W

ith its well-documented dreaming spires, there’s something tangibly romantic about Oxford. It’s undeniably one of England’s most attractive cities with a weighty romantic legacy.

You only have to take a literary tour of the city to see it inspires the heart and soul. Visit Magdalen College cloisters whose stone carved creatures inspired CS Lewis’ Narnia or wander round Christ Church College where the real Alice in Wonderland lived.

Take a boat trip along the River Thames like Jerome K Jerome’s Three Men in a Boat or sit under Tolkein’s favourite tree in Oxford Botanic Garden or on the bench where Philip Pullman’s Will and Lyra vow to meet up. One of Oxford’s most affordable and yet sexy hotels is The Oxford Mal, part of the Malmaison chain.

The fact that it’s in a converted prison might appeal to the more kinky minded couples. Exposed brick walls and original features juxtapose sumptuous burgundy and plum furnishings, roll top baths and monsoon showers.

Book the ‘Love Suite Love’ package and you can stay in a glorious suite with champagne on ice, chocolate dipped strawberries, aromatic oils and champagne breakfast in bed.