Best Bristol date ideas

Got someone special to impress? Bristol has all the ingredients for a romantic date – fine dining, breathtaking views, romantic walks and cosy cocktail bars. But once you’ve ticked off a movie, dinner, sunset stroll and drinks at a bar, what next? Perhaps you want to sideline all the dating clichés entirely and make a big impression on a first date with something out of the ordinary? Well, consider Bristol your ultimate wing-lady. There are loads of options for date nights in Bristol that promise a memorable evening (or day!) out – from activity dates like wave riding and moonlit swimming, to unusual date ideas such as hurling axes and immersive theatre. Here’s my pick of the best Bristol date ideas.

Food and drink experiences

Gin experience at Psychopomp, St Michael’s Hill

Psychopomp Micro-Distillery produces craft distilled gin in small batches and limited quantities. I’d go as far as saying it’s my favourite gin on Earth, which, if you know me, really is saying something. 

Bond with your date over learning how to make gin, alongside a tutored tasting. You’ll get to take a bottle home with you (handy if things look like they might turn into an all nighter!)

Or you could try one of their weekly gin masterclasses, which includes a gin and tonic on arrival at the distillery, a brief history of gin and the process of making it, followed by a tutored gin tasting, and another G&T to finish the session. Bookings available through Yuup. And a word of warning, you might want to eat something substantial first!

Psychopomp gin Bristol
Psychopomp Gin

Wine tasting, KASK, Bedminster

When a wine bar tells you they take a stand against shit wine, I can tell instantly they’re my kind of drinking establishment. Add local cheese and charcuterie to that palette-tantalising vino and you’ve got yourself some great ingredients for a date night in Bristol. If you’d rather cosy up at home for a special evening, KASK also offer virtual wine tastings on Zoom or DIY tasting kits.

Cider tasting tour

As capital of the West Country, it’s no surprise that Bristol knows a thing or two about cider. Delve into the world of scrumpy on this 2-hour tour, as experts lead you around historic Bristol and the top local craft cider haunts, with tasty pitstops along the way. 

Beer tasting at Wiper and True

Bristol brewery, Wiper and True, creates beautiful craft beers and shares them at its taprooms in St Werburghs (open every weekend) and Old Market (open every Wednesday-Sunday). 

Whisk your date off for a guided beer tasting, or up the ante and check out some of their other unique beer-y events. Combine pints and pottery, join a busker’s banquet bonanza, boogie the night away at an al fresco disco, or book a special four course dinner with beer pairings at Strawberry Thief.

Self-guided Craft beer tour

Just want it to be the two of you? Explore Bristol’s craft beer scene with a self-guided walking tour around Old Market. You’ll receive a welcome envelope with beer tokens and a map telling you where to go. Add on an optional guided tasting to try three beers at the breweries along your tour route.

Wiper and True Beer tap

St Nick’s Market

St Nick’s covered market in Bristol’s Old City was named as one of the ten best markets in the UK. Underneath the glass arcade you’ll find a diverse range of permanent stalls with food from all over the world.

From excellent British pies and Pieminister, to Moroccan dishes from Al Bab Mansour, gigantic Persian wraps from Matina and more. The atmosphere and eclectic goodies on offer make this an excellent place to potter around, stopping wherever takes your the pair of you’s fancy.

Picnic by Clifton Suspension Bridge

One of the city’s most iconic sights, you can’t go wrong if you’re looking for Bristol date spots or outdoor date ideas with WOW factor. Blessed with a stunning backdrop of rolling Mendip Hills and dramatic Avon Gorge cliffs, the stunning backdrop will definitely impress the object of your affections.

My husband and I had only just met when, after a night out in Bristol, him, his friend and I, decided to carry on the fun and watch the sunrise at some ungodly hour over Clifton Suspension Bridge. Our plan was slightly foiled by the clouds blocking said sunrise, but it was a most memorable night.

I don’t suggest pitching up at the Suspension Bridge at 4am – picnicking on the patch of grass beside Clifton Observatory is far more civilised at say, lunchtime, or early evening.

