Saint Valentine is coming to the Scottish capital, and the city is preparing to welcome the day of the lovers. So, whether it’s taking date night to different heights or taking part in an exciting event, we’ve gathered up the best and quirkier ways to celebrate this Valentine’s Day in Edinburgh.
1. Get competitive at an arcade games bar
The first thought that came to mind after visiting NQ64 was that this is an amazing date spot for those who love gaming. You can play Mario Kart, Guitar Hero or Virtua Tennis and sip on light-up cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere. What is more, the venue is covered in neon décor and plays some proper throwback tunes, so expect Grandmaster Flash to make an appearance. There is no need to book, just show up and have a blast by setting that childhood wonder free accompanied by some friendly competitiveness.
2. Hang around all the animals at the Edinburgh Zoo
For animal lovers of all ages out there, Edinburgh Zoo is the perfect opportunity for a date outing to the zoo to meet all the adorable animals like penguins, nyala antelopes, a rhino, giraffes, koalas and more, as well as enjoy scenic views over the city. You can book your tickets here.
3. Enjoy a romantic outing to Duck & Waffle
The critically acclaimed Duck & Waffle is famous for its imaginative take on British cuisine, with playful touches from various European cuisines. The venue is open until late, so is not only a breakfast and brunch place, but also a spot for late-night munchies we just sometimes need. Duck & Waffle is most known for its signature dish, which, unsurprisingly, contains a buttermilk waffle topped with a crispy duck leg confit and a fried duck egg drizzled with mustard maple syrup.
4. Marvel at the soft sounds of Moonlight Sonata at this Valentine’s Candlelight concert
Start your Valentine’s evening most romantically by attending a classical concert at St Giles Cathedral bathed in candlelight. As heart-warming soft melodies performed by a pianist fill the space, music lovers will be able to appreciate the most amorous classical songs ever written in a stunning setting. During the Valentine’s Moonlight Sonata by candlelight concert, expect to be amazed by the skilled performances of masterpieces. You can book your tickets here.
5. Make it a Valentine’s Taco Tuesday
We love tacos and we love love. So why not mix these two together and visit the Mexican-inspire bar, The Basement (it’s also actually in a basement). On top of delicious flavoured margaritas, the bar serves excellent Mexican food: you can opt for the Halloumi tacos with marinated halloumi, Mexican slaw, corn tortillas, pomegranate, jalapeño jam and toasted pumpkin seeds. Additionally, they also serve cactus quesadillas and sizzling fajitas that are almost to die for.
6. Go to a stand-up comedy show
Edinburgh has an abundance of comedy performances that won’t break the bank. This Valentine’s Day, whether you’re flying solo or in a couple, you can attend the Friday show at The Stand Comedy Club. The show is set to make fun of the commerciality of the holiday, and the club is inviting guests to ‘come laugh in a dark basement with us instead’. Sounds like a class night to us!
7. Give the epic burger challenge at the Boozy Cow a go
If you want to put your hunger to the test, take part in Boozy Cow’s Make Your Mark Burger Challenge where you’ll battle it out against the ultimate beef burger with THREE beef patties, topped with crispy bacon, Emmental cheese, two Halloumi strips, two deep fried onions, lettuce, tomato and a Jack Daniel’s glaze all covered with melting cheese sauce. Burger lovers will also have to finish the Maker’s Mark Shake which can be swapped for a non-alcoholic alternative if needed. Those lucky enough to complete the challenge will receive a Maker’s Mark t-shirt as a trophy and their photo added to the Make Your Mark wall of fame. You should probably skip breakfast and lunch that day, but it should make for some hilarious memories.
8. Express your love with a romantic dinner surrounded by cherry blossoms
Tattu Edinburgh is one of the city’s romantic restaurants, decked in cherry blossom trees throughout. However, the interior design is not the only outstanding aspect of the restaurant: the innovative, seasonal Chinese-inspired menu is the true essence of what sets the trendy spot apart. The concept of connection is well understood in Tattu, so guests are encouraged to share their food.
9. Check out some of the most romantic restaurants in the UK
Open Table has released a list of the most romantic restaurants in the UK, and two restaurants in Edinburgh made the list. So, organise a date at Kyloe Gourmet Steak Restaurant in the West End and enjoy a satisfying Surf & Turf with wagyu fillet and lobster or go for Scottish Monkfish Scampi. Or, try out Mamma Roma restaurant on Leith Walk for an Italian indulgence, which offers a HUGE menu to satisfy pretty much every craving. Or, check out our own list of the most romantic restaurants in Edinburgh to widen the choice.
10. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage or facial
For those who just want to relax this Valentine’s Day and enjoy some well-deserved me-time, why not indulge in a nourishing facial or leave the troubles of the world at the door by getting a massage. Sleeping Beauty Salon in the West End as well as Sleeping Beauty Spa at the Radisson Blu offers just that and more, including spa packages. Go for the Elemis Pro-Glow Renewal Facial with prebiotics and antioxidants, or try the Full Body Relaxing Massage where you can choose your preferred oil scent for the ultimate serene experience.
11. Discover the UK’s best cocktail bars around Edinburgh
The best cocktail bars around the UK have been announced by Franklin & Sons on February 6. Edinburgh got plenty of inclusions: Hey Palu came fifth on the list, while Panda & Sons came ninth. Bramble took the 32nd spot, and Nauticus came 41st. The final Edinburgh inclusion was The Wildcat, taking 46th place.