As the memories of the excess and joy of Christmas and New Year start to fade, and we breathe a sigh of relief that we have made it through the long slog of January, Valentine’s Day can take us a little bit by surprise. This may leave some of you (myself included) stuck for ideas on how to woo and impress that special someone in your life. Fortunately, Wiltshire is full of inspiration to ensure you’re not scrambling around last minute for a bunch of flowers.
Lovers Retreat
The ultimate valentine’s gift has to be the romantic weekend away. Whether it’s a city break in a central hotel, a quiet cottage on a farm or a luxurious spa, Wiltshire has it all. Most hotel and spas have special Valentine’s Day offers for you to take advantage of, like The Stones Hotel, near Salisbury. You can also gain inspiration from our romantic weekend page.
Retail Therapy
If you’re really stuck for that special gift, why not take your significant other out for a shopping trip and treat them to a new purchase picked out by themselves. Some may see this as a ‘cop out’ and an ‘easy way out’, however the results are guaranteed. Wiltshire’s towns and cities are bursting with shops from the big high street names, designer labels and lots of great independent shops, for that something a little bit different. There is also McArthur Glen Outlet centre in Swindon, with over 100 shops of discounted designer labels to choose from there’s sure to be something for everyone.
Dinner for Two
The ‘go-to’ for most couples on Valentine’s Day is to head out for a romantic meal and the county has some wonderful restaurants of the highest quality. If you really want to impress, head to Red Lion Free House or Hywel Jones Restaurant at Lucknam Park who have each won a coveted Michelin star. If you are both seafood fans then Rick Stein’s in Marlborough is the order of the day, or if you like your ingredients incredibly local, then book in to Pythouse Kitchen Garden where the fruit and vegetables are grown in the walled garden and the meat comes from farms a stone’s throw away.
Cookery School
Whether you need to sure up your culinary skills ready to cook a valentine’s meal for the better half or maybe enjoy this fun activity together, Wiltshire has a number of Cookery Schools offering a number of courses exploring a number of world cuisines. Vaughan’s Cookery School have a special ‘Valentine: Cooking Together’ course, which could be a fun alternative valentines date.
Not a cookery class but still an educational experience, VisionWorks Life Skills is offering a class called ‘Lasting Love – is it possible?’ which may offer the secrets to a successful relationship.
Romantic Walks
February isn’t renowned for its pleasant weather, but Wiltshire is renowned for its strikingly beautiful countryside. Why not wrap up warm and head out for a romantic stroll over rolling hills, along canals and through picturesque woods. Another highlight of a Wiltshire walk is that you are never too far away from a cosy country pub, where you can put your feet up in front of a roaring fire and the warm the cockles with a drink.
Single and ready to mingle?
Why not grab a group of friends and head onto the track at Castle Combe Circuit or test your wits at an Escape Rooms. You could also head for night on the town, dry January will be a distant memory by then and Wiltshire’s towns and cities are always good for a night on the tiles.
You can find more inspiration on our dedicated page; Romantic Wiltshire.
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