Discover nine other stonking good spots to get a smooch-worthy view of the bridge here.

Clifton Suspension Bridge Bristol
Clifton Suspension Bridge

Drink on the rooftop bar at Clifton Observatory 

If you’d rather something a bit fancier, but with the same colossal Clifton Suspension Bridge views, Clifton Observatory 360 Bar and Rooftop terrace overlooks Brunel’s Avon Gorge-spanning landmark. Watching the sun set from this vantage point, tipple in hand, on a balmy summer’s eve, doesn’t get much dreamier.

Clifton Observatory Bristol 360 Cafe
Clifton Observatory 360 Bar and Rooftop terrace

Watch the sun set over the Avon Gorge at The White Lion Bar

Perched on the edge of the Avon Gorge with prime views of Clifton Bridge and surrounding countryside, The White Lion is one of Bristol’s most scenic ‘pub gardens’. Warning: you may find yourself gazing dreamily at that view rather than into your dates eyes…

2 Glasses of Champagne, Avon Gorge hotel du vin white lion bar
White Lion Bar, Avon Gorge

Fine dining at Bristol restaurants with a view

Upgrade your meal out at a Bristol restaurant that just happens to have some seriously good vista game. From jaw-dropping views of Clifton Suspension Bridge, to spectacular Harbourside eateries and dreamy city roofto-scapes, these Bristol dining spots promise a feast for your eyes as well as your stomach. Here are eight of my favourite Bristol date places with a view.

Grain Barge Bristol Harbourside
Grain Barge Bristol

Dining in the Dark: Blindfolded Dinner Experience

Bringing a whole new meaning to the term ‘blind date’, The Lost and Found offers diners the chance to spice up a typical dinner for two. In this dining adventure, you and your partner will taste your way through a three-course dinner, but you won’t be able to see any of it! Because of the blindfold, your other senses will be heightened, and the fun is figuring out what it is you’re eating. Menus are colour-coded – red for meat, blue – seafood, green – vegetarian and white – vegan, but other than that, you won’t know what you’re getting.

Once you’ve mastered the art of locating your food with your fork (the staff will top up your drinks), you’re golden. Don’t miss the Valentine’s special.

The Lost and Found dining in the dark Bristol
The Lost and Found dining in the dark – image Yuup

Activity dates Bristol

There are so many fantastic walks in and around Bristol, and several in particular spring to mind for day date ideas in Bristol (although some would be just as pretty at night). Here are some of the most scenic strolls:

Bristol Harbourside

First up, the buzzing Harbourside makes for an exciting stroll whatever the time of day. It’s possible to do a circuit around the waterfront, passing some of Bristol’s iconic sights (Banky’s Girl with a Pearl Earring, Brunel’s SS Great Britain, Cabot Tower, The Matthew etc.) on the way round.

Pop into (free) contemporary art galleries Arnolfini or Spike Island en route for a splash of culture, stop for a drink at one of the many bars dotted around the Harbour, or grab a drink and plonk yourself on the Harbour’s edge (very popular on a hot summer’s day!)

Sit down for something delicious from one of the indie restaurants at Wapping Wharf to spice up your date – and if you’re lucky you might just see a hot air balloon fly-by.

Underfall Yard Bristol
Bristol Harbourside
Bristol Harbourside in summer
Bristol Harbourside in summer
Bristol waterfront date
Bristol Harbourside date

Climb Cabot Tower

As long as your date isn’t afraid of heights, this is a great activity to have up your sleeve. Cabot Tower was built to honour the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s voyage from Bristol and subsequent ‘discovery’ of North America on The Matthew in 1497. It sits on top of view-tastic Brandon Hill, just off Park Street and is surrounded by parkland, landscaped gardens (another great romantic picnic spot) and Georgian houses. 

Steep, enclosed, winding steps lead up to the top of Cabot Tower, and it can feel a bit precarious, but the reward is a jaw-dropping 360 degree panorama over the whole city.

