Valentine's Day ideas: the best alternative ways to spend the day

You think St Valentine loved helium balloons, overpriced roses and boxes of Milk Tray?

Almost certainly not, and not just because none of those things existed when he preached his loved-up little heart out. Valentine's Day is really a day for irony lovers: it is, without question, the least romantic day of the year.

The love-by-numbers schtick rarely leaves anyone happy, aside from the H Samuel staff on commission.

So forget it, and try something different. The gallery above has our suggestions for the easiest way to endure the day, from anti-Valentine's day pop-ups to dating for people who hate dating. There's even erotic cake decorating... and no, it's not for those just a little too into the Great British Bake Off.

If you're looking for something a little more traditionally romantic, read our guide to London's most romantic restaurants, our picks of London's best bars for a date, the most romantic bars in London and have a flick through our gallery of the best wine bars in London.

Follow David Ellis on Twitter @dvh_ellis

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