The pressure to keep coming up with fun and original date ideas is real! Whether it’s your first date and you’re eager to make a great impression or you’ve been together for a while and want to make an extra effort – there are special Bristol date ideas just for you!
Related: check out this post on the top things to do in Bristol.
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Whether you are a local or just visiting, the cultural melting pot that is Bristol offers a wide range of memorable and romantic experiences. From wine tastings to adventurous days out, meetups at museums, and charming dates at bookstores or coffee shops – there’s something to suit every couple’s taste.
Related: check out From Casual to Glam: Date Outfit Ideas
This post is about the best Bristol date ideas
DATE ESSENTIALS
1. Impress Them With a Wine Tasting Date
Calling all wine lovers (which is pretty much everyone, let’s be honest)! Why not make your date extra special with a wine-tasting adventure? Take a trip to one of Bristol’s charming wine bars or vineyards and have an afternoon of sipping and swirling. Discovering new wines together and enjoying each other’s company in a relaxed setting can create the perfect date experience – and the wine definitely helps:
Aldwick Estate: how about a date in the beautiful countryside that surrounds Bristol? Aldwick Estate is a family-run vineyard nestled beneath the stunning Mendip Hills. As the largest vineyard in Somerset, they offer a fantastic opportunity to discover the art of English viticulture and immerse yourself in the idyllic surroundings as you sample their delicious wines. Want to elevate your date game? You can pre-order a picnic hamper and enjoy a feast while taking in the picturesque views. You can read more about my visit to Aldwick here.
KASK: another date option is KASK in Bedminster, who live by the mantra “say no to sh*t wine” – you can enjoy wine and cheese tastings at their contemporary wine bar and garden. Say goodbye to pretentious wine chat and embrace the friendly and down-to-earth vibe they offer. Not only do they take pride in offering sustainable and organic wines, but they also welcome dogs with open arms – which has my vote!
2. Stand-Up Paddleboarding Taster
Get a unique perspective of Bristol’s renowned landmarks! Whether you’re a novice or seeking an unusual water adventure, this could be an unforgettable date. Your expert guide will teach you the basic techniques, making it a breeze to glide through the water. Before you know it, you’ll be confidently upright and paddling like a pro. And if not, don’t worry, you’ll still have a blast giving it a go! Paddleboarding and other experiences can be booked via Yuup.
3. Make Festival Memories
Time your date just right and you might stumble upon an amazing festival. Bristol boasts an incredible lineup of festivals throughout the year, catering to every interest imaginable. From comedy shows and electrifying live music performances to captivating film screenings, mesmerizing art installations, and mouthwatering food and craft beer events. And let’s not forget the famous hot air balloon festival in August!
4. See Your Date’s Competitive Side at a Board Game Cafe
Looking for a relaxed and inviting setting? Board game cafes are the answer! They offer the perfect environment for making new connections or enjoying special moments with your partner. Whether you’re bonding over classic games or trying out the latest options, the friendly competition and having a giggle at how rubbish you’re playing can help break the initial awkwardness and will help you connect:
Playground Coffee House: enjoy artisan coffee and tasty homemade cakes. If you’re in the mood for something stronger, they also serve cocktails and craft beer. Plus, you can unleash your competitive side and challenge your date with their impressive collection of over 150 board games while enjoying the cool tunes playing in the background.
Chance & Counters: you can reserve a spot at either the gaming cafe on Christmas Steps or the one on Gloucester Road. You’ll find a wide range of board games to choose from, as well as craft beers and cider, coffee, milkshakes, and a menu catering to vegetarians and vegans. Plus, don’t forget that your furry friend is also welcome.
5. Date Night at the Newly Reopened Bristol Beacon
Why not treat your special someone to a memorable night at the recently reopened Bristol Beacon? This iconic concert venue first opened its doors in 1867 and has hosted countless legendary performances over the years. From The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix to Pink Floyd, David Bowie, and Queen, the stage has seen it all. Whether you’re into live music, comedy, spoken word, or films, the Bristol Beacon offers a diverse range of events to choose from. It’s the perfect place to create lasting memories with your loved one.
6. Take Your Date to a Parallel Universe
Get ready to be blown away by Wake the Tiger! This incredible immersive art experience will take your senses on a wild ride. Bring your date along and dive into the immersive environments that will awaken your inner child. It’s time to let curiosity and playfulness guide you! Read more about Wake the Tiger here.
7. Explore Bristol on Foot
Slip into your comfortable walking shoes and uncover the city’s secret and historic streets, grand architecture, vibrant street art, lush green spaces, and harbourside views. With a relaxed pace, you’ll have plenty of time for meaningful conversation and the opportunity to connect with your date.
Explore the diverse neighbourhoods, uncover hidden treasures, and look out for cosy coffee shops, local pubs and lively street markets where you can stop for a drink or a bite to eat.
If you’re a nature lover, don’t miss out on the beauty of Ashton Court Estate, Leigh Woods, Oldbury Court and Snuff Mills. These stunning locations are ideal for relaxed walks in nature, and you can bring your dog along too!
8. Coffee Shop/Brunch Date
The Orchard Coffee & Co.: fancy grabbing a coffee or perhaps a brunch date? The Orchard in St George is a true hidden gem, offering mouthwatering dishes like potato rosti and sourdough toasts with a choice of tasty toppings. They also have delicious filled bagels, breakfast bowls, and more. The atmosphere is buzzing and laid-back, and if you hit it off, don’t forget to share a sinfully good Biscoff Caramel Cruffin from their bakery!
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9. Museum Meetups
For those who appreciate history and culture, show your date that a museum meetup can be both fun and romantic. Bristol boasts a variety of fascinating museums, galleries, and art spaces, providing the perfect backdrop for engaging conversations and shared experiences.
Explore the archaeology and natural history at The Bristol Museum & Arts Gallery, housed in a grand Edwardian building. Don’t miss the stunning Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, a regular highlight there.
The harbourside is a vibrant hub that houses various venues, including the modern art galleries Spike Island and Arnolfini – which also has a great bookshop and cafe. Watershed, a cultural hotspot, offers an eclectic mix of independent films, live music, and festivals. Another must-visit museum is M Shed which brings Bristol’s history to life.
10. A Bookish Date
If you and your date are both bookworms, why not plan a romantic rendezvous at a charming indie bookshop? Bristol is blessed with a variety of independent bookshops that make for a cosy and enriching date experience. Quirky Bloom & Curll, located near the Christmas Steps, is a cute spot to explore. You can browse the shelves, chat about your favourite books, and uncover hidden literary gems.
For a unique experience, visit Beware of the Leopard in St Nick’s Market, a second-hand book store where you can also explore different stalls and grab some tasty street food if hunger strikes. Heron Books in The Clifton Arcade is a popular choice with plenty of nearby coffee spots. Bookhaus, located in lively Wapping Wharf, is another fantastic independent bookshop that often hosts regular interesting talks.
For a warm and inviting atmosphere, head to Storysmith in Southville, where you can browse to your heart’s content before enjoying a cup of coffee. And if you’re looking for more options, Gloucester Road Books is another great choice.
No matter what kind of date you’re looking for, Bristol offers so many unique and memorable experiences to enjoy with your person. From wine tasting, browsing bookshops, and having fun on the water to discovering art together, there’s no shortage of ways to create lasting memories and get to know someone better in this vibrant city.
So, go ahead, plan your next date and have an unforgettable adventure in Bristol!
If you’re enjoying this post, then you’re in for a treat! Check out this post on the top things to do in Bristol.
