The usual Durham Valentine's Day meal scene will take place in restaurants across the city centre this February 14: packed restaurants full of couples, smartly dressed and a lit candle between them.

If you want to book somewhere high-end, though, you can end up paying a lot to take part in this yearly event unless you track down some Valentine's Day deals - or if you leave it too late you might even fail to get a table altogether. Recriminations ensue.

Never fear, as ExplorAR's Durham Cityguide has got you covered. We've looked around and found a few tasty looking options, including a few Durham Valentine's Day meal offers. Have a look through and see what's to your taste.

If the dates gone well, you might need our ideas for Durham places to propose
If you just want more Valentine's Day activities, then have a look at our Durham Valentine's Day events

Durham Valentine's Day meal offer #1: Ramside Hall

Valentine's Day falls on a Thursday in 2019, so you might be able to take advantage of Ramside Hall's Surf & Turf Thursdays. For £47.95 per couple, you can get two 8oz rump or rib eye steaks with a giant king prawn, and a 75cl bottle of Ramside Hall's house wine.

If you're feeling flush, you could instead go for an overnight spa stay for £165 per person, or if you're counting the pennies then the early bird carvery (Monday to Saturday 3-6pm) with a meal and dessert for £8.95 might be more your thing.

You can contact Ramside Hall on 0191 386 5282.

Durham Valentine's Day meal offer #2: Crook Hall

If you'd rather head out for the afternoon rather than face the packed ranks of evening restaurant-goers, then try Crook Hall sparkling afternoon tea. Have a wander around the gardens and then head to the Georgian Drawing Room for a glass of fizz and canapes. After that, you'll get tea or coffee and a three-tiered stand of sweet and savoury treats.

The Valentine's Day Crook Hall afternoon tea costs £24.50 and takes place on Thursday and Friday February 14-15, 12-2.30pm. As with most Durham Valentine's Day meals, pre-booking is a must. Call 0191 384 8028.

Durham Valentine's Day meal offer #3: Walworth Castle

Going beyond Durham city, Walworth Castle near Darlington is offering food, drink and entertainment for lovebird couples on Valentine's Day weekend. For £35, you can have a glass of fizz in Walworth Castle's lounge, followed by a three course meal in the candlelit courtyard, to the strains of a singer performing live.

Walworth Castle's Valentine's Day meal deal is on Saturday February 16. Call 01325 485470 to book.

Durham Valentine's Day meal offer #4: Rockcliffe Hall

If you're looking to really impress - or maybe if you're planning to pop the question - then your partner is bound to feel special at the Durham Valentine's Day meal event at the 4AA rosette Orangery in Rockcliffe Hall. The Valentine’s Day Dinner includes a six-course tasting menu with a wine pairing for each course. This impressive event comes at an impressive price too - £110 per person. It takes place on Thursday 14th February 2019 from 6pm. Call Rockcliffe Hall on 01325 729 999 or email enquiries@rockliffehall.com