Venues
Mini-Moons: The Growing Trend of Short & Sweet UK Honeymoons
A honeymoon is among the most beloved aspects of a wedding, but in the past few years, many couples have been selecting a shorter, more intimate escape, called a mini-moon. These brief and enjoyable honeymoons give couples the opportunity for a romantic getaway without a long-haul flight or lengthy work break. The UK, with its idyllic countryside, coastal retreats and plush spa hotels, has quickly emerged as a leading destination for mini-moons.
It can be a low planning, low budget getaway you deserve and don't have time to plan for, which might explain the rise of couples opting for mini-moons. Here’s why mini-moons are on the rise among newlyweds:
- Budget-Friendly Alternative - A mini-moon allows couples to save on cash while still experiencing a romantic escape. This can be helpful particularly for those who are having their weddings for a considerable amount of time.
- A Time Crunch - With busy work schedules and personal commitments, many couples find it challenging to take two weeks or more off. A mini-moon is the ideal alternative for those who have only a few days to travel.
- Flexibility for Future Honeymoon - Some couples do a mini-moon right after the wedding and a longer honeymoon at a later date when they have more time and budget to spare.
- Less Travel Stress - Keeping it UK means no long flights, no jet lag, no over the top travel planning, a far more relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Top Mini-Moon Destinations in the UK
The UK is home to so much wonderful scenery, perfect for a mini-moon. Here are some favourites:
The UK is home to so much wonderful scenery, perfect for a mini-moon. Here are some favourites:
1. The Cotswolds
With its postcard-perfect villages, gently rolling hills and rustic if slightly upscale boutique hotels, the Cotswolds is a dream destination for newlyweds. Use your mini-moon to shop in historic market towns, eat in fine-dining restaurants and hold hands on countryside walks.
2. Lake District
But if you can’t be without a hike, then the Lake District is the perfect pick for couples that love the great outdoors. Enjoy picturesque boat rides, embark on hiking adventures up stunning peaks, and relax at upscale spa resorts as you take in all the natural splendour the area has to offer.
3. Scottish Highlands
Escape to the romantic, remote Scottish Highlands, with stunning landscapes, cosy cabins, and even a stay in a historic castle. The Highlands is the ideal combination of adventure and relaxation.
4. Cornwall
If you’d rather have your toes in the sand, Cornwall’s beautiful coastline, sandy beaches and fresh seafood make it an excellent option. This means surfing, coastal strolls, and candlelit dinners with ocean views.
5. Bath
Sought after for its Roman baths and elegant Georgian architecture, Bath is a popular choice for couples seeking a romantic and indulgent getaway. Your mini-moon can be spent soaking in natural hot springs, delving into the city’s rich history and dining in fanciful restaurants.
Capturing Mini-Moon Memories with Local Photographers
A mini-moon may be brief, but the memories last a lifetime. Hiring local photographers to capture your romantic getaway ensures that you will be able to look back on the professional, high-quality images. Whether you’re wandering cobbled streets, gathering for sunset on the beach or gathering for a private dinner, a local photographer can beautifully document the special moments.
A lot of couples book a post-wedding photoshoot on their mini-moon so they can have some high-quality snaps taken in a beautiful, laid-back setting. Local photographers know where the best spots are, the lighting at specific times, angles, etc., ensuring your mini-moon memories are captured in vivid detail.
Thoughtful Wedding Gifts in London for Mini-Mooners
A newlywed couple is likely to be planning a mini-moon, so when it comes to unique wedding gifts in London consider things that will help to make the most out of their trip. Some great ideas include:
- Luxury Spa Vouchers - A spa day at a romantic destination such as Bath or the Cotswolds is the ultimate pampering.
- Personalised Travel Accessories - Monogrammed travel wallets, luggage tags or passport holders help make travel chic and more practical.
- Take The Couple Out To Dinner - spoil them with dinner in a Michelin-star restaurant at their mini-moon location.
- Photography Session Gift Vouchers - Offer a few hours with a pro to help the couple document their mini-moon.
Mini-moons offer newlyweds a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their union without the hassle of long travels or exorbitant expenses. A countryside retreat, seaside escape or historic city break are just some of the romantic options available in the UK. Thoughtful touches, from hiring local photographers to document the trip, to giving wedding gifts in London that elevate their experience, make a mini-moon all the more special.
For additional wedding planning tips, expert recommendations and honeymoon inspiration, see MyWeddingQuote.