The ultimate guide to Valentines; Leeds

I’m a total sucker when it comes to romance. I could watch RomComs all day every day and I’m always ready with cute love puns (I love you a latte and you are my significant otter are my current faves). But when it comes to Valentines day, my other half and I tend to give it a miss. Dinner reservations have to be made weeks in advance, only for you to pay more to essentially sit on another couples knees and choose from a limited menu with the wait staff rushed off their feet (never a recipe for great service). I’m not one of those ‘you should show your other half you love them everyday…’ types, we just choose to celebrate on any other day, where we can rock up to our fave restaurant looking glam AF and actually enjoy the experience (for half the price). So whether you’re celebrating Valentines or Galentines, do it right…

The dinner
Chez Mal, Malmaison hotel

After trying basically everything on the menu at Chez Mal, I can confidently say you’re in for a treat if you visit. The Lobster Risotto is a personal fave and the wait staff are more than happy to match a delicious glass of vino to whatever you choose. Need a hotel for the evening? You’re already in the right place! Malmaison has some stunning suites, including the exec suite with it’s indoor plunge pool (like seriously amaze).

The experience 
Ping pong & mini golf at Roxy Ball Room

Get your competitive side out with a game of ping pong! You can rent the paddles for half an hour or an hour (the latter is best if you’re a little rusty a.k.a us and need about 40 mins to warm up). There’s also glow in the dark mini golf, beer pong and pool, so plenty of ways to challenge each other.

The bar
Epernay Champagne Bar, Electric Press

The champagne tasting session at Epernay is a great intro to fizz or if you just fancy a drink, there’s plenty of snug areas to cosy up and cheers to a fabulous evening. With a well stocked backbar, this champagne spot does blooming good cocktails too.

The weekend brunch
Grub & Grog at Sheaf St Cafeteria

Even on a busy weekend, this spot keeps its cosy, cool vibe. With offerings from homemade crumpets (a must) to eggs however you like, classic bacon sandwiches and more unusual suspects. With ingredients sourced locally and organically, and everything made from scratch, you’re guaranteed a yummy brunch date whatever you go for.

The gift
The Cocktail Experience tickets

My favourite kinda gift, especially for Valentines, is an experience where I can make memories (though don’t get me wrong, I love a designer bag as much as the next gal).  Pick up tickets for The Cocktail Experience for you and your other half and try out the best cocktails the city has to offer. I’ve pulled together some more gift ideas for Valentines here.

The afternoon tea
Bettys, Harrogate

Okay technically not Leeds but it’s a stones throw away and the best place for afternoon tea! The freshly baked lavender scones are the best I’ve ever eaten and the miniature cake collection is more than a little adorable. The ladies afternoon tea for two is perfect for sharing over a glass of fizz or two, plus Harrogate is such a beautiful village to wander around.

Ready to celebrate yet? If you need some more inspo, check out my date night ideas that aren’t totally uncool here.

Love Lucinda xx
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