11 Best Things to Do in England in February

Looking for a fun day out in England in February to kick start your spring? Here’s all the inspiration you need to leave your house this winter.

The days are getting gradually longer, and the weather is improving, so what better time to start thinking about fun things to do in England in February? There’s still plenty of wintery themed fun to be had, from skiing and snowboarding indoors to cosy country walks. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more lively, how about checking out some of the great events in February in England?

Here’s a list of some of the best places to go and things to do over the next few weeks to keep your February days out fun, and to keep you busy for days out in February half term too.

1. Early spring walks for snowdrops

One of the best things to do in England in February is to wander the woods and forests in search of the first snowdrops poking through. You could head to National Trust properties and arboretums & estates to see them in a beautiful backdrop.

Think Bodnant Garden, Welford Park and Kew Gardens.

Wrap up warm, go mid-week if you can to avoid the crowds, and reward yourself with a hot drink afterwards. It’s a gentle, grounding way to step into the year – and a reminder that spring is on its way.

2. Dark Skies Festivals

This February, why not take a break from the busy city life and experience the beauty of nature under the night sky?

Dark Skies Festivals are organised by many counties across England each year to raise awareness of light pollution. People of all ages can come together to marvel at stars, planets, and galaxies far away in a stunning natural setting. This is a great opportunity for those who are into stargazing and nightlife activities.

These festivals specialise in showing off the beauty of the night skies like you’ve never seen them before. With events such as guided stargazing tours, constellation workshops, astrophotography demonstrations, and much more, you’re bound to have an other-worldly experience at a Dark Skies Festival.

3. Imagine Children’s Festival

The Imagine Children’s Festival is a great day out for the whole family. This interactive festival takes place at the Southbank Centre in London and offers children the chance to explore their creative sides with various activities, from pottery and photography workshops to magic shows, arts and crafts, and much more.

Best of all, 50% of it is free!

So why not take your children along on this fun-filled day and let their imaginations run wild? If you’re wondering what to do in February with the kids, Imagine Children’s Festival is a great idea!

5. BeWILDerwood, Norfolk

One February day out that’s always a winner with kids is BeWILDerwood, in Norfolk. This park is filled with friendly characters, treehouses made from boat wreckage and wooden walkways spanning mysterious marshlands.

Explore the outdoor adventure play area and winding paths that lead you through a magical landscape. There are also 16 zipwires for the adventurers among us!

Get creative in the art workshops or soak up some sunshine whilst chatting over hot chocolate. With plenty of family-friendly thrills and chills, BeWILDerwood should top anyone’s list for days out in February!

6. Celebrate Portsmouth’s literary heritage at BookFest

If you’re a book-lover, then this February, you won’t want to miss BookFest in Portsmouth. This annual literary festival showcases the best of new and established authors at events ranging from author talks and workshops to open mic nights and book signings.

You’ll get to hear inspiring stories and anecdotes from some of your favourite authors, meet other book-lovers, and participate in fascinating discussions. It’s a great opportunity to learn something new while spending some quality time with friends or family. So if you’re looking for a fun day out that will also feed your mind, check out BookFest for a day out in February

7. Chinese New Year celebrations

Celebrate the start of a new year with a bang this February, and join in on the festivities for the Chinese New Year!

Many cities across England will host various events to welcome the Year of the Dragon. Enjoy traditional dragon dances, acrobatics performances, parades, food stalls, firework displays, and more. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about Chinese culture and perhaps even learn a few new skills.

8. Events for St Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to spend some quality time with your loved one. From romantic boat trips along scenic waterways to indulging in decadent afternoon teas and dinners, there are plenty of ways to mark this special day. Or, for something a bit more adventurous, why not try an exhilarating Segway experience or zip-lining through the trees?

Whether you’re looking for an exciting day out or a romantic evening, there are plenty of options to create the perfect Valentine’s Day. So grab your loved one and enjoy a day filled with love, laughter, and memories this February!

Check out these romantic days out for couples for more February day out inspiration.

9. Visit the Orchid Festival at Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens celebrates the beauty of orchids with their annual Orchid Festival. The festival boasts a stunning display of over 5,000 orchids in vibrant colours and shapes, sourced from around the world. In addition to admiring these beautiful blooms, visitors can learn more about orchid conservation and how to grow their own.

With an extensive program of activities, workshops, and talks designed to engage all ages. This festival is a great opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends while learning something new. So if you’re looking for something special to do this February for a day out, check out the Orchid Festival at Kew Gardens.

10. See if you can get into London Fashion Week

London Fashion Week is the perfect opportunity to explore the world of fashion and glimpse the latest trends. This year’s event will feature some of the most creative designs from established and emerging fashion industry talent, showcased at a series of runway events and exhibitions.

Whether you’re looking for an inspiring day out or an exciting evening of entertainment – why not treat yourself to a day of fashion and luxury this February?

11. Find some indoor fun

February weather can be pretty unpredictable. Think about going to aquariums, science centre, historic houses and art galleries for your under roof entertainment.

Places like The Eden Project offer warmth and colour when the rest of the country feels grey, or Cambridge Botanical Gardens. While Science Museums are ideal for curious minds of all ages, with plenty to see without spending a penny. And don’t overlook open-air museums such as Beamish Museum – winter adds atmosphere, shorter queues, and a chance to explore at a gentler pace, with indoor exhibits to duck into when it’s cold.

It’s a good reminder that February days out don’t have to be weather-dependent – sometimes a roof, a flask of tea, and a bit of curiosity are all you need.

Best days out in February in England

With so many exciting events in February in England, it’s the perfect time to get out and explore. There are fewer crowds, plenty of seasonal events and those first hopeful signs of spring, February is the perfect time to rediscover just how much there is to enjoy close to home.

So don’t hibernate just yet – wrap up, step outside, and make the most of some of the best days out February has to offer.