If you’re looking for something more original than a candlelit dinner this February, one of these unique experiences might just be the perfect way to show your love. Whether you’d like to get creative, have a laugh, or even gain a new skill together, here are some alternative ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Leeds.
Paint your Partner at Pinot & Picasso
Have you ever wanted to have your portrait painted? How about by the person who knows you best? This Valentine’s Day, Pinot & Picasso are running a workshop which will put your art skills (and relationship) to the test as you and your date try to capture one another’s likeness on canvas. Head to their studio in the Central Arcade to experience a romantic night out like no other. A talented artist will guide you step-by-step through the process and you can enjoy alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks and snacks while you work on your masterpiece. All materials are included and you’ll take your paintings home with you at the end of the session.
Friday 14th February, 7-10pm
Tickets cost £44 per person
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Learn how to make Vegan Mexican food together at Get Cooking
Cookery skills are a gift that keeps on giving – if you master a new cuisine or dish this February, you and your partner will be able to enjoy recreating it together throughout the year. Get Cooking’s health-focused school in Farsley offers a wide range of classes for those who want to cook simple, homemade food, using fresh, gut-friendly ingredients. This Valentine’s, you can join them to learn how to create tasty Mexican food with a vegan twist. In this fun class, you’ll be shown how to make corn tortillas while indulging in a little aperitif of Sangrita. You’ll then taste them with a salsa before preparing your own flavourful Mole de Calabaza, which can be taken home to share later.
Wednesday 26th February, 6:30-9:30pm
Tickets cost £55 per person
Become Ninja Warriors for an Afternoon
If you and your date enjoy a little competitive excitement, why not put your ninja skills to the test on a course inspired by the hit ITV show? Located in Seacroft on the city’s outskirts, the Ninja Warrior UK Adventure is a unique fitness venue that allows you to prove your strength and agility by balancing, climbing and conquering challenges you’ve likely never encountered before – all while having lots of fun. You’ll be able to impress one another while taking on the famous Warped Wall and giant inflatable course and can then recover with a plate of loaded chips, pizza or Belgian waffles from the onsite cafe.
Opening times: Monday to Saturday 10am-7pm, Sunday 10am-5pm
Tickets cost £13.95 per person for a one hour session
Bond over Board Games at Chance & Counters
Playing a board game is a great way to really get to know one another, and at Chance & Counters you can do this while also enjoying drinks or a bite to eat. At this games café on Merrion Street, you’ll find a huge library of over 500 games to choose from, including classics and old favourites along with exciting new releases. As you play and chat, you can tuck into a delicious burger, tasty tacos or dirty fries with toppings such as satay sauce or chilli and cheese. These can be accompanied by local craft beers and ciders, cocktails, coffee or an indulgent ice cream float.
Opening times: Tuesday-Thursday: 12-11pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm-1am, Sunday 12-10pm.
Access to the game library costs £2 per person
Pamper Yourselves at Dragonfly Skin
If you’d like to surprise your someone special with a little pampering this Valentine’s Day, Dragonfly Skin offers treatments that will nourish their skin and soothe their soul. This day spa inhabits a calming space in the Central Arcade with floatation tanks to provide deep relaxation. Alternatively, you can rejuvenate your skin here with treatments such as a luxury facial or exfoliating back scrub. Dragonfly Skin’s massages are the perfect way to relieve tension and there are many different options to try, from aromatherapy, reflexology and deep tissue massage to hot stones, warm candles or bamboo. Gift vouchers are available from the spa’s website, so your love can choose their own treat.
Opening times: Tuesday-Saturday 11am-7pm
Treatments start at £50
Have a Hilarious Night out at The Comedy Cabaret
A shared sense of humour is the key to many successful relationships and having a giggle together is a great way to strengthen your bond. If a fun, light hearted date is what you’re after this February, comedy might be the way to go. Held every Saturday at Revolución de Cuba, Leeds’ Comedy Cabaret promises a highly entertaining night out as four top UK comedians take to the stage. There’s optional pre-show dining and an after party where you can dance until 3am, making this a comedy experience like no other. The event on the 15th February will feature Scottish Comedian of The Year Liam Farrelly, Best MC in the Midlands Barry Dodds and New Act of the Year winner Jacob Nussey with support from a rising star.
Saturday 15th February, 7pm-3am
Tickets start at £18, students £5
Images- @chanceandcounters, @dragonflyskin, @pinotandpicassoleeds