Many short breaks in Britain are taken as a romantic getaway. Maybe the break is to celebrate a loved one’s birthday or an anniversary; maybe it is for a one-off event such as a marriage proposal. Either way, romantic breaks aim to offer that extra layer of luxury in wonderful surroundings.

Choosing the Right Romantic Hotel
When it comes to a romantic break, hotel selection is crucial. Not only is the hotel itself important, but so too is the surrounding area and the general ambience of the location. Many UK cities lend themselves perfectly to a romantic break away. Edinburgh, for example, and Edinburgh Castle is recognised as one of the most romantic backdrops for a perfect away break. In fact, it is considered so romantic that in a survey of 2000 people, Edinburgh was voted the most romantic city in which to spend Valentine’s Day 2008. Other cities that received romantic interest in the survey included London and Glasgow.

Choose a location that has plenty of romantic backdrops nearby, including attractive restaurants and quiet spots to sit and relax. All make for good photo opportunities and happy memories!

Consider the hotel itself and the facilities available in the immediate locale. If the hotel is in the city centre, take a look to see what is also located on the same street or in the same district. It’s no use staying in a five star hotel for a romantic break if it is surrounded by lively bars that will keep you up all night (unless that is what you are looking for, of course!). You can gauge a great deal about the ambience of a hotel by seeing what it has as its neighbours.

Those Little Extras
Romantic hotels will often offer extras which can make your stay that little bit more special. Typically, these may include room upgrades, fresh flowers on arrival, a bottle of bubbly and even a private dinner in your room. Consider which of these extras you would like and select a hotel that offers these services. Always check to see whether the hotel is able to offer these services on your intended date of travel.

A wonderful extra that is often offered is a late checkout allowing you to enjoy a full lie-in – bliss!

Before You Go
Before you set off for your romantic break, remember to check with the hotel about any special extras that have been booked. Many hotels will not reference additional romantic extras on the invoice or the confirmation so as not to ruin the surprise. This doesn’t mean that they have not been booked, but you may want to double check to put your mind at ease!
If the break you have booked is for a special occasion, it is always worth notifying the hotel in advance. Most hotels will acknowledge birthdays or anniversaries, if they know in advance. This can often result in an upgrade or at least a free bottle of wine. You never know your luck!

Romantic breaks provide an ideal opportunity to indulge a little, to spoil yourselves. Go on, go for that extra upgrade and enjoy the trappings and the flummery. You know you and your partner are worth it!