Valentine's Day

Love is in the air and Valentine's Day, on Wednesday 14th February, is the perfect date to celebrate all things love.

Whether it's a candlelit dinner for two, catching a show, relaxing at a spa or simply enjoying a walk hand in hand along Exeter's beautiful River Exe, there's plenty of options to spend some quality time with your loved one. 

If it's a romantic meal you're seeking this Valentine's Day then Exeter serves up a fantastic choice of award-winning restaurants and we've put together a handy dining out blog. The city is perfect for couples looking to make memories and enjoy an array of fine dining. If it's something intimate you're after then Harry's Restaurant is an award winning independent establishment and The Ivy Exeter offers guests sophisitcated dining with Exeter Cathedral as your backdrop. 

From independent eateries and cosy pubs to popular chains and familiar high street eateries, there's something for everyone so let food be the way to your heart.

If it's an entertaining night out that gets your heart beating then Exeter is home to four main theatres and numerous other indoor areas where performing arts feature within an annual programme of festival and events. Check out our What's On list to find something special you'll both love.

For the ultimate relaxing experience on Valentine’s Day, there are a number of spas to choose from. Nestled in a relaxing walled garden, The REN Spa at Hotel du Vin is the perfect place to recharge your energies and enjoy a little piece of tranquillity in the city. Just a stone’s throw from the city centre, there’s the Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel with its relaxing pool and Swedish sauna while The Retreat Spa at Hotel Indigo has taken inspiration from the local landscape of sea and moors to help you completely unwind. If it's a (indoor) rooftop view you fancy then The Spa at St Sidwell's Point will certainly treat you to some well deserved 'you time.' Alternatively head towards Topsham to Wear Park Spa at Exeter’s Golf and Country Club, providing the perfect retreat for pamper days and luxurious treatments.

Let's not forget that romance doesn't have to cost a fortune and it can often simply be the gesture or spending some quality time together with your significant other. Our blog 'Valentine's Day on a budget' has lots of great ideas that we think you'll love. Exeter also boasts many beautiful walks, parks and gardens, so pack up a picnic and enjoy some special time together. Why not head to Northernhay Gardens (England’s oldest public gardens); the atmospheric Cathedral Green or one of the Riverside Parks bordering the River Exe and Exeter Ship Canal. Check out our top 10 picnic spots here. If it’s too chilly for a picnic, there are numerous cosy pubs across the city in which to warm up afterwards!

We've even put together some suggestions for some alternative ways to spend Valentine's Day, including dining on a tram and creating your own bespoke gin.