With virtually every venue jumping on the romance bandwagon for Valentine’s Day, it can be a challenge to find unique ways to spend the occasion.
While there’s nothing wrong with a candlelit dinner, sometimes it can be refreshing to steer away from the old clichés and try an evening out that's more on the unusual side.
For lovebirds out there who are looking for something a little different to do this Valentine’s Day, here’s just a handful of North East attractions that are offering a more quirky way to celebrate love this February.
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Show your passion for the paranormal
For a truly haunting romantic night out, look no further than this Northumberland attraction set to send shivers down spines this Valentine’s weekend.
Morpeth Ghost Walks began their tours back in 2018, and their spooky trails have been a sell-out attraction ever since. The tour covers four destinations in the town centre, and anyone who tags along will hear terrifying tales of witches, poltergeists, the plague, and many more.
Organisers Charley, Cara and Dave tell a mix of ghoulish ghost stories passed down from locals, with little-known facts on the history of Morpeth and the surrounding area thrown in for good measure.
They are hosting a special Valentine-themed walk from 7pm on February 12, which will feature romantic tales with a grisly twist.
Those brave enough to attend will learn the story of two forbidden lovers who met a tragic end, as well as the pub that’s home to a ghostly bride - a legend told for the very first time on the tour specially for Valentine’s Day.
Solve the ‘Vicious Valentine’ murder mystery
A romantic meal is pretty standard when it comes to Valentine’s Day - but how about dinner with a side of murder mystery?
Newcastle’s Vermont Hotel is hosting their Vicious Valentine event, where guests will be invited to solve the intriguing case of a groom who is found dead on the night of his thirtieth wedding anniversary celebration.
Are his spoiled children to blame, his desperate business partner, or someone else entirely? The luxury hotel promises that secrets, scandals and lies will be exposed in this murder mystery evening that will have guests fancying themselves as the next Poirot.
Tickets are £35 for the event which takes place at 7pm on February 12, and the price includes a three-course meal and a glass of Buck’s Fizz on arrival.
Go back in time wit h your Valentine
Ever wondered what it would have been like to celebrate Valentine’s Day a century ago? The world-famous Beamish museum in County Durham is offering visitors the opportunity to do just that.
Although the museum isn’t open on Valentine’s Day itself, the museum is celebrating all things love with special additions to their usual offerings throughout the weekend, where guests can step back in time to pick up vintage Valentine gifts and enjoy a romantic stroll in eras gone by.
Visitors can pick up sweet souvenirs as a unique gift for a loved one at Jubilee Confectioners in the 1900s Town, with the traditional sweet shop selling luxury chocolate boxes, sweet tins and chocolate lollies just for the occasion.
Beamish staff are encouraging loved-up couples to pay a visit to the museum over the Valentine’s weekend for a romantic day out with a difference, from cosying up by the fire in the 1900s Pit Village to enjoying flirty 1950s fun at the Welfare Hall.
Visitors will need to pre-book a free time slot for entry to the museum, which can be done via the Beamish website.
Sneak away to this hidden rooftop cinema
For those who enjoy date night at the cinema, there’s a chance to do it with a twist on Valentine’s Day at this Newcastle hidden gem.
Alpine Roof Thirty Nine, a restaurant hidden away on the roof of Fenwick on Northumberland Street, is the ideal place to get away from the hustle and bustle in the city centre.
They are transforming their rooftop cinema into a “love nook” where visitors can enjoy modern classic romances like Notting Hill, The Notebook, and P.S I Love You on the big screen.
A £30 ticket includes Valentine’s sparkling cocktails and an Alpine fondue sharing board at the restaurant, before being escorted to the private cinema to be treated to popcorn and Prosecco, bottled lager or a soft drink.
There are screenings on throughout Valentine’s weekend, with any takers urged to book their tickets quickly as there are only 32 tickets available for each film showing.
Have your ribs tickled by Anti-Valentine comedy
Desperate to get away from all the mushy romance altogether? A Newcastle comedy venue is turning itself into a haven where you can escape it all on the day.
Whether you’re single and sick of seeing Valentine’s Day everywhere you turn, or coupled up but tired of being bombarded with hearts and flowers, The Stand comedy club is promising the ideal tonic with its Anti-Valentine event.
Hosted by Sammy Dobson, with Si Beckwith, Lauren Stone and headliner Lauren Pattison, the stand-up show takes place on February 14 at 8:30pm.
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