Best Valentine’s Day experience gifts for 2024: from spa breaks to skydiving

With February 14 around the corner, now’s the time to start searching for ideas to stack up the brownie points when Valentine’s Day arrives. While you could opt for the good old red roses and teddy bear gift, if you’re looking for something a little different for 2024, an experience day could be a good option.

The choices are endless, and with brands geared at solely offering experiences, there’s something for everyone. To narrow down the overwhelming choice, we’ve rounded up some of the latest and greatest experiences for thrill-seekers, relaxation lovers and foodies alike.

Jewellery and chocolates are traditionally given on Valentine’s Day, although many also opt to go for a nice dinner out. Restaurants often create menus specifically for Valentine’s Day, however they can be costly and particularly busy on February 14. If you don’t fancy joining the hoardes of people on the day itself, buying a gift voucher for a meal is a great idea and can give more flexibility, and something to look forward to on a day of your choice.

Everyday life can get busy, and if it sometimes feels like you and your significant other are ships in the night, Valentine’s Day can be an opportunity to think about planning some quality time together. Getting away from your usual surroundings can take away distractions and encourage pure relaxation and exploration, even if for just a day or two. There are lots of short breaks to choose from, whether it’s a night away or a whole weekend, the UK has plenty to offer, from luxurious spa breaks to countryside getaways.

One of the benefits of buying an experience for someone is that you can show them how wells you know them by picking out something personalised to their passions. If the lover of your life is a thrillseeker or prefers adventure to being wined and dined, you could take them on an exciting day out to a wildlife reserve, skydiving experience or even for a helicopter ride.

For foodies and fans of a tipple or two, you can’t go wrong with a delicious three-course meal, cheese and wine tasting or even get really involved and learn skills to take back to your own kitchen with as pasta-making workshop.

Many celebrate the special day by spending the evening with their partner, however it is ultimately a chance to champion all types of love, whether that be friendship, family or even furry friends. In recent years, the term ‘Galentine’s Day’ has been coined, meaning using the day to spend time with close friends, and spreading the celebrations to everyone, not just those in relationships.