With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, we’re sure the more organised of you have bought that heart shaped chocolate box (if not, please note that Prestat’s chocolates are a fail-safe token of your everlasting love!) and booked a fabulous restaurant for the evening.
The forgetful ones however, are hurriedly shopping online for anything that arrives just in time.
The rest of us are pretending we don’t care at all that it’s Valentine’s Day – oh, it’s the 14th already is it, what a pointless day, who wants to be showered with gifts of flowers and chocolates anyway…
If you are wanting to celebrate Valentine’s Day a little differently this year, then look no further!
We have complied a list of fun, romantic, scenic and quirky suggestions and the best part, they are all in Britain. Don’t worry if you are single this Valentine’s, these places are also great to visit with friends and family.
- Gir Lion Lodge at ZSL London Zoo
London Zoo are hosting 3 special Valentine’s evenings at Gir Lion Lodge, metres away from the majestic Asiation lions, this February. What could be more romantic than a sunset tour of London Zoo, sprinkled in fairy lights, followed by a romantic two course dinner and a night’s stay in one of their luxury lodges.
- Ackergill Tower Hotel, Scotland
An award winning, 5 star luxury hotel, it’s one of the finest castle hotels in Scotland. With a 3000 acre estate, breath-taking scenery, a private, unspoilt beach and a range of activities available, the only downside will be having to leave at the end of your stay.
- The Crystal Maze Challenge - London and Manchester
An absolutely hilarious date for couples looking for something away from the norm. Embark on a maze adventure, using all your abilities physically and mentally to work your way to the end. As part of a team you have to collect as many crystals as possible in order to win time for the one final challenge and beat the Maze.
- The Chocolate Boutique Hotel, Bournemouth
A chocolate themed hotel – need we say more? Chocolate cocktails, chocolate hampers, chocolate workshops, chocolate fountains, chocolate wine. Enough said.
- Murder Mystery Break - multiple locations across the UK
Another amazing idea for a fun weekend. Why not dress up for the night and embark on a ‘real life’ murder mystery adventure and crack the clues to reveal the killer. These are hosted all over the UK and most include a 3 course dinner and an overnight stay as well as the exciting murder mystery entertainment.
- Hot air balloon flight, multiple locations across the UK
Floating through the clouds, 5000 feet over stunning views, sipping on champagne and feasting on chocolates, you’ll struggle to find a more magical experience.
- Double decker bus in Ceridwen, West Wales
If you fancy a change from the standard hotel stay, then experience a night in a renovated double decker bus overlooking the Welsh valley. Complete with a kitchen, living room and 2 double bedrooms – it’s an amazing, genius use of space.
- The Dell, Whitsand Bay, Cornwall
An absolutely stunning setting to spend a romantic weekend away in this beautiful retreat just for two. Situated on top of Tregonhawke Cliff in South Cornwall, with 4 miles of sandy beach and dramatic coastline, the surrounding views are perfectly picturesque. An ideal location for lovers of long walks and striking scenery, this is a perfect spot to relax and unwind.
- G&V Royal Mile Edinburgh
Discover the vibrant, romantic, charming city of Edinburgh whist staying in one of Scotland’s most exclusive hotels, situated in the most perfect, central location on the Royal Mile. Enjoy Michelin star restaurants, Scottish history, cocktail bars, the Old Town, the New Town, inns, culture, landmarks, heritage sites and incredible scenery.
- The Woodsman’s Treehouse, West Dorset
An incredible example of sustainable craftsmanship and luxury. This beautiful treehouse sits high up in the branches of a veteran oak. It is completely unique, with a window in the floor, looking down to the stream below and a window above the bed, opening to the view above. This paradise is complete with a sauna, hot tub, open air tree-shower and wood fired pizza oven. Surrounded by beauty and tranquillity, this surely is the ultimate retreat.
If you’re still stuck for gift ideas and need some inspiration this Valentines, take a look at our selection of fabulous hampers, designed with romance in mind.