Amour of the alternative kind is on offer in Bristol this Valentine’s Day, with classic ‘courting’ activities giving way to a more unusual approach to romance. Here are some of the best unconventional date activities to do on Friday 14 February that will kick start a budding relationship and rekindle the imagination in a long-term love:

After Hours: LOVE
At-Bristol Science Centre’s Valentine’s evening from 6.30pm to 10pm has real heart – literally, as there’s a chance to dissect an actual heart in the laboratory. Enjoy ‘Neanderthal Speed Dating’, take a romantic tour of the stars and night sky in the Planetarium, or just grab a drink and get hands-on…with the 300 interactive exhibits. It’s the perfect place to bring a first date and avoid any awkward silences.

The Birds and the Bees
M Shed explores what it takes to attract a mate and how relationships work in the animal kingdom from 6pm to 7.30pm. Take a look at the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition in this special late night opening.  Tickets cost £8 and include exhibition entry and a drink on arrival. Booking is essential.

Spirit
In Between Time presents Florentina Holzinger and Vincent Riebeek at Arnolfini from 7.30pm, taking the audience on a playful Valentine journey of discovery through yoga, pop songs and tarot cards. Tickets cost from £10.

As You Like It
Take tips from the master and see Shakespeare’s greatest exploration of the meaning of love at Tobacco Factory Theatres. Ticket prices range from £12 to £22.

A Journey Round My Skull

This passionate love story, performed at Bristol Old Vic from 8pm, explores the complexity of the human brain and looks at the lengths to which we might go in order to erase our embarrassing memories. Ticket prices are from £8 to £12.

Guess How Much I Love You

Arnos Vale Cemetery is hosting a special Valentine’s Day ‘Stomping Stories’ event for primary school-aged children. From 3.45pm, youngsters will gather to hear the heart-warming story of the Nut Brown Hares and make a special Valentine’s gift to take home.

‘Cheep’ romance

Couples can enjoy discounted entry at Bristol Zoo Gardens – two adults for £20 – and stroll around hand-in-hand watching love birds fly, monkeys swing together, and penguins waddle. Download the discount voucher from the Bristol Zoo Gardens website in advance.

Mute Swan Feed
Swans are the romantics of the bird world and usually mate for life. Visit Slimbridge Wetland Centre and discover all about these beautiful birds and their characteristics. Watch from the comfort of the viewing hide as flocks of swans are fed, and listen to informed commentary from the nature reserve wardens. The feed takes place from 12:30pm and is included in the price of admission.

Those who want a more traditional date night activity can have fun spotting familiar Bristol locations in the darkly romantic comedy ‘8 minutes idle’, an independent film set and made in Bristol and due for release on Friday 14 February (cinemas showing the film are still to be announced).

For more information about the above events and more or the best deals on a Valentine’s weekend away or romantic meal out, please visit www.visitbristol.co.uk

Notes to Editors 

1. Press Contact: Wendy Johnson, 0117 946 2205 or wendy.johnson@destinationbristol.co.uk

2. Bristol is home to several award-winning attractions such as Brunel’s ss Great Britain, interactive science centre At-Bristol, £27million history museum M Shed, contemporary arts centre Arnolfini, media centre The Watershed, and the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. For more information on Bristol’s range of attractions, exhibitions and events, log on to www.visitbristol.co.uk