Love is in the air: A Bristol uni student’s guide to Valentine’s Day

If you are searching for the perfect, yet quintessentially Bristol date then look no further. From bonding over a plant-based pitta to finding romance in La Rocca, here is a definitive guide to all the best date spots only a Bristol Uni student could truly love.

Source Cafe

What is more romantic than sharing an expensive drink with the one you love, amongst awkward group presentation meetings, and third years manically meeting deadlines for their diss? The convenience of the on-campus locations really show that you’ve gone the extra mile to impress your other half, it’s a thoughtful choice especially if you also have a last minute seminar reading to complete. You’ll also get major bonus points if you offer to use your Moves+ app to pay for their drink, we all know how valuable those precious steps are nowadays.

Eat A Pitta

Bringing your valentine to Eat A Pitta is definitely a subtle flex as a Bristol student, yet it’ll be totally worth dipping into your overdraft to show you seriously care about the planet by suggesting a vegetarian option. Additionally, nothing will break the ice like trying to play it cool whist attempting to devour a pitta the size of your head. After this, a second date will definitely be on the cards – as long as you don’t spill anything down your precious North Face puffer jacket.

Steam

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For a low key evening, head to Steam where you definitely won’t be subjected to bumping into every single person you’ve ever met since Freshers’ Week. Plus, what would bring two people together like battling through the bar to get served and then forgetting to use your Unifi discount? An evening in Steam is guaranteed to be free of any unwanted, uncomfortable encounters, and you’ll definitely seem like a true Bristolian by proving you know one of the best underground spots the city has to offer.

Wetherspoons

Bristol has no finer establishments to offer than its array of Wetherspoons, making it an obvious choice for a truly classy Valentine’s Day date. After all, there are few things more attractive than the sour smell of beer and suspiciously sticky tables – a true, traditional British dining experience.

And speaking of traditions, if you’ve been going here ever since your first uni night out – why stop now? A firm favourite like Spoons could never disappoint. Without a doubt, love – and a double Bells – will definitely be on the cards.

Watershed

Head down to Watershed to watch the latest A24 release and enjoy the intimacy of one Bristol’s artsiest (and smallest) venues. Sat closely amongst other tote-bag-clad viewers, exchange knowing looks with your date, acknowledging no one understands the film in the way you do and engage in a post-credits debate so passionate sparks will be flying.

Whether you watch Babygirl or A Complete Unknown, you’ll be able to boast your totally original taste in films, making your indie charm completely irresistible.

La Rocca

If you’re looking to get to know next love of your life, then where would be a better place to get to know someone than the queue for La Rocca? Considering you’ll be spending upwards of two hours waiting, there’s plenty of time to make a deep connection that will surely last beyond the night.

Inside, lovingly unite over VKs while you bask in a romantic atmosphere that only the cheesiest playlist in Bristol could inspire. And if things are going really well, seal the deal with a heartfelt song request – what could be a better proclamation of true love?

Jason Donervan

Bristol is a city renowned for its food scene, and Jason Donervan definitely tops the rankings for excellent cuisine (you know it must be good if there’s always a lengthy queue). With the quaint charm of the Triangle as your evenings charming backdrop, this is the ultimate spot for an alfresco dining experience  – think Lady and The Tramp but instead with a mozzarella stick. Remember, if you’re feeling bold, take the plunge and hard launch your new couple status on their Instagram Story.