It's that time of the year again when we have to rack our brains to find something special for Valentine's Day.

Traditionally, flowers are the gift of choice, and we have two recommendations in Stamford for you. Greensleaves Florists are conveniently situated in Stamford Garden Centre in Great Casterton and offer a range of gifts and cards as well as the traditional floral fare. Sue's Flower House has been in Stamford for over 20 years and use their experience to offer up to the minute floral bouquets and gifts.

If you fancy a meal with your loved one, then we have plenty of choice. In town there's The George Hotel, always a favourite choice for a special occasion.

For an intimate meal, try Finnan's Brasserie who offer an international menu of good food simply served.

If Italian is more your style, then Cloisters is a great choice, offering Italian food at a reasonable price in beautiful surroundings.

The Garden House Hotel has a candlelit dining room for a romantic dinner, and they serve delicious home cooked fare loved by locals and visitors alike.

Worth a look for a treat is The Fine Food Store in Stamford who have range of culinary goodies.

Finally for our in town choices is the Crown Hotel, with a popular restaurant offering good food and good value.

If you fancy getting out of town, try the Royal Oak in Duddington. Just a short drive away for this traditional pub with good food.

In Greatford you'll find the Hare n Hounds, a typical country pub offering a fabulous range of food with an ever-changing menu.

Slightly further afield over in Rutland is Barnsdale Lodge Hotel and Restaurant. With a superb location overlooking Rutland Water, they offer unpretentious yet good food at a fair price.

Close by is Barnsdale Hall with a choice of two restaurants, one more informal than the other.

And finally we offer you the Olive Branch, a gastro pub in Clipsham famed for its superb food.

If you want to give a gift rather than go for a meal, then clothing is always a good choice. Georgi Collections and Nancy French both offer a superb range of classic and tasteful ladies clothes and accessories, and Vive M  conveniently have shops in Stamford, Oakham and Uppingham. Beautiful lingerie makes a romantic gift, and for this you should visit Chameleon. As well as underwear, they have a range of cosmetics, perfumes and gifts.

If you're looking for something for the man in your life, then how about a look at Colin Bell Menswear?

and don't forget T & C Robinson, who have a super range of leather goods and traditional games as well as a collection of country clothing.

For something a bit different how about some art? Richard Pyne is a local artist who produces colourful abstract works, and here in town is St Leonard's Gallery, home of sculptor Rob Fogell who offers other artists work alongside his own sculptures. Aquila photographers offer a makeover and photo shoot amongst their more traditional photographic fare, and Don Lambert has photo art in his portfolio, both worth a look.

Running over the Valentine period is the Hearts Flowers and Valentines exhibition at Catmose Gallery. There's a range of jewellery, ceramics, keepsake boxes and paintings on display and for sale. You could find the perfect romantic gift here.

Perhaps you fancy a good night out? Why not go and see Letz Zep, a top Led Zeppelin tribute band who are on at the Corn Exchange Theatre on Saturday night? Or perhaps you're partying, in which case you simply must visit Sukies, Stamford's one-stop party shop for everything from balloons to fancy dress hire.

Maybe you just want to get away from it all? From romantic breaks to longer get aways, Stamford Independent Travel can advise and book all aspects of your holiday. And to get you to the airport in style and comfort (and in time) Stamford Private Hire may be the one for you.

If you have any further ideas for Valentine's Day why not let us know.