Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

Are you looking for a gift for someone special this Valentine’s Day? Whether it’s for a partner, a friend, or someone who deserves to be shown some love this year, we have a range of lovely items that we’re sure will be appreciated. If you’re looking for a traditional gift, then you can’t go wrong with a bunch of flowers or a box of nice chocolates. But if you’re looking for something that’s a touch more personal, then something suited specifically to their interests would be extra thoughtful. Here are some great gift ideas, grouped by interest.

For the ones who deserve a pamper session

Beauty and bath products can be enjoyed by anyone, anytime, as let’s face it, we all love a good pamper session now and then. Bath salts and beauty balms are a great way to encourage the recipient to unwind and improve their wellbeing. We offer a range of Octo Bath Salts and Wild Sage + Co Herbal Balms, perfect for those looking to feel good.

For the jewellery lovers

Receiving an item of jewellery makes any occasion even more special. We offer a selection of handmade necklaces, bracelets and earrings made by the featured makers here at The Exchange, as well as handcrafted items by Umutoni. For crystal lovers, we have rose quartz bracelets, tiger eye and more.

For the ones who need a break

Cushions, quilts, candles and homeware are great for people who love to relax in comfort. View our range of cushions and quilts made right here in our textiles workshop at The Exchange and enjoy taking a break surrounded by beautiful textiles. Made with passion, thoughtfully crafted and a great addition to any home. We also have some beautifully scented candles that will suit any room.

For the avid readers

If you’re gifting someone who enjoys a good book, we have a selection that would be ideal for art and nature lovers. From books for gardening and nature lovers, to those who appreciate the history of British art, discovering new recipes, and learning craft skills, we have a unique selection to choose from.

For the ones who enjoy a tipple

From luxury wine, to cider and locally brewed beer, if your loved one enjoys a glass (or bottle) of something now and again, we offer a lovely selection that’s perfect for gifting.

As an add on item for any of the above gifts, you can grab a sweet treat to go with it. Pssst… we’ve just added some new chocolate bar flavours by UP-UP to our shelves, including Limoncello and Espresso and Dark Cherry.

All of these items are available here at The Exchange, so pop in and see us for a browse. We’re here to help you select the perfect gift, should you need it.

Give the gift of garden sponsorship

If your partner is a fan of nature, beautiful gardens and being a part of something extra special, you can consider gifting them one of our garden sponsorship packages. From just £30, they can become a patron and help shape “A Common Paradise” to create a green future. They will see their name included in our Annual Review, an invitation to The Garden Party 2026, and there’s also the option to have their name embroidered in a botanical book, get a limited print and annual benefits here at The Exchange. This would truly make a meaningful gift.

Find out more about gifting a garden sponsorship package.

Now that you’ve thought about gifts, have you considered how to celebrate together?

When most people think of ways to spend Valentine’s Day with their loved one, enjoying a romantic meal out together or staying home and watching a film seem to be the two most popular choices. While these are great ideas, doing something different can make a nice change.

Here are some daytime and evening ideas that you and your partner can try this Valentine's Day:

Visiting a local country park

Weather dependent, a stroll through a local park with greenery is a great way to not only get fresh air and some light exercise, but you can also enjoy a deeper conversation with your partner to bring you even closer together. Bring a flask with tea or coffee, and even some of your favourite snacks, and see where the path leads you.

Try a new craft

Of course, we have to suggest a craft activity, seeing as craft is at the heart of what we do here at The Exchange, and we see the impact it has on people’s wellbeing. Crafting allows you to have fun, get creative, and try something new while expanding your skills, and if you’re doing it with someone you love, it’s even better! You could print some photos of the two of you together, make a collage, and decorate with flowers, stickers or other embellishments, or even learn how to crochet! Picking up a new skill is always more fun with someone by your side.

Play a board game

We’re trying to bring board games back and remind people how fun they can be! (Hence our Thursday evening Board Games Club). Dig out your favourites from the back of the cupboard, and show your competitive side.

Do you celebrate Valentine’s Day? If so, what are your plans for this year?