- Play Hard
- 13th Apr 2024
- 0
- 7 minutes
18 cultural date ideas in Tees Valley for every type of couple
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Tees Valley is filled with history, culture and countryside just waiting for you to explore.
Sometimes our go-to date-day destinations get a bit boring, so why not spice things up with a trip to Tees Valley?
The region straddles the River Tees and stretches from Darlington to the coast at Redcar and Cleveland but also covers Middlesbrough, Stockton-on-Tees and Hartlepool. From a heritage coastline to market towns and thriving foodie scene to nature reserves, Tees Valley is full of hidden gems waiting for you to discover.
From markets perfect for you foodie couples to travelling back in time heritage sites, here are some ultimate culture date ideas in Tees Valley.
FOR THE FOODIES…
The Arches Cookery School, Saltburn
With over two decades of cooking for rock stars, Sarah Muir brings her global culinary adventures to The Arches Cookery School. Together learn modern, imaginative recipes from around the world.
Northern Quarter, Redcar
Indulge in the Northern Quarter’s culinary scene, brimming with local and international flavours. From hearty pub grub to exotic fusion dishes, satisfy your cravings at Cluck & Moo, Redcar’s first Rotisserie bistro and cocktail bar.
Darlington Indoor Market, Darlington
Explore Darlington Indoor Market, a hub of street food and traditional stalls. Tuck into some woodfired pizza, Thai cuisine, Yorkshire pudding wraps and more. Shop fresh produce, clothing, gifts and florals for a complete market experience.
FOR THE OLD-SCHOOL ROMANTIC COUPLES…
Raby Castle, Darlington
Experience a romantic journey through time at Raby Castle. Let friendly guides unveil its 14th-century origins and stunning interiors. Then, wander the deer park, enjoy the Plotters’ Forest and relax at the Yurt Café.
Gisborough Priory, Guisborough
Experience romance among the ancient ruins of Gisborough Priory. Marvel at the gothic architecture of this 14th-century priory, steeped in the legacy of the Bruce family.
Tees Cottage Pumping Station, Darlington
Discover this historic gem. Witness operational Lancashire Boilers, a steam-powered beam engine and a gas engine. Before enjoying refreshments or a romantic picnic in the scenic grounds.
BE INSPIRED BY ART…
MIMA, Middlesborough
Experience art with a purpose at Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art. Explore exhibitions, learning activities and community initiatives promoting social change that are guaranteed to inspire.
Gallerina, Darlington
Experience a vibrant date day at Gallerina. Discover one of the largest collections of contemporary art in the North, showcasing local and international talent that is truly thought-provoking.
Hartlepool Art Gallery, Hartlepool
Plan a cultural date day at Hartlepool Art Gallery, housed in a beautifully restored Victorian church. Explore diverse exhibitions and immerse yourselves in the town’s vibrant cultural quarter.
FOR THE BOOKWORMS…
Drake The Bookshop, Stockton-on-Tees
Indulge in a charming date day at Drake The Bookshop. Browse award-winning selections, enjoy author events, and cosy up in the special reading corner.
Book Corner, Saltburn-by-the-Sea
Plan a delightful date day at Book Corner, Saltburn’s charming independent bookshop. Explore diverse genres, attend author events and join their book group to meet like-minded couples.
The Queerish Bookshop, Darlington
Have a vibrant date day at The Queerish Bookshop, Darlington’s LGBTQ+ haven. It’s really hard to miss thanks to the bold and colourful shop front. Explore radical literature, community space and, of course, some damn good books together.
BE ENTERTAINED…
Georgian Theatre, Stockton-on-Tees
Discover the vibrant music scene at Georgian Theatre. With live performances and a cosy bar offering delicious food and drinks, it’s the perfect spot for a date date/night.
Darlington Hippodrome, Darlington
Have a romantic evening at the theatre at Darlington Hippodrome, an elegant Edwardian building nestled in the heart of the community. Enjoy a range of captivating performances.
Middlesbrough Town Hall, Middlesbrough
Experience a magical date night at Middlesbrough Town Hall, the beating heart of civic and cultural life in the Tees Valley. Enjoy music, arts and community.
FOR THE HISTORY LOVERS…
Captain Cook Birthplace Museum, Middlesbrough
Discover Captain Cook’s legacy at the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum, which’s just reopened. Dive into his life and voyages as you explore themed galleries with original artefacts. Enjoy accessible facilities, education programs and a gift shop.
Preston Park Museum Grounds, Stockton-on-Tees
Enjoy a romantic date day at Preston Park, a historic 100-acre park in Stockton-on-Tees. Explore a replica Victorian Street, a nature reserve and the peaceful walled garden together.
Heugh Gun Battery Museum, Hartlepool
Have a historical date day at Heugh Battery Museum, a restored 19th-century coastal defence battery. Learn about its unique wartime role and enjoy events, exhibits and tasty treats at Poppy Tea Rooms.
Rachael Ellis
Creative Solutions Manager
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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