While there is a lot to be said for a date night to the cinema or to our favourite local pubs, every now and again, it's fun to get creative. Nottinghamshire has a lot of different date night options from the weird to the wonderful.
There is truly something for everyone - from dinner in a bubble to dinosaurs and unusual cinematic surroundings. With Valentine's Day just around the corner, we've made a list of a few ideas we've had of unique things to do on date night in the area.
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Dinner in a bubble
Ye Olde Bridge Inn in Oxton launched a unique dining experience late last year which could be a cosy dinner date. The beautiful grounds have been given a makeover with dining domes for people to book.
The bubbles can seat up to eight people depending on what your date night deal is - but they function fine for just two people too. You can order from the comfort of your dome meaning you won't have to battle the elements to get another pint.
The domes do go quickly so you will need to book in advance but it's a great way to cosy up on a cold night if you are looking for ideas.
Underground shooting
If you fancy a bit of a battle and getting the adrenaline going then this hidden shooting experience could be a great shout. The Alley is tucked away underneath Thurland Street down a flight of stairs out of sight.
There are many elaborate areas set up with targets to aim at so it's unlike other paintballing experiences where you come home covered in bruises. Battle together or race against time, or each other, in the elaborate space which you will need to book in advance.
You are also within walking distance to nearby pubs if you need a nerve steadying drink afterwards too.
Battle dinosaurs
If you are looking to inject a bit of excitement into your date night then one of Nottingham's many escape rooms could give you just that. There really is something to suit everyone in the city from saving the Titanic to gore-tastic horror rooms.
Houdini's Escape Rooms at Ten Pin in Clifton Boulevard is enjoyable and challenging, yet not too horror-esque for those who might be squeamish. There are other rooms to choose from but the Escape from Jurassic Island is a dinosaur-themed puzzle tailored made for date night.
Catch a movie
If you are determined to have a cinema-themed date night then why not think outside the Cineworld box office? There are lots of different pop-up cinemas in the city centre for you to visit and catch a classic film.
The Notts Bad Movie Club has just launched a 'good' version which can be found in a disused building to the side of Annie's Burger Shack. Go for the movies but stay for the cheese-smothered hot dogs and giant beers.
Fortune and Glory Cinema Club offer an interactive night out where you can find games, goodie bags and sometimes drag queens at screenings of classics such as But I'm a Cheerleader! or Mean Girls. Scalamara is another one to watch as the crew often hosts pop-ups across the city centre.
Several pubs host movie nights, too, where you can get a pint and screening. This includes the Magic Garden on Middle Pavement and The Embankment bar on Awkright Street, among others.
Circus skills
There are several places in the city centre where you can give circus skills a go. The Tuyo Circus Arts in Sneinton runs classes where you can take to the skies in an ariel hoop or hula hoop or even take a workshop in how to perfect a handstand.
In Sneinton market, the circus skills hub is a great place to give trapeze a go if you aren't sure what to try first. You can fly through the air with the greatest of ease here in beginner or experienced sessions.
In Beeston, Nicola Martin Studios offer classes in burlesque, pole and ariel hoop for women in a safe and encouraging environment.
Creative pottery
The Raku workshops at Primary studio in Lenton are a lovely, wholesome way to spend an afternoon. The classes, which will need booking in advance, provide everything you need to get started and create the most beautiful pots.
Simply turn up, select your pots, choose your glaze and the professionals will pop them in the fire for you. The best part is washing off the soot to reveal your masterpiece design underneath.
If creative clay is your thing then you can up your skill level by signing up to do pottery throwing at the same location.
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