Valentine’s Day is generally considered to be a day devoted to all things romantic. It is a day filled with flowers, chocolate and – if you are lucky – a slap up meal at the pub. But, for some true romantics, nothing could be more special than planning a long romantic weekend. As Valentine’s falls on a Saturday this year, it is the perfect excuse for a long weekend break. Your first thought might be the city of love but, understandably, Paris is always quite busy around Valentine’s so why not opt for a more original destination to celebrate this year?

Living within or near to the Cotswolds is fantastic, but most of us rarely appreciate the natural beauty on our doorstep. A stay at the traditional 16th century Manor House Hotel in the heart of the Cotswolds could be an option for a hassle-free Valentine’s where you can revel in luxury, indulge yourself with fine food and drink and relax in a homely and friendly atmosphere. Prices start from £149 per person for a two-night stay including one dinner and breakfast both mornings.

Rome, the Eternal City, is a fantastic option and the La Griffe Roma Mgallery Hotel is located in the very heart of the city, just a few steps away from the Spanish Steps and the Colosseum. The hotel gives you an ideal base to explore and with prices starting at £399 per person – including three nights with breakfast and flights – it is well worth considering. Perhaps you could recreate ‘The Lady and the Tramp’ pasta moment!

Barcelona is a more adventurous break with the bustling Ramblas to explore and perhaps a Tapas Valentine’s meal. You can fly from Bristol making Barcelona an easy option and with prices from just £399 per person for three nights including flights, you could consider this a delight for your culturally rich exotic Valentine.

Slightly closer to home, a London stay can be very romantic and – with the choice of driving or taking the train or bus – a flexible option as well. Why not try the the five-star Sheraton Park Lane, which is offering two nights’ accommodation with full English breakfast, a complimentary Red Rover River ticket and tickets to Miss Saigon for only £299 per person. This could be a good option for theatre buffs and those that enjoy the finer things in life.

Be it further afield or, indeed, just up the road, there are many options you can choose to show your better half you love them with a romantic mini-break. Your local travel agent will be happy to help and able to secure a fantastic deal for you whatever you choose.