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Best Valentines Dates in Edinburgh
It's that time of year, where women say that they don't want a gift and men never learn their lesson. If you're struggling to decide what to do this year for 'V' day we have you covered with the best dates in Edinburgh this year.
For dinner specific recommendations Kirsty compiled a lovely list of romantic restaurants for you last year, which you can find here. But if the chocolates, wine and restaurants just aren't cutting it for you, I have put together a list of the best alternative dates in Edinburgh as an excuse to have some fun with your significant other and set the mood for Valentines.
40's style Romance at Dominion Cinema
"Here's Looking at you kid" - Casablanca
The Dominion is a family owned, independent cinema with 4 screens located in the Morningside area of Edinburgh. It was first opened in 1938, designed by Thomas Bowhill Gibson and is a gorgeous testament to Art Deco architecture. The cinema has been refurbished multiple times over the years, but the one thing that doesn't change is the mission statement set by Capt W. M, Cameron when the doors were first opened, "The policy of the cinema is maximum comfort, courtesy and to strive for and achieve the best possible service for our patrons." The cinema creates a real sense of luxury with reclining leather sofa's, full table service for the hour before the movie begins and a fully stocked bar. Perfect for a low key valentines date! They show a mix of new releases and live cinema relays from the Royal Opera House. Eagle eyed visitors may notice that the staff are wearing Cameron Clan Modern tartan ties, this is because the Cinema is still owned by descendants of Capt Cameron to this day and they take great pride in representing the Cameron Clan.
Ice Skating at Murrayfield
"If you're skating on thin ice, you might as well dance." -Anita Shreve
As big rugby fans you'll know we're well acquainted with Murrayfield Stadium, but did you know there's also a Murrayfield Ice Rink? Construction of the Ice Rink was completed in 1939 and was due to open on the 15th of September, but due to the outbreak of the war the opening was postponed until 1952 while the building was used as a Royal Army Service Corp Depot. However it now provides you with the perfect excuse to wrap up warm in some Cashmere Goodies and hold hands with your love on the ice. You can choose from general skating, leisure skating or disco skating on a Friday night if you're happiest dancing in the dark. Just make sure you don't fall for each other!
A wee dram at the Scotch Whisky Experience
Whiskey, like a beautiful woman, demands appreciation. - Haruki Murakami
If the romance of Valentines isn't already warming your cockles, a wee dram of whisky can warm even the coldest of hearts. Edinburgh Scotch Whisky Experience offers a variety of different tasting journeys to suit all pallets; from seasoned experts to the whisky novices. You can learn about the production processes and the aroma's present in different whisky regions, view the world's largest collection of Scotch Whisky (3,384 bottles!) and take home a complimentary tasting glass as a memento of your date.
Get a taste for Scotland at Usquabae
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” - Virginia Woolf
Our neighbours across the street at Usquabae have a well cultivated mix of traditional Scottish cuisine and some modern takes on the well known cocktails downstairs in their romantically lit basement bar and larder. They also have an extensive whisky selection and some wonderful specialty gins. If you're looking for somewhere a little quirky to dine this year, you can do no better than here. We do recommend booking a table in advance though as spaces fill up quickly!
Picnic with a view at Arthur's Seat
I’m really big on day dates. If you go for a stroll, have a picnic or lunch with a glass of wine – it doesn’t get better than that – Meghan Markle
Dates don't always have to be pre-planned or even cost much. If you're a lover of the outdoors or on a budget, why not grab a Tartan Picnic Blanket and your snacks of choice and head for the hills? We recommend the view from Arthurs Seat, if you can find a quiet, wind free spot. Depending on Edinburgh's varying weather, we would recommend being prepared for all eventualities, you may need our cosy zip up Balmacaan Coatand your sun screen too!
Dance the night away at Ghillie Dhu
To be fond of dancing was a certain step towards falling in love. - Jane Austen
Situated on the corner of Rutland Street and Lothian Road the Ghillie Dhu main bar is a lovely spot for a drink, while the 'Snugs' are ideal for a more cosy atmosphere before dancing the night away upstairs at the Burly Ceilidh Club. There are Ceilidh events on Friday the 14th and Saturday the 15th of February with live bands and a DJ until 2:30am. Get a true feel for Scottish hospitality and get your dancing feet around those ceilidh steps. (Try not to get too dizzy in the Orcadian Strip the Willow). We are also just around the corner if you're looking for the perfect outfit or tartan accessories to feel the part.
I hope this has given you some inspiration for the big day, if you need any help choosing the right gift the staff in Edinburgh have you covered with plenty of options for even the most difficult to buy for. Or why not send your loved one a ScotlandShop gift card?
