Words and photos by Billie May Mason
With Cupid’s arrows drawing near, lovers are gearing up for this year’s Valentine’s Day. Originally a Christian holiday honouring the martyr Valentine, it has now become a worldwide celebration of romance and love. In the UK, “the average spend per person is £23,” according to BusinessLeader.
But how much can £23 really stretch to, within the current cost of living crisis in London?
“I’d love some cheap ‘Galentine’s Day’ ideas. I have three other single friends, and we are planning to do something fun together this year,” said Julia Agrusa, 29, a laboratory technician.
Shaun Gibney, 47, a black taxicab driver, detailed his troubles when planning for the special occasion: “My missus always leaves the planning to me, and I don’t know why. I’m terrible at sorting out dates. After twenty-two years of marriage, you’d think I would have gotten the hang of it by now.”
Whether it’s your first Valentine’s together or your twentieth, or if you’re just looking for a fun activity with your nearest and dearest, this Valentine’s Day special will help all those looking for cheap and cheerful Valentine’s date ideas!
Friend-friendly ideas
Angel – The Camden Head
Free stand-up comedy nights!
This Greene King chain pub holds a central 360 bar, draped with Olde Time décor, and a large beer garden looking out onto the peaceful back alleys of The Angel, Islington. Upstairs, you can find the pub’s comedy club, which shows free stand-up comedy gigs all week long. Grab yourself a pint and get ready for the cheapest laugh you’ll ever have!
Pet-friendly ideas
Barnsbury – The Angelic
Excellent Sunday Roasts, for you and your furry friends!
This sprawling pub serves some of the freshest British-grown produce for their seasonal menus. Do not miss out on their tantalisingly good Sunday Roasts for as little as £16.50 and excellent drink selection. This dog-friendly pub also offers a special £5 menu for your furry companions, including a Sunday roast and fish and chips.
Singles-friendly ideas
Old Street – The Golden Bee
Valentine’s Singles Party!
In the heart of Shoreditch you will find this impressive rooftop bar, specialising in cocktails and extravagant events. On the 16th of February, the bar will be holding a £15-ticketed single’s party. So, get your gladrags on and settle in for a night of dancing, drinks, and free-flowing conversations.
Tickets Available at
London Valentine’s Single’s Party | Ages 25-40 Tickets, Fri, Feb 16, 2024 at 7:00 PM | Eventbrite
Couple-friendly ideas
N1 Centre – Birdies
Crazy Golf for Two with Valentines Cocktail!
For the Valentine season, Birdies has released a couple’s special ticket. For £30 you can play their miniature indoor crazy golf AND get two “Love Bug” cocktails. It’s definitely love at first putt… They also have happy hour running from 3PM to 7PM every day.
Tickets Available at
Birdies Book Crazy Golf – Birdies – Unbridled Fun Awaits. (playbirdies.com)
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