Tired of greeting cards professing love with primary school poetry, giant teddy bears, and heart-shaped boxes of chocolates? Stick it to The Man with our free things to do in London on Valentine’s Day.

As tempting as the conspiracy theory is, we can’t chalk up this annual love-fest as a corporate conspiracy a la Coca Cola and Santa Claus. Valentine’s Day was not the devious creation of card companies but actually goes further back in time than you might think. Celebrated since the 17th Century in the UK, its true nature is pretty unclear, with a popular myth claiming it relates to the gallant actions of a martyred Roman Priest.

Whatever the origins, the fact remains, February 14th is unavoidable. If, however you want to dodge a whopping bill at the end of the day, check out our tips for a great Valentine’s Day without spending a penny:

1. Make your own gift
Is it the thought that counts? When that thought is a cheap box of chocolates from a motorway service station, probably not. But if it’s a handmade gift made with a little help from the experts, you’re sure to be in the good books. Those East London crafty people, Craft Guerrilla are hosting the Love Hand Made fair at the Vestry House Museum on February 11, with loads of great gifts and free workshops showing you how to make your own. The fun kicks off at noon.

2. Explore the art of romance
Struggling to put your romantic feelings into words? Let pictures do the talking with a trip to the National Gallery. Marvel at some Monets, gush over Van Gogh and reminisce with Rembrandt; all the great masters are present at the Trafalgar Square institution, and all for free.

3. A Romantic Stroll
Despite the current economic crisis, walking still costs nothing - last time we checked anyway. And what better way to spend time with your special person than a peaceful walk with just the city as company. There’s the classic stroll along the Thames, from the London Eye to Tower Bridge but that’s not the only option. Head around the corner from the pandemonium of Paddington station to the oasis of calm that is Little Venice. Wander the leafy paths along the canals in this enchanted corner of West London.

4. Do Something Completely Different
Staying on the walking theme, if you want something a little more engaging and less lovey-dovey as you pace the streets, try an Alternative London guided tour of the East End. Covering Shoreditch, Spitalfields and Banglatown the tour specialises in the street art of this vibrant part of town with plenty of history thrown in for good measure. Find booking details here.

Have we missed anything out? Give us your free Valentine's tips and let us know if you tried out any of ours in the comments section.