You don’t need to go far to do something fun with your other half. With so much to see and do across the country, leave the little ones with friends or family, pack up a bag with a picnic, and hop onto a CrossCountry service to explore our pick of the most romantic Valentine’s Day ideas.
Go for a Walk
For a truly wholesome and enriching experience, why not take your date outdoors? Going for a walk produces endorphins, making you feel happier - nature walks are even prescribed by the NHS for their mental health benefits. You don’t need to hug the trees, but spending time in the great outdoors offers the perfect opportunity to connect with your Valentine, have a meaningful conversation, and enjoy each other's company in a relaxed setting. A walk also provides a quiet, intimate space away from distractions, allowing you both to share thoughts and laughter. Whatever the weather, pack a raincoat and some sensible shoes, and head out with your beloved - it’s the kind of simple, romantic gesture that can turn into a memorable adventure.
We’ve picked some of our favourite woodland walks and coastal walks in the UK.
Treat Yourselves to a Michelin Star Meal
If you’re looking for something up-scale, something to really elevate your tastebuds, then we’ve got just the thing for you. From Bristol to Edinburgh, be sure to impress your date at a spectacular Michelin star restaurant. Many of these famous establishments have great deals on their lunchtime menus, so you can treat yourselves whilst not breaking the bank. There’s something uniquely special about trying new food and exploring new flavours, especially when it’s the best of the best.
Explore Britain’s Most Beautiful Beaches
Beaches might seem like a summer staple, but the untamed charm of a British beach in winter makes for a uniquely romantic Valentine’s Day activity. The raw, windswept beauty of the coastline creates a serene and intimate setting, perfect for quiet moments together. Plus, the off-season solitude means you can enjoy the tranquillity without the crowds. Stroll hand-in-hand along the shore, indulge in some classic fish and chips in Bournemouth, or embrace the adventurous spirit by surfing the waves at one of Cornwall’s rugged seaside havens.
Head to a Vegan Restaurant
Whether you’re a committed vegan or taking baby steps to reduce your footprint, plenty 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, and there is so much delicious vegan food to sample. 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.
Be at One with Nature
The beaches and woodlands of Britain aren’t the only places that offer a perfect getaway. For a true escape, consider heading to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is a great option if you’re looking to enjoy a romantic staycation this year. It’s an intimate way to spend Valentine’s Day 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, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are all around us.
Relax and Rejuvenate with a Spa Day
Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in a bit of pampering. Treat yourselves to a spa day and let the stresses of everyday life melt away as you relax together. Many spas across the UK offer couples' packages that include massages of your choice, access to saunas and steam rooms, and even romantic candlelit treatments. You could choose a luxury spa hotel in the countryside or a hidden urban retreat, either way, it’s an ideal opportunity to recharge and reconnect with your partner in the most relaxing setting possible.
Go Stargazing
Add a sprinkle of magic to Valentine’s Day and head out after dark for a night of stargazing. The UK is home to several Dark Sky Parks and Reserves, offering some of the best spots to admire the stars in all their twinkly glory. Locations like Exmoor National Park, Northumberland National Park, and the Brecon Beacons provide awesome views of the night sky, free from light pollution.
Bundle up, bring a blanket, and maybe even a flask of hot chocolate, and spend the evening marvelling at constellations, shooting stars, and the beauty of the cosmos. It's the perfect Valentine’s Day evening idea and a truly memorable way to create special moments with your favourite person.
If you’re planning fun things to do on Valentine's Day, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
Written by Julia