UK & Ireland

Your romantic weekend: Discover the best things to do in London for couples

Say no to watching movies at home and let London inspire your next romantic weekend!

In a city like London, abundant with romantic places and offering its residents activities and experiences galore that’ll make for wonderful romantic dates for couples, it’s a breeze (and fun, too!) finding inspiration for dates – whether you’re a new or seasoned couple.

If you’re thinking of romantic dinners in secret gardens or with a view, romantic walks at night, star-gazing, intimate picnics, a bonding couples massage or perhaps something a little different; axe throwing, you say? Ask London and London will provide. Keep the romance alive and your relationships nourished with our suggestions of favorite activities for couples in the city!

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1. Romantic restaurants: Feast your eyes and your tastebuds

The Secret Garden at South Place Hotel is complete with waterfalls, palm trees and vibrant botanical installations, making it an enchanting romantic escape from the city. The alluring boutique destination, which hosts cocktails and brunch, is just a stroll away from Liverpool Street Station and oozes romance.

The dimmed lighting provides an intimate ambience and its stunning floral arrangements invites couples to shake off the burdens of city life for a while and ignore the ruckus of the outside world, making it a great option for a romantic date where couples can reconnect. Begin your perfect weekend date here, with a delicious classic brunch with bubbles by South Place Chop House or retreat here for evening cocktails by Chambord, before a special romantic dinner at South Place Hotel’s Michelin-starred Angler restaurant.

2. During the day: Take the perfect picture in a lovely scenery

There’s no denying it; we are now all posters and a pretty date makes the perfect post. So take a leap out of central London for your day date and head over to Mayfield Lavendar Farm in Banstead, Surrey and get that all romantic couple shot. The colour of the lavender is sensational and the scent, uplifting, making for a chilled-out and cosy date. You’ll see butterflies galore, too, frolicking amongst the lush purple plants and bees feeding on nectar.

The farm has a café with tables outside, so you can picnic al-fresco. Try the lavender cream tea or a lavender cider. To avoid having to find parking, take the train from London Victoria, then a bus which will take you right up to the gate of the farm. The farm is also accessible to wheelchair users.

3. At night: Take a stroll after dark through London

If you’re a couple of plant parents or you simply enjoy walks through luscious scenes, a romantic date in Kew Gardens, cloaked by the intimacy of the night sky will not disappoint. The Temperate House illuminated is a sight to behold, but you’ll be mesmerised by the Secret World of Plants exhibition where the brightest colours on Earth are displayed.

In the outdoor installation, you will discover heady scents of rock roses and have the opportunity to learn more about the power and function of scent and botanical fragrances. No date is complete without food and drink. You’ll find a delicious menu of botanical cocktails and plant-based snacks along the trail or you can reserve at table for a seated dining experience amongst the trees, at the Pavillion Bar and Grill.

4. Spa for two: Indulge in ancient rituals together

For something extra special that exudes romance and intimacy, take your date on a journey through AIRE Ancient Baths located in a spectacular historical building in Covent Garden. The experience is inspired by the ancient ritual of thermal bathing in Ancient Greek, Roman and Ottoman civilizations but reimagined for the modern day. You’ll be guided through seven thermal baths at your own pace, all with different but specially optimised temperatures, to create the ultimate relaxation experience.

Guests have a delicious menu of rituals to choose from, including the exclusive Wine Ritual – you and your date can be submerged in an antioxidant rich formulation made of tempranillo grapes from Ribera del Duero region. The space, illuminated by candlelight, highlighting the brick work of the walls and the vibrant blue of the thermal pools, as well as the soothing music playing cordially, lends itself perfectly to a romantic atmosphere.

5. Unusual date ideas: Escape from the routine with different experiences

If you’re determined to leave the city behind for a romantic date, but have only the day to spare, there are some wonderful day trip options aboard the British Pullman train, including a trip to the historic city of Bath. The destination is really a side dish to the sumptuous main course that is the train journey. The restored 1920s train is known for transporting royalty and starring on the silver screen and its antique-style marquetry, vintage lighting and heritage upholstery sings of old-world romance.

You’ll depart at London Victoria and as you settle into the plush armchairs in your beautiful carriage, you’ll be served a delicious Bellini brunch. You’ll arrive at your destination with time to explore the city, its landmarks, galleries and museums. On your return to the train, you’ll be served chilled champagne and as you travel back to London, you’ll enjoy a four-course dinner with wine.

6. Fun activities: Get your game on!

Skylight at Tobacco Dock is an East London venue atop an unused multi- storey carpark and spread across three floors. It’s the perfect date destination for fun activities peppered with delicious cocktails. You can try your hand at croquet on the lawn, a game of table tennis, strike it lucky at petanque or challenge your date to a game of shuffle board–all against the backdrop of the panoramic and uninterrupted views of the London skyline.

There’s delicious street food on offer, too, for when you’ve worked up an appetite; choose from the Asian inspired menu from Hikari or American-inspired indulgences by State Side, both paired with an extensive drinks menu.