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With its dreamy coastlines and scenic sights, the South West of England makes for the perfect romantic getaway with your partner. Whether you both love city sights or idyllic country staycations, there’s something for everyone, and you don’t have to break the bank to have a great time!
We’ve rounded up the best date ideas in the South West, from shopping in Southampton to strolling through the Dorset countryside. Each location is accessible by train, so why not spoil yourselves with First Class seats for a luxurious start to your trip?
Cheap date ideas in Southampton
Whether you’re looking for something fun, romantic or a combination of the two, Southampton ticks all the boxes when it comes to dates.
Take a look at our cheap train tickets page to find the best fares for your trip, and check out our Southampton destination guide for more ideas of things to see and do.
Elusion Escape Rooms
elusionrooms.com
68 Commercial Rd, Southampton SO15 1GD
Fancy doing something a little different? Put your brains – and teamwork – to the test at the Elusion Escape Rooms. Rated as the best escape rooms in Southampton, you can choose from five thrilling games, including a murder mystery and a robbery whodunnit.
Riverside Park
Manor Farm Rd, Southampton SO18 1NQ
Unwind and let the adrenalin wear off with a blissful walk through the beautiful Riverside Park. Enjoy a stroll on the banks of the River Itchen and look out for wildlife including kingfishers, water voles, otters, cuckoos and more.
west-quay.co.uk
Harbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1QF
Spoil your partner with a shopping spree at Southampton’s Westquay shopping centre. Have fun window shopping, or choose outfits for each other to try on – you don’t need to spend a penny!
Southampton City Art Gallery
southamptoncityartgallery.com
Civic Centre, Commercial Rd, Southampton SO14 7LY
Artsy couples will love Southampton City Art Gallery, which displays a rich collection of fine art. Admire the paintings and sculptures on display or get stuck in with a fun workshop.
Cheap date night dining spots in Southampton
Accommodation in Southampton
Staying overnight in Southampton? You don’t need to empty your pockets! . Budget hotels include ibis budget Southampton, Travelodge Southampton Central and Novotel Southampton perfect for city-dwellers on a budget.
Cheap date ideas in Dorset
Fall in love with picturesque Dorset on a romantic getaway, as you explore everything the coast and countryside has to offer.
Dorset has many train stations including Gillingham, Poole, Moreton, Wareham and Parkstone. Plan your journey today with the help of our travel advice and updates.
Langham Wine Estate
langhamwine.co.uk
The Tasting Room, Crawthorne Farm, Crawthorne, Dorchester DT2 7NG
For a truly magical treat, embark on a self-guided tour and sample award-winning wines at the vineyards of Langham Wine Estate. Finish off your date with nibbles at the Vineyard Café.
Corfe Castle
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/corfe-castle
Corfe Castle, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5EZ
One of the most iconic remains of the Civil World War, a trip to Corfe Castle is the perfect way to while away an afternoon. The castle is over 1,000 years old and boasts stunning views across Purbeck and the rolling hills of Dorset.
Durdle Door and the Jurassic Coast
For breathtaking sights and a potential spot to pop the question, head to the magnificent limestone archway of Durdle Door and wander along the pebbled beach. Or sit back and relax on a Jurassic Coast boat tour and admire spectacular sights from the sea.
Cheap date night dining spots in Dorset
Accommodation in Dorset
With so much to do and see in this coastal county, why not stay an extra day? Pull off the most magnificent break with a stay at the Laguna Hotel, where guests can enjoy access to a pool and hot tub. You’ll also feel right at home in The Bull Hotel in Bridport, with its cosy and comfortable rooms, or if you fancy a night on the coast, try Heathlands Hotel in Bournemouth.
For more date night ideas in Dorset, get inspired with our couple’s winter getaway itinerary in Poole.
Cheap date ideas in Exeter
With its beautiful historic buildings, outstanding scenery and location on the River Exe, Exeter is the ideal destination for couples looking for a city-meets-country break.
