Valentines Day is almost upon us and Felixstowe town centre is brimming with themed shop windows and inspiration.
Our new florist, Pretty Little Flowers has arrived just in time to create something individually for you, our Wine Boutique has shelves of possibility and expert advice on what to compliment your cosy dinner a deux, and then there are all our cafes and restaurants to choose from, should you venture out for lunch or dinner. With a light stroll along the prom under the twinkling lights, it’s looking like the perfect place to spend the day and evening.
Here’s a few suggestions from our high street and seafront. Spoiled for choice, it doesn’t have to be a Red Letter Day to indulge your loved one.
Pretty Little Flowers
Lisa Tumilty decided to start up her own business to allow herself some work/life balance with her two young children.
Lisa’s passion for all things floral was formalised when she started training seven years ago at Otley College and her shop, next door to Bencotto, opened at the end of January.
Lisa’s shop caters for all occasions including memorial and birthday flowers, but she is ready for perhaps her busiest time of the year on Valentine’s Day.
Order ahead for anything from small and simple to an elaborate ready arranged bouquet.
https://www.facebook.com/lisachriskeiratumilty/
130 Hamilton Rd, Felixstowe IP11 7AB, 07493 509289
The Card Centre
With over 70 years trading in our town, The Card Centre sits at the head of Hamilton Road, near Bent Hill, and is famous for its beautiful window displays.
Whatever the season or theme, the amazing creativity that goes into their merchandising always makes you stop and stare. Valentine’s Day is no exception: go and have a browse, there are hundreds of cards on display and even more filed away for specific occasions: just ask.
Find your perfect individual card here, pick up tissue paper, ribbon and wrap too. https://www.visitfelixstowe.org.uk/shopping/the-card-centre/
6 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe IP11 7AU, 01394 283170.
Blue Naan
You don’t have to be with your valentine to fall in love with Johnny’s always refreshing Indian fusion menu. Sumptuous seating, romantic lighting, always impeccable service from the team and the personality behind the innovative menu, Johnny himself.
We recommend the intriguingly named Fusion77 (ask Johnny) and the Keralan Fish curry.
Blue Naan sources its wine from our friends at The Wine Boutique too. We like to keep it local.
https://www.visitfelixstowe.org.uk/eat-and-drink/blue-naan/
7 Hamilton Road, IP117AX, 01394 671779
Alba Chiara
If you haven’t tried this seafront pearl, then you are missing a treat. The light and airy, yet cosy, Italian restaurant specialises in fresh homemade pasta and sauces, cooked using only the finest Italian ingredients and the Roman style pizzas called Pinsa.
The name Pinsa comes from the Latin word “Pinsere”, which in Italian means stretch-spread out, which makes sense as it is shaped like an oval along with a selection of tasty antipasti, traditional Italian dishes and delicious desserts. How about a sharing platter and an Aperol Spritz?
Good, well priced, wine list too and delightful waiting staff. Special Valentines Menu, but, hey, there’s always the rest of the week.
https://www.visitfelixstowe.org.uk/eat-and-drink/alba-chiara/
91-93 Undercliff Rd West IP11 2AF Felixstowe 01394 547180
The Orwell Hotel
A little bit of a landmark of hospitality greets the traveller checking out of the A14 and onward toward Felixstowe town centre. The Orwell Hotel originally greeted holiday makers from the railway station just opposite from 1898. Still retaining some Victorian grandeur and features, the staff busy themselves cheerfully between all of the many function rooms, restaurant, lounge, bar and, in summer, gardens.
A regal setting for a special Valentine’s Day menu, with a glass on arrival and a pianist that really adds a romantic and special tone to dining in the crystal chandelier canopied dining room. https://www.theorwellhotel.co.uk
Hamilton Rd, Felixstowe IP11 7DX, 01394 285511
Pop Up Valentine’s Day Gift Shop at Tans In Ere
With or without an appointment to bronze yourself, manager, Sheryl Holden welcomes you to her ‘pop up’ gift shop where she has made some beautiful hand painted wooden boxes, she also has an array of chocolate and lollypop gifts, with silk red roses and valentine’s balloons to delight your partner.
https://www.facebook.com/tansinere2019/
40 Hamilton Rd, Felixstowe IP11 7AN 01394 547092