Valentine’s Day

11th February 2021

May lovers rejoice – Valentine’s Day 2021 hasn’t been cancelled. For everyone else however, the day to worry about your relationship status is nearly upon us – although this year’s homebound festivities will look considerably different.

Whatever your views are on February’s recognition of romance, it is at least refreshing to finally have something fun to do. After a cascade of monotonous weekends, this Sunday gives you an excuse to celebrate – and best of all, make a whole day of it! In this week’s blog, we’re sharing ways to enjoy Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day or Palentine’s Day in a stylishly safe and socially distanced fashion!

Roses Are Red…

The current government guidance states people must stay at home except when absolutely necessary. This means you cannot visit your partner unless they are part of your support bubble. This rule has been difficult for couples throughout lockdown and on Valentine’s Day, the annual celebration of love, not being able to cuddle a significant other is set to be particularly upsetting for many. 

Thankfully, there are other ways to share the love on the 14th of February. Oliver Greens of Royal Tunbridge Wells sell a variety of unique, locally made soap flowers suitable for any occasion – including a “box of red roses” for Valentine’s Day. They are perfect for display purposes and add a wonderful aroma to the room – or your partner can enjoy a quintessentially romantic bath in soapy rose petals! 

For a mere £20.00, Oliver Greens also offer an incredibly charming Valentine’s Day box that includes; chutney, a pot of olives, a freshly baked loaf and Baron Bigod cheese shaped like a heart! 

These are available to be delivered free of charge on Friday 12th February & Saturday 13th February – perfect for couples currently separated by the pandemic. 

Who doesn’t like receiving love letters in the mail? If you’re looking to send something impossibly cute and environmentally friendly – The Zero Waste Company have a full range of wildflower hand-printed cards from Think Loop Loop. Now is your chance to pen a message of admiration or confess your undying love for someone – even if they do throw it into the garden in utter dismissal, you have to look on the bright side; at least it’s fully biodegradable!

Digital Date

Arrange a dinner date together via FaceTime or Zoom, followed by a movie night or box set-binge using an app like Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party)! Of course, if you’re single, lockdown means that there’s no pressure to book early or pile into restaurants crammed with lovestruck couples. Simply batten down the hatches, light the candles, enjoy a girl’s night on Zoom and award yourself an Indian takeaway. We particularly recommend the Kirthon at The Pantiles – they are currently providing a delivery service 7 days a week!

A Mushy Marathon

During the lockdown, you are allowed to exercise in a public outdoor space with one other person (limited to once a day and only in your local area). Therefore, if your partner lives nearby, you can meet – although you must always maintain social distance and sitting on a bench for a Valentine’s Day tipple is sadly prohibited.

If you live with your partner, venturing out of the house together for your daily exercise session can be surprisingly romantic! Hear us out here; picture yourselves strolling hand-in-hand, hearing the snow crunch beneath your feet – then stopping beneath the swaying trees for a cheeky embrace! How does that not sound blissful? 

Netflix & Chill

Being stuck at home in your trackies with your partner is no reason not to celebrate in style! Whether it’s an elaborate meal, a bottle of something delicious or an evening on the sofa with a romantic film – make this Valentine’s Day one to remember.

If you’re craving sweet food and an alcoholic beverage, The Zero Waste Company sell award winning, hand-crafted “Dolly’s Mix” gin by Jonomade and delicious vegan cupcakes – both of which are available to order online. If cakes aren’t your thing, the store also stock Rowdy & Fancy’s chocolate – another ideal companion for your magical night in!

If you’re at a loss for what to watch, then why not subscribe to a new streaming service to make this occasion special? This way you can start a new TV series, or watch a movie you’ve wanted to see for a while! 

Valentine’s at The Pantiles

Royal Tunbridge Wells can be the perfect location for a scenic and romantic walk! Explore the picturesque commons and conclude with a romantic exchange at The Pantiles’ conic Georgian colonnade (be it a passionate kiss, if you live together – or a seductive, socially distanced stare if you don’t). If you require any essential items, our key stores remain open for business – for more information, visit our Facebook and Twitter pages. 

The Pantiles wishes all their customers a very Happy Valentine’s Day!