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othing says romance like fine food, snug pubs and a country house hideaway so why not treat your loved one to a gastronomic getaway that doesn’t cost a fortune (your other half needn’t know).

Launde Abbey, Scalford Hall, Stapleford Park Country House and Syonsby Knoll Hotel all make great cosy retreats, perfect for a lazy lie down after heaps of local Leicestershire food. And speaking of food, you’ll be able to choose from three of five indulgent food experiences on your mini-break.

Cake lovers can indulge in cream teas at the sumptuous Stapleford Park, walking off the scones and cup upon cup of Earl Grey in the spacious gardens afterwards.

If you’re more of a cheese person head to The Melton Cheese Board for a tasting experience and have all your frommage desires seen to. Dip into Stilton, aged Red Leicester and Wensleydale studded with cranberries to name but a few and take home £15 worth of cheesey treats.

Those who can’t resist melt-in-the-mouth pies would be silly not to stop by Dickinson & Morris who have been baking pork pies at Ye Olde Pork Pie Shoppe in Melton Mowbray since 1851. You’ll have your very own pork pie tasting session and then receive £15 to spend in the shop afterwards, if you can fit anymore in that is!

But if all you want is a good ol’ English pub serving award-winning local grub, then you can’t go wrong with the pub platter at the 17th century Red Lion Inn or, what about a tour and lunch at the awarding-winning Belvoir Brewery?

Decisions, decisions...