Person holding a heart saying Happy Valentine's Day

Top 10 romantic things to do for Valentine’s Day

Looking for something romantic to do with your other half this Valentine’s Day? Whether you’ve got a new love interest or you’re long-term partners, there’s all sorts going on around the UK to celebrate the day of love this February. From pop-up cinema screenings in London to candlelit concerts in Glasgow, these events are well worth booking in advance for. Plus, you can get to all of them by coach with megabus – so what you save on transport, you can spend on V-Day treats instead.

1. Watch Romeo and Juliet in London
If a trip to the flicks is on the cards, make it a movie night to remember at London’s Rivoli Ballroom. The original 1950s ballroom makes the perfect backdrop for pop-up movie nights including Baz Luhrman’s Romeo and Juliet on 14 February. Grab a cocktail and a hot dog from the bar and try not to let the gloriously chintzy surroundings distract you from the film.

2. Candlelight dinner at Clifton Observatory
Searching for the perfect romantic date? On Valentine’s Day you can enjoy a dreamy candlelit dinner at Bristol’s Clifton Observatory. You'll get stunning views of the Suspension Bridge and enjoy exclusive access to the rooftop terrace with cocktails and a three-course dinner. Now that's what we call romance.

3. Be swept off your feet in Glasgow
Visit Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall and be swept off your feet in the week of Valentine's Day with the RSNO performing music inspired by Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Tickets are on sale from £14.

4. Mix love potion cocktails in Manchester
For a date night with a difference, head to Manchester’s Alcotraz – a prison-themed bar where guests smuggle in their choice of liquor. The inmates-turned bartenders will turn your chosen tipple into various delicious cocktails, and you and your date will don orange jumpsuits for the experience – so there’s no need to worry about what to wear.

5. Go for a blowout meal in Cardiff
Looking to splurge on a slap-up meal? Your date can’t fail to be impressed by the menu – or the extravagant décor – at The Ivy in Cardiff. The restaurant hits just the right balance between sophisticated and relaxed, and the Valentine’s Day set menu includes sharing dishes and themed cocktails. We’ll take a heartbreaker on the rocks, please.

6. Eat a hearty brekkie in Birmingham
Looking for something a bit more budget-friendly, or meeting up in the morning? They say the way to your heart is through your stomach, so sit down to a properly good breakfast at Grand Central Kitchen next to New Street Station in Birmingham. The English brekkie gets rave reviews, and the service is second to none. Don’t be surprised if there’s a bit of a queue – this place is deservedly popular.

7. Stroll arm-in-arm through Edinburgh
Take a stroll through Princes Street Gardens and you’ll forget you’re in the heart of a buzzing city – especially in the winter. This gorgeous green expanse sits at the foot of Edinburgh Castle and the views are so pretty they’re poetic. It separates the New Town from the Old Town, so you can take your pick of the city’s restaurants and bars once you’ve worked up an appetite walking.

8. Tuck into a sharing platter in Newcastle
Love your puddings? Everything on the Vmenu at Newcastle’s Leila Lily’s restaurant looks incredible, but it’s the dessert that takes the crown. Book a table for two and once you’ve finished your starter and main, you can tuck into the dessert menu. Sounds good to us.

9. Go boutique bowling in Leicester
Double – or triple – dating? Head for East Street Lanes, Leicester’s boutique bowling alley, and see if you can strike it lucky. There are eight lanes available for teams of six per lane, so it’s perfect if you’re a group of couples. There are retro arcade games when you’re all bowled out, plus a menu of burgers, pizzas and cocktails.

10. Fly a balloon over Bristol
Few things say I love you quite so extravagantly than a hot air balloon ride. Throw in some birds-eye Bristol views, a glass of Champagne and your one true love, and you’ve got yourself a Valentine’s Day to remember. Bailey Balloons set off from Ashton Court Estate, which is a 15-minute taxi ride from the city centre. Just check your date is OK with heights beforehand – or you may end up flying solo.