by Kerenza Willcox
It’s not long until your Instagram Stories will be filled with loved up couples dressing up for dinner dates or taking a trip to Paris.
For those of you still not sure on what to do for your loved one, whether it’s your partner or best friend, we’ve got some out of the box ideas to separate you from the rest.
For the adventurers: Geocaching
Those who are always on the hunt for something fun and new to do, try geocaching.
There are varying levels of difficulty depending on how much time and energy you want to put into the activity. Geocaches are located all over the world, and you can even make your own on the app, which would make for a thoughtful personalised date for your partner. Hide gifts or messages in capsules and place them in locations special to the two of you. The satisfaction of being part of a secret club of likeminded individuals makes this global treasure hunt even more fun.
For the hopeless romantics: Steam train ride
Taking a trip with your loved one is always a nice idea for Valentines, but why not take it back a hundred years and travel via steam train? From Snowdonia to Loughborough, Sussex to the Highlands, there’s options all across the country.
Wherever you end up, book an Airbnb and make a weekend out of it. Many steam train companies offer experiences including afternoon tea or fine dining, so depending on your budget, settle in and enjoy a pint whilst taking in the British countryside the old-fashioned way.
For the anti-Valentines: Rage room
What better way to get out your frustration at the romantic holiday than going to a rage room and smashing things up?
Release your anger in a safe environment and get closer to your date by showing a new side of yourself. The lack of consequence makes this guilt-free therapy session even more entertaining, leaving you with unique memories. Whether you go with your partner or your recently single best mate, taking an axe to old ceramics and furniture is a great way to blow off steam together.
For the animal lovers: Rent a… dog
If you’re lucky enough to have your own dog, then this one might not be for you, but for those who love furry companions but don’t have one themselves, Borrow My Doggy is the perfect date idea.
Like Tinder but for dog walkers, simply set up your profile and get searching for local dogs who need a bit of extra attention. Remember not to get too distracted and keep the dog as the focus of your walk, but what could be more perfect than taking a long walk with your partner plus a furry friend? Whether you pick a local park or a woodland trail, everything is more fun when you bring a dog.
For a shorter, but equally cuddly and cute, date idea, maybe visit your local cat cafe!
For the creatives: Pottery
Ok, so, pottery painting is a tried and tested date idea, but what about buying the clay yourself and making something meaningful to you? Why not sculpt each other - you decide how flattering you want to be - or make trinket dishes inspired by your favourite movie franchise?
If neither of those seem like your cup of tea, making a couple of side plates or mugs to enjoy your morning coffee and toast in style could be for you. Be sure to use a food-safe glaze if you plan on eating or drinking from your creations.
For the home chefs: Foraging
No matter where you live, skip the supermarket and see what nature has to offer. Head to a forest, the coast, or even a garden and see what nature has to offer.
Get creative with your pickings and experiment with a new recipe. Wild garlic makes for an intense addition to olive oil, and is a perfect accompaniment to roast potatoes and white fish dishes, whilst violets can be used to flavour ice cream or garnish a dessert when crystalised.
Check out the Woodland Trust’s guide to foraging in February to see what you could find, but make sure to take care when identifying things, as nature is also packed with poisonous varieties.
For the children at heart: indoor camping
February isn’t exactly camping weather, but there’s nothing more romantic than cuddling up in a tent under the stars.
Recreate this by turning your living room into a cosy campsite - grab all of your blankets and cushions and make a blanket fort your younger self would envy. Hang up some fairy lights, chuck a pizza in the oven, make some smores, put your favourite nostalgic movie on and enjoy. Up the winter vibes by making Baileys hot chocolate and putting the fire on if you’re lucky enough to have one.
For the long distance loves: Virtual escape room
If you’re apart from your loved one for whatever reason, Valentine’s Day can make the distance seem that bit more lonely. Just because you’re not in the same place, doesn’t mean you can’t still have a fun time together. Test your problem solving skills by doing a virtual escape room challenge. With many options online catering to different themes, this is a great way of having some fun with your partner from wherever you are in the world.
Whatever you end up doing for Valentine’s Day, have fun!
Edited by Emily Duff