It's the most romantic time of the year...

1. Romantic stroll Valentine's plans don't have to be elaborate or expensive... just taking a stroll together, hand-in-hand, with or without the kids can be lovely. Check out the colourful orchids in Kew Gardens (the Orchid Festival is on display until 5th March), or visit Claremont Landscape Garden and follow their Lovers' decorated trail to discover the story of Princess Charlotte's romance with Prince Leopold. Hang a memento for your loved one at the kissing tree, and finish your visit with a tasty shortbread Charlotte Heart in the café. Closer to home, enjoy the snowdrops together at Cliveden. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events/1f02078b-f28b-406e-97d8-807251e58654/pages/details

2. Valentine's afternoon tea

Treat the one you love – and the kids – to a Valentine’s themed Afternoon Tea at The Oakley Court. Enjoy River Thames views and a selection of delicacies to delight the tastebuds. With a glass of Champagne and a cosy, intimate setting thrown it, it’s the perfect way to spoil the one you love this Valentine’s Day.

https://www.oakleycourt.co.uk/valentines-afternoon-tea-2/

Coworth Park have also crafted a romantic Afternoon Tea menu. Enjoy a range of delights with a glass of Champagne and be treated to a red rose

http://www.afternoontea.co.uk/uk/south-east/berkshire/coworth-park/offers/valentine's-afternoon-tea/

3. Sexy screening

Slip into something Fifty Shades Darker for the second chapter in the Fifty Shades trilogy. And this time, Ana doesn’t want any rules, any punishments, or any secrets… Showing at the Maidenhead Odeon, if you can't get your man to take you, as he knows you'll be ogling Jamie Dornan, there is also a ladies-only charity screening later on in the month (24th) in support of Sebastian's Action Trust.

4. Dinner date

On Saturday 11th February, head to the romantic riverside setting of the Blue River Café and enjoy a four-course dinner and live music for just £30 per person! The Swing & Buble Dinner will cover all of your Buble favourites, together with a great selection of Rat Pack tunes and party classics.

http://www.bluerivercafe.co.uk/valentines-day-2017-maidenhead/#sthash.d1vC5ITJ.dpuf

Other dining favourites at the moment are The Swan Uppers in Cookham – their Tapas is out-of-this-world good and the ambience in the restaurant at the back is perfect for Valentine's with its candles and fairylights. Or why not start the day off right and go for brunch at the Coach in Marlow? Their breakfast hot dog is divine.

5. Recipe of love

They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, so together, learn to make Recipes from the Amalfi coast at Caldesi in Campagna in Bray. This Wednesday 8th February, in celebration of the Caldesi's cookery book, based on dishes from the Amalfi coast, they will show you how to cook a variety of seasonal dishes. Once all the cooking is done, it’s time to sit down to enjoy what you have made as lunch, with a relaxing glass of wine. http://www.caldesi.com/caldesishop/recipes-from-the-amalfi-coast-loc-bray88744

Or make it a family affair, and join Smart Raspberry in Henley on 14th February, for an afternoon of Valentine's baking to learn new skills, recipes and gift ideas. You'll make Passionfruit Sponge Cake, Valentine’s Cupcakes and Pizza Hearts.

https://www.smartraspberry.com/events/category/open-classes/