Kent has been named in the Top 10 most romantic places in the country, according to research released in the run-up to Valentine's Day.

As romantics prepare to give their partner a special trip or experience for February 14 next week, research by HomeToGo identified the Top 14 most beautiful and romantic places in the UK, with Kent coming in at No.3.

The holiday rental search engine ranked destinations by price, late availability and romantic atmosphere, to find the ultimate venue for a last-minute Valentine’s Day weekend away, with each location being given a score out of a possible 40.

The county's score was among the top thanks to its prices - starting at £25 - its scenery - both countryside and coast - and, with an average of 16 sunny days in February, the best weather of all the destinations in the Top 14. To find out more about the survey go here.

OpenTable - the restaurant booking service - also found two local restaurants to be among the Top 50 most romantic in the UK.

Based on reviews left by verified diners, The Poet at Matfield and Chapter One in Orpington were included.

OpenTable vice president Adrian Valeriano said: "It's great to see outstanding restaurants from across the country including Edinburgh, Birmingham and Kent all appearing on the list as some of the most romantic places to dine this Valentine’s Day.”

For more places to eat in Kent, click here.

But you don't have to break the bank to show someone you care.

Take a walk along the famous White Cliffs of Dover and, on a clear day, you might be able to see France from the prime picnic spot - and even a proposal spot.

Or head to the Thanet coast to see the skies that inspired one of the world's greatest artists and pop into the Turner Contemporary to see the latest exhibition.

Take a trip to a Kent vineyard for a tour and a tasting. At Chapel Down Winery in Tenterden there's also the onsite restaurant The Swan and at Hush Heath Estate in Staplehurst, home of the award-winning Balfour Brut Rosé, couples can stroll through the vineyards, apple orchards and ancient oak woodlands.