Five Ways to Honeymoon in the English Countryside

Life isn’t exactly like The Holiday, but your honeymoon can evoke the scenic charm and sweeping romance of the English countryside. As it turns out, Britain really is filled with rolling fields, quaint stone cottages, and historic manor houses, all of which make a perfect setting for a post-wedding getaway. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful respite overlooking the forest or an activity-filled weekend at the U.K.'s most luxurious farm, the English countryside is an unexpected honeymoon destination that can be experienced any time of year.

From The Cotswolds, home to Soho Farmhouse and The Rectory, to New Forest National Park, where you’ll uncover the majestic treehouse of Chewton Glen, there are several options when planning (we recommend visiting more than one during your trek). All of these spots are easily accessible by train from London, followed by a quick taxi ride, so you won’t have to spend your honeymoon trying to figure out how to drive on the wrong side of the road. So pack your wellies and prepare to feel like royalty—even if you aren’t quite as a famous Meghan and Harry.

Soho Farmhouse, Chipping Norton

In the heart of the Cotswolds, just over an hour from London’s Paddington Station by train, Soho Farmhouse has established itself as one of the most exclusive country destinations in the U.K. It’s part members club and part hotel, with luxury cabins and rooms that are so filled with amenities you’ll need at least a few days to experience it all. There’s an indoor and outdoor pool, full gym complete with a Spin studio, Cowshed Spa, several restaurants, horseback riding, and a movie theater, which means it’s unlikely you’ll need to leave the grounds (although if you do, the posh village of Chipping Norton is a stone’s throw away). The Farmhouse was recently expanded to include 10 new garden rooms and 40 adorable Piglet cabins, which are a good way to dig into the farm on a lower budget. For a splurge, book one of the studio cabins—there’s an extremely sexy bathtub on the waterfront porch to help make this an especially memorable honeymoon stay.

Chewton Glen, New Milton

A honeymoon is significantly better nestled up in a chic treehouse with its own deckside hot tub, which is what you’ll find at Chewton Glen, a country manor hotel on the edge of New Forest National Park. While you’d be happy in one of the traditional hotel rooms, the property’s infamous treehouses offer privacy and luxury for celebrating couples. It’s a quick walk over to the expansive spa, where you can indulge in a couples treatment, and the dining room, which offers immaculate meals made with fresh British ingredients. Wake up to a breakfast hamper delivery before taking a short stroll to the coast, which is connected to Chewton Glen’s main house via the golf course and a wooded path. Venture down to one of the seaside cafes or visit Hurst Castle, an old fortress that overlooks the Isle of Wight, or simply sit on the sand. Opt for a Treehouse Studio Suite or an even more opulent Treehouse Hideaway Suite.

The Lygon Arms, Broadway

Broadway is a classic Cotswolds village, located about two hours by train from London, and the picturesque destination is home to The Lygon Arms, a historic country house hotel that’s housed kings and movie stars. Book one of the courtyard suites for ample space, or splurge on the Charles I suite, named for the former British monarch who planned his battles during the English Civil War in the room itself. The spa requires at least a day, and the hotel’s Lygon Bar & Grill is ideal for dinner or breakfast (or your first-ever Sunday roast). From the town, follow the Cotswolds Way Circular Walk to Broadway Tower, a Georgian heritage site that marks itself as the second highest point in the Cotswolds. There are also several pubs, including local favorite The Swan, and quaint shops to explore. For something especially idyllic, plan your trip in June or July to experience the heavenly purple lavender fields coming into bloom at nearby Hill Barn Farm.

The Rectory Hotel, Crudwell

Crudwell sits on the edge of The Cotswolds, a village that is so small it barely takes up an entire street. That makes it a perfect intimate getaway for a honeymooning couple, especially in the rooms of The Rectory Hotel, built in an 18th-century manor formerly part of the All Saints’ Church. The hotel, which opened fairly recently, is cozy and warm, filled with plush sofas and roaring wood fires, welcoming visitors to curl up with a cup of tea (or something stronger) upon arrival. The vibe is rustic country chic and your best move is to request room 6, which boasts a deeply romantic roll-top bathtub, garden views, and inviting four-poster bed. Head across the street to The Potting Shed, the hotel’s sister pub, for a British lunch, and then embark on a walk through the foggy countryside. If you’re feeling especially ambitious, Crudwell isn’t far from the famous Fosse Way, an ancient Roman road that invites travelers to stroll (ideally hand in hand) through a quiet expanse of the British countryside.

Artist Residence Oxfordshire, South Leigh

Journey to the Oxfordshire countryside to discover Artist Residence Oxfordshire, a former country pub from the 16h century that has been recently transformed by the hip Artist Residence brand. It’s a low-key trek from Oxford, which is worth exploring for an afternoon, and once you’re there it’s an Instagrammable respite away from it all. There are several suites but you want the Barn Suite, which boasts a classic pitched ceiling, freestanding bathtub and your very own log-burning fire. Downstairs, The Mason Arms is a snug spot for a few cocktails or a meal crafted with local, seasonal ingredients. Those with a car should venture to Blenheim Palace, the U.K.’s answer to Versailles, or through the winding lanes of the Cotswolds's many charming villages. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with cuddling up under the eves with your new life partner, wine in hand, and enjoying just being far from all the stress of real life.