Saint Helena is an island located in the South Atlantic Ocean, 1,000 miles (1,600 km) west of the African coast. It is part of the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha and is best known as the place where Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled after his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo. Besides its fascinating history and unique culture, Saint Helena is a beautiful island with stunning landscapes and seascapes, rugged coastlines and a tall, imposing central peak.
1. Saint Helena parks and places for a walk on a first date
There are a number of parks and reserves on the island of Saint Helena, offering a variety of landscapes as well as plenty of opportunities for a romantic first date stroll. One of the most popular parks is High Peak, located in the centre of the island. High Peak offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as a number of paths to explore. Other popular parks on Saint Helena include Diana’s Peak National Park in the north, which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, and Longwood Estate, the site of Napoleons house during his exile on the island.
2. Places for a coffee date in Saint Helena
For a more relaxed first date, why not take your date to one of the many coffee shops in Saint Helena? The city of Jamestown is home to a number of popular cafes, such as The London Coffee House, which offers a selection of freshly-brewed coffees and teas, as well as a selection of cakes and pastries. Other establishments worth visiting include The Mill, an old windmill that has been converted into a coffee shop, and The Roastery, which serves a variety of specialty coffees, teas and other beverages.
3. Saint Helena galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Saint Helena has a number of historical attractions that are perfect for a date, including the Napoleon Museum which offers an insight into the life of the vanquished emperor during his exile on the island. Other attractions include the National Museum, which gives visitors a detailed look at the island’s history, and the Jamestown Heritage Trail, which includes a number of historical sites and buildings, as well as a number of galleries and exhibitions.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Saint Helena
Live music and entertainment can be found in Saint Helena, with a number of venues featuring a variety of genres and performers. The Pickled Onion, located in Jamestown, regularly hosts live music, from acoustic sets to full-on rock concerts. The Castle Terrace Bar and Club, located near Longwood House, also offers an extensive selection of live music and entertainment.
5. Saint Helena pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Saint Helena is home to a number of pubs, bars and restaurants, offering a selection of drinks, snacks and meals. The popular Duke of York pub in Jamestown is a great place to visit for a first date drink, offering a selection of beers, wines and spirits, as well as a range of locally-sourced dishes. Other popular establishments worth visiting include the lively Levens Saloon (a favourite with the locals), the relaxing La Plage Bar and the romantic Little White Cottage in Jamestown.
6. Other date ideas to try in Saint Helena
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, why not take your date horse riding or sailing on a chartered boat? Horse riding is available in several locations across the island, including Stablehill Riding School, which offers lessons for beginner and experienced riders. For sailing, why not charter a boat from Jamestown Harbor and explore the coastline of Saint Helena. You could even try your hand at fishing – the waters around the island are teeming with fish, so you’re sure to land a few!
