How to Spend Valentine’s in Norwich

22 January 2026

How to Spend Valentine’s in Norwich

by Katie Thompson

When the Feast of Saint Valentine falls on a Saturday, there’s no better reason for a romantic break in the City of Stories, right? And when you want to make it extra special, but aren’t sure where to start, we’re here to help. 

Whether you’re outdoorsy, love trying new food or like to squeeze in culture at every turn, there’s something for every type of couple in Norwich this Valentine’s. From the super romantic occasions to the intimate but more relaxed moments. 

Here’s our guide on what to do, eat and gift when you spend Valentine’s in Norwich!

Norfolk’s Unqiue Valentine’s Tradition | Valentine’s Breaks

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For the Outdoorsy Couple

Norwich is the only city in England in a national park. And it’s a fantastic base to explore the Broads National Park, Norfolk’s blanket of countryside and the county’s breathtaking coastline. So, with an abundance of green spaces, nature and outdoor tranquillity, there’s plenty to do just the two of you under our wide-open skies. 

Do: Opt for a romantic stroll hand in hand surrounded by Norfolk’s natural beauty. At Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden (open daily from 9am, adults from £11.36, 25 minutes’ drive from Norwich), surround yourself with swathes of snowdrops and follow the trails that meander through this luscious woodland. Take a moment to admire the soft sunlight shimmering on Fairhaven’s broad as tuneful songbirds twitter around you. 

On the coast, head up to the coast for a refreshing walk along the wild beaches of Holkham (pay and display parking, 1 hour from Norwich), whose windswept dunes are straight out of a romantic period film (Shakespeare in Love, to be exact). Or amble along the pebbled shores of Cromer (45 minutes from Norwich), before heading to the pier for endless sea views (and maybe Cromer Pier’s Valentine’s Disco! (14 February, 7.30pm, £10)).

Eat: After a reinvigorating walk, there’s nothing like the warmth of The Victoria. Look out across Holkham’s sprawling nature reserve and pastel-hued skies as you tuck into some of Norfolk’s best local produce, whether it’s Brancaster mussels or fruit and veg from the Estate’s walled garden. For something sweet, share their indulgent chocolate Guinness sponge with Irish whiskey ice cream.  

Gift: If you’re a couple that loves the outdoors, why not treat your partner to a special experience? Look forward to meandering along the River Wensum with Bishy Barney Boats (from £25 for 2 people for 1 hour) come spring or see the city from a new perspective gliding on the water with Pub & Paddle (from £14pp, March – October). Or take your relationship to new heights at Go Ape (50-minute drive from Norwich to Thetford Forest, Britian’s largest lowland forest- over 18,000 hectares) for a treetop adventure (vouchers from £10), perfect for thrill seekers.

For the Foodie Couple

Norwich is well known for its fantastic food and drink. Whether you want to treat yourselves to 3 courses of fine dining or prefer a more relaxed setting, our city is brimming with independent eateries, amazing afternoon teas, a 900-year-old multicultural market, familiar names and exciting experiences. 

Do: Get a flavour of Norwich’s food and drink with Cheryl Cade Tours. Specialising in our city and county’s wonderful local produce (with a fascinating bit of history thrown in), you can choose between her classic Cheese tour (13 & 14 February, 10am – 12pm, £28pp), warming Winter Spirits tour (13 February, 1.30pm – 5.30pm, £46pp, 18+ years) or popular Gin tour (14 February, 1.30pm – 5pm, £52pp, 18+ years) over the Valentine’s weekend!  

Together, you’ll make unforgettable memories and discover the spots that locals love, all the while indulging in moreish cheeses, refreshing Norfolk-made gins or carefully chosen local spirits. 

And if you want discover another local go-to, The Trafford Arms’ popular Valentine’s Beer Festival returns (9 – 15 February)! You can expect a wonderful selection of ales from across the county and the country, live music, delicious food and the highly anticipated Trafford Arms quiz!

Eat: For a fine dining meal that’s a real treat (and when better to spoil yourselves?), book a table at Benedicts (Wednesday – Saturday) or Brix & Bones (Wednesday – Saturday). Both restaurants are known for their exceptional local produce, carefully crafted dishes and undeniable quality. 

You’ll find Benedicts, run by Norwich-born Chef Patron Richard Bainbridge, in the Michelin Guide. Their Valentine’s menu (13 & 14 February, £92pp), with a dedicated vegan and vegetarian menu, is a mouthwatering selection of tempting dishes, from Wells-Next-the-Sea lobster raviolo to melt-in-your-mouth beef sirloin and a ‘One True Love’ chocolate and vanilla mousse with cherry sorbet.  

