Whilst Valentine’s Day is a triumphant days for couples, it can really hit a nerve with people who are single, because after all, who wants to be reminded that they’re alone? Well, this year, let’s stop feeling sorry for ourselves and spend Valentine’s Day the way it should be celebrated- with the people we love the most- our friends!
Ditch the depressing chick flicks this year and enjoy being single, alive and FREE, by making the most of what Manchester has to offer. Let’s make #GalentinesDay the best one yet!
Go Axe Throwing
I don’t know about you, but I can’t think of a better way to get out single-bitterness than throwing a really sharp axe at a target. It’s entirely up to you whether you want to imagine your ex is standing in the firing line, but either way, it’s a really fun way to spend Valentine’s Day with your mates if you’re single and angry (so basically everyone then). Located at the Great Northern Warehouse on Deansgate, Whistle Punks offer an urban axe throwing experience that is overseen by professional throwers (to make sure you don’t kill anyone). Whether there’s a couple of you or a group, you will be taken through to the tournament room once you’ve got the hang of things and will battle it out with your pals to see who is the best tosser… Sounds axe-cellent if you ask me.
Join the Valentine’s Day Ghost Walk
Want to do the least-romantic thing EVER? Well, you’re in luck, because Flecky Bennett’s annual Ghost tour is about as anti-Valentine’s Day as it gets. The tour explores the story behind the Manchester mummy and the ghostly tale of Emma and Chetham’s library satanic history during the two hour event. From witness statements to documented accounts of these ghoulish happenings, the walk will teach you all you need to know about Manchester’s spooky past. But don’t worry, there’s a 30 minute booze interval at Sam’s Chophouse- because let’s be honest, you’re going to need a strong shot of something after this walk! You might not sleep for a week, but it beats Valentine’s Day cheese any day!
http://manchesterghostwalk.co.uk/
Brave Speed Dating
Speed dating- an event for desperate singletons or people just looking for a laugh? Who knows, and who cares. There is booze involved, so does it really matter? On Valentine’s Day, love is in the air, so why not breath it all in by heading to speed dating at Bluu in Northern Quarter. Instead of sitting in and crying at the NoteBook, round up some of your single pals and have a flirt with other single losers! And if you really impress one of your potential suitors, you’ll get a message the next day hooking you up with any matches you’ve managed to bag. Who knows, maybe you’ll discover that you’re actually a bit of a catch?
https://www.ditchordate.com/speed-dating-event/6981
Head to Salsa!
We never really hear much about Revolution de Cuba these days, but did you know that every Wednesday, they host the best Salsa dancing social in the city? This energetic, fun and unique night isn’t just enjoyed by professional dancers- all of you two-left-feeters are more than welcome to join in on the fun too. If you’re too shy to dance with a partner, don’t worry about it. You can still go with your mates and enjoy an evening of quality Latin music and freshly made cocktails from 6:30- 2am. If on the other hand you’re feeling brave enough to test your skills in front of a professional, head down for opening and join in on a group lesson for just £3. Cheaper than buying a Valentine’s Day gift, right?
https://www.revoluciondecuba.com/bar/manchester/
Go to Greggs for a romantic meal
Who said romance was dead? I honestly have no idea because Greggs are now offering a Valentine’s Day dining experience for couples who live for sausage rolls- I mean, WOW, just wow. That being said, if I had a boyfriend and he took me for a cheese pasty and an iced bun for V-day, I’d be kind of buzzing but also really peeved at the same time. The word ‘stingy’ comes to mind? But if you’re with your mates, all expectations are off the table people. Book your place at the Mosley Street Greggs for just £7.50pp and enjoy a four-course set meal with a bottle of prosecco on your white linen-draped table. From roses to mood lighting, Gregg has really pulled out all of the stops to make your mate-date one to remember.
Get Wasted
I mean, this is a given really, isn’t it? But seriously, what better way to celebrate being single 4’lyf than getting totally shit faced with your pals and crying into your kebab at the end of the night? There isn’t. Period. Luckily, even Valentine’s Day doesn’t stop singletons enjoying the many happy hours that are available across the city. Turtle Bay, Walrus, Be At One, El Capo, The Liquor Store and Kosmonaut are just some of the bars that offer 2-4-1 or 50% off drinks on Wednesdays – so you’re not going to struggle to find places to drink away your sorrows. Thank god for booze, right?
Be a big kid
Everyone loved bouncy castles as a kid, but can you imagine how fun it is as an adult? If you’re genuinely sad to be single on Valentine’s Day, laughter is definitely the key to turning that frown upside down; but it doesn’t necessarily have to involve booze. This giant inflatable park is made up of walls, duelling rings, bubbles, drops, hoops and also has races and competitions that you can get involved in, with your pals. It’s a great place to burn some calories and have a laugh with your friends all at the same time, and it will only cost you £9.95!
