Celebrate Valentine's Day in the Lake District, Cumbria

Love is in the air in the Lake District, Cumbria. Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and with its picturesque landscapes and abundance of places to eat, drink and stay, this is the perfect place to celebrate. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer break, here are 8 ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in the Lake District, Cumbria.

Wine & Dine

Spend some quality time together and enjoy a romantic meal out. We’ve got the most Michelin starred restaurants outside of London, as well as AA rosette dining, cosy country pubs, relaxed bistros and more - there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Wherever you choose to dine, you’ll find plenty of memorable places to eat and drink across the county, perfect for celebrating Valentine’s Day.

Go for a walk

There are lots of romantic walks in Cumbria to choose from, so wrap up warm and take a stroll amidst some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. Adventurous couples can try their hand at a Wainwright walk or a hike through the Howgills, while those looking for a more leisurely pace will enjoy seaside strolls and low level ambles, punctuated by cafe stops for coffee and cake.

Stargazing

Take a break from gazing into each other's eyes and turn to the skies above: Cumbria has some of the darkest skies in the country, making it the perfect place to enjoy a spot of stargazing. Get cosy with a blanket and admire the stars from your accommodation, head to dedicated stargazing spots like Grizedale Observatory or the stargazing pavilion at Talkin Tarn Country Park, or experience the inky dark skies of remote areas like the North Pennines National Landscape.

Tie the knot

Planning to get married in the Lake District, Cumbria? This is an incredibly romantic place to tie the knot, and there are plenty of great venues and suppliers to help you do so in style. With everything from photographers to hen & stag party activities, check out our weddings page here.

Catch a show

Theatre, cinema or live music: whatever your taste, there are entertainment venues across Cumbria offering a great night out. From the Rosehill Theatre in Whitehaven to the newly-renamed Victoria Wood Theatre in Bowness on Windermere, there are lots to choose from.

Look out for special Valentine’s Day events including a Valentine’s Special with Fred Binley & Friends, which brings an evening of romantic tunes and light-hearted humour to Zeffirelli’s in Ambleside.

Get a room!

Enjoy a romantic break in the Lake District, Cumbria, with your other half. There are lots of accommodation options to choose from, whatever your taste. Glamping cabins beneath the stars, cosy cottages with private hot tubs, modern town and city centre apartments, country house hotels…the list of places to get a room is endless.

Try something different

There’s nothing like learning a new skill together, and there are plenty of workshops and immersive experiences across the Lake District, Cumbria, where you can do just that. At Cumbria Crystal, try your hand at making your very own solid crystal heart paperweight - great enjoyed as a couple, or to make a special gift for someone you love.

Gift ideas

With an abundance of artisan makers and producers across the area, there are plenty of thoughtful Cumbrian gift ideas to put a smile on their face. Think locally made gins and spirits (Shed Loads of Love by Shed One Distillery is aptly named for the occasion), skincare from makers like Pure Lakes Skincare, heart shaped Grasmere Gingerbread®, and lots more. Plus, our towns, villages and city of Carlisle make for the perfect places to shop for Valentine’s Day gifts.

Plus, there are gift vouchers if you’d like to enjoy a Lake District experience together.

Relax and unwind together

Slow down and reconnect with a little rest and relaxation. The Lake District, Cumbria is home to a wonderful selection of spas, wellness experiences and hotels offering treatments designed for two. Think lakeside saunas, couples massages, outdoor hot tubs, and indulgent afternoon teas. Whether it’s a full spa break or a few hours of calm during your stay, it’s a lovely way to celebrate Valentine’s Day together.

Take to the water

From serene lake cruises to private boat hire, spending time on the water is one of the most romantic ways to experience the Lake District. Enjoy a peaceful cruise on Windermere, Derwenwater, Ullswater or Coniston, or hire a rowing boat and explore at your own pace.

Whether you’re planning a romantic day out, a Valentine’s weekend away, or simply looking for thoughtful gift inspiration, the Lake District, Cumbria offers endless ways to celebrate love. With stunning scenery, memorable experiences, and welcoming places to eat, drink and stay across the county, it’s the perfect setting to create moments you’ll treasure long after Valentine’s Day has passed. Start planning your visit and discover just how special a Valentine’s Day in Cumbria can be.