Britain | Romance in Britain

Valentine’s Day may need to adjust to the times

Changing dating habits mean fewer couples

Users of the dating app Feeld gather at an event
Playing the FeeldPhotograph: Mary Turner/New York Times/ Redux/ Eyevine

I t is supposed to be the most romantic day of the year. On Valentine’s Day you typically take your partner by the hand through a crowded restaurant, then do your best to maintain loving eye contact across a table while ignoring the other couple sitting uncomfortably close to you. You try to enjoy an overpriced meal on Cupid’s busiest night.

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This article appeared in the Britain section of the print edition under the headline “Singles, couples and throuples”

From the February 15th 2025 edition

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