January was a difficult month, but our summer calendars are filling up (we’re so excited to see the sun again!) and it’s starting to feel like 2023. But don’t skip ahead too soon, as it doesn’t have to be doom and gloom in February or all about love – not that it’s a bad thing, by any means. It might the shortest month, but there’s more than a fair share of things to do this February in Bristol with plenty of events and activities for all to enjoy. Get February off to a flying start with some of these fun-filled things to do this month.
1. Grab your coat and head out for a walk
It might be cold out but wrap up warm and get yourself outside for a bit of fresh air. You’ll be thankful for it later on and it’s an excuse to have another hot brew when you get in. Even if you stretch your legs for around 20 minutes, it’ll make a change from the same old scenery. The city has a range of parks, gardens and woodland areas to stroll around and they say being surrounded by nature allows us to switch off and be more grounded, which is just the trick most of us need right now. Check out these winter walks near Bristol.
2. Keep up your vegan diet
Veganuary is over, but why not continue with it for Veguary(?). We’re sure you’ve been missing meat and dairy, and are desperate to tuck into something like a carbonara or a cheeseburger. And we won’t stop you! But why not try to incorporate plant-based meals into your diet? To make life easier, there are two recently opened, 100% vegan restaurants in Bristol. Pastan, a plant-based pasta spot, opened on Prince Street in January. While Bristol’s first vegan Indian takeaway, Vegan India is launching on Gloucester Road this month.
3. Support local music at Independent Venue Week
Taking place from January 30 to February 5, Independent Venue Week is an annual seven-day celebration of independent music and arts venues. In Bristol, there are nine shows taking place that week at Strange Brew, The Louisiana and Mr Wolfs. Independent venues are the beating heart of Bristol’s music scene and need local support more than ever right now. Bristol’s most legendary gig goer, Big Jeff, will also make his comeback performance with his band The Outlines for the festival too. Head here to learn more.
4. Spruce up your space with a little decorating
Why not start the spring cleaning early? With us all spending more time at home, why not transform your space into a cosy area free of clutter? This doesn’t mean you need to give the walls a lick of paint but instead organise items in terms of priority and hoover up those crumbs on the carpet. You could potentially hang some artwork up to give the place a pop of colour or even invest in some gorgeous candles or lovely houseplants which help to improve the smell and air quality of your home. You can find some of the best plant shops in Bristol here, some of which have online shops and offer delivery.
5. Cheer your team on to glory at Six Nations in Bristol
Six Nations is kicking off this month on February 4 and you’ll want to make sure you have a prime position to see every bit of the action. There are some amazing venues to watch the rugby tournament in Bristol. And being so close to the border, we expect the Wales v England (Feb 25) rivalry to bring out the best in rugby fans this month.
6. Illuminate yourself at Bristol Light Festival
Bristol is about to have another glow-up. The annual Bristol Light Festival returns and should be top of every Bristolian’s list of things to do this February. From mirrored monoliths at Temple Church to a voice-activated sea of colour on The Corn Exchange, there will be eleven light installations to discover around the city centre. Taking place between February 3 to 12, Bristol will have never looked so beautiful before.
7. Tuck in at some of Bristol’s best restaurants
A total of five Bristol restaurants were featured in SqaureMeal’s UK Top 100 for 2023. Among them were two of the city’s newest food spots. Both Casa and COR opened up late last year and have already made quite the impression. This is your chance to see what all the fuss is about. The other Bristol restaurants to feature were Paco Tapas, Wilsons and Bulrush, while plenty of other local restaurants were included too. Learn more here.
8. Or eat cheaper at these other Bristol food spots
Not everyone can be eating out at fancy restaurants all the time. We know we certainly can’t. That’s why we put together this list of the best cheap eats in Bristol. Whether you’re in the mood for gyoza or pizza, a bibimbap or a bento box, Bristol is full of cracking deal to be had. Meaning you can still eat out without breaking the bank. See the full list here.
9. Get on your bike and cycle around these nearby parks
If you’re fed up with walking and want to get about a bit further in less time then hop on a bike and get pedalling. The city has some amazing cycle routes, including bicycle lanes in local parks and gardens, which allow you to see some beautiful sights even in the February frost. You can find some of Bristol’s best parks and gardens here.
10. Unleash your inner child with this arcade museum
Do modern video games leave you feeling cold and empty? Then head to the ultimate retro gaming museum this month, a simple drive from Bristol. The Cave and Arcade Archive form one of the best destinations for ancient arcades in the UK, found in the quaint village of Chalford near Stroud. From electromechanical games such as Gun Fight to legendary arcades like Pong and Space Invaders, the entire history of gaming is in your hands to play. These museums are as much about preserving the gaming experience as it is about technology, so it is encouraged you to try your hand at as many games as possible. To learn more head here.
11. Be romantic at these Candlelight Concerts
Love is in the air this February as the day dedicated to lovers comes around. An extra special Valnetine’s Day Candlelight Concert is taking place on February 14 at The Mount Without. Cuddle up with your loved one under the gentle glow of candlelight to the sweet sounds of a string quartet. Expect such romantic gems as Radiohead’s True Love Waits and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Fantasy Overture from Romeo and Juliet to get the candlelight treatment. On February 13, there will also be A Romantic Evening of Music at Clifton Observatory too.
12. Make the trip to Clifton
Speaking of Clifton, why not take the trip to this part of Bristol in February? There are some amazing things to do and see in the area. From some of Bristol’s most stunning landmarks to the city’s cutest independent businesses. There are surprises to discover around every corner. See all our reasons to visit Clifton here.
13. Tuck in at Bristol’s first and best pasta restaurant
We’ve gone absolutely crazy for this restaurant in Bristol. This small, intimate yet lively pasta spot is in the heart of Redland and serves vibrant, seasonal and original dishes. Pasta Loco has destroyed our interest in cooking pasta at home – every carbonara and penne pesto we make tastes drab by comparison. Every menu item is a surprise and pushes boundaries, such as rabbit ravioli in a cider reduction, a squid ink risotto, and venison lasagne. Head here to learn more.
14. Head to Arnolfini to see some of Bristol’s best up-and-coming artists
From January 31 to February 6, one of Bristol’s best art galleries will host new work from UWE Bristol students on the second floor. Inspired by Arnolfini’s recent show Bharti Kher: The Body is a Place, Found brings together students from across Fashion Communication, Fashion Textiles, Filmmaking, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, and Interior Design. A great place to see Bristol’s bright young artists this February.
15. Embrace Valentine’s Day wherever you are in Bristol
I think we’ve proven that not everything in February is about Valentine’s Day. But there’s no denying that love is in the area this month. Luckily, you’re in Bristol – one of the most romantic cities in the UK, so says we. If you’re on the search for date ideas, we’ve got you covered here. Or if you’re looking for somewhere to express your love or maybe propose, there are some great places to kiss in Bristol too. All that’s important on Valentine’s day, however, is that you are with the one you love.