Planning a Stylish Valentine’s Day Break 

Whether you’re visiting a new place or returning to your favourite city, getting away for a couple of nights is perfect for spending quality time with your partner. London, Manchester and Leeds are three great spots to have the best Valentine’s Day break the UK has to offer, especially if you’re after a stylish getaway to create lasting memories.  

 

It’s hard to beat the English capital if you’re looking for an elegant city break in the UK. The buzz of contemporary life meets an endless array of historical landmarks and countless examples of stunning architecture to bring a romantic feel to your stay.  

 

The London Eye is one of the capital’s most iconic landmarks and serves up the perfect opportunity for a romantic experience. So, raise a glass of champagne as you soak up the views on your half-hour above the streets of London.  

 

When you return to solid ground, London is one of the best places in the world to scratch your shopping itch. Whether you’re treating your partner or looking for some new things for yourself, Knightsbridge is home to iconic shops, such as Harrods, where you’ll find seven floors of luxury items and everyday products.  

 

Our ibis Styles London Gloucester Road Hotel is just a short stroll from Knightsbridge, or one stop on the Tube if you prefer, putting you right in touch with designer shops like Armani, Christian Dior and Gucci.  

 

The upmarket Mayfair area is a little further along the line past Hyde Park, which is ideal for a romantic stroll whether the sun’s shining or the Weeping Beech is flecked with snow. Once in Mayfair, there are more designer outlets to explore, as well as exclusive jewellers such as Cartier and Tiffany & Co.  

 

It may not be the first place that springs to mind when you picture a passionate getaway, but Manchester has undergone a serious revamp in recent years, and one of the latest additions is a real gem. Rooftop restaurant 20 Stories opened in 2018 in the heart of the city’s trendy Spinningfields area, offering stunning 360-degree views to set the pulse racing. The beautifully designed eatery is bristling with flair, from the decor to the food and cocktails.  

 

If wining and dining is your thing, then don’t miss The Ivy either, another new arrival in Spinningfields which is as opulent as you’d expect from the swanky restaurant chain.  

 

The ibis Styles Manchester Portland Hotel is less than a mile from Spinningfields and ideally positioned for other highlights in the city. As well as being a short walk to the central Piccadilly train station, it’s mere steps from the fashionable Northern Quarter, which boasts hipster vibes and selection of funky bars and restaurants.  

 

If you’re looking for something to do during the day, try the latest exhibitions at Manchester Art Gallery. Why not head to the 600-acre Heaton Park for a peaceful stroll, or enjoy a gentle row on the boating lake?  

 

Another city that’s full of romance, once you scratch the surface with Cupid’s arrow, Leeds is an ever-evolving city heavily influenced by its youthful student population. 

 

Leeds is home to a vibrant contemporary art scene, with highlights including the award-winning Henry Moore Institute and the renowned Leeds Art Gallery. Try the White Cloth Gallery, with its on-site cafe and bar, for a sophisticated spot of lunch or dinner. Or, enjoy a wine or gin tasting in the chic surroundings of Lazy Lounge.  

 

Just half a mile from the city’s train station, ibis Styles Leeds City Centre Arena Hotel puts you right in the heart of the action. If you’d like to escape the city centre bustle for a little while, head a few miles out of town to the peaceful Roundhay Park for some alone time with your partner. Then, make your way back into the city to take advantage of the famous Leeds nightlife, which covers everything from the renowned Northern Ballet to edgy gigs at the Brudenell.