Orkney – one of the country’s most romantic destinations

Orkney has been shortlisted as one of the most romantic destinations in the UK, as part of a series of awards organised by publishers Mills & Boon.

A public vote on the Mills & Boon website, which runs until April 20, will decide the three finalists for each category.

Orkney has been shortlisted in the most romantic destination category alongside Bath, Brighton, St Ives, Stratford-upon-Avon, the Lake District, the Brecon Beacons, Edinburgh, Oxford and York.

Kirsty Mainland, chairwoman of the Orkney Tourism Group, said: “We’re thrilled, but not surprised that Orkney has been shortlisted for a romantic destination award.

“Our dramatic and magical landscape has long been a draw for couples looking to spend quality time together, while the islands remain a constant source of inspiration for writers, poets, artists and musicians. Weddings in Orkney have a special quality, with lots of honeymooners from around the world also drawn here.

“It’s hard not to fall in love with the place and we’re sure Orkney will get lots of votes, both from the local community and from further afield.”