Date ideas for going out or staying in this Valentine's Day!

Yes, the holiday when your sweetie gives you flowers and you take your other half on a specially planned date. During these times we can find our creativity stifled. This makes finding unique things to do very difficult. If you share this problem of romantic blockage, we have some fun things to do in the Benfleet area that could interest you:

1: Hadleigh Castle

Is your sweetheart a history buff? Do they like old engineering and history? Then Hadleigh Castle (Only 2 miles from Benfleet) could be a phenomenal choice for a very special and memorable date, on this, the most romantic of days.

You will be treated to amazing sights while you are there and for those of you with kids, there is lots for them to do. On the property, they also have a Salvation Army Café which has a very highly praised Cream Tea.

The Castle was built during the Henry VIII Monarchy and was used, according to local history, as a lookout post for invasions from the Thames Estuary and fires would burn here to signal towns further north of the impending enemy troops.

2: Hadleigh Country Park

Regardless if you are a historian, outdoorsy type or any other kind of person, almost anyone can appreciate breath-taking views and the beauty of nature. Hadleigh Country Park is a beautiful park, offering trails from beginner to advanced.

Aside from the beautiful nature views, an old castle remains in the area. There is a plethora of places to take beautiful pictures with your partner to remember the day forever.

Don’t feel like going out? No problem!

Some of us are the types who don’t like going out. That’s ok because we have some things you can do in the comfort of your own home!

1: Make an entire meal together!

It may seem silly. All the time on TV, we see surprise dates sprung on significant others. Believe it or not, it can actually be pretty romantic to cook a romantic dinner with your sweetheart! Set everything up, wait for them to come home and get cooking!

Doing anything together with your partner can be romantic. Light some candles, dim the lights, put on some romantic music and cook away. Then enjoy the fruits of your combined labour when you’re done! Heartwarming and delicious!

2: Make a Movie at Home Romantic!

When we think about a movie at home, we typically think about sitting on the couch with a bowl of popcorn watching Netflix. Well, watching a movie at home as a Valentines Day date is actually a great idea! Here is how you can make a simple at-home movie into a romantic date!

Firstly, cover all the windows and turn off the lights. Pull the curtains or draw the blinds. Turn the lights down or off and light the room with candles. Don’t use Netflix, go out and buy a DVD or Blu-Ray. Get the movie to the main menu, make sure it’s a movie they will like, and prepare a romantic snack. Making popcorn and using red food colouring on the butter is a good way to make popcorn more Valentines Day themed.