Date ideas this winter

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Date ideas this winter

The cold weather can make it incredibly tempting just to cuddle up in the warmth of your home for a romantic evening. But for those prone to cabin fever, there are still plenty of fun places to

take the other half this winter WORDS BY TOM YOUNG

Activities

If you’re interested in something crafty, Lollipops Pottery Painting Studio in Oadby makes for a fun date. It’s a two-hour session and you pay for what you paint rather than a fi xed fee.

For a more active option, Social Climbing at Highcross has an array of things to climb up, over, and around. The indoor centre caters to all abilities, and climbing shoes can be rented.

If you like your dates with a dash of history, you can never go wrong with a National Trust (NT) visit. Stoneywell Cottage in Ulverscroft was the home of a family who loved arts and crafts, and the house refl ects it. For something statelier, Calke Abbey is on the edge of Derbyshire and includes the traditional NT restaurant for a cosy hot chocolate.

Alternatively, there’s Leicester Museum featuring exhibits of dinosaurs, ancient Egypt, art and more. On January 26, there’s also a guided tour of the museum’s storerooms, revealing many articles that have never been on display.

The National Space Centre with the Sir Patrick Moore Planetarium o ers a unique date beneath the stars.

Beer enthusiasts can take a Brewery Tour at Everards Meadows. Tours, run Thursday-Sunday. You can make a day of it by staying for dinner afterwards. Booking advised.

If like to test your general knowledge, pub quizzes can be found around the city, including Soar Point on Sunday nights, Rutland & Derby on Monday nights, and The Black Horse on Tuesday nights, among others.

SOCIAL CLIMBIMG

LOLLIPOPS POTTERY PAINTING STUDIO

Hotels and B&Bs

Acosy, romantic getaway is another idyllic winter date. Leicester has a vast array of intimate, comfortable hotels that are ideal to snuggle up in.

If you want to stay close to the city, Winstanley House is a Grade II listed, Georgian hotel with beautiful, modern rooms. It’s also home to the Black Iron steakhouse and bar.

Tresillian House in Melton Mowbray is a quaint bed and breakfast that’s pet-friendly and close to several nearby parks. It’s a charming spot for a quick getaway from Leicester city.

Caravelli in Loughborough is an updated guesthouse with exposed beams and period features. One of their rooms has a four-poster bed, freestanding bath and fi replace – the perfect winter hideaway that won’t break the bank.

For additional date ideas, including bars and restaurants, walking spots, and more activities, visit our blog at nichemagazine.co.uk/post/7-dateideas-in-leicester.