Whether looking for long haul or UK honeymoons, Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding has lots of ideas along with essential travel advice.
Newly opened hotel and retreat in Northern Ireland
For discerning travellers planning a romantic getaway, the newly opened The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat is idyllic. Oozing character, it offers sumptuous yet comfortable accommodation, fine dining, a stylish bar and a mood-enhancing outdoor spa. The Rabbit is a fusion of modern living with country life comprising 33 bedrooms in four different stylish room types with scandi-inspired, retro design. Each boasts seriously comfy beds, a Nespresso machine, Dyson hairdryer and a Marshall amp, not to mention fluffy robes and flip flops for a trip to the spa: The Relaxation Burrow. The latter has been carefully created for optimum zen comprising Swedish sauna, aroma steam room, salt chamber, outdoor Roman baths, loungers and cabanas – there's also a man-made beach and lake bar! The offers at The Rabbit Hotel include the 'Hop to It' break from £180 per night based on two people sharing including access to The Relaxation Burrow, bottle of bubbles in your room and breakfast the following morning.
Posted: 28 January 2022
The Londoner has officially opened its doors
Boutique hotel, The Londoner, has officially opened its doors in the heart of London's iconic Leicester Square. With a staggering 350 guest rooms spread across 16 storeys and a subterranean series of spaces, it will certainly leave guests amazed. Designed in collaboration with world-renowned architectural designers Yabu Pushelberg, the luxury urban resort features a range of rooms, suites, penthouses, two private screening rooms, an entire floor dedicated to wellness, expansive ballroom, private art gallery and to top it off a mix of several concept eateries. This includes its signature Mediterranean restaurant, Whitcomb's, plus a contemporary Japanese lounge bar with a rooftop terrace and its neighbourhood bar, Joshua's Tavern – minimooners would never have to leave for the ultimate staycation! Whilst super in scale, its boutique approach and commitment to hospitality offers the highest levels of luxury with an experience designed to make every guest feel at home.
Posted: 25 January 2022
Stargazer Experience in the Lake District
A chic country house hotel in the picture-perfect village of Grasmere, Victorian House Hotel is launching a Stargazer Experience for the perfect finishing touch to romantic post-wedding minimoons. The Stargazer Experience costs £15pp and includes a backpack and waterproof rug to borrow, a map to the viewing spot, homemade sausage rolls, a generous tipple of Whiskey Mac, a Red Torch specifically designed with map reading and stargazing in mind so guests can flick between the map and the night sky with ease, plus binoculars and a star guide. Couples can choose from Stargazer Rooms complete with telescopes, star maps, dreamy beds, good coffee, organic teas and generous Land & Water toiletries; there's also a luxurious Shepherds Hut for two on the riverbank. Available all year round – but stargazing in the Lakes is particularly good in the autumn and winter – an overnight stay costs from £123 per room per night including breakfast.
Posted: 21 January 2022
Two new minimoon offers at Northern Ireland hotel
Galgorm Resort & Spa, the multi award-winning spa resort in Ballymena, is an ideal minimoon location. At the resort, you will experience complete post-wedding relaxation and luxury with an indulgent choice of dining options in three on-site restaurants. What's more there's a gin bar with more than 400 gins, a Thermal Village Spa and Serenity Garden (which is the first of it's kind in Ireland). From its enviable corner location within the original manor house, couples will be in awe of Suite 1857. It offers unrivalled views of the cascading waters of the River Maine complete with Juliet balcony. With a truly romantic design: a muted palette of brocade wall coverings, antique lighting, French baroque furniture and solid oak floors and roof beams, it's a sight to behold – a traditional freestanding bath with claw feet and separate shower complete the space. Here are two new offers for a minimooners: a two-night dining retreat from £520 and a two-night spa retreat from £700 for two!
Posted: 18 January 2022
Cumbrian hotel's five-star renovation
Gisland Hall Hotel, Cumbria, is having a five-star renovation enhancing it's three-star offering. Providing the perfect base for outdoorsy types – in the year of the Great British staycation – explore the area by car, on foot or by bike. It's close to UNESCO World Heritage sites along Hadrian's Wall, Carlisle, Gretna, Hexham and Newcastle. The property sits proudly in 140 acres and in Spring 2022, it will offer luxury suites and family rooms with patios ideal for those with pets! There'll be an array of guest experiences, amenities, event spaces and luxury Spa facilities, making it the ideal retreat for couples, groups of friends and family gatherings. In the meantime, the hotel in its existing incarnation is available for affordable staycations at only £80pp (based on two sharing) for three-course dinner, bed and breakfast.