Brandon Hill Cabot Tower view
View from Cabot Tower

Stoke Park Estate

Despite living in Bristol for some 19 years, and just down the road from this gigantic patch of parkland for 8 years, and it was only during lockdown that I actually discovered what a gem it is. If you think your date might not know the area (it surrounds the yellow Dower house you can see from the M4 on your way into Bristol, close to Lockleaze and Horfield), then take them here to impress them with some seriously gawp-worthy views over parts of the city they might not have seen from this angle before.

Stoke Park Estate Bristol
Stoke Park Estate Bristol

Summer date ideas Bristol

Stand-up paddleboarding Bristol

Bristol’s buzzing Harbourside is a popular destination for courting couples, thanks to its plethora of bars and restaurants overlooking the water. But for a unique perspective on the city’s famous waterfront landmarks, book a two-hour Harbourside Adventure or evening taster session through Bristol’s historical waterways with paddleboarding experts, SUP Bristol.

The Floating Harbour water is largely calm and flat—an ideal setting for SUP, whether you’re a seasoned pro or total novice. An exceptionally fun way to learn a new skill together, or show off your paddleboarding prowess (or have a good laugh if one of you falls in). Add to your day dates ideas list now!

Stand up paddlerboarders Bristol Harbourside
Stand up Paddleboarders Bristol Harbourside

Activity date ideas Bristol

Go surfing at The Wave

A ‘slice of the ocean’ just outside Bristol, The Wave Bristol is a 180 metre-long state-of-the-art inland surfing pool that provides consistent year-round surf conditions to people of all ages and skill levels. Its Wavegarden Cove technology can generate up to 1,000 quality waves per hour, which curl out on two sides of the fan-shaped pool, divided by a central viewing platform.

Book a one-hour group lesson for you and your partner (delivered by qualified coaches) for an exciting date activity or a session (without a coach) according to your surfing capability. Afterwards, debrief together on your wipeouts and gnarliness over food from the cafe, watching other surfers take to the water.

The Wave Bristol
The Wave Bristol

Tour Bristol on a tandem bike  

If you’re racking your brain for ideas on dates in Bristol, how about hopping on a bicycle made for two from Bristol Tandem Bike Hire. Rentals are available from a half day to a full week or weekend, and route guides can be provided for themed trails around the city (e.g The Graffiti Trail and City docks to medieval pools).

Add on a pre-made hamper (including crockery and a picnic rug) using food from independent traders in Bristol for extra date brownie points! 

Cycling around Bristol
Cycling in Bristol

Cycle to Bath

For slightly outside-of-the-box fun things to do in Bristol for couples, consider cycling to another fantastic city! A mere (or whopping, depending on how you look at it) 13 miles separates Bristol and Bath, and the two cities are connected by an off-road cycle path that passes through some lovely countryside. Whack on some sexy lycra and hop on your bike to explore the delights of Bristol’s neighbouring UNESCO city together. 

Once you’ve made it to Bath, you and your partner can treat aching muscles with a dip in the Thermae Bath Spa, explore the ancient Roman Baths, take a sightseeing boat cruise with Prosecco, get all hot under the collar on a Bridgerton walking tour, and potter around gorgeous Georgian streets. If you’re too tired to cycle home, you can take your bike on the 11-minute train journey back to Bristol Temple Meads.

Royal Crescent Bath
Royal Crescent Bath
Pulteney Bridge Bath
Pulteney Bridge Bath

Snow Moon Glow Swim, West Country Water Park

There are few things more romantic than gazing at the night sky with the partner of your dreams, but how many times have you done so in an open-water swimming lake? For the ultimate in outdoor date ideas – you’ll definitely be getting brownie points for originality – swim under the stars – yes, even in the depths of winter.

West Country Water Park hosts a full moon swim each month, all year-round. All you’ll need is a swimming costume or wetsuit, bright swim cap and an illuminated tow float (or buy/hire onsite). Fully-trained lifeguards will ensure that you stay safe throughout the experience, and after your refreshing dip, you’ll be able to warm up together at the Lakeside Cafe.

