Here in the UK, Valentine’s Day is behind us and summer’s somehow already here. Could there be a better time to surprise your partner with a romantic minibreak? Just get in there quick, before the schools break up in late July…
The Autograph Lodge Holidays collection by Hoseasons is celebrating its 10-year anniversary this year, so we’re spotlighting some of the loveliest numbers on their books.
All of these self-catered accommodations operate at the height of luxury, offering complimentary essentials as standard. You and your loved one will have everything at your disposal…
Firstly, a 21-minute drive from the quaint Northeastern city of Durham, and a mere nine-minute drive from the Durham Heritage Coast, we have these impeccably tasteful residences. Every effort has been made to create a feeling of subtle elegance, from mood lighting and wood burning stoves to hot tubs.
Surprise your loved one with a pamper pack, which contains Champagne, fresh flowers and chocolates and must be pre-ordered. Meanwhile, the surrounding country is ripe for exploration. Two National Parks – the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales – are within driving distance, as is the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Find out more about Durham Coastal Lodges
Set within 17 acres of parkland, these 12 warm and cozy homes-away-from-home are found near the town of Oswestry, Shropshire. From Henrietta’s Hideaway to Woodpecker Lodge, all have charming names and evermore charming interiors. As well as rustic-elegant interiors, couples can look forward to complimentary sparkling wine on arrival, plus the use of bathrobes and slippers.
Pretty villages perfect for a romantic stroll are all around, and the Henlle Park Golf Club is a short drive away. Plus Wales’ Snowdonia National Park is less than an hour’s drive away!
Find out more about Henlle Hall Woodland Lodges
Lakeside luxury awaits in these stunning properties straddling the Norfolk/Suffolk border. You can enjoy the Italian leather sofas of Larch Lodge, the freestanding stone bath of Kingfisher Lodge, the super king size bed of Larch Lodge and more.
Furthermore. not only do all the lodges boast hot tubs and private decking areas, but also saunas. Surprise your partner with Champagne, hand-tied flowers and/or a dozen red roses – but again, this must be pre-arranged with Weybread.
Find out more about Weybread Lakes Lodges
Now to the rolling hills of the Southwest county of Somerset, and a working farm 20 minutes’ drive from Glastonbury (home to the world-famous music festival, taking a fallow year in 2018). These boutique boltholes are the perfect size for two people and boast countryside views, outdoor hot tubs and an on-site farm shop.
Locals things to see and do include Wookey Hole Caves, Cheddar Gorge, the town of Wells (where the box office hit Hot Fuzz is set) and Clarks Village outlet store. All are under 30 minutes’ drive away.
Find out more about New Oaks Farm Lodges
Also set on a working farm but this time in mid-Wales, Slate House Lodges once again boast staggering views of the surrounding countryside. Snowdonia National Park is under an hour away in the car, as is the coast.
As well as open-plan kitchens, oak floors and hot tubs, unexpected touches include gable windows and second floor reading rooms, lending a homely feeling.
Find out more about Slate House Lodges
Still in Wales but moving further south to Pembrokeshire, Herons Brook Retreat Lodges are hidden away in a stretch of charming woodland near Tenby. Vaulted ceilings, roll top baths and walk in wardrobes add to the opulence of these stylish stopovers.
As with all the lodges on this list, expect quality cotton linen, towels and comfy mattresses. You’ll also find a shop and 18-hole golf course among the sprawling surrounding gardens. Meanwhile, the quaint market town of Narberth is under a mile away.
Find out more about Herons Brook Lodges
More countryside seclusion in North Yorkshire: Sun Hill Lodges are tucked away within a staggering 50 acres of grounds – famed for the training of racehorses.
Each lodge offers something individual. The William lodge features a traditional Scandinavian sauna, the Lillie lodge a barbecue, fenced garden and even its own pond, while The Farmhouse, for any horse-lovers out there, boasts views of the paddocks and gallops. To make your stay extra romantic, why not book an in-lodge spa treatment or made-to-order picnic?
Find out more about Sun Hill Lodges
These lodges stand proud within the grounds of a beautiful Georgian Country House on the Norfolk-Cambridgeshire border. This location is adults-only, making it even more perfect for couples looking for peace, quiet and downtime.
As ever, expect plush interiors and a variety of pamper pack options. There’s also a wealth of things to see and do nearby, starting with the shopping trip and a pub lunch in popular Downham Market, just six miles away.
Find out more about Lode Hall Lodges
Back to Southwest England, and the epitome of rural living. You’ll be based at the center of 150 acres of countryside spanning Devon and Somerset. Don’t forget your hiking boots.
Located one the border of the two, the working Peckmoor Farm is home to sheep and horses, plus five luxurious lodges that perfectly compliment the landscape. Expect flat screen TV/DVD and a choice of three opulent in-lodge therapy options: reflexology, massage and aromatherapy. Also, to really embrace the region and score brownie points with your better half, why not pre-order a foodie pack? It’s full of local and specialist cheeses, meats, butter, cream, chutney, jam, biscuits and vodka.
Find out more about Peckmoor Farm Lodges
Finally, our last scenic setting spans a country boarder, offering views of both the English and Welsh countryside. Thus a picture somewhere along the curious Offa’s Dyke, which traces the border, is a must.
As well as the usual highlights – stellar views, modern furnishings, hot tubs – visitors to Black Hall Lodges can take advantage of the on-site indoor heater pool, exercise room and sauna and steam room.
If bringing kids along to your romantic escape is unavoidable, fear not: the grounds also have indoor and outdoor children’s play areas, games room and nature trail.
Find out more about Black Hall Lodges
For more information about the Autograph collection, click here.
Hoseasons is a client of Gay Star News
