25 fabulous free events to attend in February

Despite being the shortest month of the year (even in a leap year!), February is no less packed with exciting free events that are sure to warm your spirits. To save you scouring the web for things to see and do, we’ve listed a whole heap of in-person and online events – and every one of them is free. Whether you’re into art or history, science or true crime, you’re sure to find something to float your boat here…

Free nationwide events

Create a wildlife haven

World Wetlands Day, 2 February

World Wetlands Day serves as a poignant reminder of the plight of water-dwelling species worldwide. The good news is that you can help! Adding a mini wetland to your back garden can be simpler and more budget-friendly than you think, and will make a small but important difference in boosting biodiversity. You don't need a huge area or even diggable ground – repurpose an old sink, metal tub or container beneath your drainpipe to create your mini pond, then watch it transform into a sanctuary for water boatmen, dragonflies, frogs, newts and more.

Spot some feathered friends

The Big Hideout, WWT sites, 10–26 February

This half-term, WWT sites across the country are inviting kids to take over their bird hides as part of The Big Hideout. Grab a pair of binoculars and discover the birds that live there – you’ll soon learn how to tell who’s who. To fuel the birdy fun, there’ll be a whole host of wild and wonderful activities for the entire family to get stuck into; check with your local WWT site for details. Boundless members go free.

Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings – including unlimited access to all 10 WWT sites throughout the UK.

Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Free events in London & the South East

Discover remarkable stories of Second World War captives

Great Escapes, London, 2 February–21 July

The latest exhibition at The National Archives, Kew explores stories of those who were held captive in World War Two, offering glimpses of the courage and ingenuity possible in the face of adversity. From the daring ‘Great Escape’ to Colditz prisoner Airey Neave’s audacious disguise as a German soldier, there’s a wealth of fascinating tales to discover, many of which are brought to life with original wartime documents and photos. You can even study previously unseen records from MI9 – a highly secretive British government agency created to help military personnel evade capture. 

Satisfy your curiosity

Oxford Brookes Science Bazaar, Oxford, 3 February

Oxford Brookes University’s Science Bazaar is back, inviting families to embrace this year’s theme of ‘Curiosity’ across five exciting zones. In ‘Happy and Healthy’, you can try your hand at keyhole surgery; ‘Life Factory’ dares you to venture into the fascinating world of venomous mammals; ‘Mind Your Brain’ focuses on the complexities of our thoughts; while the ‘Tech Zone’ gives you the chance to experience life as an astronaut. If all that sciency fun leaves you feeling a bit worn-out, you can take a break with creative activities like crochet and Chinese calligraphy in the ‘Discovery’ zone.

Step into a slice of Madagascar

Orchids Festival, London, 3 February–3 March

Craving a taste of tropical paradise but don’t fancy the long-haul flight? Kew Gardens’ annual Orchids Festival is here to brighten up your winter with vivid hues and exotic blooms. This year’s theme whisks visitors away to the enchanting world of Madagascar, a land of seriously spectacular beauty and remarkable biodiversity. Boundless members go free – you’ll just need to pick a time slot when you book your ticket.

Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings – including unlimited access to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Be wowed by illusions

Wonder Workers and the Art of Illusion, near Royal Tunbridge Wells, 5 February

Boundless’s Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells Group is expecting an enchanting addition to this month's club night thanks to Bertie Pearce, member of the highly prestigious Inner Magic Circle. He’ll lead members on a spellbinding tour through the history of magic, beginning in the Temples of Ancient Egypt, But you won’t just hear about magic: you’ll see it too, as Bertie will demonstrate some of the astounding illusions up his sleeve. This magical evening will take place at Salomons Estate, Southborough, near Royal Tunbridge Wells. Prepare to be amazed…

Interested in this event but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings.

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Keep the kids entertained

Imagine Children’s Festival, London, 7–17 February

If you’re keen to get the kids away from their screens this half-term, we’d recommend heading to London’s Southbank Centre for the annual Imagine Children’s Festival. The 11-day programme includes a whole host of brilliant events to delight kids and grown-ups alike, featuring everything from live music and theatre to comedy and poetry. And with loads of events totally free of charge, you can stimulate their senses without having to spend a fortune. 

Attend a music festival

Hastings Fat Tuesday Music Festival, Hastings, 9–13 February

A music festival in February? You read right! Warm up your winter with the UK’s biggest Mardi Gras bash – a five-day fiesta of free gigs across venues in Hastings and St Leonards. Unplugged Saturday offers an entire afternoon of acoustic sets, while the main event on Fat Tuesday itself promises a raucous celebration, with performances from established acts. Featuring everything from reggae to post-punk, an eclectic mix of genres ensures there's something for every ear.

