When it comes to Valentines Day, it's not just about expensive meals out, flowers and chocolates.

Valentine's Day dates can be whatever you want them to be — as long as you spend quality time together.

So why not use this Valentine's weekend to try some alternative date ideas in and around Huddersfield?

From towering hills to wild and windy moors, reservoirs and outdoor art, we've got great ideas for you.

Here are seven alternative Valentines Day date ideas:

Climb Castle Hill

OK, so it's a bit early (i.e. far too cold) for a picnic, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a nice bracing walk up to Victoria Tower. Enjoy the view from the top of the hill, take some impressive Valentine's selfies and then stroll back down, hand in hand. If you're feeling brave, embrace the cold, take a picnic blanket and a flask of tea and snuggle up together.

March across Marsden Moor

Marsden Moor - Matt Turner

Doesn't that bench look like the perfect place to cuddle up with your loved one after a morning exploring the moors? If you enjoy a bracing hike, Marsden Moor offers guided walks and themed trails, as well as to geocaching. The National Trust Estate stretches across 5,685 acres and is popular with para gliders and birdwatchers. For opening times and more information, click here.

Take in some outdoor art

Video Loading

Take a trip to theYorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) and explore the latest exhibit of giant sculptures in a picturesque setting. The park is hosting the first UK museum exhibition by KAWS, the renowned American artist, whose work has sparked global attention and includes painting, sculpture, printmaking and design. The exhibition, in the Longside Gallery and the rolling fields of the Park, features over 20 works.

Romance at the Reservoirs

The waterfall flowing out of the Wessenden valley reservoirs
The waterfall flowing out of the Wessenden valley reservoirs

Butterly, Wessenden, Redbrook... you're spoiled for choice when it comes to reservoirs in Huddersfield. Explore the woods and landscapes around them, watch a waterfall cascading and take in the stunning views at these magnificent water features and walk off all the Valentines chocolates you scoffed for breakfast.

Go gift buying at Upmarket Sundays

View gallery

Ok, so we said Valentine's Day wasn't about presents — but that doesn't mean you can't explore a market together. Upmarket Sundays, held on the second Sunday of every month at Huddersfield Open Market, offers an eclectic mix of local produce, fashion, design, arts and crafts — take a look at our video tour for a taste of what's on offer.

Ride a bicycle made for two

Calder Valley Greenway
Calder Valley Greenway

OK, so a tendem might be tricky, but get on your bikes and try the four-mile, largely rural route that connects Huddersfield and Dewsbury via woodland, farmland and riverside paths. A small section between Mirfield Railway Station and Huddersfield Road has still to be developed, but an on-road route is signposted.

Stand-out views can be found from the Ridings, which looks down to the John Smith's Stadium and Dalton Bank, Bradley Viaduct and Lower Spen, offering views of the Spen Valley up to Norristhorpe and Roberttown.

Up sticks to Uppermill

Uppermill Viaduct
Uppermill Viaduct

Perfect for scenic canal and riverside walks, Uppermill, nears Marsden is an area along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal. Enjoy a canal cruise or simply pack a picnic and enjoy the views.