Looking for cupid to strike you with his arrow? It might be freezing outside this February, but rekindle your fiery passion on February 14 with one of these hot dates. Whether you’ve been together a lifetime, or it’s still puppy love, there are dozens of ways to raise the romance in your relationship. Take date night to the next level or try something new together with the best things to do on Valentine’s Day in Bristol. Just don’t forget to buy some flowers!
1. Splash the cash on a swanky meal
Bristol is home to some of the best restaurants in the UK. There’s even a Michelin-starred restaurant in the city (Bulrush) if you feel like splashing the cash – with plenty more romantic options available too. But even if you and your loved one would prefer to grab some street food and a craft beer, the perfect Valentine’s Day restaurant exists for everyone in Bristol.
2. Or tuck into a romantic meal at home
The French brasserie (Clifton Village and Quakers Friars) returns with Côte at Home for a special Valentine’s treat. Designed by Gordon Ramsay’s former Executive Chef, Steve Allen, there are three three-course menus to choose from – either featuring Lobster Thermidor, Chateaubriand, or Duck Confit – complemented by expert wine pairings. You won’t be able to create a more romantic meal yourself.
Starters for all three include Seared Scallops with Bacon and Peas, or Baked Camembert served with Sourdough Baguette, Cornichons, and Honey; finish off your meal with either Cherry Lattice Tarts with pistachio ganache or a classic Crème Caramel with Madeleines. Plus, there are plenty of Valentine’s gifts to add from Chocolate Fondue to Champagne, and more. Pre-order now for delivery from February 5 -15 by heading here.
3. Enjoy a romantic Candlelight concert together
Picture this: A gorgeously exclusive venue, thousands of gentle candles and a four-string quartet playing classical music. Sounds romantic, right? Candlelight is a unique experience you’re sure to impress your date with. There’s something a concert for everyone too – from the cinematic works of Hans Zimmer to the all-conquering hits of Taylor Swift. Check out all the Candlelight concerts available in Bristol here.
4. 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?
5. Enjoy a romantic picnic in Clifton
Clifton is famed for its elegant and leafy beauty – from the Clifton Suspension Bridge and Avon Gorge to its many independent boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Soak in the Georgian architecture, Bristol folklore, and maritime history of this bustling neighbourhood, while following clues to discover the culinary delights of Clifton. Start by solving personally curated clues and riddles that takes you on a journey to collect your special gourmet picnic bit by bit and ever closer to a final stunning picnic location. Get your tickets now for Mystery Picnic in Bristol here!
6. Find love at the Aquarium
Dive into Bristol Aquarium after hours with an exclusive adults-only event this Valentine’s Day. Not only will you be free to discover thousands of marine creatures, but a special couple’s ticket gives a discount to those coming as a pair. The bar will be open all night treat yourself to some fizz (6-9 PM). Plus, for an extra £5, send your loved one a special message in a bottle which you will find in the evening! You can learn more here.
7. Dine at the drive-in
Flourish at Glenavon Farm in Saltford has teamed up with FilmBath to bring you a Valentine’s Day dinner at the drive-in! Choose between a burger or hot dog, pudding and a drink, then sit back and watch the rom-com classic Notting Hill from the comfort of your car. Tickets are £40pp and you can learn more here.
8. Let fate bring you together
This Valentine’s, The Raven cocktail bar journies into the realms of love, fate, and destiny with special tarot readings – plus, witness two burlesque performances from the spellbinding Antonia. Tickets cost £30 for a table of two (or £60 for a table of four) and include a welcome drink and a couple’s tarot reading.
9. Soak up Bristol’s most gorgeous view
Clifton Observatory promises the perfect Valentine’s Day date in Bristol. Not only can guarantee the city’s most beautiful view, but lovers will be treated to an intimate dining experience – including a glass of prosecco, a jazz performance by Rendezblues, and a three-course menu crafted from Kate’s Kitchen. There are two dates available, February 14 & 15, with sittings at 6 PM or 8:30 PM. You can learn more here.
10. 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.
