Do you know the origins of Valentine’s Day?

There are two Valentines who are honoured on 14 February.

Valentine of Rome, a priest who was martyred about AD 496 and Valentine of Terni who became bishop of Interamna (modern Terni) about AD 197 and is said to have been martyred during the persecution under Emperor Aurelia. They were imprisoned for performing weddings for soldiers who were forbidden to marry and for ministering to Christians.

The day was first associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the High Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourishhdved.

In 18th-century England, it evolved into an occasion in which lovers expressed their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting cards (known as “valentines”).

Perfect Presents for Valentine’s Day

We’ve put together a list of Valentine’s gifts from local businesses that you could give to your sweetheart or ways to help you celebrate.

 

carluccio's pastaAlphabet Pasta from Carluccios

Spell out a special “Amore” message in pasta.

http://www.carluccios.com/shop-online/valentine_s_gifts/pasta_45682

 

 

 

 

 

redroseRoses from Flowers at Colonnade

Treat your partner to some lovely roses, lilies or tulips with bouquets to suit all budgets.

http://www.flowersatcolonnade.co.uk/valentines-day

 

 

 

 

 

 

choc handbagChocolate Handbag

Chocolate always goes down well. This is a little different!

http://www.lakeland.co.uk/60634/Choc-on-Choc-Chocolate-Handbag

 

 

 

 

How about going out for a special meal?

valentine's train


The Spa Valley Railway is offering a special steamy Sunday lunch. If you like steam trains don’t miss this special journey, we advise you to book now before it is sold out.

Champagne Afternoon Tea at the Hotel du Vin in Tunbridge Wells

Enjoy a Champagne afternoon tea, sipping on a glass each whilst savouring mixed finger sandwiches, scones with strawberry preserve and clotted cream, a selection of cakes, tea breads and savouries and a choice of outstandingly good tea infusions.

This is on Saturday 13 February from 2-5pm. Book here

An overnight stay or weekend?

Treat yourself to a night or a weekend at the Hotel du Vin.

https://www.hotelduvin.com/locations/tunbridge-wells/valentines

Staying In

Or if you want to stay in our latest recipe for Beef Wellington is ideal for a special occasion.

Not forgetting the Must Chup Valentine’s Gift Box which can be ordered online here. Andrew will be at Tonbridge Farmer’s Market on 14 Feb for any last minute gifts and you can collect from him.