This event is always busy, so be sure to book in advance. If that sounds a teensy bit chilly, look out for their open-air cinema events with on-water seating later in the year.

Moon Glow Swim West Country Water Park
Moon Glow Swim, image West Country Water Park

Best cocktail bars in Bristol evening date ideas

Looking for Bristol night out ideas? Impress your date with top-notch tipples and a dash of glitz and glamour at one of Bristol’s cocktail bars:

Hyde & Co.

Tucked away down a side street off Clifton Triangle (look for the bowler hat sign), prohibition-style bar, Hyde & Co.’s dimly-lit drinking den is inspired by the great cocktail bars of New York City. Serving up creative concoctions, it’s perfect for an atmospheric nightcap.

Milk Thistle

Hyde & Co’s sister venue, The Milk Thistle is much larger, but no less characterful. Spread across four floors, with a grand sweeping staircase and decadent and eclectic decor, the venue also houses a clandestine Whisky vault, which is available for private hire and tasting.

For romantic things to do bristol, you can’t beat cosying up under candlelight in one of Milk Thistle’s comfy booths, or soaking up the city buzz on the outdoor terrace on warmer nights.

The Raven

From the creators of Hyde & Co and Milk Thistle comes mysterious cocktail bar, The Raven. Located above Four Wise Monkeys on St Nicholas Street, musicians, dancers and magicians entertain the guests on a regular basis with a focus on tarot and magic.

The Clockwork Rose

Themed around the fictional adventures of Captain Sebastian Commodore and his airshop, The Clockwork Rose is a steampunk-inspired cocktail bar that oozes quirk and romance. Drinks are derived from the Commodore’s tales – expect ingredients to include the likes of Tooth of an Algolian Tiger and Fallian Marsh Gas…

Her Majesty’s Secret Service

Located near Clifton Train Station, the Bond-esque adventure begins as soon as you arrive at Her Majesty’s Secret Service cocktail bar. Enter via a phone box to sup wildly imaginative cocktails – served in everything from a terrarium to a red telephone box. 

Kinkajou

Hidden away next to The Downs, Kinkajou serves up great quality cocktails in sophisticated surroundings.

Activity bars Bristol

Bowling at Roxys or The Lanes, City Centre Bristol

A far cry from the sticky, kids’ party-tastic chain bowling alleys (no kids allowed after 5pm), Roxy’s promises booze and ball games. Choose a cocktail, then challenge your partner to a skittle-hitting duel.

Similarly, for evening date ideas, The Lanes is adult-oriented and hosts live music, karaoke and pool.

Pitch and Putt, Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf

For fun dates in Bristol, what about a spot of crazy golf? No longer reserved for childhood seaside holidays, the indoor mini golf experience at Bristol Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf offers a healthy dose of competitiveness for couples, while also being an excellent ice breaker for newbie acquaintances. Located on the top floor of Cabot Circus and decked out with palm trees, Tiki huts and glowing neon lights, Jungle Rumble contains two 18-hole courses – one jungle, the other swamp-themed.

Pitch and putt your way through lost villages and an angry volcano to the dulcet sounds of throwback music – cocktail in hand –  before challenging each other to nostalgic arcade games. 

Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf Bristol
Image – Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf Bristol

Urban axe throwing

Bristol’s Whistle Punks is possibly the only environment where wielding an axe can impress a date! If that sounds like an ill-fated way for love to blossom, fear not – professional instructors are on hand to teach both of you how to hurl axes at a wall, before you have a go – it’s all good, clean fun as far as Bristol couple activities go.

The exhilarating 70-minute sessions promises memorable heart-racing moments and a lot of laughs as you try to hit the target. According to those in the know, axe throwing is a skill, rather than a strength game, so there’s every chance to succeed even if you’re not the muscliest of humans.

Afterwards, celebrate your bullseyes, fun date night and new-found shared passion with a few craft drinks and delicious pizza.

Mini golf bar

Fan of activity-based Bristol date nights? Located on Millennium Promenade, Par 59 Bristol is a brand new bar featuring two custom-built 9-hole mini golf courses. On top of pitching and putting, you can try your hand at darts and tuck into scrummy food from independent kitchen, Dirty Birdie.

