The simplicity and authenticity of the big outdoors is the perfect place to nurture romance.

May signals the bluebell season, and could there be anything more beautiful than strolling through a forest that’s blanketed in purple flowers?

Head to Ightham Mote, a 14^thCentury moated manor house surrounded by a 546-acre national trust estate in Kent.

Park and walk and stop for a refuel either at Mote café or the Papermakers Arms in Plaxtol.

There are three different routes you can take for your bluebell stroll and then take a break with tea and cakes or perhaps a pub lunch, the choice is yours.

While you’re in the neighbourhood you may want also to drive in the direction of Chartwell, the home of Sir Winston Churchill. It’s definitely worth a visit.

Make the trip a total surprise for the object of your affection and book a room at Hever Castle where Henry VIII romanced Anne Boleyn.

There’s the beautiful Edward VII suite, or maybe you can stay on theme and curl up in a big four-poster bed instead.

Book a table at the nearby Henry VIII pub for dinner, casual and close.

Car rental from SIXT, AVIS, Europcar, or Hertz, all have central London pick up and drop off locations and a range of luxury vehicles if you want to ride in total comfort and style.

Nothing like a blooming marvellous getaway in one of England’s most Royal counties.