12 Romantic Things To Do This Valentine’s Day In Oxford
Valentine’s Day is less than a month away, so if you’ve got nothing planned yet, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re spending a weekend away in Oxford or just fancy spoiling your valentine with a day out, we know Oxford has plenty to offer. That’s why we’ve created a list of 12 things to do this Valentine’s Day in Oxford so you can make memories and spoil your significant other just like they deserve.
Go for a walk
If you and your significant other are outdoor lovers, what better way to spend your Valentine’s Day in Oxford than by exploring Oxford on foot? Walk through Oxford’s high street and discover some of its history.
Take a stroll through Christ Church Meadow and enjoy views along the river and back towards Christ Church College. Discover the UK’s oldest botanic garden that’s home to more than 5,000 different types of plants from all over the world.
For a picturesque walk that meanders through the countryside, we highly recommend taking a gentle stroll along Oxford Canal.
Join forces in an Escape Room
What better way to bond with your significant other than by joining forces in an escape room? This thrilling adventure will have you saying goodbye to the predictable candlelit dinners and hello to strategy, problem-solving, and fun.
Escape Hunt offers 6 different immersive themed rooms, from Doctor Who to Alice in Wonderland, which one will you choose? Remember though, the clock is ticking.
Play a Game of Mini-Golf
This Valentine’s Day in Oxford, skip the usual romantic routines and opt for a playful round of mini-golf. With your partner by your side, share laughs, engage in friendly banter, and embrace a hint of competition for an unforgettable celebration.
Junkyard Golf Club offers a truly unique experience. With three courses to choose from, you’re bound to have endless fun. Although they aren’t the only mini-golf course around. Whether you prefer an outdoor course boasting scenic views or an indoor setup with quirky decor, mini-golf promises a delights blend of recreation and intimacy.
Go out for a romantic dinner
Why not treat yourself to some culinary delights this Valentine’s Day by exploring Oxford’s array of exquisite dining experiences? The city’s diverse culinary scene and intimate venues create the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening for two.
Get lost in the flavours from around the world. From fine dining to international cuisine and cosy local favourites, Oxford offers a plethora of options to suit every palate.
Struggling to find a restaurant? Here are some of our recommendations for dinner on Valentine’s Day in Oxford:
- The Folly: Offering an incredible 6-course tasting menu.
- Chez Mal at Malmaison Oxford: Offering a delicious 3-course menu with a side and a glass of champagne included.
- Brown’s Oxford: Indulge in a 2 or 3-course meal this Valentine’s Day.
- The Trout Inn: In partnership with Moet & Chandon, they’re serving up a truly exquisite 3-course meal.
Visit a museum
Although Oxford is a relatively small city, it packs a serious cultural punch with its countless museums that rival anything you might find in London. Many of these museums are free, meaning it’s a fantastic low-budget idea for Valentine’s Day in Oxford. Here are our favourites:
- Pitt Rivers Museum: For an insight into archaeology and ethnography.
- Ashmolean Museum: For world-famous art and big-name exhibitions.
- History of Science Museum: Learn about a fascinating collection of scientific instruments
- Museum of Oxford: Learn about Oxford and its rich history.
Check out our museums and galleries section on our Oxford guide for more museums.
Visit one of Oxford’s Colleges
This Valentine’s Day in Oxford, treat your other half to a tour around one of Oxford’s University colleges. You’ll be surprised at how easy Oxford Colleges are to visit. All of them have their own history, their own highlights, and of course, their own stunning architecture.
One of the most well-known colleges in Oxford is Christ Church College. Here you’ll be able to see Tom Tower which was designed by Christopher Wren. You might also be able to enjoy a concert by their award-winning Choir.
Another Oxford College we recommend visiting is New College. It was one of the filming locations for Harry Potter and if you like your art it’s also home to a collection of incredible art.
Go see a play at the theatre
Oxford has two theatres that have a steady programme of events. So this Valentine’s Day why not take your other half to a play at the theatre? Located on George Street the New Theatre Oxford has a host of showings from comedians to film festivals, you’re bound to something you’ll enjoy. Oxford Playhouse also has a jam-packed programme of theatrical performances throughout the year. Take a look at their website to find a show you’ll both enjoy.
Take your partner out for a spa day
Everyone loves to be pampered, so why should Valentine’s Day be any different? With an array of hotels and spas around Oxford, it seems only fitting to treat you and your partner to a Spa Day for two. Relax, recharge, and unwind with a couple’s massage, before enjoying the leisure facilities and even a spot of lunch.
Some of our favourite places for a spa are:
- The Oxford Belfry: Choose from a range of treatments lasting from 30 minutes to a full 120 minutes.
- Oxfordshire Golf Hotel & Spa: Relax with a full body massage before spending time in the sauna and steam room.
- Bannatyne Spa Banbury: Feel like a real VIP and spend the day de-stressing.
Treat yourselves to an Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea is quintessentially British and with so many eateries around Oxford it’s only fair that this makes it onto our list of things to do this Valentine’s Day in Oxford. From Alice in Wonderland themes to elegant brassies, there are plenty of places worth visiting in Oxford.
Here are our top 5 places to grab afternoon tea this Valentine’s Day:
Enjoy a tour around Oxford
Just like London, Oxford has several offerings for tours around the city. From Hop-on Hop-off Buses to cruises down the River Thames, there’s an option for everyone. Guided walking tours are also another popular option. These tours are run by local experts who will take you to all the top sites and colleges around the city whilst giving you a brief insight into their history.
Enjoy a panoramic view of Oxford
This Valentine’s Day in Oxford, climb to the top of St Mary’s Tower or Carfax Tower and view Oxford from the sky. Look out over the city and see how many buildings you can spot and recognise. Take in the panoramic views and maybe, if the time is right, propose to your loved one high above the city skyline.
Have a romantic night in
Just because it’s Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune or even go out for the evening. We believe you can still have the perfect Valentine’s Day with a takeaway and a chilled night in.
Our lives are busy enough, so why not order your favourite food, light a few candles, choose a movie to watch and enjoy some uninterrupted quality time with your valentine? After all, that’s what the day is all about.
Valentine’s Day Accommodation in Oxford
There’s still time to surprise your other half with a weekend away in Oxford. Short Let Space has plenty of accommodation to choose from. Whether you want a secluded cottage in the countryside or a quirky house right in the centre, there is something for everyone.
