Special Operation

Disconnect to Reconnect: The Best Screen-Free Valentine’s Day Experiences in the UK

Disconnect to Reconnect: The Best Screen-Free Valentine’s Day Experiences in the UK

by

Claire

Saturday, February 10, 2024

Special Operation

Disconnect to Reconnect: The Best Screen-Free Valentine’s Day Experiences in the UK

by

Claire

Saturday, February 10, 2024

Finding the right balance on Valentine’s Day isn’t always easy—too much effort can feel overwhelming, while too little might seem uninterested. This year, happn is teaming up with Krispy Kreme to make things simple.

Finding the right balance on Valentine’s Day isn’t always easy—too much effort can feel overwhelming, while too little might seem uninterested. This year, happn is teaming up with Krispy Kreme to make things simple.

On February 14th, singles can pick up a Doughnuts & Dates pack at some of the top outdoor date spots:
📍 LondonGreen Park / St James’s Park
📍 BirminghamMoonlit Park
📍 ManchesterPiccadilly Gardens

Each pack includes Hearts In Bloom doughnuts, happn’s Teasers icebreaker cards, and a Krispy Kreme umbrella—because, like dating, British weather is unpredictable. It’s an easy way to make Valentine’s Day sweeter, without the pressure.

Beyond the doughnuts, we’re inviting you to take a break from screens (yes, even happn!) and rediscover the joy of real-life moments. Here are the best offline experiences in London, Birmingham, and Manchester for a screen-free Valentine’s Day.

London: Iconic Spaces & Relaxing Getaways

📍 Kew Gardens – One of the world’s most famous botanical gardens, home to tropical glasshouses and seasonal exhibitions. A perfect escape into nature for a peaceful and scenic Valentine’s Day.

📍 Epping Forest – A historic woodland with miles of trails, ideal for long hikes, nature photography, and a mindfulness walk to reconnect with yourself or a loved one.

📍 Southbank Book Market – A charming riverside book market under Waterloo Bridge, where you can browse vintage and second-hand books. The perfect spot for an unplugged afternoon of literary discovery.

📍 Aire Ancient Baths – Inspired by Roman, Greek, and Ottoman bathhouses, this luxurious spa offers a candlelit retreat to relax and unwind. Step away from notifications and into a world of warmth and tranquillity.

Manchester: Culture, Coffee & Countryside Walks

📍 Peak District National Park – Just outside Manchester, this breathtaking national park is perfect for hikes, scenic walks, and nature retreats. Fresh air, open landscapes, and zero screens—just what you need.

📍 Afflecks – A legendary independent shopping space filled with quirky stores, vintage finds, and creative outlets. It’s the perfect place to discover something unique and disconnect from digital distractions.

📍 Fig + Sparrow – A cosy coffee shop serving artisan brews and homemade treats in a stylish, welcoming atmosphere. No rush, no notifications—just good coffee and real conversations.

📍 The Whitworth – A contemporary art gallery set in a park, blending nature and creativity. Wander through inspiring exhibitions and take a quiet moment to reflect and reconnect.

Birmingham: Scenic Strolls & Creative Vibes

📍 Birmingham Botanical Gardens – A lush botanical retreat featuring exotic plants, tropical glasshouses, and seasonal events. A beautiful setting for an immersive, peaceful escape.

📍 Faculty Coffee – A stylish, independent café known for its speciality coffee and relaxed ambience. Take a break, sip something delicious, and enjoy the moment.

📍 Digbeth Arts Market – A vibrant creative hub with pop-up shops, street food, and art installations. Explore handmade goods and unique finds, away from the usual shopping routine.

📍 Brindley PlaceBirmingham’s waterfront district, filled with restaurants, bars, cultural venues, and green spaces. Whether you prefer a relaxed stroll or a lively evening out, this area has something for everyone.

No Plans Yet? Find the Perfect Offline Spot in Your City

Not in London, Birmingham, or Manchester? No worries! Here are a few inspirational ideas for celebrating a screen-free Valentine’s Day, wherever you are:

🍃 Nature Escape – Whether it’s a national park, a historic woodland, or a city botanical garden, immerse yourself in fresh air and greenery for a relaxing day away from screens.

📚 Independent Bookstores & Markets – Explore a second-hand bookshop, a local book market, or a cosy literary café where you can browse, read, and chat without distractions.

Artisan Coffee Shops – Find a speciality coffee house and take the time to enjoy a perfectly brewed cup with good company or in peaceful solitude.

🎭 Live Music & Cultural Experiences – Whether it’s a candlelit concert, a jazz club, or a gallery visit, unplug from technology and let creativity spark conversation.

🛁 Wellness & Spa Retreats – Treat yourself to a spa day, a hammam session, or a yoga retreat to fully disconnect and recharge.

🍽️ Food Markets & Hidden Restaurants – Skip the usual online reservations and discover a hidden speakeasy, a street food hub, or a quirky dining spot.

💕 Make Valentine’s Day About Real Moments

This Valentine’s Day, it’s not about grand gestures—it’s about authentic experiences. Whether you’re picking up a Doughnuts & Dates pack, exploring a new part of your city, or simply taking a break from the noise, make it a day to remember beyond the screen.

Related Articles

Related Articles

Connect, configure and preview
Connect, configure and preview
English