Planning a romantic escape with your partner but have no idea where to go? There’s a plethora of hidden gems in Berkshire guaranteed to sweep them off their feet.
Whether you’re looking for Valentine’s Day inspiration or somewhere special to visit with your loved one, we’ve come up with a list of romantic ideas that will work wonders all year round.
From intimate restaurants where romance rules to historic homes and inspiring theatres, here are our top 7 picks for romantic hidden gems in Berkshire. They’re bound to leave you smitten.
Think of enchanting and secluded places, hidden gardens, and cosy, candlelit dinners with the one you love. If you're looking for romantic hidden gems in Berkshire, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
The following suggestions will help you plan the perfect date night or special day out with your partner in the Royal County of Berkshire.
There’s something romantic and unique about visiting a theatre with your partner. The dimly lit auditorium, the anticipation of the velvet curtain raising, the hushed murmurs in the background; it adds up to the ideal romantic setting for couples of all ages.
The iconic Theatre Royal Windsor is nestled beside Windsor Castle in the heart of the famous town, providing a stunning backdrop for any special occasion. You’ll find drama, plays, and productions all year round, and its central location is near a variety of bars and restaurants for a post-theatre drink.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay overnight, there’s plenty of accommodation in Windsor including our very own serviced apartments.
Dry January is (thankfully) over, so why not treat your partner to a romantic wine-tasting experience at the gorgeous Stanlake Park, another of our hidden gems in Berkshire.
You don’t have to be a wine connoisseur to enjoy one of the many options on offer at the Stanlake Park estate. Trained guides will lead you through the entire experience, from vineyard tours to sampling some of their own award-winning wines, all set in the beautiful Berkshire countryside.
You’ll find Stanlake Park on the outskirts of Twyford which has its own railway station, so you can leave the car at home and relax for the entire day. If you’re looking for nearby accommodation, you’ll find plenty of serviced apartments in both Reading and Maidenhead.
The simple things in life are often the most romantic like a stroll around historic Basildon Park with your loved one.
There’s a beautiful 400-acre estate to explore with four waymarked walks lined with ancient trees and wildflowers. You could also take a tour around the opulent mansion to view its many artistic treasures or visit the stunning 18th-century formal garden before you and your partner enjoy a relaxing drink in the pretty tearoom.
Basildon Park is located in Lower Basildon and it’s undoubtedly one of our favourite hidden gems in Berkshire. The towns of Reading, Henley, and Newbury are within close distance, offering a range of accommodation including stylish serviced apartments for those couples craving a genuine home-from-home experience.
The Royal County is a piece of foody paradise, and Caldesi in Campagna in Bray is one of the many romantic hidden gems in Berkshire and top of our favourite date night venues. Here, you’ll find all the key ingredients for an intimate dinner setting such as exquisite Italian cuisine, soft furnishings, and sympathetic lighting.
There’s no shortage of impressive restaurants serving delicious food in Berkshire, it’s just a case of doing your research. For example, Bluebells Restaurant in Sunningdale is perfect for informal fine dining, while The White Oak in Cookham is an amazing gastropub with a laid-back vibe. All three options listed are within easy reach of serviced accommodation in Maidenhead.
Further west you’ll find the excellent L’Ortolan near Reading, a stunning Michelin-starred restaurant that will seduce you into a food coma. The Woodspeen near Newbury is another Michelin-star restaurant and cookery school that’s guaranteed to impress your other half.
You don’t need to be an equine enthusiast to enjoy a day at the races. Ascot Racecourse is one of the hidden gems in Berkshire that has all the elements needed for a romantic day out in one location.
There’s the majestic nature of the thoroughbred horses to admire as they circle the parade ring. Or you could revel in the timeless tradition of the racing itself amid an atmosphere charged with excitement and heritage. Whether you and your partner are dressed up to the nines in your best formal outfit, or relishing a more casual affair, Ascot Races provides the perfect romantic setting as one of the premier horse racing venues in the country.
As well as high-class racing, you can sip champagne, place a few bets together, enjoy a fine dining experience, or simply relax amid the stunning scenery while you create romantic memories. Ascot can be easily reached by car or public transport, and is only a short drive from a variety of serviced accommodation options in Reading, Wokingham, and Maidenhead.
You’ll find spectacular landscapes, an array of wildlife, and incredible views along the Kennet & Avon Canal – the perfect setting for couples to enjoy a long, romantic walk.
We don’t recommend trekking the entire length of the canal – it’s 87 miles long with 104 locks and links London to Bristol. But this glorious waterway passes through plenty of pretty towns and villages and miles of quintessential English countryside as it winds through Berkshire, Wiltshire, and the rolling Cotswolds.
There’s a variety of activities on offer such as renting a riverboat or, if you’re feeling energetic, a spot of paddleboarding on the canal’s calm waters. Alternatively, just grab your walking shoes and head for the towpaths or ride your bikes along the cycle routes to fully appreciate this hidden gem in Berkshire. But leave the packed lunch behind as there’s a plethora of romantic pubs, restaurants, and tearooms dotted along the canal. You’ll also find serviced apartments at various stops including Reading where the canal meets the River Thames.
Couples can connect and interact with birds of prey at the Feathers and Fur Falconry Centre, another hidden gem in Berkshire that makes an ideal romantic destination throughout the year.
Admire the sheer beauty and grace of the many winged wonders on display including hawks, falcons, and owls. The centre offers hands-on experience sessions, family falconry classes and more. You and your partner can take your time as you wander through the gardens and bond over your shared appreciation of some of nature’s marvelled creatures.
You’ll find Feather and Fur Falconry Centre at Moss End Garden Village, a short distance from Bracknell with its array of shops, bars, restaurants as well as luxury serviced apartments.
Nothing beats the freedom and flexibility of a serviced apartment. At Berkshire Rooms, we believe they’re hidden gems themselves. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay while you visit Berkshire’s romantic hidden gems, contact us today.