Unusual date ideas Bristol

Hot air balloon ride

I think if you were to surprise your beloved with this, it would go down as one of THE best dates in Bristol. For the ultimate in romantic gestures, book a balloon flight with your beloved. Soar over Bristol, for unforgettable shared memories, then, who knows, perhaps in the quiet that comes with floating gently above the Earth, sacrifice those views for a moment to get down on one knee..! Love is in the air.

A celebratory glass of Champers will be awaiting when you touch down. Bristol Balloons, Bailey Balloons and Elite Air UK all offer Champagne packages, or you could take off in a fleet of balloons during the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta – check their site for more details.

What’s it like to take a balloon ride over Bristol?

Hot air balloon ride over Bristol
Hot air balloon over Bristol

Show of Strength theatre walk

Trying to woo a history buff or theatre lover? Show of Strength Theatre Walks put local people and stories centre stage, bringing hidden histories to life with enthralling, meticulously-researched tours. Even Bristolians who’ve lived in the city all their lives are guaranteed to see – and hear – something new.

There are nine tours to choose from, many with a dark side, and all with a touch of humour. Blood and Butchery in Bedminster visits a pub where a lion ate a man; the new Raising Cary Grant follows Archie Leach before he became a Hollywood icon. Prepare to be entertained, enlightened and horrified in equal measure.

Best date ideas Bristol: luxury spa

Relax at Bristol Lido

This Grade-II listed lido was built in 1850, however these days, it’s a world away from its Victorian beginnings. Tucked away down a side road in upmarket Clifton, Bristol Lido has got everything for a luxurious, revitalising date.

A stunning glass-fronted poolside bar and restaurant overlooks a heated, low-chlorine open-air pool. Potter from eucalyptus-scented steam room, to Scandinavian-style sauna, to outdoor hot tub and treatment rooms. To visit the spa you’ll need to book a package (unless you’re a member) to combine a swim with a treatment and/or meal.

Bristol lido
Bristol Lido

Chill out at Bristol Harbour Hotel Spa

The name of this hotel is a slight misnomer, as you can’t actually see the Harbourside from here, but it’s not far away! Housed in the former bank vaults, the subterranean HarSPA has a pint-sized pool, sauna, steam room and lots of pampering treats on offer. I had a massage here and it was delightful – sent me right to sleep, although that could have had something to do with my pre-spa Prosecco in the bar upstairs (combined with baby sleep deprivation, that’s a winning snooze cocktail!).

The HarSPA Together package gives you a full day’s use of the HarSPA’s facilities for two people, plus a 60-minute treatment each and afternoon tea in the restaurant.

Spa, Bristol Harbour Hotel
Spa at Bristol Harbour Hotel
Harbour Hotel Bristol
Harbour Hotel Bristol

Street art Bristol date night ideas

The city’s many murals have seen it dubbed, ‘England’s urban art capital’ and seeking out the fabulously emblazoned walls is one of the most fascinating and fun things to do on a date in Bristol.

For an introduction to Bristol’s street art world and other graffiti artists’ iconic pieces, join a walking tour with an expert guide. They’ll lead you around the city, showing you key graffiti spots, Bristol’s best bits and a whole host of interesting titbits.

If you’d rather explore at your own pace with, opt for a self-guided tour – The Banksy Bristol Trail is an easy-to-follow smartphone App packed with facts, and useful interactive map guides. Where the Wall’s ‘A piece of…Banksy’ covers 13 significant Banksy locations and is narrated by John Nation, a central figure in the Bristol/Banksy story of the eighties.

Street art in Bristol
Banksy Street art hunting in Bristol

Comedy club date activities Bristol

Ramp up the feel-good factor and see if you and your date have a similar sense of humour, with a night out at one of Bristol’s Comedy Clubs. Try The Hen and Chicken, Bristol Improv Theatre, Alma Tavern Theatre, Bristol Old Vic, The Wardrobe Theatre and Tobacco Factory Theatres for regular side-splitting comedy nights. Great places for first dates!

