Exploring Romantic Eco-Friendly UK Getaways

Top romantic UK getaways

Although cities are fun with lots to do all year round, there's nothing like getting away from the hustle and bustle, especially when you couple it with Valentine’s pressure. Valentine’s Day has become a very commercialised holiday that can come with guilt tripping into spending on new products. In fact, did you know that an extra nine million kilograms of CO2 are produced due to Valentine’s waste?

So why not focus on spending quality time with your loved ones instead for Valentine's day, which can easily be achieved without the additional waste by taking your partner (or friends!) on a UK getaway. By renting a car in a sustainable way, this Valentine’s doesn’t need to break the bank and you can clear your eco-conscience by choosing to get out into nature, discovering. more of the British countryside.

If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are five road trip destinations to check out this Valentine’s Day.

Getaway from London: Brighton & Hove

London has so much to offer in its nearby surroundings that it is almost impossible to choose what type of road trip to take from the city.

The engaging history and scenic cliffs make Dover a wonderful spot for a trip out of London while Rye in East Sussex is another fantastic option, with its picturesque old town, cobbled streets and charming mediaeval houses.

However, a seaside trip to Brighton & Hove might be just what you’re looking for. With a great arts, culture, and music scene, as well as many quaint boutiques, cool bars, and high-quality restaurants (with a tonne of options for plant-based eaters), you’ll find it all in Brighton.

With more unique accommodations popping up all over the country, why not book a cosy stay in a glamping pod out in the English countryside, where comfort meets nature for a delightfully sustainable Valentine’s.

Drive time from London: 1 hour 30 mins

Getaway from Bristol: Castle Combe

For an intimate Valentine’s setting, the Cotswolds might be ideal. Castle Combe is a great spot that provides a beautiful day trip from Bristol.

The Cotswolds is made up of many picturesque villages surrounded by numerous walks and hikes for all capabilities, from beginners to experts. As one of the prettiest villages, Castle Combe is a great spot for couples to take a trip to, while also being able to explore more of the neighbouring scenery. Why not also visit a local garden centre, which can give inspiration for your home and may even have a cute picnic basket for a romantic outdoor lunch!

Drive time from Bristol: 30 mins

Getaway from Manchester: Peak District National Park

Manchester is surrounded by impressive national parks including Yorkshire Dales, Lake District, and Peak District. If you and your partner are up for a refreshing and invigorating hike, Mam Tor at Peak District National Park may make you put on your hiking boots and support each other on the steep but manageable climb to the top of this hill.

Another option is to take in the breathtaking views of Lake District with the option of stopping off at the stunning Lancaster castle on the way.

Drive time from Manchester: 50 mins to Mam Tor, Peak District National Park

2 hours to Lake District

Getaway from Leeds: Flamborough Headland Heritage Coast

Despite Leeds being located in the midlands, it’s only a short journey to the coast where the calm sea creates an enjoyable atmosphere for your trip away. The Flamborough Headland Heritage Coast hosts great scenic views of its chalky white cliffs. While hiking is one option to enjoy the scenery, you can also try your hand at sea canoeing and fishing (makes a difference from the city life!). Or maybe take a romantic stroll along the Bay Beach and spend the night at Graffitoe farm where you can choose to rent a ‘Chicken Shed Pod’ or a ‘Shepherd's Hut’, where each hut is kitted out with a hot tub. Make sure to stop in York on the way where its gothic cathedral, quaint old town, and cobbled streets portray its rich Roman and Viking history.

Drive time from Leeds: 1 hour 40 mins

Getaway from Birmingham or Coventry: Malvern Hills

Located in the midlands, Birmingham and Coventry may be a fair distance from a beach or coastline but they’re still surrounded by natural beauty including Malvern Hills where stunning views after a short trek may make the perfect picnic spot on Valentine’s Day.

For poetic lovers, a trip to the infamous romantic tragedy writer’s home in Stratford-Upon-Avon could be the perfect combination of history and romance. The birthplace of playwright William Shakespeare can be toured at a small cost, but the mediaeval town itself gives more than enough to explore. It’s on the way to Malvern Hill when driving from Coventry, so makes for a great halfway point to grab some food and stretch the legs with a wander around the town.

Drive time from Birmingham: 1 hour 15 mins

Drive time from Coventry: 1 hour 30 mins

20% off your next car rental

Unique and unusual places to stay are trending, with more people wanting to retreat to alternative accommodations to make their stay special. These types of accommodations are usually located away from cities or easy transport, so renting a car is a great eco-friendly travel hack that lets you visit and experience the surrounding areas. Renting a car using Karshare reduces the number of cars left sitting idle as sharing helps people get by without ever needing to own a car! Surprise your partner this Valentine's Day with one of these unique adventures.

To make your heart race even more, you can even get a 20% discount off your next rental with the code: HEART-RACE.

The code is valid on all rentals booked before 23:59 14/02/23. Single use only, maximum discount of £50.

Click here to browse nearby cars!