So it's the 'Day of Love' on the 14th - less than a week away! As a simple singleton, I don't have any plans for Valentine's Day this year, but if you have a special someone and haven't got anything planned yet, maybe one of these Virgin Experience Days could be perfect for the two of you.
Since it's short notice these gifts will probably have to be booked in advance for after Valentine's Day but it's the thought that counts!
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Poole Harbour and Islands Cruise for Two £9
Poole Harbour and Islands Cruise for Two £9
Hop aboard a boat in Poole for a leisurely cruise around Europe’s largest natural harbour, and take in the seaside sights, wildlife and scenery with someone special by your side with this Poole Harbour and Islands Cruise for Two.
With a human history dating back to 295 BC, Poole Harbour has long been an important part of Britain, from Iron Age exploration and settlement through to Roman invasion, new world trading and even the formation of the Scouting movement on Brownsea Island. As you drift along on your cruise through the shallow waters your skipper for the day will fill you in on the sights and surroundings that you’ll see from either the open-air top deck or the enclosed lower deck, so keep your camera close if you want to capture the intriguing scenery as it passes by.
There’s famous houses to spot at Sandbanks, beautiful beaches and historic Poole bays, a castle and Lord Baden-Powell’s original campsite to see as you pass by Brownsea, and keep your eyes peeled for local fauna who might pop their heads up to say hello!
Couples Boudoir Photoshoot £12.50
Ooh la la! We always say that couples who play together stay together, and here’s a cheeky little experience that really is a bit of fun. You’ll have heard of a Boudoir shoots, photographing her at her provocative or romantic best. Here, he can join in the fun with a ‘Dudoir’ makeover so couples can get some lovely shots together.
Rediscover the fun with this relaxed and sensitively staged photoshoot, confident you both look great after a professional makeover and style consultation. Feel closer than ever - with the bonus of an A5 print to take home as a gorgeous personal memento. Bring your own lingerie and accessories to make the shoot your own and work that camera!
Couples Photo Experience £19.50
Create lasting memories of you with the one you love in this Couples Photo Experience. You’ll be welcomed into a professional studio for an unforgettable photoshoot with your partner – the perfect way to celebrate an engagement, anniversary, special event or just because you want to.
You’ll both receive a style consultation on arrival, to ensure you’re looking at your best for the shoot and ladies will receive a fabulous make-up and dry-hair styling session to add those final touches. Then it’s onto the set as your professional photographer guides you both through a series of fun-filled, relaxed poses with clothing and background changes throughout. You’ll choose from over 60 locations nationwide for this fantastic experience, which comes complete with a complimentary A4 print of your favourite image from the shoot.
Cheese & Wine Tasting for Two in London £24
"Few things go together quite like cheese and wine. Aptly named after the Greek god of wine-making, Dionysius, London is a showcase and celebration of all things wine, cherry-picking only the best of the best from vineyards and producers around the globe – and now you can taste some.
Your palate pleasing experience will have you and a fellow wine connoisseur supping your way through five exceptional varieties of Italian fine wine. With Italy producing so many different types and qualities of grapes, there is always a delicious new wine waiting to be discovered. Each different wine will be paired with a carefully chosen and equally tasty cheese, picked to complement the wine on offer.
With two Dionysius locations to choose from, your wine and cheese tasting will be held in a dedicated area of your chosen destination’s wine cellar."
Champagne & Cinema Evening for Two at the 5* Luxury Courthouse Hotel, London £36.25
"Treat yourself and a lucky friend or partner to a magical night out with this Champagne Cinema Evening for Two at the 5* Luxury Courthouse Hotel in London. This truly is a movie outing with a difference as you enter a former magistrates’ court in a beautiful Grade II listed building where many famous names such as Oscar Wilde, Mick Jagger and John Lennon have appeared. It now offers a secluded setting in which to enjoy a Saturday evening, in one of the biggest private cinemas in the capital.
When you arrive you will be greeted by staff and shown to the quirky hotel bar, which was once the prison cell block. There you can enjoy a delicious Champagne cocktail before you take your seats for your chosen film. The hotel offers a different cult classic every Saturday night, ranging from romance to action films, so there’s bound to be something to suit everyone’s taste. With up-to-date screening technology and stunning décor featuring aubergine carpets, suede walls and purple leather seats, this cinema is sure to give you both an entertaining experience you’ll never forget.
