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Whether you’ve been together for two months, two years or two decades, there's no better way to celebrate your relationship than with a memorable Valentine’s Day date.
We've compiled some of the most unique things to do on Valentine’s Day across the North and Scotland, ensuring every couple can find something special. From cosy board games to luxurious wining and dining, we've got the best date ideas to suit your relationship.
Love bringing out each other’s competitive side? Liverpool’s quirky board game café could be the destination for your ultimate Valentine’s Day date. Located in the trendy Baltic Triangle, just a stone's throw from the city centre, Sugar and Dice is an ideal spot for couples who enjoy going head-to-head over a game of Scrabble or Monopoly.
Sugar and Dice boasts an extensive library of board games, all of which can be borrowed and enjoyed in the cosy venue. In addition to games, there’s a selection of snacks, hot drinks and craft beers. The menu changes weekly, with tasty options for vegans and vegetarians always on offer. If Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be the same without your four-legged friend, the café also welcomes friendly dogs to join in on the fun!
Location: 33a Cornhill, Liverpool, England, L1 8DP
Opening times: Mon, Weds-Fri: 2-10pm, times vary on weekends (between 12-10pm)
4-hour booking limit on weekdays and 3 hours on weekends. Walk-ins are welcome, but booking is recommended, especially during peak times (evenings and Friday-Sunday).
Cost: £2.50 per person per hour, £1.25 for 5-7-year-olds, free for under 5s
Are you a fan of Prison Break, Orange is the New Black or real-life crime documentaries? You’ll love this Valentine’s date night idea. Alcotraz: Cell Block Three-Four is a speakeasy bar with a unique twist, located just off Deansgate in the heart of Manchester city centre.
The venue’s décor is inspired by the world’s most famous prisons, and the bar even incorporates some immersive theatre. Step inside, pull on an orange jumpsuit and be instructed by a notorious gang in the art of bootlegging. Your mission: smuggle liquor past the guards and into the main cells (the bar), where you’ll enjoy bespoke, delicious cocktails.
Location: 1a Watson Street, Manchester, M3 4EE
Opening times: Tues-Sun: times vary by day (between 3:30-11:15pm)
Cost: Tickets start at £42 per person
Hidden beneath a charming barbershop in the centre of Leeds, this intimate jazz club offers a magical setting for a soulful Valentine's Day experience. The Domino Club is an enchanting escape ideal for relaxing and connecting with your significant other. The dimly lit venue exudes an old-school charm, with smooth, sultry jazz setting the tone for a night of romance. While sipping on a carefully curated selection of wines, craft beers or expertly mixed cocktails, indulge in classic favourites or adventurous twists on your usual picks.
As the evening unfolds, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere accompanied by either live jazz or curated DJ mixes.
Location: 7 Grand Arcade, Leeds, LS1 6PG
Opening times: Wed-Sun (with selected Tuesdays). Times vary by day (between 6pm-2am)
Cost: Entry fees vary by day. Wed, Fri and Sun are free entry
Enter the neon world of One Under in Glasgow, where otherworldly entertainment awaits you for a unique and immersive date experience. Discover a treasure trove of DJ sets, bonkers mini golf and, most importantly, Glasgow’s first (and only) indoor car racing track. Put your competitive streak to the test as you go head-to-head with your partner around the thrilling racetrack. Just make sure you don’t crash and burn!
Location: 69 Albion St, Glasgow, G1 1NY
Opening times: Open daily. Times vary by day (between 11-1am)
Cost: £5 for adults, £4.50 for students and kids
Experience Edinburgh’s main sights like never before, set to a cabaret-inspired soundtrack, with the delightful Cab-arette tour.
Created by local taxi driver Sylvia Daw, a long-time resident of Scotland’s capital, the tour was inspired by her love of cabaret acts at the legendary Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Not only will Sylvia get you from A to B in her bright red taxi, but she’ll also share fascinating facts about the city’s major sights, streets and monuments while entertaining you with her fantastic Show tour routine.
