Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day has been celebrated throughout history with its roots firmly held in Pagan fertility festivals. First celebrated in ancient Rome, young men would playfully spank the behinds of young women in the hope of improving their fertility. In around AD496 Pope Gelasius declared 14th February to be St Valentine’s Day, a Christian feast day and thus Valentine’s Day became a Christian celebration.

The writing of love notes or cards was thought to originate from Charles the Duke of Orleans, who wrote the first recorded Valentine’s note to his beloved, while imprisoned in the Tower of London. Early cards were very elaborate, contained heart-felt, hand-written verses and beautifully decorated with lace. So far removed from the 1 billion mass produced commercial cards of today.

Valentine’s Day is also traditionally celebrated with the giving of gifts – jewellery, chocolates, flowers or perhaps a romantic meal or weekend break.

The Bull Hotel has a great offer on at the moment, from only £165 per couple you can enjoy a beautiful room with complimentary bottle of champagne and a romantic three course Valentine’s dinner with live music in our Beeches Restaurant along with late breakfast and check out. Further information about this weekend and our Valentine’s Day dinner can be found on our special offers page. Or you can contact us on 01753 202919 or at [email protected].