THE North West Tourist Board is actively encouraging Valentines to take their romantic breaks and special days out in the North West of England, where there is so much on offer for all ages, tastes and pockets. Here are just a few examples.

CHESHIRE

Treat your loved one to a weekend away in Chic Chester - Britain's most outstanding 'black and white' city. Take a leisurely walk around the City Walls, shop till you drop at the famous Rows and visit the City's spectacular Cathedral.

Escape from it all, kiss and tell in the picturesque gardens at Tatton Park (01625 534 400). For a night to remember let cupid guide you into the legendary Standedge 'Tunnel of Love' and take a boat trip into the longest,

deepest and highest tunnel in the land (01484 844 298).

Some of the City's finest hotels are offering unbelievable packages especially for this weekend, so Valentines can afford to celebrate relationships in style.

The five star Chester Grosvenor Hotel offers a great valentine weekend break (14th - 16th February). Enjoy three luxury nights for the price of two at just £235.00 per person (01244 324 024).

Stay at the three star, silver award winning Greenbrough Hotel and enjoy a seven course romantic valentine's meal from as little as £125.00 per couple per night. Recently quoted as "The top 50 best stays in the UK" by The Independent (01244 326 241).

GREATER MANCHESTER

In this fascinating cosmopolitan city you can explore the shops, canals, museums, caf's and restaurants at your leisure.

Be united with your loved one this valentine's day at the Red Caf. Enjoy a three-course meal complete with a reception drink for just £19.95 (0161 868 8303).

Who said love was only for the young? If you met you loved one during the wartime, pop along and share your stories of love and romance over a cup of tea on 14th February, at the Imperial War Museum. Take part in creating a cross-stitch Valentine card (0161 836 4000).

Especially for Valentine's The Lowry, five star hotel offers overnight accommodation, four course romantic meal, chocolates, flowers and champagne at £167 per person (0870 460 5040).

LANCASHIRE

Coasting along? Then head for Blackpool, Europe largest seaside resort and put the fun back into your relationship by experiencing 'The Love Train' - Valentines Day Ice Party, The Arena, Blackpool Pleasure Beach, February 14 (0870 444 5566).

On Saturday 15th February, dance the night away at the Valentine's Ball, in the famous Blackpool Tower Ballroom and be serenaded by the Langley dance School. A night to remember at just £8.00 per person which includes supper (T: 01253 292 0298).

MERSEYSIDE

If you want to hold your valentine's hand or perhaps even propose, whisk them away to cultural Liverpool - home to the Beatles. Take a romantic midnight stroll along the world famous waterfront - Britain's sole nomination for World Heritage Status.

For a truly romantic atmosphere, wine and dine them at the Exclusive Newz Bar. From 13th until 15th February, Stuart St John, Head Chef, will be cooking up a delicious mouth watering three course meal for lovers for just £25.95 (T: 0151 236 2025 or email: andreaf@newzbar.co.uk).