Ditch the petrol station flowers and avoid the boxes of Milk Tray. This year it’s time to be rid of the clichés and do something different to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Whether you and yours have been together 10 months or 10 years, these suggestions ought to take the agony out of gift giving and save you asking yourself the question, “do they prefer red roses or pink?”
Snuggle up under the stars for the ultimate countryside getaway this year. Think toasting marshmallows, hot chocolate and cuddling up after a day exploring Canterbury’s city sights that are just a mile away. Don’t fancy pitching up yourself? Cheat and opt for Ready Camp for a back-to-nature experience without the risk of an argument over the tent pegs.
Starry, starry night
We hear that prior to her unfortunate demise, Anne Boleyn and King Henry VIII had quite the romance, so why not opt for a special stay at the very castle where they fell in love? Cosy up by the fire in the Music Room, stroll the frosted grounds and sip and saunter around the castle with a drinks reception and dinner accompanied by music from a professional harpist. Need we say more? A Tudor Rose bouquet
Music and romance? They go together like an engagement ring and a special occasion, but we’re not here to put ideas in your head. We’re here to tell you about the wonderful evening you’ll have at the Spa Hotel in Royal Tunbridge Wells this year. Enjoy a glass of fizz, romantic three-course dinner and live music this year. Trust, us you will be in those good books for a very long time.
Music, love and romance
That’s right, Valentine’s Day isn’t all about love songs and hearts, sometimes it’s about a little light-hearted (ahem) competition. Tear around the track and let the chase begin on a karting adventure perfect for the thrill-seeker in your life. With karts that go up to 80mph, it’s certainly one way to get the heart racing.
Karts and hearts
A seaside fortress set in picturesque grounds, Walmer Castle and Gardens is the place to head for that romantic retreat. With a beach on one side and castle on the other, the Garden Cottage promises to be the perfect escape. Arrive to a welcome hamper of goodies and only leave to explore the wealth of English Heritage properties on your doorstep, all free to access during your stay.
Wander in Walmer
You can do more than toast your date in Kent this Valentine’s Day, you can head to the very vineyards where some of the finest award-winning English wines are being crafted. Plus, as word on the grapevine is that Chapel Down was the wine served at a certain royal wedding, you don’t need us to tell you that Kent’s wines are the perfect selection for a romantic occasion.
Discover the Wine Garden of England
Dinner in the shadow of Canterbury’s iconic cathedral has got to be a pretty special way to celebrate, hasn’t it? Start your day touring the city, perhaps even take a tour along the River Stour on a Canterbury Historic River Tour and then finish up at the Cathedral Lodge with a four-course dinner overlooking that spectacular cathedral.
Tales of love in Canterbury
If your loved-up date comes complete with a hanger on or two, make it a day the whole family will enjoy. High in the canopy, this Go Ape site offers views across to the loveliest castle in the world, so you and yours can capture an awe-inspiring moment or two, before soaring back to earth on the zip-wire.
Love sends you soaring
Love is in the air on the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway this year. Steam through the night from Hythe to Dungeness for drinks and a sensational three-course meal, before returning by train to Hythe.
Love train
What could be better than waking up to gorgeous coastal views this Valentine's Day? Pair it with brisk walks along the beach and dinner in Ramsgate's Royal Harbour and we think you've got a pretty perfect date. From B&Bs to coastal cottages and luxury hotels, you're bound to find a match made in heaven in Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate.
Cosy by the coast
Not feeling the whole love-hearts and roses phenomenon? We don’t blame you, but that doesn’t mean you need to sit it out at home alone. Gather a group of friends and head to the countryside or coast for the ultimate Galentine’s Day break at a Mulberry Cottage. With big country houses, cottages and cosy retreats, we can guarantee you will find the perfect spot for a bit of R&R.
A friends’ retreat
So there you have it, our ideas for the perfect romantic date in Kent this Valentine's Day. Trust us, with these top ideas, you're sure make it straight into your loved one's good books and their heart.
