Valentine’s Day 2026 falls on a Saturday – the perfect excuse for a romantic long weekend escape to Exmoor. Whether you’re looking for a cosy cottage with a wood burner, a quirky shepherd’s hut under the stars, or a luxurious retreat with stunning moorland views, Exmoor has it all.
Forget the crowded restaurants and predictable gifts. This year, give your partner the gift of adventure, tranquility, and quality time together in one of England’s most beautiful national parks.
In This Guide
Why Exmoor for Valentine’s?
Exmoor in February might not be the first place that springs to mind for a romantic getaway, but that’s exactly what makes it so special.
Peace & Privacy
Dark Sky Reserve
Snowdrop Season
Cosy Pub Fires
Dramatic Coast
Luxury Retreats
“The most magical place for a proposal we could have imagined. Snowdrops, starlight, and complete peace.”
— Sarah & James, February 2025
Plus, Valentine’s Day 2026 coincides with Snowdrop Valley’s peak bloom – imagine surprising your partner with a walk through thousands of wild snowdrops before returning to your cosy cottage for the evening.
Romantic Cottages for Two
We’ve hand-picked over 50 cottages perfect for couples. Here are our top picks for a Valentine’s escape.
✦ Unique & Quirky Stays
✦ Shepherd’s Huts & Glamping
✦ Cosy Coastal Cottages
Hand-in-Hand Across Exmoor
There’s nothing quite like a winter walk together. From valley snowdrops to dramatic coastal cliffs, these are our favourite romantic routes.
🧣 Winter Walking Tip
Pack warm layers, waterproofs, and a flask of hot chocolate. February weather can be dramatic, but the views are clearer than ever!
Romantic Dining
Fine Dining
The Luttrell Arms, Dunster
Historic coaching inn with award-winning restaurant and romantic candlelit atmosphere.
The Rising Sun, Lynmouth
Harbourside dining with stunning sea views. Fresh local seafood a speciality.
Tarr Farm Inn
Riverside setting near Tarr Steps. Locally-sourced menu with seasonal specials.
Cosy Pub Dinners
The Ship Inn, Porlock
13th-century inn with roaring fires and excellent local ales. Cosy and welcoming.
The Royal Oak, Winsford
Thatched village pub with flagstone floors, oak beams, and hearty food.
The Rockford Inn, Brendon
Romantic riverside location with garden. Perfect post-walk pit stop.
Top Tip: Book your Valentine’s dinner at least 4 weeks in advance – popular restaurants fill up quickly!
Unique Experiences
Stargazing
Exmoor is an International Dark Sky Reserve – one of the best places in England to see the Milky Way. Pack a blanket and hot chocolate, and head to Webbers Post, Holdstone Hill, or County Gate for breathtaking views of thousands of stars.
Spa & Wellness
Treat yourselves to a couples’ massage or relax in a hot tub under the stars. Several local hotels offer spa treatments – the perfect way to unwind after a bracing moorland walk.
Red Deer Watching
Witness the majesty of Exmoor’s wild red deer herds in their natural habitat. Early morning or late afternoon drives across the open moor might reward you with sightings of these magnificent animals.
Common Questions
When is Valentine’s Day 2026?
Valentine’s Day 2026 falls on Saturday, February 14th – perfect for a romantic long weekend getaway to Exmoor.
What’s the weather like in February?
February on Exmoor is typically cold (2-8°C) with occasional frost and a chance of snow on higher ground. Pack warm layers and waterproofs – and enjoy the dramatic winter atmosphere!
Are the snowdrops out on Valentine’s Day?
Yes! Snowdrop Valley typically reaches peak bloom in mid-February, making Valentine’s weekend the perfect time to visit. Check our Snowdrop Valley guide for the latest updates.
Do cottages have wood burners?
Many of our cottages have wood burners or log fires – perfect for cosy evenings. Check individual cottage listings for details, or filter by “real fire” on our website.
Can I bring my dog?
Most of our cottages welcome dogs – after all, a romantic walk on the moor is even better with your four-legged friend! Use the filter on our booking page to find dog-friendly options.
How far in advance should I book?
For Valentine’s weekend, we recommend booking at least 4-6 weeks in advance. The most popular romantic cottages (especially those with hot tubs or unique features) book up quickly.