Alternatively, get hot and steamy with a trip to a Bristol sauna. There are two that we recommend checking out. Bristol Community Sauna at St Anne’s House is a 14-person, locally-built traditional Finnish sauna that comes with two cooled and filtered cold water plunges and three cold showers. While the cosier Orchard Sauna is hidden away on Windmill Hill City Farm.
11. Add a splash of excitement
Nothing gets the heart beating faster than a little adventure. Try something new and exciting with your date this Valentine’s Day in Bristol. Show off your skills with a stand-up paddleboarding session on the Floating Harbour. You’ll learn the basics and put them into action on a mini adventure through Bristol’s historical waterways propelled by your own paddle! Get your tickets here.
12. Watch The Bard with a modern update
Even today, no one understands love better than Shakespeare. Enjoy a double whammy of The Bard’s most beloved comedies (February 13-15) reimagined for a new audience. Set against the backdrop of a rollicking music festival, A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a tangle of mistaken identities, lovers’ tiffs and mischievous sprites. Then, in Much Ado About Nothing, watch the sharp-tongued Beatrice and Benedick bicker and banter, whilst Hero and Claudio fall in love. You can learn more here.
13. Sit at the back of the cinema
We’re not 15 anymore, but cinema dates aren’t just for teenagers. You don’t have to sit in the back row missing the whole film (but we won’t judge if you do). Seeing a movie together can be a great way to experience something together, bond you closer, and give you something to chat about long after. One of Bristol’s best cinemas, Watershed, which sits on the harbourside – and is in an ideal location for a walk or a drink afterwards. But you can also grab a cheap deal from Vue.
The Slapstick Festival is also taking place over Valentine’s (February 12 to 16) – featuring 35 classic, silent and visual comedy events across iconic venues like Bristol Beacon, Bristol Old Vic and Watershed. The highlight of the festival, however, has to be the Silent Comedy Gala (February 14), hosted by award-winning actor Martin Freeman – with screenings of three classic silent comedies and live music accompaniment.
14. Escape the busy city on a Valentine’s retreat
Take a mini-break from Bristol on Valentine’s Day and treat your loved one to a getaway at Berwick Lodge. The boutique hotel not only offers an onsite fine dining restaurant, but beautifully designed rooms and stunning gardens. Book for just £239 for two guests, and enjoy a complimentary Berwick Cocktail on arrival, a three-course dinner, access to the lounge where you can cuddle up next to a fireplace, plus breakfast in the morning. Upgrade your stay with champagne, a couples massage, a bouquet and more. To learn more about Berwick Lodge head here.
15. Stay at the best hotel in Bristol
Going out on Valentine’s Day is not always what it’s cracked up to be. But you don’t want to stay at home either, do you? Why not venture elsewhere for a little escape? Artist Residence is one of the most romantic hotels in Bristol, perfect “for the young and the young at heart.” This converted boot factory, situated the heart of St Paul’s, is close to some of Bristol’s best bars and restaurants, as well as the Harbourside and Stokes Croft. The perfect stay-at-home escape for lovers.
16. Strike lucky at Bristol’s newest bowling alley
Opening on February 14, there’s no better day for a competitive date at Bristol’s new state-of-the-art bowling complex. King Pins Bristol will host everything from ten-pin bowling and ice-free curling to tech darts, American pool and shuffleboard. Plus, you can belt out a love song during karaoke, or try and win big prizes in the arcade.
17. Tuck into a candlelit dinner
Old Down Estate is hosting a romantic, six-course candlelit dinner on February 14th. For £79pp, enjoy the elegant surroundings, complete with a complimentary glass of prosecco to toast the occasion. You can learn more here. It’s not the only grand house celebrating Valentine’s Day either, as Leigh Court is also hosting a candlelight dining experience (£55 per person). You can book your table here.
18. Feel the Sparks fly
Looking for something a little different? Sparks Bristol is hosting a Tropical Terrarium Workshop on February 14. Make your own mini-ecosystem in a glass container, filled with plants, soil and rocks on this incredibly cute date idea. Once they are closed, they don’t need any watering because they will create their own atmosphere! You can book here.