Let’s be real: who doesn’t want to be that couple? The one that’s got it all figured out, happy, and totally in sync? Well, it turns out that over three-quarters (82%) of UK couples reported being happy in their relationships, with Gen Z and LGBTQ+ couples leading the way. Before you get too jealous (or start wondering if you should be swiping left on your partner), we’ve got the lowdown on what makes these couples so happy – and, most importantly, how you can take a leaf from their book. Spoiler alert: it’s less about fancy dates and more about real connection.

Bridebook’s Relationship Happiness Index

Here at Bridebook, we’ve launched the Relationship Happiness Index to dig deeper into what makes relationships tick. We surveyed 1,000 Brits to measure happiness in relationships across different generations and types of partnerships. Asking couples to rate their relationship happiness on a scale from 1-10, we were able to uncover not just what contributes to happiness, but also the challenges that might be holding couples back. Think of it as a roadmap to modern love, showing us where things are working – and where they need a little more TLC.

And if you’re engaged and dreaming of finding a perfect venue to celebrate your love, check out Bridebook’s extensive list of top UK wedding venues. You’ll find everything from charming, intimate spots to those that can cater to big celebrations – whatever fits your vibe and priorities!

The UK’s Favourite Ways to Bond as a Couple, Bridebook’s Relationship Happiness Index

The secrets to a happy relationship

1. It’s all about the emotional connection

Gen Z couples (those born between 1997 and 2012) and LGBTQ+ couples are crushing it in terms of emotional connection. These couples aren’t just going through the motions; they’re all about being emotionally in tune with their partner by sharing their thoughts, feelings and experiences in a way that builds genuine, long-lasting intimacy.

But don’t just take our word for it – over 87% of Gen Z couples rated their relationship happiness high on the Relationship Happiness Index. Same-sex and bisexual couples, meanwhile, rated 85%, surpassing heterosexual couples, who scored 81%.

Pro tip: Want to level up your connection? Take time each week to check in with your partner. Forget surface-level stuff like, “How was your day?”, and instead go deeper: “How are you feeling?” “What’s on your mind?” Building that emotional bridge might just be the key to long-term happiness in your romantic relationship.

2. Inclusivity and equality are the name of the game

One of the reasons why Gen Z and LGBTQ+ couples report higher happiness scores is because their relationships are built on a foundation of equality and inclusivity. These couples often feel like true partners – listening to each other, supporting one another through life’s ups and downs, and making decisions together, regardless of gender or societal norms. They’re putting each other first and making sure both voices are heard.

If your relationship feels a little lopsided, or if one person always seems to have the final say, it might be time to check in with each other and see how you can balance the load.

Pro tip: Ask yourself, how well do you and your partner communicate and support each other’s dreams and goals? Equality doesn’t mean perfect balance in everything (because, let’s face it, life is messy), but it’s about creating space where both people feel equally valued.

3. Forget the rules and go with the flow

If you think intimacy early on (whether having sex between dates 1 and 3, or even waiting until dates 4 to 6), think again. Of those we surveyed, one in ten couples didn’t follow some strict timeline when it came to intimacy, and they reported the highest relationship happiness satisfaction. It’s clear that allowing a relationship to evolve naturally can work wonders.

Pro tip: Try ditching the “dating timeline” in your head. Whether you’re moving at lightning speed or taking things slow, what really matters is the emotional connection you’re building. Don’t force it if it doesn’t feel right yet; let it flow and enjoy the ride.

4. Physical affection: The little things matter

If you think physical affection is just about grand gestures (fancy dates out, big expensive gifts), think again. Here at Bridebook, we found that the happiest couples (especially Gen Z) are getting their love fix from the small, day-to-day moments of affection: holding hands, cuddling on the couch, or sharing a quiet kiss after a long day. 83% of Gen Z couples swear by cuddles, and this super simple, intimate act is linked to higher happiness levels. Don’t believe us? Try it tonight! Make a habit of some good old-fashioned cuddling. Even if it’s just for 10 minutes before bed, physical closeness works wonders for your emotional bond.

