Valentine’s Day is so much more than sickening cards, fluffy hearts and vomit-in-your-mouth sweetness. There are so many ways to go against the grain and actually have a rather wonderful Valentine’s, whoever you want to spend it with, and Bristol’s the best place to cater for every Valentine’s situation. Here’s our lowdown of where you should be spending February 14 in Bristol:

Self-care Valentine’s

Forget celebrating anyone else – this Valentine’s, celebrate yourself! Celebrate the fact you live in a beautiful city, download one of the many Banksy walking trail apps and set out on a Bristolian adventure. Perhaps take an afternoon off and get a well-deserved massage at the Lido in Clifton. Or while away a lazy afternoon in Society Café, which does the best white hot chocolates and has unrivalled views of the wonderful harbour. Revel in the peace of being alone, and take a day for yourself.

Palentine’s

One of the best ways to spend Valentine’s is with your best pals. What better chance to spend some quality time making memories and bonding for life than by sharing in a love of Palentine’s? Challenge yourselves at Escape Hunt Bristol, working against the clock to tackle the escape rooms. Play everyone’s firm favourite of bowling at The Lanes, whilst gorging on a slice of pizza or three and belting out your favourite power ballad at karaoke. Or how about grabbing some grub at St. Nicholas Market? It’s better than going on a date, as you can all buy a dish each and share the food around – your very own Bristolian food tour, if you will. 

Celebrate with your Valentine

If you have a significant other and wish to celebrate the day with them, there are very many opportunities to take the romance up a notch in Bristol. Stroll along the Suspension Bridge and take in the unbelievable views, before stopping for a drink at the White Lion pub, which has panoramic views of one of the most iconic sights in the city. Head to the Grain Barge for dinner - fancy dinner on a boat equals romantic evening level 100. Or take a trip around the harbour by ferry, cruising through Valentine’s Day with your love.

How to create the perfect anti-Valentine’s

And if you want to boycott the day altogether, Bristol’s also got a recipe or two for the perfect anti-Valentine’s just for you. Head to Whistle Punks to literally throw axes to your heart’s content – incredibly violently therapeutic. Or head to Motion for their free Valentine’s rave to boogie away the annual celebration.

However you choose to spend Valentine’s, you can be sure that Bristol will make the day one to remember.