From Spring 2017 you can also choose to take a seat in The Courthouse in Old Street, Shoreditch, where you’ll find equally intriguing décor and plenty of eccentric charm!"
Visit to Kew Gardens with Cream Tea for Two £39
"Explore one of London’s most beautiful attractions and enjoy a traditional English treat with this visit to Kew Gardens with Cream Tea for two. This 326 acre UNESCO World Heritage Site, features diverse plant life from around the world. Enter glasshouses and explore landscapes as you uncover 250 years of history at one of the world’s most famous gardens.
You’ll have access to the Royal Kitchens, Palm House, Rose Garden, The Princess of Wales Conservatory and much more. New for 2016 is the critically acclaimed UK pavilion from the Milan Expo 2015, The Hive. Designed to be an immersive, multi-sensory experience inspired by bees, you’ll be drawn in by hundreds of glowing LEDs and orchestral sounds filling the air.
When it’s time for some light refreshment simply head to the glorious Orangery for self-service cream tea for two which includes a either a scone with cream and jam or a slice of cake. The perfect setting for you both to relax and reflect on your day together, before heading back out."
"Check into a spa set in 30 acres of scenic Surrey countryside, and bring a friend to share in a 30 minute foot treatment along with a day spent enjoying the facilities with this Pamper Day for Two at The Weybridge Spa.
Situated just outside London in a green oasis between Weybridge and Walton, The Weybridge Spa offers a calm sanctuary where you can leave your stresses behind for a spell and relax however you want to. There are two pools, a sauna and a scented steam room for your water-based therapy, a gym if you want to get your heart rate going, and a relaxing lounge area and conservatory café for when you just want to soak in the atmosphere.
At your chosen times you’ll each be able to enjoy a 30 minute ‘sole delight’ foot treatment, where your feet will be soothed with warm towels and hot oils for exceptional exfoliation followed by a relaxing massage or file and polish. Take it easy, relax and enjoy your time in tranquillity before heading back to the real world – sadly you can’t stay in your spa robes forever!"
Three Course Meal for Two with Champagne Cocktail at London's Shaka Zulu £49
"Take an interesting visit to Shaka Zulu, London’s spectacular South African restaurant in Camden. Covering an impressive 27,000 square feet, this funky restaurant is set over two floors and offers you both a tasty three-course lunch or dinner with a sparkly champagne cocktail each.
Shaka Zulu is an award-winning restaurant which features amazing 20ft high statues and carved wooden murals, the restaurant was even blessed by the Zulu King and it is simply just a wonderful space for the two you to share a delicious meal together."
One Night 'Glamping' Break at the Quiet Site, Lake District £60
"Enjoy camping in style with this One Night Glamping Break in a camping pod at the 100% carbon neutral Quiet Site in the Lake District. It’s camping without the discomfort and far more fun than staying in a tent. With room for up to two adults and two small children, bring the family and make the most of this interesting experience.
You’ll stay in your own eco pod which will be warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The pods are completely empty on arrival, with a carpeted floor and a light wooden interior, so you are free to bring as much as you like. You can take advantage of all the onsite facilities including a shop, family play room, free Wi-Fi, olde-worlde bar, showers, baths and all the other amenities you’d expect.
With lakeside walks and stunning views, all at your doorstep, you’re bound to enjoy this unique experience located in the heart of the Lake District. All you need to bring is your camping gear - minus the tent."
Tree Top Adventure for Two with Go Ape £66
Challenge yourself to Go Ape. The UK’s No1 Tree Top Adventure.
Head to your nearest forest and swing from the trees like a real life Tarzan at one of the 28 sites throughout the UK. Take on Tarzan Swings, Rope Ladders and a variety of obstacles and crossings, as well as fly through the sky on Zip Wires, all set in the UK’s most beautiful forests.
You will be securely and safely kitted out with a harness and given full safety training from one of Go Ape’s experienced instructors before they let you loose on the course where you will be allowed to roam the forest canopy by yourself – you’ll have more fun that way.
