Many of us are looking forward to getting out and about this Valentine’s Day. But you don’t need to go far in order to do something fun with your other half. With loads to see and do right on the CrossCountry network, let us give you a quick run down of some of our favourite activities which would make perfect Valentine’s Day date ideas this year.
Leave the little ones with friends or family, pack up a bag with a picnic, and hop onto a CrossCountry service to explore the UK and discover our pick of the best unique Valentine’s Day ideas.
1. Head to a Vegan Restaurant
Whether you’ve committed to Veganuary or not this year, lots of us are trying to cut back on the number of animal products we’re eating. Vegan dining is great for the environment and the animals. Plus, these amazing restaurants across our network serve mouth-watering dishes from burgers to Persian Mezze, meaning even the most dedicated meat eaters won’t feel like they’re missing out! You can of course couple one of our favourite vegan restaurants with another activity, but all of these great restaurants are worth the journey in their own right.
Discover our favourite vegan restaurants from across the network.
2. Treat yourself to a slap-up Michelin starred meal
If you’re looking for something a little more up-scale then we’ve got something for you, too! Be sure to impress your date with these amazing award-winning restaurants. Don’t tell them we told you, but many of them have great deals on their lunch time menus – sssh! You’ll still get incredible fresh produce prepared to the same standards, of course. Although it may not be the cheapest option on the list, this is will certainly be a Valentine’s Day date to remember!
There are lots of award-winning dining options on our network – discover our pick of the best Michelin-starred restaurants.
3. Go on a woodland walk
If you’re looking for something more wholesome, why not take your date outdoors? Going for a walk produces endorphins making you feel happier, and some experts believe that forest bathing should be prescribed on the NHS. You don’t need to hug the trees, but spending time in the great outdoors is a great opportunity for you and your Valentine to get to know each other and have a good chat. Whatever the weather, pack a raincoat and some sensible shoes and head out with your beloved.
We’ve picked some of our favourite places to go for a woodland walk in the UK.
4. Get your skates on and hit the ice
Why not channel your inner Torvill and Dean to show off your skating skills this Valentine’s Day? However, you don’t need to be a pro to enjoy taking your Valentine to an ice rink near you. Skating has long been a favourite date activity because you’re encouraged to hold hands as you make your way around the ice. If you’re more into skiing or want to give curling a go, there are loads of other winter sports which you could try your hand at.
You don’t have to head abroad to get your fix, check out our favourite places to try out winter sports on our network.
5. Giggle at a comedy club
People often say that a great sense of humour is one of the things that attracted them to their partner, so why not head to a comedy club to really tickle your Valentine’s funny bone? Depending on local restrictions clubs may be open in a socially distanced capacity, or there may be virtual events happening which you can tune into if you’re not able to be there in person. Regardless of the set up, you’re sure to have a great laugh, and many of our top venues also have a great selection of snacks and drinks so you can make it a whole night out.
We’ve put together a list of our favourite comedy clubs in Scotland to give you a flavour of what’s out there.
6. Explore one of Britain’s most beautiful beaches
Beaches might seem like a better idea in the summer, but the wild beauty of a British beach in the winter is a romantic choice of Valentine’s Day activity. You may even get some privacy which you’d never normally be able to do in the high season. Why not treat yourselves to some fish and chips while you’re there, or duck into a local restaurant for a sit-down meal and a glass of wine before your return journey.
Any of these beautiful UK beaches would make a great day trip for a Valentine’s day out.
7. Be at one with nature
It’s not just the beaches and woodlands of Britain which offer a getaway. If you really want to escape, why not head out to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty? This is a great option if you’re looking to get away for a long weekend for Valentine’s Day this year. This is a fab choice of Valentine’s Day activity if you and your partner love to be outdoors, but also ideal if you need to get some peace and quiet and just want to escape from the city.
From the Surrey Hills to the Northumberland Coast, discover our favourite Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
If you are planning a romantic trip away for your loved one this Valentine’s Day, take advantage of discounted prices on Advance tickets with CrossCountry.