Love local this Valentine’s Day in Bishop’s Stortford

With Valentine’s Day falling in the middle of half term this year, Bishop’s Stortford BID has put together a round-up of ideas to entertain the children as well as some ideas to treat your loved one.

You will find plenty of ways to make Valentine’s Day special in Bishop’s Stortford, and you may not know, but 14th February is also Love Local Day, a national campaign to support the high street. There is a wide choice of cards and gifts now in store – flowers, chocolates, jewellery, homeware, food and drink, beauty products and much more. If you are stuck for ideas, the Bishop’s Stortford Gift Card is a great solution as it’s accepted by over 30 local retailers. Why not plan a romantic evening at one of the town’s many bars, restaurants or leisure venues? But don’t forget to book!

This half term you don’t have to go far to entertain the kids, with a choice of options in the town.

l Empire Cinema is a great choice for a rainy day with child and family tickets available.

l Ace of Lanes has fun for all the family with bowling, interactive darts, golf simulator, pool and a mouth-watering menu.

l Thirst Youth Café is for young people aged 11 to 18 offering table tennis, pool, darts, board and video games, snacks, drinks and more.

l Bishop’s Stortford Library has a range of activities including rhyme time and story time sessions. Pop in or check social media for more information.

New town centre openings

If you haven’t been into the town centre for a little while, you will be pleased to know several new businesses have opened up. It’s well worth a visit to discover what’s new in town.

Adnams have opened a shop just up the hill in High Street; Water Lane bar has reopened with new owners; Butcher and Grill is a brand new restaurant in Station Road and South Street has welcomed St Clare Hospice with a new charity shop and Firat, a new restaurant. Work has also begun on a new Potter Street store, with Pret due to open up there very soon.

This year will also see the redevelopment of Jackson Square. As part of the plans, Jackson Square is welcoming global brand TK Maxx into a 21,000 sq ft new retail unit. Several additional new units will also be created outside the centre in Bridge Street. The renovations are due to be complete in 2024.

Love local this February, and support your local businesses.