DECLARATIONS of affection in Valentine’s cards can often be quite cryptic.

Now historic Oxford Castle is offering couples the chance to make their feelings quite clear on the day itself.

Couples on the site of the former prison off New Road can book their very own cell for a three-course meal or enjoy a celebratory drink in the castle site’s atmospheric crypt.

Heritage centre Oxford Castle Unlocked is located on the former site of HMP Oxford but has stood as a castle for 1,000 years.

The attraction offers regular 40-minute guided tours which explain the origins of Oxford and the role the castle played in the city’s history.

Chris Abbott, general manager of Oxford Castle Unlocked, said: “In recent years the castle has become a really popular destination on Valentine’s Day as our events offer an alternative to the regular dinner out or trip to the cinema.

“We look forward to welcoming couples into the castle for this year’s very special Valentines events.”

Couples are being invited to sign up for the attraction’s Valentine’s Day Lock In on Wednesday, February 14, at 6.30pm and 9pm.

The three-course meal in the intimate surroundings of a former prison cell, with a bottle of wine included, will be a night to remember but will set couples back £90.

One lucky couple can savour the experience in the atmospheric candlelit crypt for £115, with a bottle of Prosecco included in the price.

Early entertainment on the night at the castle will be the Valentine’s Scavenger Hunt, which runs from 6pm to 7.30pm.

The experience begins with a drink of Prosecco or wine and a group guided tour of St George’s Tower.

After absorbing the tower’s scenic 360-degree view of Oxford, each couple will embark on their search to find Shakespearean love quotes, hidden around the historic building.

On completion of the hunt, they will then be able to exchange their findings for a drink in the castle’s crypt.

Tickets for the hunt cost £50 per couple.

Visitors will also be allowed to explore the Saxon stone-built St George’s Tower, the crypt, the preserved prison wing and the archaic man-made mound, which offers stunning views of Oxford.

For more information about Valentine’s Day events customers should visit the website oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk