Great Western Railway hand-delivered the giant six-foot sweets to four attractions across its network, with a personal message of love for each.
As well as Smeaton’s Tower in Plymouth, the massive treats were also sent to the SS Great Britain in Bristol, Cardiff Castle and Oxford Castle and Prison.
Each Love Heart was specially made for the occasion and carried a unique Valentine’s Day message for the four separate locations.
The Plymouth confectionary carried the slogan “You Shine”, reflecting Smeaton’s Tower’s history as a lighthouse, whilst in Bristol, Brunel’s ship received the message ‘Steamy’.
Cardiff’s castle woke up to an enormous Love Heart proclaiming ‘For Keeps’ and in Oxford the sweet bore the message ‘Heart Stealer’.
Each gift was accompanied by an anonymous letter to the region’s tourist industry, from secret admirer, which turned out to be GWR.
The love letter rhapsodised about what makes the South West and Wales such a draw for tourists.
You are breathtakingly beautiful. Your rolling hills, golden beaches, wild moors, and ancient towns and cities stir hearts and minds.
Part of GWR’s letter to the four attractions
It also celebrated how important the tourist industry is for the region.
But it’s not just your beauty that has us smitten – it’s what you do. You are the beating heart of tourism and leisure, where visitors come to escape and explore the extraordinary. You create jobs, fuel local businesses and unite communities – you make this region irresistible.
More from GWR’s love letter to the four tourist attractions
GWR carried 55 million leisure travellers across the South West and Wales in 2024.
As well as the four attractions being celebrated on Valentine’s Day, the operator carries visitors to the Cotswolds, Bath and the Cornish coast.
A forthcoming advertising campaign featuring the Famous Five and spanning primetime television, radio and cinema is set to be launched on GWR’s social media using the handle @gwruk.
We are excited to see visitors to the British landmarks sharing photos with the iconic Love Hearts and their fun messages. Love Hearts have been made in the UK for over 70 years and they remain the perfect way to ‘Share the Love’.
Sarah-Louise Heslop, Head of Marketing for Swizzels
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