Rejuvenate and Revive Pamper Treat with Sparkling Cream Tea for Two £75
"Get away together for some peace of mind and body at The Retreat Beaconsfield. Situated in 2,400 acres of spectacular Buckinghamshire countryside, there’s all the space you’ll ever need on this Rejuvenate and Revive experience for two.
Your extensive package will see you enjoy three treatments each. Come away glowing courtesy of an Express Facial; deeply cleansing and exfoliating, your skin will feel polished and revitalised. Then, treat the whole body to more of the same, with an Express Body Scrub. Detoxify in style with a cleansing Seaweed Wrap. Drawing out toxins and excess water retention, you’ll both feel revived and a little lighter, too.
Sit back and relax with a glass of bubbly and a cream tea to finish. Toast to some well-earned tranquillity and fill up with this quintessential English indulgence."
Theatre and Dinner for Two in London £99
"Discover London’s ‘Theatreland’ with this fantastic experience that includes dinner and two tickets to a West End show. You’ll enjoy a memorable evening in London, beginning with a delicious pre-theatre two-course meal at a restaurant within walking distance from your chosen theatre. Once you have finished your tasty meal, it’s off to one of London’s fabulous West End theatres for the main attraction.
Upon entering the theatre you will admire the decadent architecture and stylish décor that make a trip to the West End so special. When the lights go down you will be transported to another world as the show begins and the talented ensemble take to the stage. There are a variety of performances to choose from, from long-running productions to successful new shows, and restaurants to suit every taste. So whether it’s comedy, horror, musical or drama that you’re into, this spectacular experience won’t disappoint."
The View from The Shard with a Three Course Meal for Two at Marco Pierre White's London Steakhouse Co £111
"Enjoy an unforgettable day out in London with this unique experience featuring The View from The Shard and a three-course meal for two at one of Marco Pierre White's restaurants; London Steakhouse Co. - City or London Steakhouse Co. - Chelsea. On entry to The Shard you'll ascend 800ft in a matter of seconds to reach the top of this spectacular skyscraper which is Western Europe’s tallest building. You’ll step onto an open viewing platform to enjoy one of the most incredible experiences in the country as you gaze out across 40 miles of the capital and beyond with powerful telescopes and fascinating multimedia displays to enhance your breathtaking 360-degree view.
As part of this sensational experience, you’ll also be welcomed into award-winning chef Marco Pierre White’s Steak and Ale House Restaurant for a delicious three-course meal with a cocktail each. Sit back and relax as you peruse the mouth-watering set menu, available for lunch or dinner, featuring a selection of tasty appetisers, high-quality steaks, roast meats, fish, and timeless puddings. It’s up to you whether you visit The Shard before or after your meal and either way, you’re sure to enjoy a day out to remember with this magnificent experience for two."
Luxury Spa Day with Treatments and Champagne for Two at 5* Athenaeum Hotel, Mayfair £139
"Everyone deserves to indulge in some time to themselves, and there are few better places to take the weight off your shoulders than the 5* Athenaeum Hotel, Mayfair.
You and your guest can spend a special day together with this Luxury Spa Day with Treatments and Champagne. The hotel’s REN spa is a boutique haven of tranquillity, and you can experience it all with full use of the sauna, steam room and hot tubs for 1 hour as well as your choice of treatments. Take two express treatments from a selection of hydrating facial, energising scrub, massage or detox wrap. Alternatively, you spend a full 60 minutes with a bespoke facial or full body massage.
Feeling suitably refreshed from your treatments, you’ll head through to the Galvin restaurant, where you’ll be able to toast the special occasion with a glass of Champagne each."
Six Course Chef’s Menu with Cocktails for Two at Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen £150
"Taste your way through the head chef’s favourite dishes with a beautiful six-course menu at Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant near Islington, London. Enjoy it all with a gin-based aperitif to start and digestif to finish.
Since 2002 Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen near Islington, has been serving up delicious food cooked by a team of apprentices and professional chefs alike. Within the restaurant’s bright and open surroundings, a 5 minute walk from Old Street station, you’ll find a regularly changing menu filled with elegant, rustic and honest dishes with new and inspired flavours, created by head chef Robbin Holmgren and Jamie himself. Fresh produce is delivered daily and often includes vegetable from Jamie's own garden.
