8 unique Valentine's Day activities in Yorkshire

For many people, Valentine's Day is all about a nice meal at a restaurant, a card and a long stem rose. But for others, variety is the spice of date night – and all they want is a fresh idea and a Valentine's Day to remember.

Well, look no further, because in this article we've collected some unique Valentine's Day ideas that are anything but ordinary. Read on for a raft of romantic suggestions – from local history to wine tasting, from surfing to underground caverns. We hope it inspires you.


1. Brimham Rocks

Lovers of nature and folklore with a taste for the macabre could do worse than take a Valentine's Day trip to Brimham Rocks. These weird and wonderful rock formations are 11 miles from Harrogate and four miles from Pateley Bridge.

Created over 100 million years ago, these rocks are like clouds – for centuries, possibly longer, people have been finding shapes in them: elephants, bears and hippos, to name just a few.

But Brimham Rocks is also home to a romantic folk tale with a tragicomic twist. Edwin and Julia, they say, were madly in love but forbidden from seeing each other. Life without each other was unbearable, so they decided to jump from the rocks and spend the afterlife together instead. But a favourable gust of wind turned the lady's skirt into a parachute. They glided safely to the ground.

Another version of the story has just the woman jumping. Either way, it's a charming tale for Valentine's Day – and Brimham Rocks provides the perfect opportunity to blow away the cobwebs.


2. Dunesforde Vineyard Trail

If it's true that love, like wine, gets better with time, then what better than visiting Dunesforde Vineyard Trail in Upper Dunsforth, North Yorkshire?

A tour of this boutique vineyard and its 6,000 vines will teach you all about its history, dating back to the Roman times. As one of the most northerly vineyards in England, it's well worth exploring – and, of course, sampling its wine collection and soaking up the views.

Dunesforde Vineyard Trail is open from Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM.


3. Goldsborough Hall

Tucked away in the village of Goldsborough, Goldsborough Hall is a stately home and gardens, boasting 17 luxury rooms, an orangery and beautiful woodland.

Built between 1598 and 1625 for a London lawyer who wanted a country retreat, Goldsborough Hall has a royal connection, being the 20th-century home of Princess Mary, Countess of Harewood.

This Valentine's Day, you can taste a bit of this luxury living with Goldsborough's special package. It begins with a glass of sparkling wine, takes in a seven-course dinner by candlelight and ends in one of the superbly designed rooms.


4. Dexter's Surf School, Scarborough

Thrill-seeking couples, look no further: Dexters Surf Shop is a family-run business on the northeast coast that offers surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking and bodyboarding lessons for all ages and abilities.

Based in Scarborough, it's open all week and could be just the ticket if you want to feel the wind whip your hair and the waves lap your body.


5. Valentine's Masterclass at York's Chocolate Story

York was once known as "Chocolate City", home to Terry's and Rowntree's, along with now-defunct companies like Cravens and Lazenby. This rich and fascinating story is celebrated at York's Chocolate Story Museum.

Looking for something creative as well as sweet? This Valentine's Day, you can take a guided tour of the museum followed by a special Valentine's activity – a chocolate masterclass that will teach you everything from truffle rolling to chocolate piping.


6. Spurn Safari

Spurn Point is a snaking peninsula in Yorkshire that's been nicknamed the Land's End of Yorkshire. It's over three miles long but sometimes only 50 metres wide.

History buffs and nature lovers alike should consider going on a "Spurn Safari" – a four-hour tour that takes place on an ex-military Unimog. As well as giving you exquisite views of the Point and the Humber Estuary, you get to visit the 128-foot-tall lighthouse and learn all about the region's history.

So if you're a couple with a taste for history, nature and adventure, give it a look.


7. Spa days

Yorkshire is home to some great spas, from budget options all the way up to luxury resorts. If you and your partner want primarily to unwind this Valentine's Day, look into a spa day and take a proper break.

Whether you book yourselves in for treatments or simply enjoy the pools and saunas, you can be sure to leave a little bit more relaxed than when you arrived.


8. Stump Cross Caverns

Visit Stump Cross Caverns and you can step into a subterranean wonderland – all stalagmites, stalactites and other rock formations. If you're picturing crawling through a damp passageway on your hands and knees, think again – the chambers and passageways are ideal for a romantic trip. You might need to stoop a little, that's all…

Afterwards, why not book a session in our Time Out Pod? This is a cosy space where you can unwind with the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales in view. Come and sample our snacks and drinks, then kick back in peace with your partner.

At Stump Cross Caverns, we're all about making the most of the natural wonders we're sitting on top of. Come and see for yourselves – we can promise you a warm Yorkshire welcome.

Final thoughts

Sometimes, Valentine's Day is best celebrated in classic style. Other times, you want something with a touch of the extraordinary. We hope that these suggestions will help you have a Valentine's Day to remember.


Are you considering visiting the Yorkshire Dales this Valentine's Day? Make sure to swing by Stump Cross Caverns for a truly magical experience, deep under the hills and valleys. It's quick and easy to book your tickets online .