From cosy corners to candlelit tables, discover the country’s best pubs for love and romance this Valentine’s Day
Whether it’s an intimate dinner for two or a romantic weekend escape, the right setting can make a special moment truly unforgettable.
When it comes to romance, the UK has no shortage of characterful pubs to discover – from cosy countryside inns with roaring fires to picture-perfect lakeside retreats.
Eat Drink Meet – the website and app that helps people discover the best pubs, bars, and restaurants near them – has revealed its definitive list of the top ten most romantic pubs in the UK.
Hand-picked from thousands of venues across the country by the app’s expert team, these top ten pubs go above and beyond to create the perfect romantic experience this February.
- The Pine Marten – Harrogate
Situated in the idyllic countryside of Beckwithshaw on the outskirts of Harrogate, North Yorkshire, the Pine Marten promises picture-perfect forest views. This year, it is also offering a carefully crafted 3-course Valentine’s menu from £39.95. Set in a historic listed building in the heart of the Yorkshire countryside, the pub is just two miles from Harrogate centre. It’s part of the Innkeepers Collection, which makes this a boutique hotel too, perfect for couples searching for a romantic getaway.
- The Cheshire Cat – Chester
This is a charming country pub and hotel located in rural Cheshire. With its picturesque views of the countryside and the nearby Shropshire canals, The Cheshire Cat makes this list as a true hidden gem and the ideal romantic spot to enjoy this Valentine’s Day. Guests can pair their visit with a leisurely countryside walk before relaxing in front of one of the pub’s crackling log fires with a glass of bubbly in hand.
- The Inn on the Lake – Surrey
The Inn on the Lake in Godalming, Surrey, offers splendid waterside views combined with countryside charm. Boasting a 4.4 Google review rating, this venue brings together stylish interiors, a fabulous atmosphere, and delicious seasonal menus. Enjoy a special meal for two with the pub’s Valentine’s menu, which features dishes including pan-roasted salmon and 21-day-aged 16oz chateaubriand. Or couples can escape from the hustle and bustle of life with a romantic getaway in one of the pub’s 20 stylish en-suite bedrooms.
- The Hand and Sceptre – Tunbridge Wells
The Hand and Sceptre is an idyllic country pub in the heart of the picturesque town of Southborough in Tunbridge Wells, famed for its charming blend of historic elegance with scenic, leafy surroundings. As well as being a charming hotel, which makes it ideal for romantic getaways, the pub also hosts wedding celebrations for up to 70 guests. Partnering with Moët & Chandon, The Hand and Sceptre is this year offering a delectable 3-course Valentine’s Set Menu for £39.95, available on the 13th and 14th February*. Whether you’re sharing the love over its iconic Camembert Sharer or indulgent Chateaubriand, romance is to be had here.
- The Castle – Castleton
The Castle is a country pub set in the picturesque village of Castleton in the much-loved Hope Valley in Derbyshire. Recently undergoing a renovation makeover, the pub boasts some of the finest views in the Peak District. For couples that ramble, the village is also home to a historic hilltop – Norman fort. The Castle is the ideal relaxed venue for a romantic meal for two, followed by a relaxing night in one of fifteen cosy and traditional rooms.
- The Kenilworth – Edinburgh
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, The Kenilworth gives couples a cosy, intimate atmosphere that’s been described as one of the cosiest in the city. A namesake of Sir Walter Scott’s famous historical romance novel, this pub offers a traditional Scottish pub with unique character, revered for its eclectic range of real ales and delicious pub food. It’s the ideal location for a night out with the one you love.
- The Plymouth Arms – Cardiff
This lovely Grade II listed pub, located just outside Cardiff, takes its name from the local heiress Elizabeth Lewis, who married the Third Earl of Plymouth in the early 1700s. The Plymouth Arms is only a few minutes’ walk away from the National History Museum Cardiff and the River Ely. In keeping with its romantic legacy, the pub’s menu is full of hearty favourites and country pub classic dishes and a well-stocked bar, including cask ales, fine wines and British gin, all of which can be enjoyed beside one of the pub’s crackling log fires. Its Valentine’s offering includes 3-courses for £32.50 with the menu including sea bass with king prawns, pan-roasted duck breast, and an impressive 10oz rib-eye surf & turf.
- The Washington – London
For city-goers, The Washington is located on a corner just north of Primrose Hill and is an iconic London pub in Belsize Park. This timeless venue features ornate Victorian decor with luxury lighting fixtures, extravagant mirrors, and vintage furniture lovingly paired with contemporary touches. The Washington is the ideal location to celebrate Valentine’s Day with its special sharing offer of two succulent ribeye steaks with a bottle of wine to share for £85. For couples looking to treat themselves this February in a city spot, it’s the perfect place for a memorable evening. Plus, the venue boasts an impressive 4.5 rating on Google reviews.
- The Bell – Aylesbury
Located in the heart of the charming country town of Aston Clinton, The Bell makes this list for its unique rustic atmosphere: with exposed wooden beams, cosy corners, and its very own courtyard and garden, this place oozes romance. Alongside being a charming romantic pub, the Bell is an esteemed wedding venue and has several stylish en-suite bedrooms. So, if you’re looking for somewhere to pop the question this Valentine’s Day, or just an intimate location to spend the evening, The Bell might just be for you.
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- The Red Lion – Oxford
Tucked in behind George Street, in-between Oxford’s two main theatres – The Oxford Playhouse and The New Theatre – The Red Lion is ideal for couples looking for a romantic meal before a show. With its comfortable and stylish cosy corners and a bar stocked with carefully selected wines, real ales, and beers it’s perfect for a drink or two afterwards. The pub’s beautiful and charismatic interiors and quite intimate corners also make it a wedding venue – a true signal of romance through and through.
Whether you’re planning a cosy dinner for two or a romantic weekend escape, these ten hand-picked pubs combine charm and intimacy to create unforgettable moments.