From the chef’s choice menu you’ll be served five courses of Robbin's favourites, including Burrata, calçot onion, smoked walnut and malt, Gnocchi with delica squash and Chocolate with cumin caramel and whisky ice cream, with even more dishes to enjoy as the meal goes on like a cheese board and tasty nibbles. There’s even digestif cocktails to finish!
You’ll each start with a gin-based cocktail too - the bar’s signature drink - starting your meal off in true Jamie Oliver style, helping to make it a meal you won’t want to forget for all the right reasons."
The Crystal Maze Manchester for Two £155
"Engage body and mind for the ultimate team pursuit, The Crystal Maze. The re-imagined 90s phenomenon has arrived in Manchester. You and your teammates will embark on an adventure through the Maze, putting physical and mental abilities to work across four themed zones. For each task completed, your team will receive a precious Crystal. The aim of the game? To collect as many of these precious stones as possible to win time for the epic final challenge – the Crystal Dome.
Guided by your Maze Master, you’ll head into uncharted territories in search of the coveted Crystals: Aztec, Industrial, Futuristic and Medieval. No two challenges are the same so make sure you have your wits about you at all times. In each Zone, individual team members will tackle mini-games from the physical, mental, skill or mystery categories. So play to your strengths to bring home as many Crystals as possible on this unforgettable day. As souvenirs of your experience you will each receive a crystal and Crystal maze t-shirt to take home."
One Night Boutique Escape in a Suite with Prosecco for Two at The Spread Eagle £159
"Check into a chic Grade I listed hotel and stretch out in a spacious suite with a bottle of Prosecco to share, and explore historic Thame before a cosy night and breakfast in the morning with this One Night Boutique Suite Escape & Prosecco for Two at The Spread Eagle, Thame.
Having served visitors nothing but restful nights since the 16th century, The Spread Eagle Hotel is full of heritage and hospitality and the perfect place for a comfy Oxfordshire escape. You’ll have a suite all to yourselves to kick back in, where modern amenities like a flat-screen TV and facilities for a brew are coupled with vintage furniture to make for a charming stay, with a bottle of Prosecco in your room to make it even more special.
There’s lots of dining options through Thame if you’d like to find something delicious in the town, or you can swing into the hotel’s restaurant if you fancy some fine British cuisine. After your night together it’s there you’ll get to enjoy a full English breakfast each, ready to check out and discover more of the area or make your lazy way home."
One Night Romantic Riverside Escape for Two at The Oakley Court, Windsor £179
"Escape for some quality time together at the quintessential country house surroundings of The Oakley Court, Windsor. Boasting a hard to beat riverside location, you and your lucky guest can kick back and relax in first-class style, in one of the Riverside Feature Doubles or The Executives rooms.
Your stunning base for the night makes for a truly special getaway, with its own polo team and Her Majesty The Queen a visitor there’s more than a touch of regal splendour to be enjoyed. Nonetheless, The Oakley Court remains as charming and comfortable as ever from the moment you arrive. Together you’ll have access to the hotel’s excellent facilities, including gym, sauna, swimming pool and tennis courts and with the historic town of Windsor nearby you’ll be well located to head out, explore and check out the famous Castle and glorious Great Park.
Included in your stay is a tasty full English or continental breakfast to set you up nicely for the day ahead."
Babylon Restaurant at The Roof Gardens Three Course Dinner and Wine for Two plus entrance to the Rooftop Club £190
"Take pleasure in the delights of Sir Richard Branson’s incredible rooftop retreat, the Babylon Restaurant, with this Three-Course Dinner and Wine for Two plus Entrance to The Roof Gardens Club experience. Located high above the hustle and bustle city life, you’ll be surrounded by lush trees, beautiful plants and splendid wildlife.
Soak up the luxurious décor inside and enjoy the incredible view across London's skyline. You’ll be treated to a welcome drink on arrival before tucking into a sumptuous three-course meal including a starter, main course and dessert each. You’ll also enjoy a bottled of pre-selected house wine to share, as well as coffee with petit fours. Once you have finished your unique food experience, you’ll be invited to head to ‘The Roof Gardens Club’, which opens from 22.00 where you can party the night away until 02.00.
