Valentine's Day

With a mix of charming countryside and dynamic city culture to explore, there are plenty of places in Nottinghamshire to celebrate Valentine's Day with your darling. Whether you want to celebrate with a delicious meal, escape to the countryside, or do something completely different - there is something for you in Nottinghamshire.

Read on to find ideas of where to spend the day, and don't forget to check out all the great Valentine's events, special offers, and gift ideas so you can really make the most of your day.

Find a Cosy Retreat in Nottinghamshire...

For couples looking for a perfect city-centre retreat, there are a number of cosy, stylish independent hotels to choose from, with wonderful Valentine’s packages available. Book a stay at St James Hotel, which is located in a quiet area next to the famous Nottingham Castle and prides itself on stylish deisgn and wonderful service. Stay in the historic and luxurious Lace Market Hotel, which is only a stone’s throw away from the city’s finest shops and restaurants. Or check out Hart's, one of the city's top hotels complete with a warm and welcoming restaurant serving modern British cuisine.

If its countryside charm you are longing for, head to rural Nottinghamshire for peaceful, scenic landscapes and rustic cottages to relax in. At Purple Poppy Cottage you can relax in front of a burning stove and make use of the gorgeous kitchen, enjoying the beautiful blend of boutique style and real home-from-home comfort.

Elsewhere, the award-winning Browns of Holbeck, highly commended by VisitEngland, offers guests a delightful stay in the peaceful surroundings, with three separate en-suite garden rooms surrounding a garden terrace.

Go Fabulously Unconventional...

For those looking for something a little different, Tropical Butterfly House is a top choice for Valentine’s dates. If the weather is cold, the walkthrough Butterfly House will transport you to a tropical paradise and couples can also get extra close and personal with the red-ruffed lemurs, cheeky meerkats or comical parrots.

In the heart of Sherwood Forest, thrill-seekers can become a real life Tarzan and Jane at Go Ape at Sherwood Pines Forest Park, leaping off Tarzan swings and flying down zip slides. Also in Sherwood Pines, visitors can enjoy a romantic stroll on one of many walking trails or explore the magnificent forest on two wheels, via bicycle or segway!

If you really want to see how your relationship holds up, why not try one of Nottingham's exciting escape rooms? Race the clock, use your excellent teamworking skills and have fun solving puzzles at iLocked, Escapologic or Logiclock. If you're both in one piece and still talking by the end of it, you will know you're onto a good thing.

Explore Wild Romance in the Countryside...

What could be more romantic than exploring a ruinous abbey which inspired one of Britain's most romantic poets? Once home to romantic poet Lord Byron, peacocks now wander the landscaped gardens at Newstead Abbey, and a picnic by the lake is truly idyllic.

A romance that has truly stood the test of time is of course that of Robin Hood and Maid Marian. Even after hundreds of years we are still intrigued by the pair who defied convention and class to celebrate their love. Explore the ancient oaks of Sherwood Forest and take a trip to the nearby town of Edwinstowe, whose church 800 year old church St Mary's is said to be where the pair wed!

One of the most sought after wedding venues in Nottinghamshire, Hodsock Priory boasts a wonderful display of Snowdrops at this time of year. A little further south, get lost together in the wild trails of the rustic Clumber Park, which was voted the most romantic place for a date in the East Midlands by Great Date Guide.

Wine and Dine Your Lover...

Drifting along Nottingham's canals on a narrow boat while enjoying a three-course meal with Princess River Cruises. Along with lovely views you'll receive a rose for the ladies, a complimentary drink for the gentlemen, plus a bottle of wine to share in their Valentines package.

Meanwhile, at the four-star Ye Olde Bell Hotel, indulge in a candlelit dinner for two in Restaurant Bar 1650 before settling down for the night in an individually styled Classic Room. Or take a trip to the grand Kelham Hall and treat your special someone to a charming afternoon tea experience.

On of the city's most unique romatic spots is Derby Road's The Hand & Heart, whose restaurant is set in the caves at the back of the building. Decorated with candles and twinkly lights, and serving up fine pub classics with a twist, you can enjoy an unforgettable and intimate dinner with your beau.