This is a sponsored article on behalf of Klook.
Inflated set menus, overpriced roses, awkward dates — yep, must be Valentine's Day. It's supposed to be the most romantic day of the year, but all too often you end up wasting your hard-earned cash just going through the (frankly rather cheesy) motions. Whether you're single or coupled up, wouldn't you rather put your funds towards something truly memorable? Step forwards, Klook.
Klook is a brilliant new website and app that's all about making unforgettable experiences easy and affordable. It offers everything from tours to theatre trips to afternoon tea in 300+ locations worldwide — all at up to 60% off. And, this Valentine's Day, Klook invites you to forget the flowers (which cost Brits an eye-watering £266 million in 2018) to fall in love with travel, with its dazzling range of day trips that depart from London. Here's our pick of the best.
1. Discover a castle, a cathedral, and some very famous cliffs
From the fairytale-esque Leeds Castle (not in Leeds), to the majestic White Cliffs of Dover, this swoon-worthy full day tour from London brings the beauty of Kent to life. Journey into the British countryside by first class luxury motor coach before stopping off in Maidstone to discover a former royal residence, which is one of the most visited historic buildings in the country. From there, go on to UNESCO World Heritage Site Canterbury Cathedral. The magnificent Gothic structure was an important medieval pilgrimage site and boasts a rich history dating back to the 4th century. The trip finishes up at the 'Garden of England' with a visit to Dover, where you can stroll along the beach and take in stunning views of the English Channel.
Book now on Klook.
2. See Mona Lisa's smile in Paris
Paris may be known as the 'City of Love', but there's so much more to it than that, as you can discover on this exhilarating day trip to the French capital. Soak up the cityscape from the Eiffel Tower, take a scenic cruise along the River Seine, before finishing up at The Louvre, where you absolutely must admire many a priceless work of art (da Vinci's Mona Lisa, anyone?). You travel to and from Paris on the fast and efficient Eurostar, so you get to make the most of your whistle-stop trip to continental Europe.
Book now on Klook.
3. Take afternoon tea at Beatrix Potter's old house
Bask in the beauty of England's largest (and arguably most spectacular) National Park on this rail trip to the Lake District. Cruise along Lake Windermere and then head to the higgledy-piggledy village of Hawkshead, which is full of picturesque medieval cottages. All that exploring is sure to work up your appetite — luckily, your trip includes a glorious cream tea at Lindeth Howe Hotel, which was once owned by none other than beloved children's author Beatrix Potter.
Book now on Klook.
4. See cities of dreaming spires and perspiring dreams
Visit the UK's oldest and most venerable university towns, Oxford and Cambridge, in a single day. Begin with a stop at the 'City of Dreaming Spires' (AKA Oxford) for a walking tour — with highlights including Christchurch College, where parts of Harry Potter were filmed, and the iconic Bridge of Sighs. From there it's onto Cambridge, fondly known as the 'City of Perspiring Dreams'. Tour charming narrow streets, see the winding river, and visit historic market places before delving into the famous King's College, with its stunning chapel.
Book now on Klook.
5. Travel to a different hemisphere
Did you know that you can travel to another hemisphere, without actually leaving London? On this budget friendly trip to Greenwich, visit the royal borough's historic observatory, which is home to the Meridian Line. Since the late 1800s, the Prime Meridian has divided the eastern and western hemispheres of the earth — just as the equator divides the northern and southern hemispheres. Straddle the line and stand in two hemispheres at once... and get home in time for your dinner (and if you want to grab some reduced Valentine's Day chocs for pudding, we won't judge).
Book now on Klook.
Now that we've ignited your wanderlust, it's time to get organised. With Klook, planning your trip is a doddle. Key details like event duration, how to redeem your booking, and the event's cancellation policy are available at-a-glance and the platform is packed with nifty features like weather forecasts, maps and immediate, in-app booking.
What's more, if you find the same event for less elsewhere, Klook refunds you double the difference. Who needs romance when you've got that sort of dedication?
Ready to fall in love with travel again? Click here to sign up via the Klook website, or get the app on iOS or Android.