And at Brix & Bones, their skilled chefs elevate open-fire cooking to create a series of exquisite plates. Start with the likes of smoked pork tacos or BBQ prawns before wild Norfolk venison or a whole plaice prepared over the coals. End your meal on a high with their iconic smoked bone marrow fudge doughnut. Thanks to their expert sommeliers, each dish can be paired with a perfectly matched glass of wine. 

Gift: Savour Norwich’s culinary scene with a trip to Jarrolds’ food hall. Their shelves are brimming with local produce. You can’t go wrong with chocolate on Valentine’s, so how about Booja Booja truffles? Or thoughtfully curate your own hamper to your loved one’s tastes. 

For the Culture-Loving Couple 

Spend some quality time together, embracing all the culture Norwich has to offer. Take in thought-provoking art at the Sainsbury Centre or marvel at the recently redeveloped interiors of Norwich Castle Keep.  

Do: Tucked away off Bethel Street is The South Asia Collection (Monday – Saturday). It’s a hidden gem in the heart of the city. As you enter, wonder at the incredible displays of South and Southeast Asian arts and crafts. Pieces span countries like India, Pakistan, Burma and Thailand and showcase intricate woodwork, ceramics and more. Soak in the peaceful atmosphere and admire the stunning ceiling above you.  

Then take to the streets to embrace Norwich’s charm in picturesque locations like cobbled Elm Hill and quaint Cathedral Close. 

Eat: Culture is everywhere you look here in the City of Stories, from historic heritage to contemporary architecture. When you dine at The Last Wine Bar & Brasserie (Wednesday – Sunday), it’s not only a buzzing fine dining destination, but also a former shoe factory and legacy of Norwich’s industrial past.  

In their stylish surroundings, treat yourself to The Last’s Valentine’s evening menu (14 February, £100pp). Start with a glass of fizz and canapes, followed by light-as-air leek espuma, roasted Jerusalem artichoke and a beef wellington to share between you. Pre-dessert there’s coconut sorbet and for something sweet, a creamy rhubarb and custard choux bun.  

Or if you love trying worldwide cuisines, make sure to check out Namaste Village. This completely vegan and vegetarian restaurant showcases different regions across India for a menu packed with authentic and delicious dishes. Like always, every one is created with love. And Namaste’s special Valentine’s menus mean you can indulge in their moreish plates at your own pace, surrounded by candlelight. Enjoy their Valentine’s Thali (12, 13 & 15 February, £31.95) or treat yourselves to an exclusive 5 -course tasing menu (14 February, £38.95).

Gift: Theatre tickets are always well-received. So, with Norwich’s wealth of theatres you can plan your next visit to the City of Stories: a spring theatre break to see a West End musical, ethereal ballet, heart wrenching play or soaring orchestra.

For the Couple that likes to be Cosy

Sometimes the best way to spend time together are the little moments, whether it’s cosying up in front of the fire or enjoying in a candlelit dinner at home. But when you want to make it extra special, Norwich has plenty to offer where you can take it slow and embrace each other’s company. 

Do: The Lions’ Den is all about connection. Unwind together with a relaxing sauna session at their River location (from £16.50). Surrounded by lush greenery and the rippling River Wensum, you’ll feel secluded from everyday life and will get to spend time with your partner without distraction. Afterwards, you can cosy up beneath the glow of twinkling fairy lights and watch the world go by beneath cosy blankets, hot chocolate in hand.  

Eat: For an intimate, but more laidback, Valentine’s dinner, treat yourselves to Cote Brasserie’s French-inspired Valentine’s menu (14 February, 2 courses £32.50, 3 courses £37.50). Refresh your palette with a floral Lillet Valentine’s Spritz, before enjoying classics like steak frites, moules marinière and charcuterie, with an indulgent white chocolate and passionfruit mousse for two to end your meal. 

Or enjoy your dinner at Cosy Club, which balances elegant interiors with warming flavours. Cosy Club’s ‘Cosy Romance’ Valentine’s menu (11 – 15 February, 3 courses and a cocktail £36.50pp) tempts you with a moreish sharing board before timeless flavours of ‘The Main Affair’. End with a chocolate sharing board or fruity lemon and raspberry parfait. 

Gift: For the homebodies and interior lovers, gift a thoughtful present that will elevate their everyday. Browse the independents in our beautiful Art Nouveau Royal Arcade, stopping at Lazy Lobster for a fun, dopamine hit of homeware. Or try Juni + Co for self-care, wellness and sustainable beauty, including natural fragrances and luxurious body oils.