Bristol Old vic theatre
Bristol Old Vic

Live music date

If music be the food of love, then you’ll want to whisk your other half along to one of Bristol’s live music venues. The following places are all good date ideas for evening entertainment in the city:

The Old Duke jazz and blues pub is one of Bristol’s most famous historical buildings (dating from approximately 1775), and something of a stalwart on the city’s live music scene. With free gigs every night of the week, it adds a little va va voom to a standard drinks date.

Evenings at The Gallimaufry are often filled with live music, and the food is fantastic here too (they do one of the best roasts in the postcode). If the weather’s nice, the outdoor seating area is great for Gloucester Road people watching.

Make time for the two of you to enjoy world-class live music at the city’s largest concert hall, Bristol Beacon. Search for the ideal gig from major names in rock, pop, jazz, folk, world and classical music.

Fun date ideas Bristol – see a show

For romantic things to do in Bristol, do the classic ‘dinner and a show’ on your Bristol date night! The city has a buzzing theatre scene, with everything from world-famous musicals to West End shows and cutting-edge plays. Look out for pre-theatre dining deals.

Bristol Hippodrome

One of the most prestigious provincial theatres in the country, Bristol Hippodrome frequently features shows from London’s West End when they tour the UK, as well as an annual pantomime.

Bristol Hippodrome
Bristol Hippodrome

Bristol Old Vic

Bristol Old Vic is the oldest continuously-working theatre in the English speaking world. Expect pioneering 21st century theatre inspired by the history and magical design of the beautiful playhouse. Onsite bar and restaurant.

The Wardrobe Theatre

The Wardrobe Theatre is Bristol’s award-winning fringe studio venue and arts hub for alternative theatre, comedy and music. Onsite bar and restaurant.

The Redgrave Theatre

The Redgrave Theatre provides an intimate space for a variety of professional touring companies, comedians, film societies, music concerts and dance pieces. The Theatre also plays host to several Bristol Old Vic Theatre School productions each year.

Tobacco Factory Theatres

Tobacco Factory Theatres presents works by the likes of Shakespeare, Molière, as well as more modern shows. Onsite bar and restaurant.

Fun date nights bristol: cinema

Stuck for where to go on a date? Snuggle up together and enjoy a movie. Bristol has all the usual chain cinemas, but my favourite is the smallish Orpheus (Scotts Cinemas) in Westbury Park, which sells local G&T and cider as part of their refreshment menu.

For extra comfort, book the XPlus experience at Showcase Cinema de Lux at Cabot Circus (don’t worry it’s not as dodgy as it sounds). For this you’ll get a supersized, giant screen, Dolby Atmos sound system and much nicer seats.

Orpheus scotts cinemas westbury park bristol
Opheus, Scotts Cinemas, Bristol

Romantic restaurants in Bristol

I’ve given you a ton of suggestions for alternative date ideas in Bristol, but you can’t beat a classic dinner date. Bristol has some serious gastronomic game for date night activities, so there are too many options for me to list here, but I’ll give you some recommendations for some of the best romantic date night ideas in Bristol that will guarantee you an excellent foodie night out.

Upmarket elegance:

The Ivy Clifton Brasserie, Clifton Village – sophisticated all-day dining.

For tremendous views:

Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin – restaurant with unparalleled views of Brunel’s iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, 

For Michelin-starred food

Bulrush, Cotham – innovative and seasonal Modern British combinations at this neighbourhood restaurant.

Paco Tapas, Lower Guinea Street – a modern tapas bar bringing a taste of Andalusia to Bristol, close to the waterfront.

Wilsons, Redland (Michelin Green Star) – small, independent restaurant serving a daily set menu, using ingredients from their farm and the surrounding area.

For exceptional food:

Box E, Wapping Wharf – tiny seasonal, sustainable Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurant in two shipping containers, with a terrace stretch tent on Bristol’s Harbourside.

Root, Wapping Wharf – a modern, veg-led, small plate restaurant spread over several shipping containers on the waterfront. Bib Gourmand.

