10 Fantastic February Events in Staffordshire

Witness the first signs of Spring, indulge in a romantic meal, and set sail for a swashbuckling adventure in Staffordshire this February!

Here are 10 fantastic February events to enjoy this month.

1. Super Power Weekend, Churnet Valley Railway

For one weekend only, the unique spectacle of THREE working S160s steam trains will be on show at Churnet Valley Railway, demonstrating all their American Muscle!

On February 1st and 2nd, S160 no. 2253, no. 5197 and no. 6046 will be taking their place for this one-off opportunity to see three operational S160s in one place – a first for the UK and only the second time within Preservation globally!

A single eight coach rake will be in operation all weekend, with each trip featuring a different combination of the three locomotives, before the fourth and final trip sees all three combine for a triple headed journey.

And each morning, you can witness what it takes to bring a steam locomotive to life first-hand. 

See the first fires burn bright in the locomotives' bellies, hear the hiss of steam and smell the coal as these beasts are woken from their slumber. 

All monies raised will go towards the “Reconnect Leek” project, which aims to return trains to the Moorlands' biggest market town for the first time since 1970.

2. Candlemas Carol Service, Lichfield Cathedral

If you're pining for Christmas as it disappears into the dim and distant past, the Candlemas Carol Service at Lichfield Cathedral on February 2nd makes a lovely festive evening out.

Turn the clock back a few weeks for The Feast of Candlemas, which concludes the 40 days of Christmas.

Candlemas signals the real end to the festivities, celebrating Jesus' arrival and what would lie ahead on his journey.

Squeeze out one last bit of Christmas cheer, with the help of the Cathedral Choir.

3. Thomas & Friends February Half-Term, Drayton Manor Park

You're guaranteed an unforgettable half-term at Drayton Manor Park this year!

Europe's only Thomas Land will be opening again for February half-term, returning with a bang thanks to a packed programme of live shows on Knapford Station featuring all your Thomas & Friends favourites.

The rides and attractions of Thomas Land will all be whirring back into life, alongside the family thrills in the theme park, while the zoo has exotic species from across the world and fascinating keeper talks on the daily lives of tigers, meerkats and more.

Thomas & Friends February Half-Term opens on selected dates from 8th-23rd February, including every day of half-term week.

4. Paws for Remembrance, National Memorial Arboretum

Breathe in the fresh air with your faithful friend and raise funds for a worthy cause at the National Memorial Arboretum's Paws for Remembrance.

The annual dog-walking event, on Sunday 9th February, combines the canine shopping heaven of Happy Hounds High Street - a collection of doggy treat stalls in Heroes Square - with expert advice and health checks from the PDSA.

Admission is free, but there is a suggested donation of £5, which the NMA - a registered charity - ploughs straight back into looking after and developing the grounds.

After you've shopped til you dropped, grab a bite in the award-winning restaurant, and then explore the thought-provoking memorials, go nature-spotting in the sprawling surroundings, and patrol the dog-friendly pathways.

5. Pirate & Princess Takeover, Alton Towers

Fans of pirates and princesses will be in their element at Alton Towers Resort this February half-term.

Short break guests can enjoy swashbuckling adventures, fancy dress fun, and more from 14th-23rd February.

Explore the Sharkbait Reef by SEA LIFE, make a splash in the waterpark, and take on the nine holes of Extraordinary Golf, before the spectacular evening's entertainment.

Choose from the High Sea and Hijinx live shows, with the Pirates of Mutiny Bay, enjoy the interactive game show and fantabulous party of Pirates vs Princesses, or learn new skills and how to become a princess at the Pirate & Princess Takeover.

The ultimate half-term escape!

6. A Romantic Getaway for Food Lovers, Goldstone Hall

Goldstone Hall Hotel & Gardens offers the perfect food lovers’ romantic mini break, boasting one of the largest and most productive hotel kitchen gardens in the U.K., with the best of seasonally grown, preserved and locally sourced produce.

Enjoy a thoroughly indulgent and romantic long weekend including a candle lit 8 Course St Valentines’ Day tasting menu with options for all food lovers, whether meat eating, vegetarian or vegan.

Additionally chose from a large selection of award winning fizz, fine wines & other drinks, plus expert advice on pairing.

To enquire, or make a booking, or for any further information, please contact them on 01630 661202, email enquiries@goldstonehall.com or visit the website www.goldstonehall.com

7. Valentine's Dine & Stay, Weston Park

For a truly indulgent Valentines Day 2020, look no further than Weston Park and their special Dine & Stay event on Friday 14th February.

You and your special someone could spend the night at the magnificent 17th Century stately homes, in one of the luxurious bedrooms, rounding off an unforgettable day which begins with a drinks reception followed by a sumptuous five-course tasting menu.

Before your memorable evening, an intimate stroll in wonderful parkland awaits, full of Capability Brown inspiration to discover all by yourself - it's closed to members of the public on the 14th. 

If your appetite doesn't quite stretch to five courses, you could try the Valentines Afternoon Tea on 15th February, with delicate sandwiches, scones and sweets, washed down with a glass of fizz.

8. Lamb Week, Lower Drayton Farm

Head down to Penkridge’s Lower Drayton Farm during February half term for a fun family day out on the farm!

From the 15th-23rd February, you can bottle feed cute lambs, meet guinea pigs & rabbits, see rare breed cattle, goats & sheep, hop on Farmer Ray’s trailer ride, follow the fun ‘sheepy’ quiz trail and bounce till you drop on the inflatable play area.

You’ll also get a sneak peek at the farm’s new playbarn as it takes shape, and with the event all taking place under cover, even wintery weather won’t stop the fun!

Advance online booking essential to guarantee lamb feeding experience - https://lowerdraytonfarm.co.uk/lamb-week/

9. Snow Princess Day, Museum of Cannock Chase

There's a magical half term adventure in store at the Museum of Cannock Chase this month - 19th February is Snow Princess Day!

Join Olaf in the forest for a snow and ice tea party and have your picture taken with him. Dress up as your favourite princess or other character and enjoy themed food, party games and songs.

There are three tea parties on the day, at 11am, 12.30pm and 2pm, and places are limited so book in advance to avoid disappointment. Call 01543 877666 to book.

Running alongside the tea parties will be a day of freezing arts and crafts, which is open to all - there is no need to book.

Why not make your own marshmallow snowman, before discovering Cannock Chase's fascinating history in the museum's exhibits, or taking a stroll into the deep dark wood in the hunt for The Gruffalo?

10. Gourmet Evening, World of Wedgwood

Bringing the month to a delicious close is the Gourmet Evening at World of Wedgwood on 29th February.

The elegant Wedgwood Tea Room will be your backdrop for an exquisite seven course experience, featuring mouth-watering indulgences like seared Dovedale trout and fillet of venison.

Each course will be matched with a specially selected wine.

An alternative, vegan menu will also be available on the night.

Also in February, the Hand and Footprinting Sessions (15th-23rd February) give younger visitors the chance to put their stamp on Wedgwood china, which will then be fired to create a wonderful souvenir.

More events in Staffordshire

There are more than 60 events to choose from in Staffordshire this February. Find out all you need to know in our What's On section.