Romantic breaks on the Isle of Wight with Wightlink

The Isle of Wight is one of the most romantic places to visit in the UK at any time of the year, but particularly in the colder months. The Island is quieter and more tranquil, making it the perfect location for those seeking a truly ‘get away from it all’ (but not too far from home) break.

As soon as you step onto one of our ferries, the feeling of escapism kicks in as you sail away to the scenic Isle of Wight. Plus, the Island has plenty of activities for every kind of couple.

There are lots of heavenly hotels, cosy cottages and coastal retreats, which are ideal for couples.  Choose from historic houses, stylish hotels, boutique bed & breakfasts, dreamy cottages and other intimate hideaways.

An escape for history and literature fans, Keats Cottage is ideal place to stay, not only because the romantic poet John Keats once stayed there in the summer of 1819, but also because the cottage is just a five minute walk from the sea.

The charming Seaview Hotel is in the iconic sailing village of Seaview. Based just two minutes from the sea front, it’s a great place to stay for couples looking for a casual but still romantic trip.

The award winning 5-star country house, Haven Hall, offers seven differently designed self-catering period suites within its stunning estate. The Edwardian property is set across two acres of land with sea views, a swimming pool, tennis courts and even a croquet lawn.

Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat features lodges with luxurious, contemporary design and outdoor hot tubs – it’s a stylish beachside resort just a short drive away from vibrant Cowes.

Visit a traditional inn with a roaring log fire, serving local ales and top-notch pub grub. Many Island pubs host regular live music events provided by the very best local talent and which are well worth seeing. Sing the blues, jazz things up or just have fun as you settle back on comfortable sofas and let the sounds of aspiring artists wash over you.

If fine dining is the order of the day, then spend a candlelit evening at a Michelin-listed restaurant that celebrates Island produce and afterwards enjoy a stroll hand in hand on a beautiful beach or wander through an illuminated town buzzing with night life.

Half of the Isle of Wight is protected as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making it the ideal location to enjoy some scenic walking routes with a loved one. From rugged coastal paths and open farmland to enchanting forest trails and charming villages there are plenty of walks available and you can use our useful guide to walks and decide on the best route for them.

A bike ride can create the perfect backdrop for romance and adventure and the Island’s 500 miles of cycle paths will take you on a journey through dramatic and contrasting landscapes.   Look out for the Bronze Age Longstone at Mottistone, pay a visit to the medieval castle at Carisbrooke and incorporate a bit of off-road cycling in the majestic woodland of Parkhurst Forest.

There are plenty of other activities to choose from on the Isle of Wight for romantic weekend, including historic landmarks such as Queen Victoria’s holiday home at Osborne, wildlife attractions and adventurous activities. More inspiration can be found with our Wightlink Explorer tool.