UK City Break - A Romantic Valentines Day

Despite the frost and snow, hearts will be melting all over the country soon, as Valentine's Day approaches once again.If you're hoping to be whisked away for a surprise break this weekend, you might not need to pack a passport. According to an article in the Times, the romantic break is the latest victim of the recession, with fewer people planning to take their loved one abroad this year. Online searches are up for Valentine breaks in the UK, with Scotland, London and Bath amongst the most popular destinations.As February 14^th also happens to be the first day of the school half term, it might be wise to avoid airports on Friday night and Saturday morning. There are some beautiful British locations offering perfect settings for cosy bolt-holes far from the madding crowd, and out of season loads of great hotel bargains are available. Here's five of the best places to try:

• The Lake District: The Telegraph reported the results of a survey by Laterooms this week, which reveals that 31% of lovers intending to spend some quality time together would opt for the serenity of the Lake District.


• Edinburgh: Fantastic shopping, historic grandeur, and an excellent choice of luxurious hotels make this an ideal romantic city break. ( Check out the Glass House)


• Bath: Roman and Neoclassical architecture provides a stunning back-drop to this bustling city. Visitors can enjoy the original Roman baths, and then relax in the new Thermae Bath Spa.


• Brighton: A traditional favourite amongst lovers, Brighton has a bit of everything, from seaside walks, to boutique hotels, candlelit restaurants and some great jewellery shops!


• Brecon Beacons, Wales: one of the most breathtaking areas of natural beauty in the UK, and home to some high quality B&B's. Couples can work up an appetite with a morning hike, then warm up by the fire in one of the area's excellent gastro pubs.

But if none of these appeals and you're holding out for a more exotic surprise, you might still be in luck. A story in the Travel Mail has revealed that lots of Brits are still booking sunshine breaks this winter to escape the freezing temperatures. Easyjet said flights to sunnier climes were up 17% in December compared to the same period for 2007 - so fingers crossed!