Welcome the Dragon

Chinese New Year in London, London, 11 February

The Year of the Dragon will be welcomed on 10 February, and London’s celebrations – which take the crown as the biggest bash outside of Asia – are set to take place across the West End the following day. In and around Chinatown, meet a lively ensemble of street entertainers, traditional musicians and more, while Trafalgar Square plays host to stage performances, including dance, music and martial arts displays. Don’t miss the colourful floats in the vibrant parade, which usually kicks off at 10am on Charing Cross Road.

Dig into dino extinction

101 Theories of Dinosaur Extinction, Cheshunt, 13 February

You’ve probably heard the theory that the dinosaurs vanished around 66 million years ago due to a huge asteroid crashing off the Mexican coast. But there’s no shortage of alternative explanations behind their mass disappearance – one even suggests that they never went extinct at all, but are still roaming around and feeding at your bird table! In this talk – hosted by Boundless’s North East London Group – palaeontologist Mike Howgate will delve into the many dinosaur extinction theories, from the scientifically plausible to the downright bizarre. Held at Bishops’ College, Cheshunt.

Interested in this talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings.

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Watch a flippin’ fantastic race

Olney Pancake Race, near Milton Keynes, 13 February

Photo: Robin Myerscough / Creative Commons

The origin of Olney's world-famous Pancake Race remains a mystery, but one thing’s for certain: this Shrove Tuesday spectacle has become a deeply treasured tradition in the town’s calendar. While the race is only open to residents, spectators are warmly welcomed to witness the historic 415-yard dash, kicking off at 11:55am from Olney’s Market Place.

Discover a life behind the lens

The Life of a TV Cameraman, Farnborough, 15 February

For a peek into the dynamic world of TV journalism, don’t miss this Boundless member talk with seasoned industry veteran Bob Gentry. As he recounts his 20-year career, he’ll share his inside knowledge while exploring the ever-evolving media landscape – including pivotal milestones such as the emergence of satellite news gathering, the transformative impact of 24-hour news coverage, and the influence of the internet. Hosted by Boundless’s Farnborough and Guildford Group at St Mark’s Church Hall, Farnborough.

Interested in this talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings.

Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Free events in the South West & Wales

Light up the night

Bristol Light Festival, Bristol, 2–11 February

Photo: Sam Saunders / Creative Commons

A new but firm favourite in Bristol’s calendar, this dazzling light festival casts familiar and unexpected corners of the city aglow with vibrant colour – from enormous shimmering bubbles, to giant, glowing walk-through rings. So, bundle up in your cosiest layers, grab a hot drink and get ready to explore Bristol in a whole new light.

Excite the scientist within you

Cardiff Science Festival, Cardiff, 17 & 18 February

Science has the ability to enrapture children and adults alike, and the whole family will love getting stuck into this year's Cardiff Science Festival. With talks and activities from cutting-edge researchers popping up all over the Welsh capital, there's plenty to keep everyone entertained and fuel curious minds.

Dive into the Jurassic period

Warwickshire’s Jurassic Sea, Coventry, throughout February

Dippy the Diplodocus – the nation’s favourite dinosaur – is celebrating its first year at Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, so why not pay a visit to mark the occasion? To complete your Jurassic journey, don’t leave without checking out the fascinating fossil display keeping Dippy company under the museum’s covered court. You’ll meet the weird and wonderful sea creatures that graced the region 145 to 200 million years ago, when much of it was underwater. Don’t miss the star of the show – an incredible ichthyosaur skull unearthed down the road in Harbury. 

Discover the buzz of beekeeping – without the sting

All About Beekeeping talk, near Telford, 7 February

When beekeeper Alison Wakeman isn’t tending to her colonies, extracting honey or creating wax wraps, she’s busy sharing her love for these often under-appreciated yet essential creatures. And on 7 February, Boundless members are in for a treat. In this entertaining talk, Alison will take you on a journey into the hive as she reveals the world of beekeeping, the diverse roles bees play, and their fascinating life cycles. This event is being held by Boundless’s Shropshire Group at Haughton Hall Hotel, Shifnal.

Interested in this talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings.

Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Learn about life-saving canines

Medical Detection Dogs talk, Ipswich, 14 February

Dogs have the extraordinary ability to detect human diseases and save lives on a daily basis – but just how do they do it? Boundless members can find out by attending this members’ talk by Norma Howell from Medical Detection Dogs. Norma will delve into the charity’s vital work, from their groundbreaking research to how they train dogs to support those with life-threatening conditions. Hosted by Boundless’s Ipswich group at the Kesgrave Community Centre.

Interested in this talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings.

