Valentine’s Day, a day full of love, presents and most of all high expectations. Once overcoming the first obstacle of snagging yourself a date there is still the daunting thought of what to do to make this date perfect. Lancaster has a number of gorgeous restaurants but if you’re looking for something more than dinner and a movie our miniature city unfortunately tends to fall short. However, the perfect Valentines date is still achievable with a bit of creativity.
February may not have the best weather but a romantic stroll can still provide a great setting for romance, it also gives you a great excuse to cuddle up together and keep warm. Lancaster is surrounded by stunning countryside for great walks. Williamson Park edging the top of Lancaster offers a picturesque walk and is home to the Ashton Memorial, providing amazing views overlooking Morecombe bay and on a clear day the views stretch to Blackpool tower and the Isle of Man. Alternatively a walk along the canal and a stop at The Water Witch can provide a lovely atmosphere and great food.
Lancaster is also on the doorstep of one of the country’s most beautiful national parks, the Lake District, with only a 40 minute train journey to Windermere. If it’s a still day you can take a boat out on the lake escaping from the tourists and allowing the two of you to take in the beautiful views away from the hustle and bustle. When you are all rowed out you can relax in Windermere’s cafes and stroll around its selection of gift and jewellery shops providing the perfect time for some well dropped hints.
For those of you who are more city dwellers than country bumpkins then a trip to The Trafford Centre in Manchester could be the date for you. The Trafford Centre provides something for everyone with its endless shops and much more, including a cinema, restaurants, laser quest, adventure golf, ski dome and even a museum all under one massive roof.
If you have been inspired by Dancing on Ice and fancy a go yourself ,don the hat , glove and scarf set and head to Blackburn ice rink. Only a 40 minute train journey from Lancaster train station an ice skating date will allow you to glide or stumble your way around the rink hand in hand. Morecombe, the home of the infamous Carleton, also has a ten pin bowling alley which will provide a fun date for all those who want to show off their skills and don’t mind wearing the very unattractive shoes. The bowling alley also has student discounts meaning you can bowl for just £2.50 a game. A bargain date for the strapped for cash amongst us.
So, you may need a railcard, some warm clothes and maybe even a picnic but the perfect romantic date can still be achievable. But don’t forget, a present needs to be bought too.
