Winchester has all the ingredients needed for a the perfect Valentine's Day.
With its historic setting, cosy independent pubs, boutique hotels and exquisite restaurants, Winchester is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic date-cation. Discover Visit Winchester's top top for the perfect dates, the most romantic meals and the best places to stay, sure to make your trip unforgettable.
Valentine's Date Night under the Whales
Three monumental sperm whale sculptures, created by artist Tessa Campbell Fraser, will be suspended from Winchester Cathedral's nave as the space is transformed into an underwater world. Listen to moving songs of the sea sung by shanty crew, High and Dry, while sipping on a range of unique cocktails. Explore the majestic cathedral on a romance-themed tour, before concluding the evening with playful games around the venue. This spectacular event takes place on Friday 14 February from 7:15pm. Book now.
After Dark: The Planetarium Live
Experience an out-of-this-world date night at Winchester Science Centre on Friday 14 February. This planetarium show will couples on a galactic tour around the solar system while they snuggle up under a blanket of stars. Drinks and nibbles are available to purchase throughout the evening. Book now.
The Watercress Belle Valentine's Day Special
At The Watercress Line, enjoy a delicious, contemporary 3 course meal and English sparking wines aboard the 1st Class carriages of this beautifully restored heritage train. With the addition of the warm ambience of richly upholstered seats, original wooden interiors, cosy table lamps in the windows, curtains, and tables with white damask cloths, it will be an unforgettable experience. Book now.
Valentine's Cinema Night
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a loved one or friends at Bombay Sapphire Distillery's Valentine's Cinema Night on Saturday the 15 or Sunday the 16 of February. Enjoy an arrival gin and tonic cocktail, popcorn and chocolate dipping sharing platter before settling in for a screening of My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Book now.
Gone Too Soon Live: The Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston show
Prepare to be mesmerised as Britain's Bot Talent's Taryn Charles graces the stage in Gone Too Soon, Live channelling the legendary Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin with an electrifying performance at Theatre Royal Winchester. Taryn brings a blend of raw power and soulful emotion that leaves audiences spellbound. Book now.
Image: Dining aboard The Watercress Belle
The Chesil Rectory
The Chesil Rectory is a unique and historic restaurant occupies a 600-year-old Grade II listed medieval house and exudes character and charm. Independently owned since 2008 by a small group of friends who share a passion for food and wine, the Chesil Rectory offers a modern British menu featuring simple, classic, seasonal dishes and an abundance of fresh local produce. Book now.
Cabinet Rooms
Cabinet Rooms is an independent, family-owned cafe and bar. It is the perfect spot to grab a coffee in the day or sample the quirky range of cocktails while soaking up the ambiance by night. It is located opposite Theatre Royal Winchester, so also makes for a good pre-theatre dining option. Book now.
The Royal Oak
The Royal Oak is the earliest building in England on record to have housed a bar, with parts of the pub dating back to 1002, when it was residence of Queen Emma. Today, the pub offers warm hospitality and a menu containing British classics such as sausage and mash, and fish and chips, perfect for a cosy date night. Book now.
Rick Stein
Rick Stein's Winchester restaurant is serving a Valentine’s Day special of Cornish Lobster Risotto from 13 to 15 February. With delicious food, hand-picked wines and an ambient dining room, it is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed Valentine's dinner in Winchester. Book now.
Image: The Chesil Rectory
The Old Vine
The Old Vine is an 18th century inn steeped in character, with spacious and stylish guest rooms offering views of the nearby Winchester Cathedral. Guests can also dine in the restaurant and enjoy three courses, or two courses and a glass of wine, for £35 per person, including Valentine's Day. Book now.
Winchester Royal Hotel
Winchester Royal Hotel is a charming and historic retreat nestled in the heart of Winchester. Dating back to the 16th century, this elegant hotel offers a blend of traditional charm and modern comfort, perfect for a city getaway. They offer an exclusive date night package, including an overnight stay and a 2 course dinner in the Walled Garden Restaurant. Book now.
Wykeham Arms
Wykeham Arms is a luxurious country pub with rooms, nestled between Winchester Cathedral and the 14th century Winchester College. Not only does the pub offer spectacular rooms, its menu is also full of seasonal, high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Book now.
Image: The Wykeham Arms