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Free events in the North of England

Attend an unusual food festival

Rhubarb Festival, Wakefield, 16–18 February

One of the UK’s first food festivals of the year, the Rhubarb Festival is certainly on the more unusual side, as it’s wholly devoted to Wakefield's most famous vegetable: the rhubarb (yes, it’s a vegetable!). Head to the city centre to sample (or buy) a delightful assortment of rhubarb-inspired treats, from jams and pickles to tantalising rhubarb-infused gin and freshly baked goods. To add to the rhubarb revelry, there will be lively street entertainment, chef demonstrations and kids’ activities running throughout the weekend.

Unleash your inner linguist

Looking for Languages trail, Manchester, 21 February

To celebrate International Mother Language Day on 21 February, this family-friendly trail will explore Manchester Museum’s collections through the fascinating lens of language. Discover everything from ancient scripts to contemporary tongues, learn how to write your name in hieroglyphs, and find out how the bees communicate with movement by way of the ‘bee dance’. You’ll need to reserve your spot before you visit.

Explore Britain’s seaside obsession

Our Great British Love Affair with the Seaside, Garforth, near Leeds, 21 February

Oh, we do like to be beside the seaside… but why? Boundless members can find out more at this talk, held at the Holiday Inn Leeds in Garforth. Speaker Lesley Newnham will unravel the tale behind Britain’s love affair with the seaside, and how the railways revolutionised the holiday habits of everyone from the working class to the aristocracy. All members and their guests are welcome. 

Interested in this talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings.

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Free events in Scotland & Northern Ireland

See the work of a pop art pioneer

Paolozzi at 100, Edinburgh, 27 January–21 April

Celebrating a century since the birth of Scottish pop artist Eduardo Paolozzi, this vibrant exhibition will take you on a tour through some of his best-known pieces. From his Mickey Mouse tapestry to his colourful tile designs for Tottenham Court Road tube station, you’ll discover his eclectic take on popular culture. There will even be a replica of Paolozzi’s art studio. Held at the Modern gallery in Edinburgh.

Lift your spirits

Open Mic Comedy Night, Belfast, 7 February

We know February can be rather gloomy, but this hilarious night of fresh comedy promises to be just the tonic to banish those winter blues. Head to The Deer’s Head pub in Belfast, where budding talents will eagerly take to the stage with brand-new jokes, songs and sketches. Can’t make it to this month’s event? Not to worry, as there’s a regular dose of laughter scheduled every first Wednesday of the month.

Free online events

Make some romantic treats

Boundless masterclass: Valentine’s truffle making with Jethro Carr, any time

Instead of picking up the usual selection box from the supermarket this Valentine’s Day, why not do something different and try your hand at crafting your own? If you’re not sure where to begin, we’ve got members covered with this exclusive online truffle making masterclass, available on demand. Brighton Community Kitchen chef Jethro Carr talks through the process, helping you create a gift they’ll never forget. We think it’s the perfect romantic gesture – and after all, everything tastes sweeter when it’s made with love.

Interested in this online masterclass but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings.

Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Step into the shoes of a barrister

Under the wig with William Clegg, 1 February

With experience defending over 100 murder cases, including the headline-hitting, it’s no surprise that criminal barrister William Clegg KC has a seriously compelling collection of tales up his sleeve. In this member-exclusive online event, he’ll shed light on two high-profile murders where innocent men he defended were wrongfully arrested by police, enduring months in custody before finally being cleared. Where did these cases all go wrong, and how can such mistakes be avoided in the future?

Interested in this online talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings.

Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Uncover the history of small yet powerful inventions

Nuts & Bolts – Small Inventions that Changed the World, 6 February

Best known for her work on The Shard, engineer and broadcaster Roma Agrawal zooms in on the intricate world of small yet groundbreaking innovations in this fascinating member-exclusive talk. Exploring miniature marvels like the wheel, the magnet, the spring and the lens, Roma unravels their origins and details their profound transformative impact on our world. As a special treat, we’ll be giving away five copies of Roma’s book ‘Nuts & Bolts’ at the end of the talk. 

Interested in this online talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings.

Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Discover a groundbreaking telescope

Live from NASA – the James Webb Space Telescope Mission, 22 February

Launched in 2021, the James Webb Space Telescope acts as a portal to a distant past by offering a glimpse into the formation of stars and planetary systems, surpassing the capabilities of even the renowned Hubble Telescope. In this special member-exclusive online event – live from NASA across the Atlantic – astrophysicist Matt Greenhouse will shed light on just how this incredible telescope can give us views of evolving galaxies previously beyond our reach as it scours for signs of life.

Interested in this online talk but not yet a Boundless member? Boundless membership includes free entry to top attractions and exclusive events, as well as year-round savings.

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Do more with Boundless

Boundless members get free entry to top attractions, discounts on restaurants and savings on high-street brands plus dozens of other deals on holidays, experiences and more! If you're working or retired from the public sector or civil service and not yet a member, discover more about Boundless membership here.