Pasta Ripiena – sister restaurant to Pasta Loco serving expertly-crafted stuffed pasta, paired with exceptional wines.

The Ox, Corn Street – Prohibition-decor-style steak restaurant and cocktail bar in a basement bank vault, new outdoor dining area.

Littlefrench, Westbury-on-Trym – cosy neighbourhood restaurant from Freddy Bird, serving a french-inspired menu, classic cocktails and an excellent steak as I recall.

Tare, Wapping Wharf – 20-cover Harbourside restaurant in a converted shipping container, featuring small plates and drinks.

Adelina Yard, Welsh Back – an underdog of a restaurant that doesn’t get shouted about enough, but deserves all the accolades. Modern, innovative food.

Little Hollows, Chandos Road, Redland – fresh artisan pasta restaurant.

Marmo Restaurant and Wine Bar, Baldwin Street, City Centre – Italian dishes from an open kitchen under high ceilings, serving organic and biodynamic wines.

For excellent tapas:

Bravas, Cotham Hill – lively and atmospheric Andalusian-inspired, softly-lit tapas bar. Fried aubergine with molasses are a must-try!

Poco, Jamaica Street, Stokes Croft – Rustic bar serving global tapas with an ethical spin, made using local and organic ingredients.

Gambas, Wapping Wharf – authentic Spanish-inspired tapas, with a focus on fresh fish and seafood overlooking Bristol’s Harbourside.

Four Wise Monkeys, Clare Street, City Centre – Another from the from the Hyde & Co group (formerly Pata Negra), now serving Pan Asian fusion food with a retro Tokyo vibe.

For low-key date deliciousness:

The Grain Barge, Hotwells – A historic converted barge with a sun deck, on Bristol’s Floating Harbour. Craft beer, local cider and wines, with a veg-focused and seafood menu, using ingredients from their farm in Backwell.

The Pump House, Hotwells – seasonal British gastropub in an old Victorian pumping house with waterside seating (where the city docks meet the River Avon at the Cumberland basin). Gigantic gin menu.

The Olive Shed, Princes Wharf – a small Mediterranean restaurant with an ever-changing tapas menu that has been part of the Bristol Harbourside forever.

Mud Dock Cafe, The Grove – an iconic bike shop (below) and café (above) with views over Redcliffe and the Floating Harbour from the balcony. Serving tapas, mezze and grill dishes.

Riverstation, The Grove – go downstairs for causal bites, upstairs for a fancier meal with optional wine flights. Both floors have alfresco, riverside seating.

Thali Cafe Easton, St Marks Road – award-winning Indian restaurant and eco tiffin takeaway, which started as a street food truck at Glastonbury Festival.

The Garden of Easton, St Marks Road – pretty plant-filled restaurant for artful meals and drinks, using locally sourced ingredients.

Fishers, Clifton Village – a long-standing Bristol seafood restaurant (it’s been around for some 20 years!) Local, seasonal, sustainable, fresh fish, seafood and shellfish.

Seven Lucky Gods, Wapping Wharf – Critically-acclaimed Japanese bar and restaurant inspired by the Izakaya bars of Tokyo. Outstanding Asian small plates, sushi and cocktails.

Souk Kitchen, North Street, Bedminster and White Ladies Road, Clifton – modern Middle Eastern restaurant serving dishes inspired by Ottoman and Mediterranean flavours. Expect colourful mezze, slow-cooked meats and curries.

Seven Lucky Gods Bristol
Seven Lucky Gods
Seven Lucky Gods Bristol
Seven Lucky Gods

Where to stay – hotel date night ideas

So you’ve got your fun couple Bristol date activities planned, but where to stay? Of course, there are Inns of the Holiday and Premier variety, but wouldn’t you rather round off your loved-up ventures in the city by staying somewhere special? I’ve put together a list of local boutique romantic hotels in Bristol that are sure to make your stay memorable, rather than mediocre.

Hotel du Vin Bristol
Hotel du Vin Bristol

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