“All you need is love,” sang the Beatles, and not without reason.

History has seen almost every great musician, writer and social commentator from Aristotle to Shakespeare extolling the virtues of romance.

And so we come again to St Valentines Day, a day of love and friendship celebrated the world over.

Although Valentines Day takes its name from one the numerous Christian saints named Valentine, it was only when the poet Chaucer wrote Parlement of Foules (or Love Birds) in 1382 that the day became associated with romance.

But whatever its origin, the tradition has continued throughout the ages and we are, at heart, a romantic lot – according to recent figures released by PayPal, Brits will lavish over £70 each on their significant other during February 14th.

So let us put you in the mood for love with our indespensible guide to all things Valentines, from dating, gifts and ideas to dinner and romantic walks.

Scroll through the pages below for great ideas.