After the post-Christmas comedown that is January, trying to rekindle your fiery passion isn’t always easy. But getting the romance back into your relationship is something we all desperately need. Saint Valentine is coming to town – and it’s the perfect opportunity to spice things up a little. Whether it’s taking date night to the next level or trying something new together – we’ve rounded up the best ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Bristol.
1. Take a romantic stroll together
Why not head to the great outdoors for a romantic stroll? It’s one of the few free things to do in Bristol for Valentine’s Day, after all! With a plethora of pretty parks and city walks, not only is it great for mental health purposes, but it’s also a good way to catch up away from your phones, laptops and the TV. Why not check out these romantic spots whilst on your walk?
2. Listen to romantic favourites at this special Valentine’s candlelight concert
“O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?” Well, at this candlelight concert in Bristol, you can enjoy an evening dedicated to the star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet. Listen to a selection of romantic classical favourites composed by the likes of Tchaikovsky and Puccini, with the beautiful surroundings of Clifton Observatory bathed in candlelight on February 13. You don’t need to know all things classical music to enjoy the evening; simply sit back and savour the stunning pieces you’ll hear. Grab your tickets to this candlelight concert here and here.
3. See wonderful species of fish come out at night with this Valentine’s event
Explore Bristol Aquarium like never before with this exclusive Valentine’s evening experience. Walk through over 40 illuminated displays and thousands of marine creatures, with a beverage in hand, and enjoy the weird and wonderful facts about these evening fish. This Valentine’s Day event will take place on February 14, from 6 pm to 9 pm, with the last entry at 8 pm.
Bristol Aquarium will also offer a ‘Message in a Bottle’ experience, allowing visitors the chance to surprise their loved ones. A personalised and romantic letter is sunk to the bottom of the aquarium’s Amazon tank for you to pull out and read to each other. Learn more here.
4. Embark on a romantic tour of Bristol
Explore the most romantic spots in Bristol with your loved one this Valentine’s Day. Who needs the Eiffel Tower in Paris or gondola rides around Venice? You’ve got a variety of charming locations to be found just a stroll away in this very city. Following a professional guide, you’ll be shown the best places to have a date, the most Insta-worthy settings to take some smitten shots together and learn of some historical love stories that unfolded in the streets, parks and buildings. Find tickets here.
5. Fall crazy in love at bowling venue Lane 7
Share the love and treat your Valentine to a night of bowling at Lane 7, where not only can players bowl to their heart’s content but also play darts, pool, beer pong, shuffleboard and arcade games plus tuck into delicious drinks and food. One of the most ‘Instagrammable’ settings in the city, Lane 7 has also been decorated with neon lighting ready to light up our social media feeds. Prepare to be bowled over by this date night destination and your date.
6. Splash the cash on a swanky meal for your date
Bristol is home to some amazing restaurants. Sometimes the choice can be a little overwhelming, however. But these five amazing restaurants, all of which recently ranked among the best in the UK, can provide top quality Valentine’s Day date experience in Bristol. COR in Bedminster and Casa in the City Centre are two of Bristol’s newest restaurants but have already proved themselves among the city’s best. While Paco Tapas, Wilsons, and Bulrush continue to amaze.
7. Enjoy a relaxing spa day
It’s been a tough year (yes, we know it’s only February, but still). You and your loved one deserve to treat yourselves nevertheless. What better way to feel refreshed than a day pampering together at a Bristol spa? Unwinding, taking it easy. If that doesn’t scream romance, then what does? Check out our list of the best spas in Bristol.
8. Add some excitement with axe throwing
Nothing gets the heart beating faster than a little danger. Try something new and exciting with your date this Valentine’s Day in Bristol. Show off your axe-throwing skills to your date at Whistle Punks -after receiving expert guidance from a professional, of course. If you and your partner have a competitive streak, then maybe this one is best avoided… but Valentine’s Day can be a great time to try something new and thrilling. Get your tickets here.
9. Go cocktail tasting at The Wellhead
Between February 14 and 19, The Wellhead in Redcliffe is offering a unique experience for lovers. Their cocktail experts have crafted four unique drinks this Valentine’s Day to “take you on a journey of romance, from instant chemistry to everlasting love.” These include the cheekily named Hanky Panky – made from dry gin, sweet vermouth, Fernet Branca and orange – and P.S. I Love You – made of Amaretto, white rum, coffee liqueur and Irish cream. Each cocktail is also paired with a different chocolate truffle too. It’ll be a sensual experience like nothing else in Bristol. To learn more head here.
10. Head to the former Bristol Imax Cinema
Do you remember the days when most dates were little more than a smooch at the back of a cinema? To us, these teenage years were the peak of our dating days. So why not relive your youth and head to the movies once again this Valentine’s Day in Bristol? Showing at the former Bristol Imax Cinema this year is the romantic comedy classic, Some Like It Hot. Not that it will matter much what will be shown on the silver screen…