Valentine's Day: ideas for things to do in Retford

Roses are red, violets are blue....but for some real romance this is the perfect time to wrap up warm and enjoy the wintery white paradise currently blanketing the Retford countryside.

One thing is sure, we're not short of gorgeous places around here to get outside, relax, unwind and escape the stresses of the modern day. And with everywhere looking so lovely at the moment it would definitely be a wasted opportunity to stay indoors and miss out on some wonderful winter fresh air.

Local 'gems in the crown' such as King's Park, Clumber Park, Sherwood Forest and Chesterfield Canal offer endless opportunities for walking, cycling and wildlife-watching, even at this time of year. 

 If you're lucky enough to have creative talents now is the time to get out there with a sketchpad or camera. Or at the very least take an hour or two to get off the beaten track and walk the dog together. Other hotspots for wintery walks include Idle Valley Nature Reserve and Daneshill Lakes, all very quick and easy to get to. Another idea is enjoying the gorgeous snowdrops at Hodsock Priory near Blyth - they really are beautiful and worth a look if you have never before been. 

 And as romance is in the air, if you're planning a romantic proposal this Valentine's Day and she's a lover of the outdoors what could be better than a wintery sunrise/sunset scene as the perfect backdrop to one of life's biggest questions? Just make sure you've a camera somewhere handy to capture the moment forever.

Of course, spending Valentine's Day wrapped up in hats and scarves is not everyone's cup of tea so, if you're thinking of something else entirely here's a few other suggestions:

- A romantic dinner for two in a Retford restaurant

- Choose an extra special bottle of wine from a Retford store

- Treat her to roses from a Retford florist

- Film lover? There's a local cinema at Lincoln just a short drive away, but check out local community film showings too, and see what is running in February. Or hire one in and spend a cute cosy night indoors.

- To compliment the above...spoil yourselves with a big fat takeaway! 

 Cold weather, warm hearts?!....wishing you all a very happy Valentine's Day!