WOW YOUR VALENTINE THIS YEAR WITH OUR PICK OF ROMANTIC RETREATS

Ah, the Lakes. You simply can't go wrong if you book a little mini break (as hopelessly romantic love-seeker Bridget Jones might say) in the Lake District with your loved one. I suggest slinging a hamper a deux in the boot with your best pair of pyjamas and nosing the motor to the Wordsworth Hotel and Spa in Grasmere, a tranquil little haven boasting exposed beams and vistas to die for. Bag one of the Gingerbread rooms which have mountain and village views that will make it hard to leave. When you do manage to extricate yourself, meander off through the daffodils to visit Wordsworth's beloved Dove Cottage – who said you had to wander lonely as a cloud round here?

Now if you're really serious about this romance lark than you should be considering the seriously soppy Bovey Castle in the rolling moorlands of Dartmoor National Park. Whether you're into Hunter-ing up for heather-strewn walks amongst the gorse or sipping mojitos in your Manolos (and suede brogues please, gents), this divine country retreat does lovey-doveydum in spades (or should I say hearts?). The hotel is offering a Valentine's break of a two-night stay with breakfast each morning, a bottle of Champagne and a red rose on arrival (delightfully old skool), a couples' spa treatment, a six-course Valentine's menu in the Great Western restaurant on one evening and dinner in Smith's Brasserie the other night, all for £750.

My final suggestion takes the romantic concept to its ultimate conclusion – a place to propose. Plus it has the bonus of being in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Edinburgh. Here's the plan: sneak the ring and a bottle of fizz in your bag and suggest a stroll around the historic Stockbridge area of the city. Tucked behind New Town, this spot seems untouched by modern life – particularly as you stroll amongst the birdlife by the Water of Leith. When you arrive at the crumbling 18th century well (a popular spot for romantic fools like yourself), whip out your bag's contents and pop the question, in the hope your love will be so entranced by the natural beauty that they will immediately agree. Now toast your future together and head off to walk possibly one of the loveliest roads I know, the Royal Mile, at the top of which is your entrancing hotel, The Witchery. Nothing touches this oak panelled, tapestry-strewn 17th century gem for romance. Think Jacobean tavern owned by hedonistic millionaire. Think red leather upholstery, theatrical swags and candle-lit murmurings. Got it? You're welcome.