Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a Galentine’s catch-up or something a little different, Northampton and the surrounding areas offer plenty of ways to celebrate Valentine’s week.
From one-off events and themed nights to cosy restaurants, creative workshops and daytime ideas that don’t revolve around food or drink, this guide rounds up options for couples, friends and everyone in between. Always check listings and book ahead for popular dates around 14 February💌
One-off Valentine’s & Galentine’s events
Sweat & Glow Club x Pot En Ciel – Pottery Painting
📅 11th February
📍Oundle, The Chapel at The Bazaar, West St, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4EJ, UK
This collaborative event combines Sweat & Glow Club’s feel-good, community-led approach with a relaxed pottery painting session hosted by Pot En Ciel. Expect a welcoming atmosphere, hands-on creativity and plenty of time to chat while you paint – ideal for friends looking for something uplifting and different.
Yellow Bus Co – Valentine’s Pizza Masterclass
📅 13th & 14th February
📍Brixworth
Learn the art of sourdough pizza with the Yellow Bus Co team in this Valentine’s-themed masterclass. You’ll make, bake and eat your own pizzas, making it a fun, interactive alternative to a traditional Valentine’s dinner and a strong pick for couples who like doing something together.
Flo Wellbeing – Valentine’s Spa Sessions
📅 14th February
📍 Flo Wellbeing, Towcester
Flo Wellbeing is offering special Valentine’s spa sessions on the day itself, focusing on rest and relaxation. A great option for couples wanting to slow things down, or for solo Valentine’s plans centred on self-care.
The Cove x Dept 68 – Valentine’s Galentine’s Makeup Event
📅 12th February
📍 Dept 68, King Edward Road, NN1 5LU
This collaborative event brings together The Cove and Dept 68 for a makeup-focused evening of tips, tutorials, drinks and social fun. Perfect for friends celebrating Galentine’s in style, this relaxed event combines beauty, advice and social time without the pressure of a traditional Valentine’s dinner.
Restaurants & bars to celebrate
Saffron
Address: 1–3 Castilian Street, Northampton NN1 1JS
Refined Indian dining in the town centre. A long-standing Valentine’s favourite with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. Often offers set menus around Valentine’s weekend.
The Hopping Hare
Address: 18 Hopping Hill Gardens, Northampton NN5 7AQ
Stylish restaurant and cocktail bar just outside the centre. Smart but approachable, making it a good fit for romantic dinners, double dates or a Galentine’s evening that still feels like a treat.
The Wig & Pen
Address: 19 St Giles Street, Northampton NN1 1JA
Craft beer, pizza and board games in a laid-back setting. Perfect for Galentine’s groups or no-pressure dates. Share pizzas, grab a booth and settle in for a relaxed night.
The Lamplighter
Address: 8 Overstone Road, Northampton NN1 3JU
Cosy pub with good food and a friendly vibe. A solid choice for early-evening Valentine’s plans that don’t feel overly formal.
Fox & Hounds – Harlestone
Address: Main Road, Harlestone, Northampton NN7 4EH
Country pub with fires and seasonal menus. Ideal for couples looking for a quieter Valentine’s away from the town centre, or friends pairing dinner with a countryside walk.
Non food/drink date ideas
Creative & hands-on experiences (top picks)
CRE8 Workshop – Towcester
Friendly creative workshops led by local makers. Perfect for Galentine’s groups or couples who want to make something together and leave with a keepsake.
POTZ Ceramic
Choose ceramics, get creative and pick up your finished pieces later. A popular option for friends, couples and first dates who want something interactive without being intense.
Northants Art Classes – Bugbrooke
Guided painting and drawing sessions for all abilities.No experience needed — just turn up and follow along.
Outdoors & low-key days out
Delapré Abbey & grounds
Address: Delapré Abbey, London Road, Northampton NN4 8AW
Historic house, exhibitions and parkland. A good choice for a daytime date or Galentine’s meet-up that combines fresh air, culture and a wander through the grounds.
Games, challenges & experiences
Trapp’d Escape Rooms
Team-based puzzle rooms with a range of themes. Great for couples or Galentine’s groups who want to do something together rather than sit and talk. A fun way to break the ice or shake up Valentine’s expectations.
