James and I celebrate our fourth anniversary next month and so I’ve started to think about our annual weekend away.

For year one, we spent a night at the Runnymede-on-Thames in Egham. We had a smashing time in the modern spa hotel, enjoying afternoon tea and a scrumptious dinner next to the banks of the River Thames. (Inside obviously as November can be a bit chilly). On the Sunday afternoon we explored Windsor, stopping in at the castle for a tour before heading home. It was great to have such a relaxing trip when so close to the M25. Though Runnymede feels slightly ‘businessey’ we were both really impressed by our friendly and attentive the staff were.

To celebrate year two we crashed our friend’s engagement celebrations down in Brighton and heartily tucked in to the best meal I’ve ever eaten in the UK at Havana Spoon (which sadly no longer exists). The next day we drove along the coast to Hastings arriving just before sunset. There was a great vibe in Hastings on the Sunday evening as we went off to tuck into a delicious thai meal in an old book shop(!) We laid down our heads for the evening at The Swan House; an absolutely stunning boutique hotel dating back to 1490 with elegant and sophisticated rooms and a colour palette to die for.
On the Monday I dragged James excitedly into the centre to visit some of the boutiques and antique shops but sadly found most of them were closed. I would love to go back and have a mooch around again.

Last year we headed down to Berkshire to explore Marlow and Little Marlow, stopping by Home Barn to peruse their fabulous collection of vintage interiors accessories and furniture. We spent the night at The Olde Bell in Hurley, a modern-day coaching inn with period features and very contemporary styling. Our meal was pleasant but we both felt it was exceptionally expensive for what we had to eat. Breakfast was far better! We stayed in the main building in a toasty warm room. It was great to relax in the bar afterwards by a roaring fire rather than have to step outside before heading up to bed.

And now on to year four. I have no idea where to go so I’m hoping you may have some recommendations. I’d like to think we’re not particularly fussy but here are a few pointers.

  • Our friends and family live all over the UK so we have to travel a lot. Ideally this hotel would be within an hour and a half of Junction 15 of the M1.
  • We’d prefer more of a rural location than a city one.
  • It would be great to have a good restaurant very nearby so we don’t have to wander too far after dinner.

    • Thanks in advance of all your suggestions. I am really looking forward to hearing your recommendations. Feel free to make any suggestions outside of my criteria so this becomes a useful post for anyone looking for a romantic break away.