FROM your traditional wine'n'dine job to raving on a bouncy castle, whether you're loved up or flying solo, there's plenty to be getting on with in Manchester this Valentine's Day.
Alternatively, sod the lot of 'em, bolt the door, get a bottle of plonk and hit Tinder... hard.
Up to you.
Anyway, below you'll find two lists, one for the lovers and one for the soloists, choose as you see fit.
THIS ONE'S FOR LOVERS
Forget Paris and Rome, fall head over heels in Manchester this Valentine's...
WINE & DINE @ multiple venues
It’s the most popular Valentine’s pastime for a reason... after all, who doesn't like eating? With Manchester’s restaurants all clamouring to be diners’ perfect match, we've scoured menus citywide to find Manchester's best Valentine's offers (prices per head):
- three courses + champagne at Rosso - £75
- traditional menu + sparkling wine and dessert at Fazenda - £36.50
- three course set menu at Asha’s - £34.95
- four courses + chocolate treat at James Martin - £65
- ten course tasting menu & sparkly rose at Quill - £90
- three courses + exclusive cocktail at Tattu - £49.50
- Malmaison's four course 'Malentine's' - £49
That do ya?
MIX IT UP @ Alchemist
Never mind drunk on love, you’ll be high on cocktails at The Alchemist this Valentine’s Day with their mixology masterclasses. It’s battle of the bae-tenders at New York Street whilst the Spinningfields branch is getting the juices flowing quite literally with romance-themed cocktail tutorials, including two of their signature concoctions.
HOW 'BOUT A CLASSIC? @ Bridgewater Hall
What could be more romantic than hearing the song of star-crossed lovers, Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet, under Bridgewater Hall’s star-spangled ceiling? Stir in other musical classics like Carmen, Tosca and Madame Butterfly and you have one of the Hallé’s most bewitching concerts. A recipe for love indeed.
PAMPER & PREEN @ The Lowry
For those who want to go all out this Valentine’s, The Lowry have a tempting array of packages. From suite dreams in their luxurious waterside rooms to champagne and oysters in The River Restaurant or Prosecco and frangipani exfoliations in the comprehensive spa, there’s something for every persuasion. It’s even has a wedding licensed... not that we're giving you ideas
BE BOWLED OVER @ All Star Lanes
Strike lucky this Valentine's with the full package: bowling, grub and booze, for only £33 at All Star Lanes. Call 0161 871 3600 or visit here
RIDING SOLO? SO WHAT...
Spending Valentine's Day uncoupled has never been so much fun.
BOUNCE @ Antwerp Mansion
There’s nothing quite like a bouncy castle to banish your lovelorn cares and put a spring in your step. Admittedly, Antwerp Mansion’s Regression Sessions Valentine’s Special does also contain a dreaded speed dating room and, God forbid, a giant Spin the Bottle; however, redeeming features include booze, dancing and an eclectic party vibe.
RAVE 'TIL YOU CAVE @ Bowlers
The revelry continues until 5am at Manchester’s infamous rave warehouse. Roisterers may experience a murderous intent to get down to Bowlers Exhibition Centre on Saturday 13, when Uproar and Totally Lost It join forces for an ‘a massive Valentines Massacre’. Not one for the faint hearted by the sound of it...
LAUGH IT OFF @ Frog & Bucket
If love isn’t making your heart content, you may as well try another means by having a good chuckle. Frog & Bucket’s Sunday Night Live Valentine’s Day Special includes four comics, from both national and international circuits, hosted by a cracking resident compere.
FIND A TRUE ROMANCE @ Gorilla
RAD Film Screenings are back with one of their famed double bills, this time comprising two Tarantino-penned classics: Natural Born Killers and True Romance. What does it matter having no off-screen Valentine's action when on-screen there are guns, champagne and Woody Harrelson?
IT'S NOT FAIR? YES IT IS @ Heaton Park
For not-so-grown-up grownups, The Great Valentines Fun Fair at Heaton Park promises a great day out. You’re only as old as you feel, particularly when a phalanx of attractions await. Love may be a losing game but Gary Gore’s funfairs are a sure-fire winner.
