Romantic date ideas in london

Romantic Date Ideas in London

London is an ideal location for a romantic break away and with Valentine’s just a month away and the winter blues taking a firm hold, there’s no better time to start planning a cosy trip for two. Surprising the one you love with your own apartment in the city for a couple of nights is a good start, but to really sweep them off their feet you might need a few date ideas tucked up your sleeve!

That’s why we’re arming you with a list of tried and tested romantic things to do in London to give you a little extra inspiration. This week I’ve set out to find the most romantic things to do in the city, with a little help from a few real life couples…

Take a Tour for Two at Tate Modern

A hand-in-hand walk around some of the world’s most stunning artworks is a romantic date idea in itself, but we say you can do one better.

The world renowned art gallery offer intimate Tours for Two where a Tate Guide will give you a personal tour of collection highlights. Add an afternoon tea or a champagne meal for two for an extra special date.

Tried and tested by travelling couple Mike and Luci (1000flight.com): When at the

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Fall in love at the theatre

A trip to London wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a show in one of the city’s world renowned theatres. The West End is jam packed full of beautifully presented theatres that not only offer awe-inspiring surroundings, but play host to some of the best dramatic and musical talent in the world.

But don’t forget to check out some of the lesser known theatres such as xxxx in xx and xxx in xxxx, which regularly showcase brand new and innovative works to suit all tastes. So whether it’s a glamourous night out at the opera or an evening of comedy, cosy up with your date and enjoy a bit of culture in the city.

Tried and tested by Mike and Luci: There are lots of shows that have their first success in London, so take your pick and brag to your friends back home that you were amongst the first to see the show.

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Star gaze at the Royal Observatory Planetarium

Nothing says romance like lying under the stars. Well we know it’s a bit chilly out there at this time of year so stay warm and opt for the Planetarium at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich instead.

Lie back and take a journey of the universe. Once you’ve come back down to earth continue your date with a coffee to go from one of the museums cafes and take in the stunning hilltop view of London outside.

Tried and tested by Tamara and Donny at turtles-travel.com: If you’re visiting the Observatory, make sure you save time to stand on the Meridian Line, one foot on either side, for a great feeling of empowerment!

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Take an after dark stroll down the river

A romantic lit walk along the River Thames can be truly magical, particularly along the usually busy Southbank. The area is much quieter after dark, with the last of the days’ musical buskers helping to create a dreamy atmosphere.

With some of London’s most iconic landmarks beautifully illuminated and shimmering off the surface of the river, there’s no better way to pass the time.

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Keep it secret

Make things a little more exciting and take your date to a secret location. London has loads of them, from secret rooftop gardens to hidden museums. Try your luck at the Secret Cinema – buy a ticket before you know where it is or what you’re even seeing! Or why not discover a secret bar like The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town, entering via a fridge door beneath the Spitalfields Breakfast Club.

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Indulge in a time gone by glamour

In London you’re certainly not stuck for somewhere to enjoy a romantic drink, with hundreds of chic and cosmopolitan bars dotted all over the city. If you’re a fan of Gatsby glamour, take your date back to the 1920’s at The Luggage Room cocktail bar in Grosvenor Square.

Housed in an original hotel luggage room, this intimate cocktail bar oozes elegance with smooth jazz and luxurious leather furnishings adding to the experience. A great, unique spot for a date in London.

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Discover history in London’s cemeteries

The idea of walking around a cemetery may not seem all too romantic at first but as Tamara and Donny of turtlestravel.com found on their latest visit to the capital, there is something really quite peaceful about it.

Highgate is one of London’s classic Victorian cemeteries, filled with interesting architecture, culture and history. There are guided tours on one side but the other side is open, leaving you free to wander through.

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Get a new perspective

There are so many ways to explore the city, and by foot is just one of them. For something a little different take your date on a Thames dinner cruise and combine a unique view of the skyline with a delicious meal for two.

For the more adventurous couple, take to the skies in a London helicopter tour, or slow the pace with a hot air balloon ride.

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Unwind in a top London spa

It’s not all hustle and bustle in the city, with a number of spectacular day spas ready to help you and your date relax. Enjoy fire and ice experiences in luxurious surroundings or book a couples massage for an intimate escape.

Mayfair and Chelsea in particular have a mix of truly luxurious spas with many being part of iconic London hotels who welcome non-staying guests.

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Spot wildlife in Richmond Park

Wrap up warm and show your date a more tranquil side to London at one of the cities magnificent parks. There’s nothing more romantic than a peaceful meander through the stunning Richmond Park. You can even take a hot flask and a picnic.

Keep an eye out for resident deer and other local wildlife. Perfect for crisp, cool winter dates and if you get cold you can always offer a warming cuddle.

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No need to bring flowers

Why buy her flowers when you can take her to one of the best displays of exotic flora and fauna in the world at Kew Gardens. The Royal Botanic gardens offer stunning landscapes, attractive buildings and a wide range of unusual and beautiful plants.

Visit this Valentines and be in for a treat with their Alluring Orchids exhibition – a tropical extravaganza for the senses!

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Whisper Sweet nothings

St Paul’s Cathedral is a stunning piece of architecture, breaking up the uber modern skyline of the City of London. Not only is the Cathedral a thing of beauty in itself, it offers a unique feature for those in love. The Whispering Gallery at St Paul’s allows you to whisper sweet nothings direct into your lover’s ear at the opposite end of the dome.

A wonderful idea for a surprise and secret proposal perhaps?!

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Private dining for two

After a long day wandering through London’s parks, exploring its secret gems and soaking in the atmosphere, there’s nothing better than settling into your very own city apartment and sharing a bottle of wine over a romantic meal.

Choosing a serviced apartment over a hotel will give you the freedom to cook up a storm in your own kitchen and enjoy private dining.

Earls Court Flyin Butler

There are so many opportunities to have a romantic break in London and I hope these date ideas have given you some inspiration.