With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, many visitors and citizens of Chester are on the lookout for fresh ideas for a night out for two.
Fortunately, from its eclectic dining scene to its Purple Flag accreditation for exceptional evening activities, the city offers an abundance of options for dates all year round. Here, we lift the lid on the many opportunities available, ranging from traditional dinner dates to unique and original ideas that are sure to make a positive impression.
Romantic Meal for Two
A candlelit meal for couples is a classic date idea for a reason. Sharing a delicious dinner with a bottle of wine in a charming environment offers an intimate experience that suits relationships at every stage. Whether you’re reminiscing about shared experiences or getting to know someone new, The Forge inside the Indigo Hotel on Grosvenor Park Road is ideal. Within a stylish interior that beautifully blends brick, wood, metal and stone, couples can tuck into locally sourced and sustainable plates accompanied by attentive service.
Axe Throwing
Couples don’t need to be burying the hatchet for a date at Axt Haus. Providing a fun and active experience, the German-inspired venue on Kitchen Street combines the thrills of axe throwing with a menu serving Bavarian beer, dry white wine and mouth-watering savoury dishes like schnitzels, pretzels and bratwurst. No previous axe throwing ability is necessary, with the expert in-house staff on hand as guides.
Challenge your Trivia Knowledge
Above the Pepper Street Car Park, the Rooftop Social Club provides guests with skyline view of Chester, making it a hotspot for dates. However, couples with a competitive edge can get to know each other while showing off their trivia skills on Sundays, when the venue hosts the “Big Fat Quiz on the Roof”. Smaller prizes range from pizzas to Prosecco, while the winning team takes home £250 to fund their next big night out together in Chester.
Escape Against the Clock
Couples with a love of puzzles can try two escape room centres for a date. Both Breakout Chester on Bridge Street and Escapism Chester on George Street have rooms designed for two players to complete, allowing those on a date to collaborate closely and crack clues. Each room has a unique theme offering plenty of choice and an utterly unique date.
Tour the Cathedral
A stunning Grade-listed landmark of the North West, Chester Cathedral makes an enchanting venue for a date, whether couples attend an art exhibition or one of its candlelit concerts. However, it also presents exciting experiences like its celebrated “Cathedral at Height Tower Tour”. Together, couples can ascend 216 steps to reach the Tower’s top and take in astonishing views of five counties and two countries while exploring the cathedral’s intricate and elegant interior.
Make beer with a master brewer
While an afternoon in the pub is a tried and tested date option, The Brewhouse & Kitchen on Love Street adds its own twist. Instead of simply sinking pints, couples can embark on a Brewery Experience Day at the public house and microbrewery and learn how to make beer. Those looking for a less hands-on event can also opt for beer, whisky and gin tasting experiences.
Zoo for Two
Finally, nature lovers in the city will find the perfect place for a date right on their doorstep. Just three miles from the city centre, Chester Zoo is a great day out for two. It offers a chance to see a diverse range of amazing animals in person in authentically built habitats, including lions, snow leopards, giraffes, meerkats, red pandas and more, and has beautiful gardens to stroll and chat in. There are a wide range of relaxing picnic spots including “The Botanist’s Lab” and a lazy boat ride, perfect for lovers. Those on a date seeking a chance to spend time alone will also find that the zoo’s 128-acre grounds are easy to lose the crowds in.
As you can see, the city offers a wide selection of solutions when you need a new idea for a date, with options sure to appeal to all tastes. If you’re planning a big date in Chester over the coming months, consider one of these excellent options to impress your special someone.