime Wood offers a huge range of natural spa treatments and health and fitness experiences to encourage everyone to take time for meditation and well-being. What else is a honeymoon for?
HONEYMOONING ON THE MOVE...
Finally, for a staycation that's off the beaten track, why not hire a boutique narrowboat or rent a vintage camper van? It would make for a memorable trip! A travelling UK honeymoon is unique, intimate, and great for those who love to explore.
Sun, sea and sand! Okay, okay, scratch off the sun. That only happens occasionally but we've got sea and sand!
See? Having your honeymoon in the UK can be just as breathtaking as overseas! Take a look at our honeymoon trends 2024 for more of the best honeymoon ideas and destinations. Take some time to brush up on our breathtaking National Parks, look up the best UK beach spots and stake out the venues serving a Michelin star Sunday Roast for the ultimate staycation honeymoon experience.