Posted: 14 January 2022
The best city breaks for nature lovers to escape the January blues
A study from homebuilders McCarthy Stone has revealed the top UK cities for nature-lovers to visit. The scoring system combined five factors including rare species of animals, stargazing spots, National Trust sites and outdoor activities nearby. Perfect for a pre- or post-wedding getaway, either with loved ones or a romantic break for two, these picks will whet your appetite if you're looking to escape the January blues - and here at County Wedding Magazines HQ we think it's hard to pick a favourite!
Posted: 6 January 2022
Themed shepherd huts in Yorkshire
Hornington Manor, a North Yorkshire wedding venue, has welcomed eight themed shepherd huts – perfect for newlyweds looking for a private retreat. Each hut takes inspiration from Yorkshire and beyond, with themes ranging from Arabia to the 1940s they offer complete escapism as well as a luxury kingsize Harrison Spinks bed, television, kitchenette, wifi, an en suite with shower and breathtaking views to boot! The Amy Johnson hut is an ode to one of Yorkshire's finest female pilots, reflecting Johnson's love of 1930s fashion, flying and adventure.
Posted: 4 January 2022
Room Mate Hotels has new opening in Rome
Room Mate Hotels, the international hotel chain, has opened Hotel Room Mate Filippo and Gran Filippo Apartments in Rome. Located 500 metres from the emblematic Spanish Steps and a ten-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain, the hotel and the apartments are designed by interior designer Tomas Alía, who was inspired by the refined aesthetics of the 1940s. The hotel has 30 rooms divided into three categories: superior, deluxe and executive, its imposing façade stands out with elegant and subtle flat pilasters and striking lighting that creates a chandelier effect throughout the street acting as a magnet to passers-by. The lobby features a forest of sculptural, three-dimensional palm trees, complete with a dome supported by granite columns. The two interior courtyards - the two lungs of the building - are arranged with sienna- and celadon-colored lattices while the rest of the common areas are divided into a large meeting room with a library effect and the breakfast room, decorated with modulations in marble, gilded metals and geometric shapes. The rooms, several of which have terraces, have surprising decorations, all inspired by the refined, well-travelled and cultured aesthetics of the 1940s
Posted: 28 December 2021
Majorca hotel a new holistic retreat
Perfect for pre- or post-wedding getaways, Es Racó d'Artà is a wellness retreat that's recently joined the TemptingPlaces hotel label. A real gem in the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean, this new holistic retreat is located next to the historic town of Artà, on the eastern part of the island. Outstretched in the valley, its nearly 200 acres encompass an authentic 13th-century stone farmhouse, several buildings, almond, fig and olive trees, local fruit trees as well as 14 acres of grapevines. It's here, within this peaceful environment, that this newly-opened property invites its guests to connect with nature and lift themselves beyond their well-being. Seamless swimming pools, jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, relaxation and meditation areas offer newlyweds a unique experience, where the notion of time and space disappears. Make sure to try a Watsu treatment, performed in the original treatment pool – this aquatic massage creates optimal conditions to enter a state of deep relaxation through the union of water and shiatsu, aiming to release the everyday tensions – bliss!
Posted: 24 December 2021
Hotel Bel-Air launches al fresco dining experience
Hotel Bel-Air, possibly one of the most romantic hotels in the world, has launched an outdoor dining experience, Bel-Air Under the Stars. Guests can cosy up beside their own private firepit while sipping wine, toasting marshmallows and tucking into Wolfgang Puck snacks. Many Hollywood love stories have played out at this iconic hotel in its 75-year history, and it's easy to see why stars including Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly have fallen for its romantic allure. Set within the blissful Canyon landscape, and away from the LA noise, this private and elegant hotel is a haven in Bel-Air and renowned for its 12 acres of winding, tropical greenery surrounding the beloved Swan Lake, filled with flowers that bloom all year round and home to a 100-year-old sycamore tree. It has witnessed some of the most incredible, star-studded and wildly romantic weddings imaginable, all watched over with loving grace by its swans. What's more, one of the hotel's most famous guests, Grace Kelly, penned a number of love letters to her then partner Oleg Cassani during her time staying there while she was filming Country Girl. What better honeymoon destination truly epitomises love and romance?
Posted: 21 December 2021
Get away to Greece for your honeymoon
Costa Navarino, the ultimate five-star sustainability-led travel destination in Messinia on the under-the-radar Peloponnese peninsula in Greece, is an idyllic location for honeymoons. Perched on the unspoiled and breathtaking coastline, overlooking the Ionian Sea, it provides newlyweds with the perfect romantic shorthaul destination post-vows. A sophisticated setting, surrounded by verdant land and a sparkling seascape, Messinia has quaint town halls, beautiful beaches and offers hilltop exploration. Costa Navarino is one of the few beachfront mixed-use developments in the Mediterranean and includes: luxury hotels, freehold residences, a world-famous Anazoe spa, 21 restaurants and bars, sports facilities and two signature golf courses – meaning guests and newlyweds never have to leave!
