Valentine's Day falls on Saturday 14th February 2026, making it the perfect opportunity for a romantic getaway or special day out in beautiful Devon. Whether you're planning a surprise for your partner or looking to spend quality time together, our county offers everything from dramatic coastal walks and award-winning restaurants to peaceful spa retreats and thoughtful gift ideas.
Here's our guide to making Valentine's Day 2026 truly memorable in Devon.
Romantic Restaurants for Valentine's Day
Devon is home to some of the finest dining experiences in the South West, with restaurants offering everything from Michelin-starred tasting menus to intimate harbourside settings.
South Devon
The Seahorse, Dartmouth 5 South Embankment, Dartmouth, TQ6 9BH
This atmospheric waterside restaurant does exceptional things with locally sourced seafood in Italian-influenced dishes. The private dining room offers an intimate setting for couples, and the location in historic Dartmouth is ideal for a romantic riverside stroll before or after dinner.
The Elephant, Torquay 3-4 Beacon Terrace, Torquay, TQ1 2BH
Celebrating 20 consecutive years holding a Michelin star in 2025, The Elephant remains Torquay's finest dining destination. Run by chef proprietor Simon Hulstone and his wife Katy, ingredients are sourced locally and sustainably, many from their dedicated 96-acre farm in Brixham. The bright, informal restaurant overlooks Torquay harbour, and their set lunch is renowned as one of the best-value Michelin-starred meals in the UK.
Restaurant at Gara Rock, East Portlemouth, TQ8 8FA
With floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing unrivalled views of the dramatic Devon coastline, this is truly a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Executive Chef Elly Wentworth focuses on locally sourced seafood from Devon and Cornwall, expertly prepared and ultra fresh. Having previously represented the South West on BBC's Great British Menu, Elly brings exceptional creativity to the kitchen.
Bayard's Cove Inn, Dartmouth 27 Lower Street, Dartmouth, TQ6 9AN
This 14th-century traditional maritime inn delivers the perfect low-lit ambience, accompanied by the gentle flickering of the fireplace. The solid stone walls house a restaurant with a contemporary twist on tradition, and the tantalising dishes make the best of locally landed fish complemented by thoughtfully sourced ingredients.
Burgh Island Hotel Burgh Island, Bigbury-on-Sea, TQ7 4BG
For a truly special Valentine's experience, the Grand Ballroom at Burgh Island Hotel transports you to the glamorous Art Deco era. Black tie dining, live jazz music, crystal chandeliers, and world-class cuisine create an unforgettable evening. The island setting, accessible only by foot at low tide or the famous sea tractor at high tide, adds to the romance.
Exeter & East Devon
The Ivy Exeter 65-67 High Street, Exeter, EX4 3LN
Neighbouring the iconic Exeter Cathedral, The Ivy Exeter offers a beautiful setting with floral décor and live music. Their specially crafted Valentine's Day menu typically includes shared sides, decadent desserts, and guests receive a Forever Rose as a keepsake.
La Mar, Victoria Rd, Exmouth EX8 1DR
Rated as one of the most romantic restaurants in East Devon, La Mar is the ideal beach date spot with attentive service, tasteful décor, and high-quality food at reasonable prices.
Saveur, Exmouth 9 Tower Street, Exmouth, EX8 1NT
A fine dining experience featuring local mussels and fillet steak from Powderham, with an elegant setting and exceptional service.
North Devon
The Farmers Arms, Lane Head, Lowick Green, Ulverston LA12 8DT, United Kingdom
A creative chef crafts sublime dishes using produce from the 150-acre farm and surrounding producers. The innovative drinks menu features handcrafted cordials and own-infused spirits, complemented by Michelin Key-rated accommodation.
Twenty Seven, Kingsbridge 27 Fore Street, Kingsbridge, TQ7 1AD
Winner of multiple awards including Taste of the West Best Restaurant and South West Chef of the Year, Twenty Seven uses fresh local produce skilfully prepared in a relaxed, vibrant environment.
Romantic Walks Along the Coast
Devon's South West Coast Path offers some of England's most spectacular walking routes, perfect for a romantic winter stroll followed by a cosy pub lunch.
Hope Cove Circular Walk
Distance: Approximately 4 miles | Difficulty: Moderate
Starting from Outer Hope car park, this walk takes you along the South West Coast Path across the headland to Bolt Tail, offering stunning views across the bay. In winter, the dramatic cliffs and crashing waves create a wonderfully atmospheric backdrop. Stop at one of Hope Cove's traditional pubs for a warming drink afterwards.
Dartmouth to Dartmouth Castle
Distance: 3 miles circular | Difficulty: Moderate
This varied route from Little Dartmouth passes numerous secluded coves including Willow Cove and Ladies Cove before reaching the historic 15th-century Dartmouth Castle. The castle tea rooms offer lovely views over the estuary, perfect for a romantic refreshment stop.
Salcombe to Snapes Point
Distance: 2 miles return | Difficulty: Easy
A short, scenic walk to Snapes Point viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of Salcombe and the Kingsbridge Estuary. Ideal if you want beautiful scenery without a challenging hike.
Valley of Rocks, Lynton
Distance: Various routes available | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
On the edge of Exmoor, the Valley of Rocks offers dramatic landscape with unique rock formations and a resident herd of wild goats. The sweeping views across the Bristol Channel to Wales make this a truly romantic spot.
