How about a little romance on a budget?
Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and it’s not about how much you spend but the memories you create.
Just look at all the classic rom-coms. They all have one thing in common: keeping it simple and understated. Whether it is going for a romantic riverside walk, a cosy pub meal or a quirky museum visit, the most important thing is the time you spend with your partner. All you need is £30 to create a special day. After all, love doesn’t have to be expensive when you’re spending it with someone special. Here are our top five local recommendations for a successful, and budget friendly Valentine’s date.
1. A bike ride along the scenic riverside
Imagine riding a bike with your date along the scenic Thames route on the riverside. It could be the perfect start to your date and might help put conversation into motion. It’s simple: rent a Lime bike, ride outdoors, and enjoy the views (of the one other than your date of course). To make it even better, pack some warm picnic delicacies and enjoy them while visiting Richmond Park.
Cost: Lime e-bikes start at £1 to unlock and 17-20p per minute (it’s free for the first 10 minutes), so an hour ride costs between £3.50-£4.50 per person
2. Buying cute and romantic gifts: Supermarket edition
Who says romance can only be packaged in a luxury gift bag? Gifts don’t have to be expensive. All they need is some love and effort. Achieving that with a £30 budget is easy, and you don’t have to look far. Grab DIY Valentine’s crafts from Flying Tiger (£5-£10), then head to Sainsbury’s or M&S to put together a classic Valentine’s package: a handwritten card (£1-£3), a simple bouquet (£5-£10), and chocolates (£5-£7).
Cost: Around £15-£20 total
3. Start your story with the tales at Kingston Museum
If it’s raining or too cold outside, and you wish to do opt indoors, a trip to the Kingston Museum makes for a great date. Pro tip: it might even give you a chance to flaunt your intellect if you read up on the exhibits beforehand. From the stories of the seven kings to Kingston celebrity Edward Muybridge, Kingston Museum offers a charming, free activity for art and history lovers.
Cost: Free entry
4. A budget-friendly Valentine’s feast: A night out or night in
It’s perfectly normal to go out for a romantic candlelight dinner on Valentine’s Day, but why not dress up and go out without the fancy three-course meal if it’s not in your budget? If you want the classic dinner-and-drinks experience, Wetherspoons offers three short plates for £14.99, or any food combo with soft/alcoholic drinks for under £15 each. For a cosier vibe, local pubs like the Albion offer affordable set menus. Wherever you go, remember to pull out the chair for your date. For a quiet night in, grab a Tesco or M&S Valentine’s meal deal which offers three courses and a bottle of Prosecco for £25. Light some candles, play soft music, and turn your home into a romantic restaurant.
Cost: £20-£30 for two
5. Explore, play, and discover Kingston’s Old London Road
For a quirky and offbeat date, head to Old London Road in Kingston, where you’ll find funky antique shops and the iconic tumbling telephone boxes—perfect for an Instagram-worthy stroll. As you explore, challenge each other to find the most unusual antique item under £5. Afterward, if you’re looking for more activities, visit Pop Playroom, which offers a date night for two at £29.95. It includes a round of crazy golf and a bottle of Prosecco. Sometimes the best dates are the ones that aren’t planned—why not hop on the first bus you see and explore a new area together for a spontaneous adventure?
Cost: Free (unless you pick up a quirky find)
