To mark Valentine’s Day 2024, we’ve rounded up some of the best and most unusual places for a romantic getaway, whether it’s on the day itself, subject to availability, or to buy as a gift for you and your partner on a future date.
13. The Grotto, Marsden, South Tyneside
For something quirky why not try the rooms at The Grotto which are carved into the cliffs overlooking the beach. The hotel was recently named North East Hidden Gem at the eviivo Awards. The unique site was created in 1782 by smuggler Jack Bates, aka “Jack the Blaster” and his wife Jessie. They used explosives to blast a large cave into the side of the cliff to create themselves a rent-free home on the beach. Photo: JPI Media
14. Hotel Indigo, Durham City
You'll be feeling anything but blue after a stay at this Hotel Indigo. The green dome of the red brick Old Shire Hall has been a distinctive feature of Durham City’s skyline after its construction in 1896. After a period of dereliction, in 2018 it was brought back to all its Victorian glory with a year-long £15million renovation by the Hotel Indigo chain who created an 83-bedroom boutique hotel, Marco Pierre White restaurant, rotunda bar, and coffee house called Tinderbox Espresso Emporium, blending contemporary luxury with the hotel's striking historic features. Photo: Library Photo
15. Slaley Hall, near Hexham, Northumberland
Slaley Hall and its 1,000 acres of Northumberland countryside offer a bit of everything from natures activities and golf to a spa day and dining in grand surroundings. Make sure you retire to the cosy whisky snug for a post-dinner tipple. Photo: Library photo
16. Hotel Du Vin, Newcastle city centre
Sink into roll top baths at this stylish hotel housed in a splendid Edwardian building, which was once home to the Tyne Tees Steam Ship Company. Rooms each have their own quirky features. Photo: Submitted