For an extra special touch, you can even add a bottle of bubbly to your booking – perfect for a unique Valentine’s Day date.
Cost: Tickets start at £120 for two people.
Sophistication, elegance, style…remind you of your special someone? Treat your partner to an indulgent wine and dine experience in Newcastle at the breathtaking 3Sixty bar and restaurant. With panoramic views of the city, romantic piano lounge and award-winning culinary expertise, add some extra wow-factor to your Valentine’s Day this year.
Choose from a range of experiences at 3Sixty, including a luxurious bottomless two-course meal with endless beverages, wine or whiskey tasting, afternoon tea, Sunday lunch, or a romantic evening meal. Or simply sip a drink while watching the sunset in this extraordinary, opulent setting. The venue offers gluten free and vegan options so everyone can savour this unique experience from the clouds.
Location: 27 Rutherford St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5BJ
Opening times: Mon-Thurs, Sun: 12-11pm, Fri-Sat: 12pm-12am
Cost: £20 afternoon tea or a la carte offers available Mon-Sat: 12-8pm. £20 Sunday lunch offer available Sun
Whether you consider yourself the next Picasso or your artistic talents only extend to the occasional game of Pictionary, The Art House offers a range of classes that make for creative date ideas.
Located in the heart of Sheffield, this eclectic venue hosts a variety of classes led by experienced artists. While many are part of longer six-to-eight-week courses, The Art House also offers plenty of one-off sessions. Try your hand at pottery throwing on a wheel, learn how to make beautiful lino prints or create your very own homemade Valentine’s Day cards to gift your partner.
Location: 45 Carver Street, Sheffield, S1 4FT
Opening times: Mon-Fri: 9.30am-9pm, Sat: 10am-4pm
Cost: £60 per person for a pottery workshop
Does your partner have a sweet tooth? Their ideal date could be an afternoon tea at Betty’s in York.
For a truly unique experience, book a luxurious afternoon tea in one of Betty’s historic rooms. As you sip specially selected teas, enjoy a selection of dainty sandwiches, irresistible miniature cakes and freshly baked scones, all while being serenaded by a pianist. It’s the perfect way to create a memorable and romantic experience for your special someone.
Location: 6-8 St. Helen's Square, York, YO1 8QP
Opening times: Mon-Thurs: 9am-5:30pm, times vary on weekends (between 8:30am-7pm)
Cost: From £44.95 per person
If a classic, Bridgerton-style Valentine’s activity sounds idyllic, a stroll around the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh is a must.
Located in Stockbridge, just north of the city centre, this lush spot offers a romantic setting for a leisurely walk. While the greenhouses are currently closed, you can still explore the beautiful gardens for free. Highlights include the enchanting Woodland Garden and the Scottish Heath Garden, full of native plant species.
Location: Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH3 5NZ
Opening times: Open daily. Times vary by season (between 10am-5pm)
Cost: Free!
Carlisle is the perfect starting point for an epic trek with your other half, with the highlight being the trail that follows the ancient Hadrian’s Wall. This historic monument is easily accessible from the city centre via a short rail or bus connection, with drop-offs for various trails along the wall.
Visitors can hike, explore fascinating sites and museums nearby, or combine both activities. Discover rare Roman artifacts, engage with interactive exhibits, and enjoy breathtaking views of the rugged landscape. This fascinating location offers a glimpse into the lives of those who once lived on the edge of Roman Britain, making it the ideal date for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Location: Brampton, Gilsland, CA8 7DD
Opening times: Walks are open access. Museums and attractions vary in opening times
Cost: Museums and attractions vary in entry costs
With so many things to do for Valentine’s Day across our network, it will be hard to choose how to spend yours! Book your train now to any of our destinations to avoid disappointment.
For more inspiration on the best activities and places to see in the North and Scotland, check out our guides on the best things to do in Manchester or the best day trips from Edinburgh.
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