Posted: 17 December 2021
Lovingly restored Georgian retreat in the Channel Islands
The Blonde Hedgehog, located in Alderney, is a collection of 18th-century buildings lovingly restored to be a petite boutique Georgian retreat. Renovated from a local pub and an elegant townhouse, it's understated luxury at its best; the modern interior design complements the original Georgian features. With just a small number of rooms and suites, it's intimate and sophisticated without losing any of its charm. Alderney is perfect for honeymooners looking for relaxation, romance and adventure; an island for exploring and seeing nature's wonders, couples can experience sea kayaking, boat trips, rockpooling and fishing. It's easily walked or cycled around in a day – definitely one of the best ways to see the entire island.
Posted: 14 December 2021
Newlyweds can reconnect in the Scottish Highlands
The Torridon invites newlyweds to reconnect during a minimoon experience in the Scottish Highlands. During the Winter Minimoon experience, newlyweds can enjoy the snowcapped landscapes and starry night skies of the Highlands, feasting on the best seasonal produce and rejoicing in two nights of rejuvenating sleep. Led by the Torridon Outdoors experts, a crisp full day guided walk along the munros and woodlands surrounding the hotel, is followed by drinks in front of the crackling fire and a private whisky tasting led by the dedicated team in The Torridon's Whisky Bar.
Posted: 9 December 2021
Newly launched with Crabtree & Crabtree
A stunning rural hideaway set in Minto in the Scottish Borders, Lilylaw, newly launched with Crabtree & Crabtree, provides the most idyllic location for a romantic honeymoon. It boasts spectacular views and staying guests also get unique access to Fatlips Castle, an iconic Pele tower situated on the estate at the top of Minto Crags. Located on a private track, this former gamekeeper's cottage is in an undisturbed and completely serene spot, ideal for those looking to escape to the countryside. The charming period property has been fully renovated into a gorgeous, romantic one-bedroom bijoux bolthole comprising an open-plan bedroom and living area and feature roll top bath with woodland views. Based on a self-catering basis, seven nights in summer available through Crabtree & Crabtree is from £950.
Posted: 6 December 2021
Extensive renovation at Saint-Tropez hotel
Nineteenth-century Château de la Messardière is a majestic much-loved five-star palace hotel perched on a hilltop on the outskirts of Saint-Tropez. The property, with its trademark domed cupolas and turrets, has undergone extensive renovation over the last two years and is due to open July 2021. Saint-Tropez's largest hotel, it occupies 25 acres of glorious grounds overlooking the Côte d'Azur and Provençal countryside; highly acclaimed French architect and interior designer, Christophe Tollemer, over-sore the redesign incorporating the breathtaking views and magical Mediterranean light. Rates start from 1,150 in a Classic Room based on a new inclusive rate concept.
Posted: 1 December 2021
Sussex-based Amberley Castle wins award
Sussex-based Amberley Castle has just been named a Tripadvisor '2021 Travellers' Choice Award Winner' - making it a must for honeymoon staycations. Positioning Amberley Castle in the top 10% of all hotels worldwide, the award is the result of reviews and ratings from travellers across the globe to identify the very best hotels on Tripadvisor. General manager Piers Vowles comments, "It's been a tough year in hospitality but winning this award is the cherry on the cake. Awards are always lovely to receive of course, but those voted for by our customers are our favourite, so we're particularly pleased with this one!" Amberley Castle is looking forward to a busy summer ahead, those keen to enjoy a break need to book in advance.
Posted: 29 November 2021
New minimoon packages at Yorkshire hotel
Grantley Hall has launched an exciting selection of themed staycation packages perfect for UK minimooners. Guaranteed to blow away the lockdown lethargy, the packages are themed around outdoor exploration, gardens, cycling and wellness. Guests staying over the warmer months will also be able to enjoy Grantley Hall's enhanced al fresco dining programme including, The Norton Courtyard and EightyEight Terrace plus the stylish new outdoor dining space – The Orchard: relax, indulge and celebrate your newly married status!
Posted: 24 November 2021
New guest experiences at Surrey hotel
Beaverbrook has debuted an array of irresistible new guest experiences that celebrate the best things in life, including the sensational Surrey Hills. Sitting proudly amid 470 emerald acres of meadows, woodland and gardens, Beaverbrook offers unique access to picture-postcard landscapes and hosts delightful discoveries for guests. A best-of-British summer is guaranteed, thanks to innovative balloon dining, vineyard tours, wine tastings, turbo e-bikes, Italy-inspired al fresco feasts, and self-driving jaunts in a classic car – what more can newlyweds need, luxury, romance and adventure!
