St Valentine's Day, celebrated annually on February 14, has its roots in Christianity and is observed as a day to honor two Christian Martyrs, Valentine of Rome and Valentine of Terni.

The celebration of St Valentine's Day was established by Pope Gelasius I in 496 AD to remember the death of Saint Valentine of Rome in 269 AD. However, it was not until the 14th century that the day became associated with romance, following the publication of a poem about "Valentine's Day" by the English poet Geoffrey Chaucer.

In the 18th century, the day acquired a more commercial aspect in England, with the practice of giving gifts such as flowers, sweets, and cards becoming popular. The holiday is also associated with symbols such as the winged Roman god Cupid, hearts, and doves.

Valentine of Terni was martyred in 273 AD, and there were several other early Christian Martyrs named Valentine whose stories contributed to the legend of Valentine's Day. The Eastern Orthodox Church marks July 6 as its St Valentine's Day commemoration, as this was the historical date of Valentine of Rome's martyrdom.

Other dates associated with the "Day of Love" include St Gregory's Day (March 12), St Vincent's Day (February 22), and St Anthony's Day (June 13).

The facts, myth and folklore of St Valentine’s Day have now all culminated into the one specific day, February 14th, and at Easthampstead Park in Berkshire, you can be sure that romance will be front and centre of our Valentine’s Day packages and offerings.