14 PLACES TO LOVE

Nowhere is more romantic than Lancashire – our symbol is a red rose, for heaven’s sake – so there’s no excuse for not making a grand gesture this Valentine’s Day. There’s something for everyone in our lovers’ tour of the county

- Holly Louise Eells

WWT MARTIN MERE WETLAND CENTRE

Embrace the wild outdoors and spend a relaxing Valentine’s Day with the love of your life at WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre. Marketing manager Amy Claridge believes nature is romantic. ‘From fabulous flamingos, cheeky otters and wonderful white storks, plus a nature reserve teeming with wildlife, it is a great place to be this Valentine’s Day,’ she said. ‘February is a good time to visit as the wildlife starts to prepare for the breeding season. For example, watch the flamboyance of flamingos as they perform amazing ‘head flagging’ routines to attract a mate.’

FOREST OF BOWLAND

If you’re a couple who loves a spectacular vista, the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is beyond romantic. Get lost in the beautiful and unspoiled countryside and enjoy the tranquil surroundings this stunning area has to offer. Sandra Silk, the Forest of Bowland AONB Project Officer says it’s the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your loved one. ‘It is such a great place for walking. From easy riverside rambles to strenuous fell top hiking, with picturesque villages and heritage to explore - and a lack of mobile signal in quite a few places!’

STAR GAZING