Berry Head, Brixham
Distance: 2-3 miles circular | Difficulty: Easy
Walk the ramparts where Napoleonic soldiers once stood, watch the guillemot colony, and try to spot dolphins from the UK's highest (yet shortest) lighthouse. The Guardhouse Café serves excellent local produce with spectacular sea views.
Spa Days & Wellness Retreats
There's nothing quite like a couples' spa day to relax and reconnect. Devon has some exceptional spa hotels offering indulgent treatments and peaceful surroundings.
Gaia Spa at Boringdon Hall
Colebrook, Plympton, Plymouth, PL7 4DP
Sitting on the edge of Dartmoor with dramatic views, Gaia Spa is regularly referred to as one of the best spas in Devon. The state-of-the-art facilities include a deep relaxation room overlooking a wildflower meadow, Finnish sauna, crystal salt steam room, and a heat experience bringing together the elements of earth, fire, water and air.
The Cary Arms & Spa
Babbacombe Beach, Torquay, TQ1 3LX
A coastal spa with stunning sea-facing views from the hydrotherapy pool, sauna, and steam room. Their spa day packages include treatments followed by a Devon cream tea and prosecco in the cosy inn, the perfect romantic combination.
Bovey Castle Elan Spa
North Bovey, Dartmoor, TQ13 8RE
Set within 275 acres of Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle offers ritual experience packages designed for physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. Facilities include a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, whirlpool, and gym, with tennis courts and walks through the stunning grounds.
Source Spa at Saunton Sands Hotel
An ocean-view spa on the North Devon coast with a rooftop sun deck and relaxation room offering mesmerising views. Treatments are inspired by nature, and the setting above Saunton Sands beach is simply stunning.
The Alchemist Spa at Woolacombe Bay Hotel
South Street, Woolacombe, EX34 7BN
Their Time Together Spa Day is perfect for couples, including time in the rasul mud chamber plus a naughty-but-nice afternoon tea to enjoy together. The copper tubs offer a wonderfully indulgent shared experience.
Theatre & Entertainment
Devon's theatres have an exciting programme of shows around Valentine's Day 2026.
Theatre Royal Plymouth
Royal Parade, Plymouth, PL1 2TR
Miss Saigon (17-28 February 2026) The legendary musical returns with its powerful tale of love, sacrifice and hope set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War. Unforgettable songs like "Last Night of the World" make this perfect for Valentine's week.
Into the Light (12-13 February 2026) A striking dance piece blending powerful movement, music and design to explore hope and new beginnings, ideal for Valentine's weekend.
Princess Theatre, Torquay
South Devon's largest regional theatre showcases the best West End and touring productions. Check their February programme for Valentine's specials including comedy, musicals, and live music performances.
Queen's Theatre, Barnstaple
Boutport Street, Barnstaple, EX31 1SX
North Devon's premier venue hosts a varied programme of drama, comedy, and music. Their February listings often include romantic tribute shows and comedy evenings perfect for date night.
Babbacombe Theatre
Babbacombe Downs Road, Torquay, TQ1 3LU
This intimate theatre on the beautiful Babbacombe Downs hosts variety shows, comedy, and music throughout the season starting in February.
Romantic Day Out Ideas
Coleton Fishacre, Kingswear
This 1920s country retreat near Kingswear combines Arts and Crafts elegance with Art Deco allure. The Royal Horticultural Society accredited garden offers peaceful walks with sea views, making it perfect for a romantic winter wander.
Dartmouth & the River Dart
Stroll through historic Dartmouth's narrow streets, browse independent shops, and take a ferry across the estuary. The town's maritime heritage and pretty harbourside cafés create a charming atmosphere for couples.
Salcombe
This picturesque sailing town with its pastel-painted boutiques and idyllic harbour is wonderfully romantic. Take a boat trip across the estuary or simply enjoy the waterfront views with a glass of something special.
Plymouth Barbican & Royal William Yard
The cobbled streets and olde world charm of Plymouth's historic Barbican make for a lovely walk. Visit the Plymouth Gin Distillery, then hop on a boat to Royal William Yard, a beautifully restored former Royal Naval victualling yard now home to waterfront bars and restaurants.
Lundy Island
For a truly unique Valentine's adventure, take the MS Oldenburg from Bideford or Ilfracombe to Lundy Island. This car-free haven 12 miles off the North Devon coast offers tranquillity, wildlife, and dramatic scenery, though sailing times are weather-dependent in February.
The Perfect Valentine's Gift
Sometimes the most thoughtful Valentine's gesture is a gift that shows you truly know what they love. If your partner adores the flavours of the West Country, why not surprise them with a Valentine's gift hamper filled with delicious Devon treats?
Here at Devon Heaven, each hamper is hand-packed with care and includes high-quality produce from Devon and the surrounding counties. From traditional cream tea hampers to indulgent afternoon tea selections, our hampers provide a taste of Devon wherever you are.
Whether delivered to their home or workplace, a Devon Heaven hamper makes a truly unique and memorable Valentine's gift, complete with a personalised gift card to share your message.
Browse our Valentine's Gift Hampers →
Plan Your Perfect Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day 2026 falls on a Saturday, giving you the whole weekend to celebrate. Whether you choose a romantic coastal walk followed by a cosy pub lunch, a candlelit dinner at one of Devon's finest restaurants, a pampering spa retreat, or a thoughtful gift hamper delivered to their door, Devon has everything you need for a memorable celebration of love.
Whatever you decide, we hope you have a wonderful Valentine's Day in beautiful Devon.
Looking for more gift inspiration? Explore our full range of Devon food hampers or create your own custom hamper for a truly personal touch.
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