First of all you may be asking yourselves why you need a Mini-Moon? The main reason couples choose to go on a break before their big day is to simply take a break from the planning and just enjoy each others company. Just the thought of your wedding day can be daunting and cause anxiety to some couples but taking a well-earned retreat before the big day arrives can help calm any pre-wedding nerves and remind you why you are getting married – because you love each other!
Authors Bio: Vivienne May Weddings was founded and created by Kerrie May. With over 8 years of experience in the luxury wedding & event industry, Kerrie has worked at some of the UK’s most iconic venues alongside a selection of renowned industry professionals and worked with a selection of high-net worth couples.
Kerrie is a UK Wedding Planner and has a distinctive reputation amongst her fellow luxury wedding professionals. Her wealth of experience, industry knowledge and unrivalled passion for bringing her clients vision to life is what drives her to plan impeccably designed, style-led and perfectly co-ordinated weddings, with romance at it’s heart.
In the current climate we can all agree that the safer option is to stay in the UK, so I’ve saved you the numerous hours of searching for your best options and included my Top 5 Mini-Moon breaks for you to browse through below. You’ll be packing your suitcase in no time…
Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons – this is one for the gourmet foodies out there!
Photo credit: Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons @belmondlemanoir
Set in the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, Belmond Le Manoir is a (delicious) breath of fresh air when it comes to exquisite dining experiences.
Their 2 Michelin Star restaurants are lead by the world-renowned Raymond Blanc and offer 5 course lunches, afternoon tea and even 7 course dinners – you will not be left hungry!
And if you’re looking for something to do together, you could book into their Cookery School and learn to create delightful cuisine alongside fellow gourmet foodies before retiring to one of the Manor’s luxurious suites.
Nearby you’ll find a variety of activities, from historic museums, to a private helicopter ride above the iconic city of Oxford, to an Aqua Park, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
The Cary Arms & Spa – perfect for those looking to escape to the Devonshire coast.
Photo credit: The Cary Arms & Spa @caryarms
The Cary Arms is a luxury five star boutique hotel and winner of the 2019 Condé Nast Johansens Readers Choice Award – it is a must for those looking for a beach getaway.
From complimentary wine and slow gin on arrival, to a Sonos wireless music system and iconic Smeg appliances, this is the place to be for those of you looking to escape to their own ‘bubble’ at sea (and you can even bring your dog with you!)
One of their latest additions are the unique Beach Huts; with uninterrupted views of the Jurassic Coast, complete luxurious privacy and all the modern home-comforts you’ll need, you’ll be wanting to extend your stay from the moment you arrive.
Their serene and luxurious spa provides the perfect excuse to unwind in a relaxed setting, whilst for the adventurers out there, why not try diving, horse riding, windsurfing, you could even hire your own Yacht for the day – you’ll have trouble fitting it all into your stay!
The Balmoral Hotel – this is for the couples who love heritage, walking trails and exploring.
Photo credit: The Balmoral Hotel @thebalmoral
The Balmoral is at the heart of the historic city of Edinburgh and combines elegant and stylish décor with traditional Scottish home-comforts. Walking through the hotel, you are sure to find elegant antiques, original fireplaces and artistic flair surrounding you.
A choice of beautiful rooms and suites are available for you to unwind in, whilst subtle undertones of blue, green and grey surround you, creating a pool of serenity.
Their delicious blend of French cuisine with fresh, local Scottish produce in their Brasserie is a feast for the eyes! And after you can retire to the Bar Prince to indulge in a cocktail (or two…)
After visiting local landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and Edinburgh Zoo, the hotel also offers Whiskey, Cheese, Walking & Cultural experiences for you to immerse yourselves in.
Sopwell House, nestled in the heart of the Hertfordshire countryside, this is the perfect staycation for those who love escaping from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Photo credit: Sopwell House @sopwellhouse
If you are looking for another level of privacy, Sopwell House offers Studio Suites located amongst private gardens. Complete with hot tub, private terrace and all the modern home comforts you could ever need.
Aside from their delicious Brasserie menu, 2 AA Rosette Restaurant and Seasonal Afternoon Tea menus, there’s even the option to hire their romantic Gazebo and enjoy a private candlelit dinner for two under the stars.
Their incredible Cottonmill Spa oozes indulgence. It is the UK’s first ever Private Members Spa and from their Elemis treatments, to their state-of-the-art Gym, to their tranquil spa gardens, there is no stone left unturned in their approach to pure serenity.
For animal lovers, you’ll also find the beautiful Knebworth House & Gardens, Whipsnade Zoo and Paradise Wildlife Park nearby to explore.
Rosewood, London – for the City-loving couples looking for a romantic and exciting getaway.
Photo credit: Rosewood, London @rosewoodlondon
The iconic 5 Star luxury hotel boasts exquisite Edwardian details throughout, whilst remaining modern, sophisticated and chic. You can enjoy a Gin Masterclass, Scotch Tasting or Pie Masterclass without leaving the comfort of the hotel.
The Macallan Manor House is the latest addition to Rosewood, London, partnering with the legendary Macallan Whiskey, offering a Winter Terrace for you to cosy up to one another and enjoy the candlelit surroundings.
And if you fancy exploring, the hotel is perfectly located to uncover famous London landmarks; from The Shard, to The National Portrait Gallery, to Buckingham Palace – the perfect excuse to be a London sightseer for the weekend.
If this has got you in the mood to look for staycations then a read of my Top Bridal Shower Staycations for you and your girls to enjoy is a must-read!
Comments