Secluded beaches, romantic ruins, intimate restaurants and sensational shows; if you’re looking for a chance to spend quality time away from it all at an idyllic couple’s retreat, then a self-catered hideaway in Yorkshire’s luscious lands could be just the answer. Whether you want to get dressed up for an indulgent date night, or simply go out and embrace nature at its best, there is a special setting to suit.

Cultural couples will delight at the live entertainment on offer in Leeds. Home to performing-arts powerhouses, Opera North and the Northern Ballet Theatre, holidaymakers can get lost in their own musical world, with the likes of Tchaikovsky and Puccini for company. Alternatively, there is a diverse calendar of events, including stand-up comedy, touring plays and live music to be enjoyed at the city’s various venues.

If you prefer the theatrics to be served up in a fancy restaurant, then there are numerous fine dining destinations to be found around the region. Perfect for special occasions, The Box Tree, in the pretty spa town of Ilkley, enjoys a wonderful reputation for its modern French menu which has earned it a prestigious Michelin star every year since 2005.

Sometimes it’s nice to swap the plate for a picnic blanket, and Yorkshire’s scenery provides a spectacular backdrop for any packed lunch. The gothic ruins at Whitby Abbey, in particular, make a stunning spot to open the hamper. The clifftop perch has beautiful, panoramic sea views - best enjoyed on a sunny day with a glass of bubbly!

Did you know? Whitby Abbey is famous for its starring role in Bram Stoker’s Dracula. The infamous vampire is renowned as a seducer, captivating and controlling his female victims!

For couples who dream of spending days strolling the sand on a golden beach, the North Yorkshire coast has you covered! The larger resorts such Scarborough, Whitby, and Bridlington offer nostalgic piers with traditional arcades and funfairs to enjoy. Or if you’re after a more isolated spot, then Danes Dyke, near to Flamborough Head, is a tranquil, two-mile stretch. Set against sheer chalk cliffs, it’s a wonderful location to stop and watch the sun set.

Best of all, you can enjoy the region’s delights from your own private haven, in one of our romantic cottages. The ones below are a good place to start!

The Bolthole (IZF)

Tibthorpe, near Driffield

Bolthole  Bolthole

For that romantic getaway, The Bolthole is just the place. An idyllic, one bedroom, detached, characterful eclectic cottage situated on the owners’ smallholding in the village of Tibthorpe, with rare breed sheep and hens just outside the door, you really are in the countryside. The cottage has been renovated by the present owners, with great care and attention to detail, with an emphasis on Yorkshire and British made products where possible. Being situated in The Wolds, the cottage offers excellent access to countryside walks and cycle routes, with its rolling hills and magnificent unspoiled scenery, and the traditional seaside resorts of Scarborough, Filey, Bridlington and Whitby are within easy reach for day trips.

Ashpit Cottage (IUN)

Little Barugh, near Pickering

 Ashpit  Ashpit

For a truly rural retreat, Ashpit Cottage sits in glorious countryside on the edge of the North York Moors, looking over the Hambleton Hills. This beautiful Grade II listed barn conversion, with Visit Britain 5* Gold quality grading, is the perfect hideaway for two looking for a tranquil break. The delightful open plan living/dining room has a high vaulted beamed ceiling, exposed stone work and oak floors throughout. The large comfy sofa and chair snuggle round the wood-burning stove, perfect for relaxing on chilly evenings with a glass of wine and a good book. For a magical day out take the famous steam train from Pickering to Whitby and enjoy a fish and chip supper looking out over Whitby harbour. While historic York is not to be missed, with its cobbled shambles, medieval city walls and river cruises.

Header image courtesy of VisitEngland