Love is in the air and Saint Valentine is almost here – it might freezing outside, but rekindle your fiery passion this February 14 with one of these hot dates. Whether you’ve been together a lifetime, or it’s still puppy love, there are dozens of ways to raise the romance in your relationship. Take date night to the next level or try something new together with the best things to do on Valentine’s Day in Birmingham. Just don’t forget to buy some flowers!
1. Take a romantic stroll together
Why not head to the great outdoors for a romantic stroll? It’s one of the few free things to do in Birmingham for Valentine’s Day, after all! With a plethora of pretty parks and city walks, not only is it great for mental health purposes, but it’s also a good way to catch up away from your phones, laptops and the TV. Check out these romantic spots on your walk.
2. Take your partner and puppy to this Pup-Up Cafe
If the only one who can compete with your partner for your love is your puppy, we’ve got a Valentine’s plan for you. The most adorable hangout spot for puppies returns to Birmingham for Valentine’s Day (Well, February 25). Pup-Up Cafe will see up to 50 dogs mingle per session – and is certainly Birmingham’s most romantic date for dog lovers. On-site photographers will capture every cute moment of your date too.
3. Splash the cash on a swanky meal for your date
Birmingham is home to some of the best restaurants in the UK. There are five Michelin-starred restaurants in the city if you feel like splashing the cash – with plenty more romantic options available too. But even if you and your loved one would prefer to grab some street food and a craft beer, the perfect Valentine’s Day restaurant exists for everyone in Birmingham.
4. Embark on a romantic tour of Birmingham
Explore the most romantic spots in the city with your loved one this Valentine’s Day. Who needs the Eiffel Tower or gondola rides around Venice when you’ve got a variety of charming locations to be found just a stroll away? Following a professional guide, you’ll be shown the best places to have a date, the most Insta-worthy settings to take some smitten shots together and learn of some historical love stories that unfolded in the streets, squares and buildings. Find tickets here.
5. Feel the wind in your hair with a trip down Birmingham’s canals
Unfortunately, you won’t find any romantic Venetian gondola rides on the Birmingham canals. But there is more than one way to travel these waterways. With more miles of canal than the Italian city of Venice, you and your date can get active by renting kayaks. Or how about relaxing with a gentle canal cruise? You can even double-date with a self-driving boat! There’s nothing more romantic than being out on the water and plenty of Valentine’s ideas to explore it. Learn how to get out on Birmingham’s canals with a lovely boat trip here.
6. Get artsy with a painting class
Art and romance have an almost cyclical relationship; they have inspired one another for centuries. So is there a better way to get in touch with your loving side than a spot of painting this Valentine’s Day in Birmingham? PopUp Painting guides attendees through an artistic masterpiece and lets you reproduce your unique version – with a wine glass in one hand and a paintbrush in the other.
They’ll be at various sip ‘n’ paint sessions in Birmingham throughout February. But for the most romantic evenings? Head to Rose Villa Taven on February 10 or Be At One on February 15 – to recreate one of the most sensual paintings of all time, Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss. Learn more here.
7. Enjoy a romantic Candlelight concert together
Picture this: A gorgeously exclusive venue, thousands of gentle candles and a four-string quartet playing classical music. Sounds romantic, right? Candlelight is a totally unique experience you’re sure to impress your date with. There’s something a concert for everyone too, from the soundtracks of Hans Zimmer to the decade-spanning hits of David Bowie. On February 15, Birmingham Cathedral will host timeless love songs – like The Beatles’ All You Need Is Love and Elton John’s Your Song – for some extra romance. Check out all the Candlelight concerts available in Birmingham here.
8. Bake off against other couples and rise to the challenge
Is your ideal romantic evening spent watching The Great British Bake Off with your partner? Get off the sofa this Valentine’s and get busy baking yourself. The Big Birmingham Bake will see you and your date compete with other pairs for the ultimate baking crown. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or you need improvement, this is a great experience for all. Instructions and ingredients are provided during the 90-minute baking session. All you need to bring is a bit of creativity. Learn more here.
9. Escape the house with an overnight stay at the best hotel in Birmingham
Going out on Valentine’s Day is not always what it’s cracked up to be. But you don’t want to stay at home either, do you? Why not venture elsewhere for a little escape? The Grand Hotel is one of the most romantic hotels in Birmingham, first built in 1879 to rival London’s finest hotels. Some of its highlights include its seductive architecture and close location to Birmingham’s best bars and restaurants. The perfect stay-at-home escape for lovers.
10. Explore the beautiful Edwardian property Winterbourne House
In search of a quaint and romantic place in the city? Think no further than the beautiful Winterbourne House and Gardens. Take a wander inside the Edwardian house with your loved one to discover more about the era, as well as explore the house’s magnificent gardens. The seven acres of Grade II listed gardens feature 6,000 plant species as well as an unbelievable and peaceful Japanese Garden. Plus, there’s also an alpine area, an unusual hazelnut tunnel and Edgbaston Pool nearby providing plenty of romantic spots. Plus you can skip the queue by booking tickets here.
11. Sit at the back of the cinema for a smooch
You might not be 15 anymore, but when did we all decide the cinema dates are just for teenagers? You don’t have to sit in the back row missing the whole film (but we won’t judge if you do). Seeing a movie together can be a great way to experience something together, bonding you closer, and giving you something to chat about long after. There are some great independent cinemas in Birmingham too. From the oldest working cinema in the UK, The Electric, to the fine cuisine snack of the Mockingbird, check out our favourite cinemas here.
12. Enjoy a relaxing spa day together
It’s been a tough year (yes, we know it’s only February, but still). You and your loved one deserve to treat yourselves nevertheless. What better way to feel refreshed than a day pampering together at a Birmingham spa? Unwinding, taking it easy. If that doesn’t scream romance, then what does? Check out our list of the best spas in Birmingham.