The tropical attraction near Shakespeare’s birthplace invites visitors to exchange pledges for the planet
Looking for somewhere unusual to spend Valentine’s Day during the February half-term break? Stratford Butterfly Farm—one of the Midlands’ most unique family attractions—is combining romance with rainforest for the holiday weekend.
The timing works out rather well this year, with the February half-term (14–22 February) falling directly over Valentine’s weekend. The Farm’s tropical rainforest environment, complete with waterfalls, fish-filled pools, and hundreds of free-flying butterflies, has apparently become something of a proposal hotspot in the region.
The Butterflies Are Feeling Romantic Too
It’s not just human visitors getting into the Valentine’s spirit. As daylight hours increase, the butterflies are entering their mating season, and visitors may witness their elaborate courtship rituals. Male butterflies perform aerial dances around potential mates, wafting pheromones to win them over—nature’s own version of bringing flowers and chocolates.
Marble Hearts and Environmental Pledges
The Butterfly Farm is offering visitors complimentary marble heart keepsakes (while supplies last), with a catch: recipients are asked to write a “Valentine’s promise to protect nature” in return. These environmental pledges can be displayed in the Discovery Zone, turning a romantic gesture into a commitment to conservation.
Even the resident leaf-cutter ants are getting in on the celebration. Over Valentine’s weekend, they’ll receive a feast of edible heart shapes, which they’ll carry back to their colony along the overhead ropework to fertilise the fungus that feeds their community.
What Else to See
Beyond the main butterfly flight area, visitors can explore Rainforest Realm (home to a spectacled caiman), Minibeast Metropolis with its impressive leaf-cutter ant colony, and daily educational demonstrations including Meet the Mini-Beast, Butterfly Lifecycle, and Pupae presentations at 11am throughout half-term.
Visiting Information
Stratford Butterfly Farm is open 10am–5pm daily (last entry 4pm), every day except Christmas. Located in Stratford-upon-Avon, it makes an easy addition to any Shakespeare pilgrimage or Cotswolds itinerary.
More information: butterflyfarm.co.uk | 01789 299288
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