The Roof Gardens Private Members Club is as glamorous as it comes! Set amidst 1.5 acres of stunning rooftop gardens 100 ft above Kensington high-street, there’s no better place to celebrate the start of the weekend. Open between 22.00 and 02.00, the dress code is simply 'no effort, no entry" so get glammed up and leave the trainers at home."
One Night Spa Stay with Dinner for Two at Whittlebury Hall £190
"Enjoy an overnight stay at Whittlebury Hall the 4* hotel and spa, set in rural Northamptonshire. Whittlebury Hall offers exceptional spa facilities along with a restful night's sleep in one of their comfortable rooms. The classical Georgian architecture and state-of-the-art leisure club make this the ideal location to disappear into and emerge fresh and renewed.
You will receive full use of the leisure facilities, including the Heat and Ice experience. Move through the different temperatures within the spa and feel the heat sensations as you stimulate your circulation and release toxins, before stepping into the Ice Cave. You can also enjoy the 19 metre pool with bubble jets, Technogym, aerobic studio, sauna, and steam room and whirlpool spa. This spa experience will leave you invigorated and your skin soft and hydrated. After you have enjoyed the spa you can enjoy a three-course evening meal and then snuggle up in your twin or double room. A full English or continental breakfast can be enjoyed in the morning to wrap up your magnificent overnight spa experience."
Three Course Dinner with Champagne for Two at the Michelin-Starred Ritz Restaurant £215
"Indulge in a glamorous dining experience at one of London’s greatest landmarks with this Michelin-starred dinner for two at The Ritz. You’ll be welcomed into this 5* hotel’s flagship restaurant with a glass of chilled Champagne on arrival as you take your seats for a sensational three-course meal.
Soak up the opulent atmosphere of this iconic restaurant with its crystal chandeliers, grand velvet curtains, and soft lighting. You’ll choose three dishes each from a delicious dinner menu devised by Executive Chef, John Williams MBE, who developed his own ‘Palace style cooking’, famed for its fresh, light flavours. You’ll also enjoy two glasses of wine each from a Ritz Sommelier’s selection, chosen especially to complement your chosen dishes. Much more than just a magnificent dinner, The Ritz offers a luxurious experience you’ll never forget in one of the world’s most famous hotels."
One Night Lake District Break with Dinner for Two at Storrs Hall on The Lake, Windermere £219 or Two Nights £275
"Treat yourself and a guest to a spot of lakeside luxury with a One Night Lake District Break for Two at Storrs Hall on The Lake, Windermere. A gem amongst the plentiful spectacular Lake District locations, the shores of Windermere offer something unique – a veritable haven of peace and tranquility. As part of your experience, you’ll also enjoy a three-course meal in the award-winning restaurant.
Get away to the open spaces and rolling hills of one of Britain’s most treasured destinations. Your base for the evening offers an ideal blend of relaxed elegance. You’ll enjoy the comfort of a classic double or twin room. With a selection of traditional and more contemporary designs, each carefully decorated room comes with views of the surrounding woodland, a seating area and a classic bathroom with combined bath and shower.
Dinner will be served in the hotel’s 3 AA Rosette restaurant. Look out onto the picturesque gardens running down to the lake. Attentive yet unobtrusive service will complement three courses of excellent seasonal fare, carefully prepared by the Head Chef and his dedicated team. On the morning after your stay, you’ll each be able to fill up with a tasty full English breakfast, setting you up nicely for whatever the day might bring."
One Night Romantic Escape with Prosecco and Dinner for Two at Ruthin Castle £225
"Escape to northern Wales for a romantic break in the charming Ruthin Castle, and enjoy chocolate-dipped strawberries, Prosecco, dinner and breakfast with this Romantic Castle Escape for Two.
Steeped in history, Ruthin Castle dates back from Arthurian legend through to the English Civil War, and was once owned by King Henry VIII. During your stay you can walk among the old walls, take in the countryside or explore the nearby market towns and hunt for something quaint – assuming you don’t want to just spend your time together enjoying the hotel’s Moat Spa Thermal Suite and Gym.