In this overwhelmingly digital world, the happiest couples are also building strong relationships through non-digital forms of affection. Gen Z couples especially, who are known to love nostalgia, are embracing old-school romance like writing love letters and thoughtful notes. Yes, you heard that right – love letters are making a comeback, and we’re totally here for it!

Pro tip: Physical affection doesn’t have to be complicated or involve planning. Hold hands or cuddle while watching TV together, give your partner a hug when they get home, surprise them with a handwritten note or a cute text just to let them know you’re thinking about them. It’s all about staying close, and doesn’t have to be a grand gesture to make them feel loved!

5. Conflict: It’s normal, but how you handle it matters

Conflict is a normal part of any relationship. But what sets the happiest couples apart is how they deal with it. Gen Z and LGBTQ+ couples tend to address their disagreements with more emotional maturity, focusing on communication rather than confrontation. Yes, it’s easy to fall into the trap of silent treatment or angry outbursts, but the happiest couples make it a point to talk through their issues with mutual respect and understanding.

That being said, arguments happen. Our survey found that arguments about sex are the most damaging to relationship happiness, with couples who experience conflict around this topic reporting a significantly lower happiness score – just 72%, compared to 83% for couples who don’t argue about it. Issues surrounding children or future plans also play a major role in relationship stress. Couples who argue about having children or their future plans report an average happiness score of 76%, compared to 82% for those who avoid these conflicts.

Pro tip: Instead of letting tension simmer, try using “I” statements (“I feel upset when…”) to express how you’re feeling without blaming your partner. It can go a long way towards resolving conflict and maintaining a happy, supportive relationship. At the same time, if intimacy, children or future plans are creating tension in your relationship, try addressing the issue with empathy and openness. Instead of bottling up your feelings or avoiding the topic, focus on a solution that works for both of you. Remember, it’s not about winning an argument – it’s about understanding each other’s needs and finding common ground.

The Full Relationship Happiness Breakdown

Happiness scores by generation & relationship type:

Gen Z couples: 87% happiness score
Gen X couples: 79% happiness score
LGBTQ+ couples: 85% happiness score
Heterosexual couples: 81% happiness score

Key conflict areas impacting happiness:

Arguments about sex

Couples who argue about sex: 72% happiness score
Couples who don’t argue about sex: 83% happiness score

Arguments about children

Couples who argue about children: 76% happiness score
Couples who don’t argue about children: 82% happiness score

Arguments about future plans/security

Couples who argue about future plans: 77% happiness score
Couples who don’t argue about future plans: 82% happiness score

Commitment and intimacy insights

Couples who discussed commitment before starting their relationship: 93% happiness score
Couples who waited a year or more to discuss commitment: 85% happiness score

Relationship activities and habits:

Couples who engage in regular physical affection: 8% higher happiness
- Gen Z: 83% happiness score
- Gen X: 63% happiness score
- LGBTQ+ couples: 70% happiness score
- Bisexual couples: 78% happiness score
- UK average: 68% happiness score
Couples who actively exchange love letters or notes: 6% higher happiness

Build your happy relationship

The Gen Z and LGBTQ+ couples leading the charge in relationship happiness aren’t necessarily doing anything super radical – they’re just getting the basics right, and prioritising what matters most. From emotional connection to inclusivity and thoughtful forms of affection, it’s clear that modern love is all about creating a deep, genuine bond. So, if you want to boost your own relationship happiness, take a cue from these lovebirds: focus on each other, nurture your special connection and keep those little moments of love alive.

And remember, if you’re planning to say “I do” in a place that feels just as warm and comforting as your romantic relationship, take a look at the top wedding venues in the UK on Bridebook. From dreamy outdoor settings to cosy indoor spaces, there’s a venue out there for every couple.

Why Gen Z and LGBTQ+ Couples Are the Happiest in the UK – And How You Can Be Too

Bridebook’s Relationship Happiness Index

The secrets to a happy relationship

1. It’s all about the emotional connection