Find out more about what to see and do with our Exeter destination guide.
Exeter’s Underground Passages
exeter.gov.uk/passages
2 Paris St, Exeter EX1 1GA
As one of the most unique places to go on a date, couples with a love of history will enjoy exploring Exeter’s underground passages; a unique network of medieval tunnels built to supply the city with fresh water. Your trip underground includes a fascinating 25-minute guided tour, a 10-minute film presentation and the chance to visit exhibitions in the site’s interpretation centre.
Afternoon tea at Wear Park Restaurant
exetergcc.co.uk/wear-park-restaurant/afternoon-tea
Golf and Country Club, Topsham Rd, Exeter EX2 7AE
If a fairy-tale escape is more to your tastes, devour a special afternoon tea and sample Devon’s unrivalled clotted cream at Wear Park Restaurant. The newly refurbished Georgian restaurant is the perfect romantic setting for a date with your other half.
Darts Farm Cycle Hire
dartsfarm.co.uk/whats-on/bike-hire
Dart Farm Village, Topsham, Clyst St George, Exeter EX3 0QH
Follow your afternoon tea with a bike ride on a vintage Pashley bike, available to hire from Darts Farm Cycle Hire. Take your bike to one of the nearby seaside resorts of Exmouth or Topsham and enjoy a relaxing day by the coast.
Northcott Theatre
exeternorthcott.co.uk
Showcasing everything from musicals and comedy shows to cabarets and tribute bands, Northcott Theatre is the perfect date idea. Ideal for rainy days and colder weather, the theatre is an excellent place to snuggle up and enjoy some quality entertainment with your partner.
Cheap date night dining spots in Exeter
Accommodation in Exeter
Extend your Exeter visit with a night at the Mercure Exeter Rougemont Hotel for a classy-but-budget stay. For bold-coloured rooms with plenty of personality, Hotel du Vin Exeter is the place for you, while Premier Inn Exeter City Centre is a cheap and cheerful option.
Cheap date ideas in London
Vibrant and full of culture, there’s so much to do on your romantic couple’s getaway to London. Simply hop on a train to London Waterloo, Clapham Junction or Vauxhall, and see where your day will take you.
Thames Sightseeing Cruise
cityexperiences.com/london/city-cruises/river-thames-sightseeing
If you’re looking for fun activities in London for couples, why not consider a river cruise? Drift down the Thames and marvel at London’s sights and attractions from a unique river-point view on a Thames Sightseeing Cruise. With SWR Rewards, you can save 7% on 24 Hour Hop On/Hop Off Thames Sightseeing Cruise.
Free city walking tour
There are plenty of free walking tours in London, making this the perfect free date night idea for those on a tight budget. From street art tours to movie and TV tours, there’s something for every couple. Tours vary in length and time, so you can easily fit one into your day or evening.
Battersea Power Station
After opening in October 2022, the iconic Grade II Battersea Power Station boasts so much to do for couples. Indulge in some window shopping, then visit one of the power station’s many dining spots for a delicious meal and a tipple, with options to suit a variety of budgets. Finish your trip with a visit to the Chimney Lift, where you can enjoy 360-degree views of London from high up in the sky.
Cheap date night dining spots in London
Accommodation in London
Planning on staying in London for a couple of days? You’ll be spoilt for choice over romantic places to stay in London! Budget options include Premier Inn London Blackfriars, Travelodge London, Lancaster Gate Hotel and Hotel Ibis London Earls Court. If you’re looking to impress your date while still staying within budget, take them to The Tower Hotel or DoubleTree By Hilton – Tower of London.
There’s so much to see and do with your loved one in the South West of England. Find out more about the region and the other magnificent destinations waiting to be explored. Browse our flexible range of ticket types to find cheap train tickets for your chosen activity. Plus, you can enjoy additional savings with a Railcard or Two Together Railcard.