Your stay will start off on the right note with chocolate-dipped strawberries and a bottle of chilled Prosecco to share, and when the sun goes down you’ll be able to take your seats in the hotel’s Bertie’s restaurant. In a quiet corner beneath sparkling chandeliers you’ll enjoy three courses of pan-European dishes before retiring to your room for a cosy night together. In the morning a full Welsh breakfast will be waiting to fill you up; a great way to finish a romantic break in preparation for your journey home."
One Night Cornish Coast Escape with Dinner for Two at the St Michael's Hotel, Falmouth £235
"Take a calming break on the Cornish coast at a spa hotel with a beach by the door, and enjoy some seaside relaxation or exploration before a delicious AA Rosette-worthy dinner and breakfast in the morning with this One Night Cornish Coast Escape with Dinner for Two at the St Michael's, Falmouth.
Opened 13 years ago with a vision to be the best leisure hotel in Cornwall, St Michael’s Hotel, Falmouth is an award-winning place to stay overlooking Cornwall’s Falmouth Bay (where the town gets its name). Head outside to enjoy the beach, wander the town or try out some sea-based activities, or stay in to take advantage of the luxurious spa with a pool overlooking sub-tropical gardens and relaxing jacuzzi and sauna.
If you’d rather spend time in your room, you’ll be able to enjoy garden or sea views with a cup of coffee or tea in hand, take a bath with ESPA toiletries or just watch a bit of TV and browse the web with super fast WiFi. In the evening you’ll be served a three-course dinner in the hotel’s AA Rosette Flying Fish restaurant, featuring only the best ingredients and expert culinary craftsmanship, and in the morning a filling breakfast will be waiting to set you up for the day ahead."
Couples Arabian Tale Spa Day at The Antara Spa, London £470
"Take part in your own tale of an Arabian Prince and Princess in London’s prestigious Chelsea and enjoy 2 hours of body-treating harmony on this Couples Arabian Tale Spa Day at The Antara Spa, London.
Scheherazade and her 1,001 Arabian nights have nothing on this, a luxurious tale of pampering featuring two 2 hours of treatment time put on especially for you along with full use of the spa’s facilities. You’ll experience and witness first hand an imagined tale as you take on the roles of an Arabian prince and princess being treated like royalty, starting when you enter a room lit with tea light candles and filled with aromatic fragrances to help transport you to another world.
The treatment begins with a relaxing foot soak followed by a rose quartz scrub to get your skin feeling fresh and new, and you’ll experience aroma-infused steam as you cleanse ready for the next treatment. You’ll drift off into bliss as you’re both treated to a full-body geranium hot oil massage followed by a nourishing hot oil scalp massage, and your journey will be complete as you’re treated to a warming meal in the spa’s Lounge bar."
Ultimate Luxurious One Night Stay for Two at Spitbank Fort £720
For a truly memorable twenty-four hours of opulent luxury with oodles of wow factor, treat yourself and a guest to an overnight stay at the incredible Spitbank Fort in the middle of the Solent. This quirky and unusual destination – once a gun emplacement built to protect the British fleet- combines contemporary comfort with a rich nautical history, and near exclusive use of the island fort’s remarkable facilities. With just nine guest bedrooms created within the fort’s living quarters, you can be sure of a high degree of exclusivity and plenty of spoiling throughout your stay.
Enjoy surroundings that are more Hollywood than South Coast, as well as the hotel’s open-air hot-pool, fire-pit, wine cellar, sauna, games room, elegant bars, Officer’s Mess restaurant and private launch to transport you to and from the mainland. All your meals will be provided during your stay, including a gourmet four-course dinner in the evening, and there will be an opportunity to take a fascinating tour of the fort and learn more about its history. For an exclusive boutique venue meets fantasy island experience, Spitbank Fort is an inspired destination.
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There's so much more to choose from with Virgin Experience Days, so if you'd like to browse more options of different varieties, you can check out more here.
Have a fantastic day, whether you have someone to share it with or not!*
*If you don't, think of me sitting on the sofa eating a full tub of ice cream, no makeup on and dirty old pyjamas... on second thought, maybe that's why I don't have a boyfriend ;)
*If you don't, think of me sitting on the sofa eating a full tub of ice cream, no makeup on and dirty old pyjamas... on second thought, maybe that's why I don't have a boyfriend ;)
Sending all my love,
Laura xo
