Top 10 romantic things to do for Valentine’s Day
1. Watch Romeo and Juliet in London
If a trip to the flicks is on the cards, make it a movie night to remember at London’s Rivoli Ballroom. The original 1950s ballroom makes the perfect backdrop for pop-up movie nights including Baz Luhrman’s Romeo and Juliet on February 14th. Grab a cocktail and a hot dog from the bar and try not to let the gloriously chintzy surroundings distract you from the film.
2. See Bristol Aquarium at night
Fancy seeing Bristol Aquarium minus children? On Valentine’s Day you can enjoy an adults-only evening soaking up the sights of Bristol’s huge aquarium after-dark, so you can marvel at the marine life with no interruptions. Doors open at 6pm and there are tickets for couples as well as solo guests – in case you’re not in the mood for romance.
3. Take in a candlelit concert in Glasgow
Once a parish church, Òran Mór is now one of Glasgow’s most atmospheric venues – and it’s hosting two classical concerts on Valentine’s Day. If you’re looking for a sophisticated evening out, you’re in luck – think candlelight, a string quartet, and various romantic classics. Seating is first come first served, so get here early to bag the best seats.
4. Mix love potion cocktails in Manchester
For a date night with a difference, head to Manchester’s Alcotraz – a prison-themed bar where guests smuggle in their choice of liquor. The inmates-turned bartenders will turn your chosen tipple into various delicious cocktails, and you and your date will don orange jumpsuits for the experience – so there’s no need to worry about what to wear.
5. Go for a blowout meal in Cardiff
Looking to splurge on a slap-up meal? Your date can’t fail to be impressed by the menu – or the extravagant décor – at The Ivy in Cardiff. The restaurant hits just the right balance between sophisticated and relaxed, and the Valentine’s Day set menu includes sharing dishes and themed cocktails. We’ll take a heartbreaker on the rocks, please.
6. Eat a hearty brekkie in Birmingham
Looking for something a bit more budget-friendly, or meeting up in the morning? They say the way to your heart is through your stomach, so sit down to a properly good breakfast at Grand Central Kitchen next to New Street Station in Birmingham. The English brekkie gets rave reviews, and the service is second to none. Don’t be surprised if there’s a bit of a queue – this place is deservedly popular.
7. Stroll arm-in-arm through Edinburgh
Take a stroll through Princes Street Gardens and you’ll forget you’re in the heart of a buzzing city – especially in the winter. This gorgeous green expanse sits at the foot of Edinburgh Castle and the views are so pretty they’re poetic. It separates the New Town from the Old Town, so you can take your pick of the city’s restaurants and bars once you’ve worked up an appetite walking.
8. Tuck into a sharing platter in Newcastle
Love your puddings? Everything on the Valentine’s sharing experience menu at Newcastle’s Leila Lily’s restaurant looks incredible, but it’s the dessert that takes the crown. Book a table for two and once you’ve finished your starter and main, you’ll share The Eva Rose Garden. Expect a salted caramel heart, edible pistachio soil, and a super-cute candy floss tree.
9. Go boutique bowling in Leicester
Double – or triple – dating? Head for East Street Lanes, Leicester’s boutique bowling alley, and see if you can strike it lucky. There are eight lanes available for teams of six per lane, so it’s perfect if you’re a group of couples. There are retro arcade games when you’re all bowled out, plus a menu of burgers, pizzas and cocktails.
10. Fly a balloon over Bristol
Few things say I love you quite so extravagantly than a hot air balloon ride. Throw in some birds-eye Bristol views, a glass of Champagne and your one true love, and you’ve got yourself a Valentine’s Day to remember. Bailey Balloons set off from Ashton Court Estate, which is a 15-minute taxi ride from the city centre. Just check your date is OK with heights beforehand – or you may end up flying solo.
