Top 4: Alt-Valentine’s ft. King Street Townhouse, Gorilla, Whitworth + Islington Mill

Valentine’s Day needn’t be about proposing to your loved one on a bridge in Paris. Why not embrace the city you live in with our Mancunian guide? For those who want to play it safe, we recommend the new King Street Townhouse for a drink or meal plus there’s loads to see at the Whitworth’s first birthday party. Or why not tuck into an old school rave at Islington Mill with the Trailer Trash crew? We’re also making a date with the (1) RAD Valentine’s Day screenings of Natural Born Killers and True Romance at Gorilla on the big day – read our full preview.

2. Drink or dinner at new King Street Townhouse Hotel
Bar food and drinks are served to non-residents at the new King Street Townhouse hotel. Part of the Eclectic Hotel group (Great John Street, Didsbury House Hotel), this new hotel takes in an infinity pool and roof terrace, as well as a multi-tiered public bar and restaurant, decked in dark wood, leather and bronze. This is where we would go to propose if we knew anyone who would say yes.
King Street Townhouse, 10 Booth Street, Manchester, M2 4AW. Tel: 0161 667 0707, www.eclectichotels.co.uk

3. Paper Anniversary at The Whitworth
What’s more romantic than a stroll through a forest, followed by inspiring modern art? Throw in one of Manchester’s finest architectural creations plus free entry and you’ve got a guaranteed good time. Visit the glass-clad cafe among the trees or take part in one of the many free events happening as part of the gallery’s first birthday celebrations.
Sun 14 Feb, The Whitworth, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M15 6ER, 10am-5pm, FREE, www.facebook.com

4. Trailer Trash Benefit for Calais’ Community Refugee Kitchen at Islington Mill (pic)
Islington Mill’s all-night party sees profits going to the Community Refugee Kitchen in Calais. DJs on the bill include American wildcard Sean P and local legend Rob Bright.
Sat 13 Feb, Islington Mill, 1 James Street, Salford, M3 5HW. Tel: 0161 278 6404, 10pm-6am, £7, www.islingtonmill.com