Date Destination's top Valentine's Day Picks for 2025
We’ve partnered with Date Destination to bring you the top recommendations for a memorable Valentine’s Day in 2025. If you’re tired of the same old TV and takeaways, Date Destination has you covered!
Founded by Sam and Michaela, Date Destination began when they realised that date nights had become a cycle of scrolling through Netflix, half-watching re-runs, and losing time to distractions. They decided to make a change: no more lazy nights in. Instead, they set out to discover the best date spots Sussex has to offer, helping couples spend quality time together and make lasting memories.
In just one year, Sam and Michaela have explored over 100 date locations across Sussex! With 127+ recommendations on their website and 115 video reviews on Instagram, they make it easier than ever to find your next great adventure. But, of course, they’re still partial to a cosy night in now and then!
Illustration: Date Destination
We asked Sam and Michaela, what is it that makes a great date destination?
"Maybe it’s a bit of a cop-out, but we really think it varies from couple to couple, and it’s more about what you’re feeling on the day.
Some days, a great date destination might be a cosy café like Folk in St Leonards, where you can relax and watch the world go by. Other times, you might want something more adventurous, like hiring a boat at Bodiam Boating Station. Or perhaps you’re in the mood for something special, like a fancy dinner at The Pig in the South Downs. As long as you’re on the same page about what you’re looking for on that date, you’re bound to have a great time.
We recently picked a few of our top dates from last year, and they included a wide range of experiences: dining at The Chilli Pickle in Brighton, riding The Bluebell Railway, visiting Rathfinny Vineyard, and fruit picking at Tibbs Farm. Each of these left a lasting memory for different reasons.
But if we had to choose the must-visit spots for the perfect Valentine’s date, here’s are our shortlist...”
Laughing Dog, Worthing/Brighton
Start your Valentine’s Day with a cosy breakfast at Laughing Dog, the perfect spot for couples seeking a relaxed morning and a proper feast. Indulge in stacked pancakes, filled bagels, superfood smoothies, and more in their spacious, family-friendly café. With vegan and gluten-free options and dog treats for your furry friends, it’s the ideal way to kick off your day. Be sure to browse their curated lifestyle shop while you’re there and treat your valentine!
Why it’s a Date Destination favourite: "Now, this place instantly earns bonus points from us as massive dog lovers - not only for being dog-friendly but also for being inspired by Bandit, the Golden Retriever. Plus, the fact that it serves delicious food makes it the perfect spot for a breakfast date!
Tinwood Wine Estate, West Sussex
Spend Valentine’s Day sipping sparkling wine and soaking up vineyard views at Tinwood Wine Estate. Choose between vineyard tours, a romantic three-course dinner or a leisurely afternoon tea with wine tasting. With its serene setting, stunning views, and award winning wine, you’ll have a date to remember.
Why it’s a Date Destination favourite: "We first visited Tinwood back in September for their Vineyard Picnic, and it instantly felt like the perfect date destination. With the breathtaking vineyard backdrop, a friendly team, delicious food, and, of course, their incredible sparkling wine, it had everything you could want. Naturally, when we heard about their Valentine’s events, we had to include it on our list - we’re not sure you could find a more romantic spot!"
Gun Brewery, East Sussex
The Gun Taproom and Brewery is the ideal spot for a relaxed Valentine’s evening, especially for beer lovers and foodies. For Valentine’s Day weekend, on the 14th, join in for a fun Music Bingo night, perfect for couples or singles looking to have a good time! On the 15th, enjoy a normal day at the taproom with Bean Bike serving up Gourmet Smash Burgers, and on the 16th, indulge in classic Neapolitan pizzas (they claim to be the best you will ever have). It’s a lively yet laid-back way to enjoy great food, refreshing drinks, and each other’s company.
Why it’s a Date Destination favourite: "For us, The Gun offers the ultimate laid-back setting for a date. The taproom has a wonderfully relaxed vibe, and with the on-site brewery, you can enjoy the freshest sip of their award-winning beers - which we can confirm are absolutely worth trying. Outside, you’ll find an ever-changing selection of some of Sussex’s best street food vendors, making it the perfect spot to spend a couple of hours together."
Taith x Field Food, East Sussex
Taith, an independent gem in Lewes, has teamed up with the talented Field Food team to offer a special Valentine’s experience. Savour beautifully crafted seasonal dishes in a unique town-centre setting that blends a roastery, pottery studio, bookshop, and café. It’s the ideal choice for foodies seeking something intimate and different this Valentine’s.
Why it’s a Date Destination favourite: "We recently visited Taith in Lewes for a cosy coffee date, and we loved it so much that it made it onto our list! The décor and stunning views of the Downs were absolutely charming. So, when we heard they were hosting a Valentine’s dinner with Field Food - whose food we’ve only ever heard amazing things about - it sounded like the perfect recipe for a truly special Valentine’s evening."
Knepp Wildland, West Sussex
For couples who love the great outdoors, Knepp Estate offers the perfect mix of nature and romance. Wander through picturesque trails, enjoy a wildlife safari, or treat yourself to a meal at the Wilding Kitchen. For something more immersive, cosy up in one of their beautiful glamping accommodations.
Why it’s a Date Destination favourite: "What a hidden gem Knepp is! After our visit, we couldn’t stop talking about it - we mentioned it to everyone we saw for at least a month! During our wander along the trails, we were lucky enough to spot wild deer, ponies, and pigs, making it a truly unforgettable experience. With their Rewilding Kitchen serving up delicious seasonal food, there’s really no reason not to visit."
The Woodcote, West Sussex
For a touch of luxury this Valentine’s Day, The Woodcote, nestled in the heart of the South Downs near Petworth, offers the perfect escape. Enjoy a special Valentine’s dinner with local, seasonal ingredients, including welcome drinks and canapés, followed by a six-course tasting menu with an optional wine pairing. Want to make it even more special? Add an overnight stay in one of their six luxurious rooms for the ultimate romantic getaway.
Why it’s in Date Destination’s top picks: "All we had heard about Woodcote were good things, so it quickly made its way to the top of our list of places to visit this year. It promises the perfect cosy countryside pub setting, complete with a menu brimming with delicious-sounding dishes. When we saw they were offering a special Valentine’s menu, we knew we had to add it to our list!
No matter your style, Date Destination has the perfect spots for a memorable Valentine’s Day in 2025. Whether you’re enjoying a laid-back breakfast at Laughing Dog, sipping sparkling wine at Tinwood Wine Estate, or indulging in gourmet street food at Gun Brewery, there’s something for every couple. Sam and Michaela’s curated list of over 100 locations across Sussex ensures you’ll find a unique experience to make lasting memories with your loved one. Explore their recommendations and break free from the usual – this Valentine’s Day, try something new!
