Feel the love this Valentine’s Day in Knightsbridge

Flowers, chocolates, jewellery… None of these gifts will win any points for originality, but they will certainly bring a smile to your loved one’s face. And isn’t that what Valentine’s Day is all about? If you are planning to push the boat out this year – or possibly even go ring shopping – then pay a visit to one of Knightsbridge’s many independent jewellers for something truly special. Theodore’s Collection on Brompton Road is a family-run business with over 30 years’ experience in luxury pre-owned timepieces and fabulous jewellery. Discover a one-of-a-kind treasure from the likes of Cartier, Patek Philippe, Van Cleef & Arpels and Tiffany & Co. Or, if you’re after more contemporary pieces, then spend an afternoon browsing the dazzling jewellery aisles of Harrods and Harvey Nichols, where you’ll discover creative and unique pieces from the likes of Annoushka, Timeless Pearly and Suzanne Kalan – as well as classic sparklers from established heritage brands.

And if you want to say it with diamonds this year, then pay a visit to Samer Halimeh New York, located at the top of Knightsbridge Green. Lebanese-American businessman Samer Halimeh is one of the world’s leading diamond dealers and specialises in spectacular rare stones that grace the digits, collarbones and earlobes of the A-list, with celebrity fans including Jennifer Lopez, Naomi Campbell and Priyanka Chopra Jonas. So, you know you’re in good company if you decide to go treasure hunting at this true hidden gem. 

Indeed, supporting independent businesses is a great way to spread the love this Valentine’s Day. Atyab Al Marshoud on Brompton Road is a multigenerational company founded in Kuwait in 1925, and is the perfect place to pick up exotic fragrances for him and her.

And nothing shows affection quite like a beautiful hand-tied floral bouquet. Don’t miss the Knightsbridge Flowers kiosk on Montpelier Street, run by third-generation florist and local resident Lee Caston, where you’re sure to find something spectacular with the added bonus of same-day delivery (handy for all you last-minute shoppers). And if a proposal is on the cards this Valentine’s Day, make a mental note to book an appointment at Caroline Castigliano on Brompton Road soon after. The acclaimed British wedding dress designer has been based in Knightsbridge for over 30 years and specialises in stunning bespoke gowns, all made in the UK.  

They say that the way to a man – or, let’s face it, a woman’s – heart is through their stomach. Fortunately there’s an abundance of fine dining options on your doorstep in Knightsbridge, including some excellent set menus specially created for Valentine’s Day. Sette London, the elegant New York-inspired restaurant by Scarpetta at the Bulgari Hotel, has devised a ravishing set Valentine’s menu (£135 per person) complete with canapés, antipasti and dessert – plus a glass of Ruinart Brut each. The menu features signature dishes and Valentine specials – think oysters and pastrami ribeye steak for two – accompanied by live music all night long. Or make it a proper date night on Friday 16 February with a three-course meal at Sette followed by a screening of rom-com classic Notting Hill at the Bulgari’s private cinema. Popcorn and champagne included at £140 per person. 

If you’re going to put your feet up and let someone else take over the cooking on Valentine’s Day, then you might as well be in the hands of some of the world’s most celebrated chefs. At Harrods, you have your pick of the bunch when it comes to culinary talent, and two of its resident superstar chefs – Jason Atherton and Björn Frantzén – have created new menus especially for the season. The Valentine’s Menu at Harrods Social by Jason Atherton includes three courses and two glasses of Nyetimber rosé, £98 for two people. The menu champions local produce: think Cornish cod, Hereford sirloin steak and Cumbrian beef tartare – finished with a pretty pink raspberry “half heart” mousse or pistachio and cherry heart cake.

Meanwhile, three-Michelin-starred chef Björn Frantzén has whipped up a condensed three-course version of Studio Frantzén’s acclaimed Nordic-Asian menu – a snip at £90 per person including a glass of Pierre Paillard rosé champagne or non-alcoholic cocktail. Try to book a cosy table on the heated roof terrace for one of the most romantic spots in the city, complete with twinkling lights and magnificent views. 

Does your loved one have a sweet tooth? Then a luxury afternoon tea for two is surely on the cards. The newly launched All Hearts Desire Afternoon Tea at Harvey Nichols features all your favourites – finger sandwiches, savoury bites, scones with clotted cream and jam and loose leaf tea galore – plus romantic desserts to share with your sweetheart. Priced at £40 per person, it’s available until the end of March, meaning you needn’t rush your reservation.

And for the crème de la crème of afternoon teas, book a serving of the famous Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley hotel. The eminently Instagrammable, catwalk-inspired dishes will include a love-heart shaped biscuit and glass of champagne for a limited-edition Valentine’s serving from 10-14 February. Also at The Berkeley for one day only on 14 February, renowned French pâtisserie Cédric Grolet will be selling the Rose Heart dessert, a delectable takeaway cake made from vanilla cream and chocolate fleur de sel praline. Get there early to avoid disappointment. 

A staycation is a surefire way to win your loved one’s heart this Valentine’s Day, and checking into a five-star hotel means that everything is taken care of. The Love Lanesborough package from The Lanesborough hotel ticks all the boxes for the ultimate romantic weekend away and requires minimal effort as soon as you’ve clicked the “book now” button. The overnight package (available between 9-18 February, from £1,156) includes a romantic dinner for two at The Lanesborough Grill, breakfast in bed, a chilled bottle of fizz on arrival, dedicated butler service, access to The Lanesborough Club & Spa and an indulgent late check-out of 4pm. Bliss.

Can’t stay the whole weekend? Why not book a cosy meal for two at this resplendent five-star hotel instead? The Lanesborough Grill’s executive chef Shay Cooper has whipped up a stunning five-course Valentine’s menu featuring langoustine with Dorset crab, aged fillet of Hereford beef and a champagne and vanilla mousse with passion fruit. Priced at £210 per person, it includes a glass of rosé champagne each.

Across the way from The Lanesborough is Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London, which has engineered the perfect way to pop the question this Valentine’s Day with its Say I Do Package, created in partnership with heritage British jeweller Boodles. Not only do you get to stay in one of the five-star hotel’s luxury suites or rooms, with breakfast in bed thrown in for good measure, but there’s a plethora of romantic extras included. Enjoy a bottle of champagne on arrival, cocktails in The Aubrey, a one-hour spa treatment each plus a consultation at Boodles to pick out your dream ring – and even a £500 gift voucher to go towards your purchase. The dedicated Proposal Concierge will help you orchestrate the whole thing, whether it’s a romantic picnic in Hyde Park or decorating your suite for an influencer-worthy backdrop. Valentine’s Day 2024 is set to be one for the ages.