Seven ways to have a wonderfully platonic Valentine’s Day in Notts

Did someone say Gal-entine’s Day


Valentine’s Day is coming up this weekend and you’re probably already bored of the commercial clichés that are recycled every year and advertised all over social media.

But this year is a little different. Lockdown has limited everyone’s plans for Valentine’s Day, especially for those of us who are single. Nevertheless, we’re here to save the day and show you how to have the Valentine’s of your dreams with your housemates.

Food is the way to the heart

Instead of cashing in on an expensive night out, this year is your chance to show off your cooking skills. Without a fancy date to impress the pressure is off, your housemates have probably seen you committing worse crimes than overcooked pasta.

But if you struggle to find inspiration for your inner Gordon Ramsey why not try these recipes that went viral in 2020: Gigi Hadid’s spicy Vodka Pasta, instant pot Vegan Mac and Cheese or classic Buffalo Wings – you can use the same glaze and substitute the chicken for salmon, tofu, tempeh  or cauliflower.

Bring the restaurant to you

If the kitchen isn’t your best friend, luckily most supermarkets in Nottingham are offering a dine-in deal so you can recreate a romantic night out in the comfort of your own home.

Most of these come with a three-course meal and a bottle of wine or soft drink alternative. Morrison’s, Tesco and The Co-op all charge £15, with menus that offer steak or salmon with vegan/veggie options like pasta bake, garlic mushrooms and vegan chorizo. Deserts range from panna cotta to cheesecake to a classic brownie.

Conduct your own city tour

Obviously lockdown turns a city tour into a walk, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Nottingham is full of history and attractions that you don’t need to get on a tour bus for, and walking is free.

The most popular cultural destinations in Nottingham are relatively close to Lenton, why not take a stroll to Old Market Square, the Lace Market, Nottingham Castle, the City of Caves, or of course, Batman’s home: Wollaton Hall. Taking yourselves on a tour will show you new parts of Nottingham and is a great way to spend time with the people you love.

Create a private cinema in your own front room

You don’t get much more of a cliché than a cinema date for Valentine’s. But is it really all that when you can’t open a bag of popcorn, let alone eat it, without feeling like you’re irritating everyone else in the room?

Instead, why not get creative with a cinema set up in your living room or bedroom, raid the corner shop for unlimited, extra loud snacks, and shamelessly ask out loud every time you get confused about the plot. And what better day than Valentine’s to watch a film that makes you appreciate being single, our favourites are Thelma and Louise, The First Wives Club, Waiting to Exhale.

Who needs a romantic weekend away when you can stay indoors

If you’re looking for something more exciting and involving alcohol, change up the classic lockdown bar crawl by turning everyone’s room into a different romantic get-away. Try to emulate Paris or Italy or maybe even a hotel spa. This gives everyone a chance to dress up and enjoy themselves, or at least as much as possible during a pandemic.

Have a day dedicated to self love

One thing lockdown has taught us is that self-care is KEY. Valentine’s provides the perfect opportunity for you and your housemates to have an affordable pamper day, don’t worry boys this ones for you too.

The opportunities are endless, you could convince a housemate to give you a massage or a manicure, buy some face masks or try making your own, maybe even have a go with couple’s yoga. It’s up to you, but whatever you decide on, just taking a little time out of your day to treat yourself is a great way to spend time with your friends.

Quiet Night In

Finally, if none of the above appeals to you, at the very least binge watch Netflix shows and get a takeaway. Keep your eye out for any Valentines deals on Just Eat and Uber Eats. It’s unlikely that you don’t already have a Deliveroo account, but if you don’t, or if you make a new one, you can get £10 off your first order.

You can enjoy Valentine’s Day with whoever you want, and do whatever you want, but most of all it’s a good excuse to treat yourself. Whatever you end up doing, have fun and stay safe!

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