Date spot in Bristol
The Milk Thistle
Ring the bell at an unmarked door and step into a dark, plush prohibition-style cocktail bar on Colston Avenue.
Quay Head House, Colston Avenue
Address: Quay Head House, Colston Avenue, Bristol BS1 1EB- Bar
- Rain-proof ☔
- Mid-price
- Romantic
- Cosy
Why it's a good date: It feels like a secret, and it's made for sitting close and talking. Book ahead at weekends.
More from our Bristol guide
Lido Bristol
Oakfield Place, Clifton
Address: Oakfield Place, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2BJ- Activity
- A treat
- Romantic
- Active
Swim in the heated outdoor pool of a restored Victorian lido in Clifton, warm up in the sauna and hot tub, then eat in the restaurant overlooking the water.
Why it's a good date: Steam rising off the water on a cold day is pure magic. Book a swim-and-eat package so the whole date is sorted.
Bulrush
Cotham Road South, Cotham
Address: 21 Cotham Road South, Bristol BS6 5TZ- Restaurant
- Rain-proof ☔
- A treat
- Romantic
- Foodie
Book the tasting menu at the Michelin-starred neighbourhood restaurant in Cotham, with inventive, seasonal cooking in a relaxed room.
Why it's a good date: The one to save for an anniversary: serious food without the stuffiness. Book well ahead.
The Canteen
Stokes Croft
Address: The Canteen, Hamilton House, 80 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3QY- Restaurant
- Cheap and cheerful
- Foodie
Share seasonal vegetarian plates at the big, friendly bar and kitchen in Hamilton House, then stay on for the free live music.
Why it's a good date: The menu changes with the seasons and there's a band most nights, so dinner turns into a proper night out without costing much. Walk up the Croft afterwards to see the street art.