Things to do for Valentine's Day in Portsmouth

It's that time of year once more - of red roses, love hearts and all things romantic. Whether you fully buy into Valentine's Day or want to escape the lot, we have plenty of events taking place on the day itself as well as the weekends before and after.

Alternatively, if you're planning a romantic meal, be sure to check out the Food and Drink listings for ideas and inspiration on the best place to go.

Valentine's events

First off, how about sharing a laugh with your loved one? The Comedy at the Tower Valentine's Special is back at the Spinnaker Tower - featuring Jo Caulfield, Alun Cochrane, Joey Page and host James Alderson. As well as the four great acts you can also take a trip up the tower before settling down at a candlelit table.

If you want to go along you'll need to be quick, though. These Valentine's Day specials are often fully booked in advance and, whilst at the time of writing the 14 February date still has limited tickets, the 10 February show has now sold out.

We've covered live comedy - how about live music? The annual St Valentine's Day Massacre returns to the Wedgewood Rooms for its tenth year. The show brings together some of the best local bands and artists to perform some of their favourite songs dealing with the topic of love, lust and relationships. The cover versions are as wild as they are varied, so you're sure of an entertaining evening, all the while raising money for the National Foundation of Youth Music.

For family-friendly things to do, look no further than Boathouse 4, which is hosting a range of craft activities over half term. There's a love heart hunt and activity sheet (with prizes to be won at the end), plus a badge making class, rope-making workshops and entry to the museum.

Best of all, access to Boathouse 4 is totally free. Simply get a Historic Quarter Pass at the gates to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard to get in. And if you do have an Ultimate Explorer ticket to the dockyard, don't forget it allows you access to the museums all year round, so get your money's worth!

Finally, Groundlings Theatre welcomes the return of its Anti-Valentine's Pub Quiz. Not only is it a chance to escape from some of the more saccharine aspects of Valentine's Day, it also raises funds for the theatre. Plus, there are prizes galore for the winners, losers and more. Tickets can be bought on the door.

As always, the Visit Portsmouth event listings are your one-stop shop for all there is to see and do at the great waterfront city - not just for Valentine's Day but all year round.