With Valentine’s Day almost upon us, if you are planning a romantic day out or meal for two, North Dorset is a great place to celebrate. There are some beautiful places to pop an important question or to simply enjoy a few hours together. We’ve got a few suggestions for a little romance in the Blackmore Vale.

Take a Scenic Walk

North Dorset has many romantic spots for a walk in spring sunshine. Head to Shaftesbury where you can see the iconic Gold Hill and admire views from nearby Park Walk. In February the town comes alive with clusters of tiny snowdrops, celebrated with a festival. Another option for a walk is to explore the spectacular views from the Dorsetshire Gap or from Okeford Hill and the Wessex Ridgeway. Finally, another brilliant walk with a view or two is a Batcombe and Chetnole circular.

Read Poetry

Reading poetry brings out the romance in people. Several poets found inspiration in North Dorset. For example, Rupert Brooke spent time in Cranborne, writing a poem about the  Fleur De Lys, a pub with rooms.  He also wrote The Soldier while stationed at Blandford Camp. Naturally Thomas Hardy also composed poetry in North Dorset, particularly at Sturminster Newton where he lived for three years. He wrote about Sturminster Newton Mill in The Second Visit and also Colber Bridge. William Barnes wrote in Dorset dialect, was born at Bagber and lived in Sturminster Newton. One of his poems is titled True Love.

Dine Out in North Dorset

There is no shortage of cosy romantic places to enjoy a meal for two on Valentines Day although you’ll probably need to book ahead. At Tarrant Keyneston the aptly named True Lover’s Knot has a great menu. Or, head to Macready’s at the Sherborne for dinner. Other wonderful places to eat include The Green Man at Kings Stag and The Langton Arms at Tarrant Monkton near Blandford.

Wherever you celebrate on Valentine’s Day, we wish you well. If you can’t make it to Dorset for the day, these places and experiences can be enjoyed at an time of year.