Posted: 22 November 2021
Head North of the UK for the ultimate minimoon in Scotland
Located in St Andrews overlooking the breathtaking Scottish coastline, Old Course Hotel Golf Resort & Spa has undergone a series of renovations including refurbished wedding venue spaces, the introduction of a penthouse, new guest rooms, as well as an additional destination restaurant and bar. The luxury hotel will boast 175 rooms with the introduction of a third floor in the 'Champions Wing' and the addition of 31 new rooms, overlooking the Old Course. A penthouse will also be added to the fourth floor, which is the perfect honeymoon suite or can be enjoyed for a post-wedding minimoon romantic break. It will be the only suite with a private lift, balcony, outdoor seating and firepit, with spectacular views overlooking West Sands Beach and the golf course.
Posted: 18 November 2021
New travel platform launched for design-led places to stay
Hour directory, a new travel platform specialising in retreats and activities that are a matter of hours away from the bustling city, has been launched. Hour directory is a curated platform featuring architect-designed hideaways outside the city – and beyond. Designed and built in response to the pandemic, Hour directory provides city dwellers with a gateway of easy-to-reach spaces in relaxing places, with a design quality to match. Hour directory is a sophisticated yet simple portal that has been designed with usability and ease of travel in mind. The directory's elegant design reflects the beauty of the accommodation it advertises. User experience begins with a website that has been rigorously tested on all platforms and ends with an enchanting stay at a picturesque location.
Posted: 21 June 2021
The award-winning Cottar's Safaris comprises of three properties:Cottar's 1920s Camp, The Bush Villa and The Conservation Camp – all located in the famous 'seventh' natural wonder of the world, the game rich Maasai Mara in Kenya.Located on its own 7,608-acre private conservancy, Cottar's 1920s Camp provides the romance of sleeping under canvas, incorporating the style of the safari experience. The camp comprises of nine ensuite tents, two of which are unique honeymoon tents. Following an extensive refurbishment, one of the honeymoon tents has stunning new interiors rivalling a suite in size! It has two bathrooms, separate fireroom, living and dining areas and bedroom with matching BauHaus inspired 1920s walnut bur wardrobes and a huge four-poster bed.
Posted: 18 June 2021
Elivi Skiathos, the most high-end luxury hotel on the island of Skiathos, has new experiences for couples looking to plan a heavenly honeymoon or celebrate a special anniversary in 2021. The romantic experiences include private dinners on the beach, sunset cruises, private film screenings and in-suite spa treatments. Spread across 213 acres, Elivi Skiathos is tucked away, perched on a verdant hilltop, in an area of natural beauty on the south-west of the island beside a wildlife refuge and with direct access to four of the island's best beaches – a picturesque backdrop!
Posted: 16 June 2021
Tiny island is celebrating the imminent launch of its first community dairy
Sark is the smallest of the Channel Islands and considered the jewel of them all. Already famous for several things; its unspoilt beauty, for having no cars and for being the world's first Dark Skies Island, it now welcomes a new attraction. The tiny island is celebrating the imminent launch of its first community dairy. From this June, no trip to this stunning rural island hideaway will be complete without meeting the 16 stunning Guernsey dairy cows, seeing the dairy parlour in action and picking up treats from the shop.
Posted: 14 June 2021
World’s best rooms with a view - Lepogo Lodges South Africa
Lepogo Lodges are one of Africa's few entirely not-for-profit high-end safari lodges, set remotely within the 50,000-hectare, malaria-free Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, home of the 'big five'. Noka Camp's five stilted villas, including one villa especially designed for families, are perched atop a 100ft cliff, overlooking the winding Palala River below and the endless bush ahead. After a long day of game drives, guests can relax in the window-side sunken bathtub or opt for a dip in their private heated plunge pool offering panoramic views of the surrounding terrain and inhabiting wildlife. Each villa also offers a unique outdoor 'sky bed' placed on the glass floor balcony over the ravine, providing guests with the ideal opportunity for star-gazing under the incredible African night skies, before drifting off into a peaceful slumber.
Posted: 10 June 2021
Wild at heart - new minimoon escapes
Wildhive, a new boutique hospitality brand deeply rooted in nature will launch this summer with the opening of its first property - Callow Hall in rural Derbyshire. Surrounded by ancient woodland and 35 acres of wild open space, Callow Hall is the perfect launchpad for the Peak District and provides the ultimate, idyllic honeymoon destination.
Posted: 19 May 2021
