Three UK City Breaks for a Special Valentine’s Day

If you’re thinking of planning a Valentine’s Day trip for your loved one, there’s no need to head overseas. The UK boasts an unparalleled heritage, and many of its historic cities are filled with exquisite architecture, beautiful restaurants and romance at every turn. 

Here, we bring you three of the best cities in the UK for your next romantic weekend break. 

Sheffield

Sheffield excelled in industry in the ‘90s and remains one of the UK’s leaders in innovation today. Its distinct, alternative spirit makes it a fantastic place to visit for a UK weekend break. 

Because of its location, nestled against the lush backdrop of the Peak District National Park, Sheffield has it all. From breathtaking walking trails to an arts scene to be reckoned with, whatever your taste, a Valentine’s Day break here won’t leave you disappointed. 

Here are some of the best romantic things to do in Sheffield:

• Stroll around Sheffield Botanical Gardens

• Visit the Tropical Butterfly House

• Visit Sheffield Cathedral

• Explore Graves Art Gallery

• Relax at Sheffield St Paul’s Spa

• Watch a film at the Showroom Cinema

• Enjoy the view from Meersbrook Park viewpoint

If you’re heading to Sheffield for your Valentine’s Day break, make your stay memorable with a booking at the Mercure Sheffield St Paul’s Hotel & Spa, where guests can enjoy professional spa treatments in stunning surroundings, all within a stone’s throw of the city’s historic cathedral.

Aberdeen

On the north-east coast of Scotland sits Aberdeenshire, an area of extraordinary natural beauty and charm. Aberdeen is the beating heart of the region; a weekend break here provides the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the every-day and truly reconnect with your partner. 

Whether you’d prefer a stroll along the rugged coastline, to explore the city’s many independent shops and eateries, or to indulge in a taste of traditional Scottish whisky on a distillery tour, there’s something for everyone here.

To help narrow your choices down, we’ve put together this list of some of the most romantic things to do in Aberdeen:

• Visit Slains Castle

• Walk along Balmedie Beach

• Explore Johnston Gardens

• Enjoy a slice of history at St Machar’s Cathedral

• Stroll around Pitmedden Garden

• Watch a show at His Majesty’s Theatre

• Visit King’s College Chapel

• Unwind at Ardoe House Spa

For a romantic break in Aberdeen, there’s no more suitable hotel than the Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House, a breathtaking 19th-century mansion house set amongst 30-acres of Aberdeenshire’s most beautiful countryside.

Affectionately known as The City of Dreaming Spires, Oxford is famous around the world, not only for its prestigious University, but for its rich history. 

If you’re considering a romantic weekend break in Oxford, prepare for street after cobbled street of ancient, honey-coloured architecture, bursts of colour in beautifully landscaped parks, and nightlife so varied it’s sure to suit any taste.

Here’s our list of the best romantic things to do in Oxford this Valentine’s Day:

• Explore Oxford University Parks

• Visit Oxford Castle

• Marvel at the intricate interior of Bodleian Library

• Visit the Oxford University Museum of Natural History

• Stroll around the University of Oxford Botanic Garden

• Visit Radcliffe Camera

• Pass through the iconic Bridge of Sighs

There’s plenty to do in Oxford, so you’ll need a couple of days to fit everything in. Choose the Mercure Oxford Eastgate Hotel as your base and enjoy all the conveniences of its city centre location. This stunning hotel is set inside a 17th-century coaching inn, which retains many original features, so you’ll be in the mood for romance from the moment you wake up.

No matter which UK city you choose for your Valentine’s Day break, if you want to really treat your loved one head to the Mercure website and discover a stunning hotel to suit your needs.