Love is in the air... everywhere you look around...
Maybe it's because Valentines day is just around the corner, or perhaps we all just need a little love this time of year. Either way, we truly feel a lot of blossoming romances are in the air. So, whether you're getting first-date butterflies, reconnecting with an evening away from the everyday or celebrating a special romantic occasion, the wannabe Cupids here at Visit Herts have gathered our favourite date night locations for those dreamy memories to be made. Whether you're a classic movie-dinner-drinks kind of couple, or looking for an unforgettable way to make that first impression, we've got the spots we know you lovebirds will enjoy!
Gazing into each other’s eyes over a glass of red wine in a cosy corner under the glow of twinkling fairy lights… not just the stuff of movies, thanks to the charming gastro pub that is The Bricklayers Arms in Flaunden! Set within the stunning rolling hills of the Chess Valley, this 18th century pub is perfect setting for your cosy date night out. We could go on and on describing their delectable dinners, but instead we’ll just casually mention that they’ve won the Good Pub Guide’s Dining Pub of the Year 2020, and they’ve won every year for the past five years, and they hold an AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence… so we think you get the (delicious) picture!
Why not set a date with your significant other to explore the grounds at Knebworth House? Or perhaps you’re looking to woo your first date with a nature walk? Either way, the gardens at Knebworth House is the pretty perfect place to see flowers blossoming to the sound of nature and butterflies dancing in the air. An ideal date for the summer where you and your special someone can enjoy a free Garden Tour with a member of their Gardens Team.
A classic cinema and dinner date? A bit of late night shopping? Whatever your go-to date idea may be, Atria Watford have something for you and your lucky someone to enjoy, whether you’re heading out for an anniversary celebration or looking to woo someone special.
When the special occasion comes around, a birthday, an anniversary, or dare we say, an evening involving a special ring(!), you need luxury settings and specialist care to pull off the perfect date night. Enter The Grove hotel, host to celebrities and royalty alike, and the perfect option for your special night. Indulge in a delicious dinner in the luxurious settings of The Glasshouse restaurant, opt for a couples spa day to unwind together, or book an overnight escape for that staycation we were all dreaming about.
It’s all about rural relaxation in classically beautiful Pendley Manor. Enjoy a date night away relaxing and reconnecting with their ideal staycation offer – with a two night stay, a welcome bottle of prosecco and the use of their plush pool and leisure facilities, it’s the perfect antidote to last year’s stresses.
If you feel like stepping away from the traditional romantic locations, Paradise Wildlife Park have the answer for the ‘unforgettable’ date days! Get to know each other while feeding some tigers, saying hello to the penguins or meeting the meerkats with one of their experience days. Or why not let your inner childlike personality free and wander around the World of Dinosaurs. Brave the Dinosaur Train ride, the ‘Rex Express’, and travel back in time, revealing a new prehistoric surprise around every corner.
Adrenaline junkie couples, we’re not leaving you out! A date doesn’t have to be ‘romantic’ in the traditional sense. How about an evening of learning new skills and getting active as you ski and snowboard at The Snow Centre? Spend some time together slipping and sliding on the slopes at the biggest real snow centre outside of London - what a way to break the ice!
For the couple who enjoy all things adventure or the first daters looking to break the silence with an unforgettable experience. Lee Valley White Water Centre, might just sound like the ideal place to take your partner on a crazy fun outdoor dating experience. Choose from the many different water activities including, white water rafting, hydrospeeding, inflatable fun on the lake, canoeing and kayaking and much more! Get those sparks flying and hearts racing in this adrenaline rush of love experience.
Looking to add a bit of luxury to your ultimate date? Why not spend the day relaxing at Verulamium spa and escape the world together in one of their 5 star luxury treatment rooms or couple suits. Receive a variety of treatments including, facials, massages, body treatments and more! It’s the perfect experience for those looking to add a little wellness to their lives, isn’t that all of us?
Now, we’ve talked about the adventurous date, the traditional date and the relaxation date, so here’s one for the creative couple. It’s time to explore the artistic side of your partner at one of Artshed Arts Crafty Sessions involving beautiful fused glass, pottery painting, decoupage or button art. Let’s just say the recreation of the famous scene from Ghost may be on the table.
Looking to channel your inner Tiger Woods and David Beckham? Why not combine the two in a round of footgolf played at Abbey View Golf & Track Facility. The ideal ice-breaker for a first date or a unique idea for a date with your long-term partner. Kick your way around the 9-hole course and discover the competitive side to your partner.
Set a date for the summer and dig out those gingham picnic blankets and woven hampers, we’re taking you back to a more traditional, romantic setting. If you’re in the ‘getting to know each other stage’ or you’re already 1 of 2, living in your own little world, there’s nothing quite like a peaceful sit down in the fields of Hitchin Lavender, watching the world go by and enjoying the company of that special someone. Bring the strawberries and chocolate, finger sandwiches and bubbly and spend the day soaking in the scenery and romance at Hitchin Lavender.
