Struggling for ideas this Valentines day?

Wednesday 10 January 2018

With Valentines day just around the corner, there's the mounting pressure to find something exciting to do on the day. We know it can be stressful, so we've come up with a few ideas on what you could get up to on the 14th this year!

Have a Romantic Meal!

Somerset House is a beautiful venue as it is, but add in a top chef and elegant restaurant setting and nothing could be a better for a unforgettable Valentine's Day meal. Spring is set in the New Wing of Somerset House and focuses on seasonal and hearty food. Critically acclaimed Skye Gyngell is the head chef of the restaurant and aims to leave you with an experience 'which not only sings on the plate but lingers in the memory.'

Try Something New!

Obby is a website that has hundreds of fun and interesting classes that are just waiting for you to take part in. Maybe you are wanting to see how your new love handles the pressure of a kitchen or you want to try something different with your long-term lover, either way Obby is full of ideas on what you could do . And who says you have to have someone to go with?! Take yourself on a date and learn something new at the same time!

Enjoy the River on a Romantic Cruise!

City Cruises are offering a variety of romantic river cruise from a sunset river cruise to ‘The Ultimate Valentine’s Cruise’  which includes exclusive hire of one of their boats. During the day, how about cruising along the river with a Champagne Afternoon Tea and enjoying old and new sights together? Night-time city lights, a drink or two, live music, maybe even some dancing- the dinner and evening cruises give you a chance to create a magical evening with your date.

Eat Somewhere Different!

Jidori is a Japanese yakitori restaurant in Stoke Newington. It gives you the chance to literally share your heart with its delicious heart and bacon skewers. There’s also a nice twist on English pub grub as well with a katsu curry scotch egg. Head to this restaurant for an evening filled with delicious food and drink!

Have a Romantic Day Out!

Head over to Kew Gardens and immerse yourself in a celebration of Thailand’s vibrant colours, culture, and magnificent plant life at their Orchid Festival. Enjoy colourful floral displays, including a bright Vanda tunnel and arches decorated with orchids. You'll be able to stroll amongst the beautiful flowers and walk through the trees on their treetop walkway. The festival is on from 10th February to 11th March and is included in normal ticket price. You can book your tickets here.

Save Some Money!

With prices soaring on Valentine’s Day, sometimes the idea of going out and splashing the cash can be very intimidating so we have included some free or cheap things that are also great options!

Why not take a romantic walk in one of London’s beautiful parks? Sometimes it's easy to forget that London has some of the most gorgeous and interesting parks in the UK so why not take advantage of this and get outside! Some of our favourite parks are Regent's Park, Hampstead Heath and Battersea Park. Both Hampstead Heath and Regent's Park have got great city views from Parliament Hill and Primrose Hill. Stroll hand-in-hand through the parks and enjoy the great outdoors all without leaving Zone 3. 

Have a fakeaway! We’ve found some great recipes that you can whip up at home that will taste as good (if not, better!) than your normal takeaway. Why not pair it with a romantic film or two and have a cosy evening in? You don't have to spend lots of money to have a romantic evening.

This quick and easy Asian Crispy Beef is sure to satisfy any Chinese cravings and will definitely be cheaper (and healthier!) than ordering from the takeaway around the corner! Find the recipe here.

If you prefer a vegan affair then these Saucy Portobello and Butternut Squash Tacos are for you! They are hearty and healthy and quite simple to make (and you can always sub in shop bought sauce if it looks too overwhelming). Find the recipe here.

If Indian food is more your style, then check out this recipe for chicken biryani. It shouldn’t take more than half hour to cook so would be ready quicker than it would’ve taken for your takeaway to arrive! You can find the recipe here.

If none of these ideas take your fancy and you're looking to set up your Valentine's event then check out our top Private Dining venue picks.