The top 10 best date ideas for Lancs students this Valentine’s Day

All the inspiration you need for February 14th x

2 years ago

We’re well into Lent term, which can only mean one thing: Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Planning a date can be a daunting task, and whether you’ve been with your partner long-term, or are hoping to impress a new crush from your course, we’ve got you covered.

Whilst there are plenty of things to do around Lancaster, ranging from scenic walks, to catching a train out to Manchester, deciding on a certain location can prove to be more difficult than making a start on your coursework. Just like final years and their plans after uni, we’re sure you “definitely” have it all figured out, but if by any chance you don’t, take a look at the list below (in no particular order) of ten excellent date ideas around Lancaster.

1. Lancaster Castle

Starting off strong, Lancaster Castle is a fascinating spot in Lancaster with a surprisingly dark history, but it is still a great idea for a more interactive date. Tours of the site run daily, and it’s only £6.50 for a student ticket to discover the past of witchcraft, crime and punishment around Lancaster. Situated up a cobbled street near the train station, it’s pretty easy to find, and the cute café on-site makes it an interesting way to spend an afternoon.

2. Pub dinner date

If there’s one thing Lancaster isn’t short of, it’s pubs. Including the likes of the Water Witch and the White Cross, there are plenty of choices, all of which do tasty food and probably have some sort of couples event going on, and most places do pub quizzes throughout the week if you feel like bonding over a bit of trivia. You could also make it your mission to visit them all and rate them with your partner, (if your student loan will allow it).

Plus, with many of them having a view of the iconic canal, what’s not to love?

3. Costa Coffee

Costa doesn’t just have to function as your caffeine fix in between lectures, it’s also a great low-key date location that won’t break the bank. Coffee dates are notoriously a great first date idea, but there’s no reason why you can’t do this as a long-term couple as well. Furthermore, if Valentine’s Day is a busy day on campus for you, stopping by with your partner would be a good way to break up the day without having to leave campus.

4. Walk (or cycle) along the canal

Amongst the countless routes surrounding the Lancashire countryside, the canal is the perfect way to truly appreciate Lancaster’s beautiful scenery. With gorgeous views and possible sightings of ducks (and ducklings!), there couldn’t be a better way to spend the day. If you walk the path from near campus into town, you’ll also pass Fairfield Nature Reserve – an ideal detour for all the animal lovers out there.

5. Tipple cocktail bar

A tried and tested excellent date idea, going for drinks is a lovely way to get to know your partner in a relaxed setting. And if Hogarth’s and Mint are a bit too conventional, then you could switch it up by giving Tipple’s fancy cocktails a try. Happy hour is 5-8pm daily, and cocktail masterclasses are available if you want to test your skills with a few friends, as well as a collection of different board games if you want a bit of friendly competition.

6. Williamson Park

One of my personal favourites, Williamson Park is one of the most iconic places in Lancaster. It’s basically a rite of passage for all students to visit, and if you haven’t already, Valentine’s Day would be the best time. It boasts amazing views of Lancaster and even Morecambe Bay on a good day, and beautiful scenery to explore together.

Additionally, if you have a few hours to spare, visit the butterfly house and mini zoo on site too! Perfect for a picnic, or an evening stroll if you want to see Ashton Memorial lit up in all its glory.

7. Brunch date

We have an abundance of cafe’s around, and going for brunch is a great way to spend a lazy morning in Lancaster. With eateries including Brew, Café Dolce, and the Deli on campus, there are many great options to try out together. Sometimes it’s just nice to have some good food and quality time with your partner, in and amongst the busy uni lifestyle.

8. The Lake District

If you really want to impress your significant other, why not take them on a trip to the Lake District? Only approximately £10 for a day return ticket, and a 45 minute train journey, this harmonious setting is more accessible than you’d think. From fun boat trips to charming towns, you certainly won’t be bored, and it is great to explore your own world together.

9. The Library

Hear me out, anything can be made romantic if you try hard enough, even the uni library. This is perfect for those who are stuck on campus all day on February 14th, or furiously working on their dissertation. Find a double desk near Norma the tree, or in one of the renovated extensions, and bring plenty of snacks as you chip away at that debilitating mountain of work together, you’ll thank yourself later. As we all know, a couple that does uni work together, stays together.

10. Visit the Charter Markets

These delightful markets can be found throughout the town centre and Dalton Square on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and on campus on Thursdays, and are comprised of both edible and non-edible products which you could treat your loved one to. This is a also a great idea to support small business in Lancaster whilst also enjoying some mouth-watering delicacies.