You can find romantic getaways all over the south east of England. Whether you're looking for a country house hotel and spa to pamper the two of you or a quiet beach; or maybe you prefer to stroll around a fairytale castle or the cobbled streets of a quaint village? Here are some inspiring ideas to get you started.

Beaches

No matter what time of year and whatever the weather, the crashing or murmuring of waves makes for a romantic environment. The sandy beach at Broadstairs in Kent is a favourite with families, but off season, you're likely to have the place to yourself. Further along the coast is Ian Fleming's favourite, St Margaret's Bay with its spectacular chalk cliffs. In East Sussex, head away from the crowds and discover the romantic haven of Littlehampton West Beach, with its natural dunes and perfect stretch of sand. The Isle of Wight is full of superb sandy beaches, but romantic couples will be delighted to know that unspoilt Steephill Cove near Ventnor is one of the quietest beaches on the island - mainly because it can't be accessed by car...

Waterways

River journeys, with their slow pace and gentle scenery, always have a sense of romance about them. The River Thames near Henley, for example formed the inspiration for the idyllic setting of The Wind in The Willows. Hire a punt and float through Oxford to get a different perspective on its magnificent architecture. In Surrey, hire boats at Farncombe Boat House near the pretty market town of Godalming and row or motor to historic Guildford through the pretty meadows surrounding the River Wey. Down in West Sussex, a charming boat cruise (or self-drive) takes you up the River Arun from Littlehampton to the historic town of Arundel. In Berkshire, the River Kennet winds through the beautiful Marlborough Downs.

Places to visit

There are dozens of romantic destinations in the South East. Take to the enchanting cobbled streets of Rye, or test out the aphrodisiac qualities of oysters at the pretty waterfront in Whitstable. There's nothing like a fairytale castle for a sense of old-fashioned romance: Leeds Castle in Kent and Bodiam Castle in East Sussex are both idyllic spots with beautiful grounds. Quaint villages are perfect for couples wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life: The Lee and Speen in the Chilterns, and Amberley in West Sussex are prefect examples.

Accommodation

Treat yourselves to a stay in a hotel or B&B away from it all...The romance of the past is all around you at Mermaid Inn - right on Rye's most famous cobbled street, and the cosy 15th century Swan House in Old Hastings. Or how about playing lord and lady of the manor? The many grand country house hotels scattered across the region include: Esseborne Manor in Hampshire, Amberley Castle and Gravety Manor in West Sussex and Pekes Manor House in East Sussex.

For a totally different experience, the Livingstone Safari Lodge at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park in Kent has you staying in safari-style tents and waking up to the sound of lions. For spa breaks, you will be literally spoilt for choice: try the Cuckfield Lodge O'Spa in Cuckfield, Sussex; The Grange in Shanklin on the Isle of Wight, or Hartwell House Hotel in Aylesbury, Berkshire. Red Funnel's Chic Treats call 0870 458 6392.

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