Whether you are looking for a classic date or a date with a difference, there’s something for everyone in London. From a quiet drink in a local pub to a night out on the town, there are plenty of options for date night in London.
If you’re stuck for inspiration, take a look through our list covering everything from low-key outdoor fun to high-end restaurants, and find the perfect way to spend time with your date.
A Romantic Picnic in the Park
For a classic date with a twist, pack a romantic picnic and head to one of London‘s stunning parks. Hyde Park, Richmond Park and Greenwich Park are all great options, and if the weather is good, you can even enjoy a spot of sunbathing while you’re there.
If you want to make things extra special, try booking a picnic hamper in advance from one of London’s many luxury food providers. This way, you can just sit back, relax and enjoy each other’s company without having to worry about preparing food.
Table for Two at an Intimate Wine Bar
Sometimes, all you need for a great date is a good bottle of wine and some quality time with your partner. London has no shortage of intimate wine bars, where you can cosy up with a glass or two of your favourite tipple.
If you’re not sure where to start, our pick of the best wine bars in London should give you some inspiration.
Cave Cuvee, Bethnal Green – This cosy subterranean bar is the perfect place to unwind with your date. Its dim lighting and intimate setting make it the perfect spot for a romantic evening.
Bottles Wine Bar, Spitalfields – an ultra-relaxed wine bar offering exposed brick walls, brass accents, and more reclaimed fruit crates than you can shake a stick at. The menu offers a range of delightful Italian wines from small farms and independent producers – so you’re likely to sample something you’ve never had before.
Sager + Wilde, Hackney – This stylish wine bar and restaurant serves up some of the best natural wines in London, alongside a menu of seasonal small plates. The perfect place for a long, leisurely dinner date.
Throw the dice
If you are one of the millions of people who play online live casino games like those on Virgin Games and are ready to step out and get your hands on some real dice, here are some options for you.
Maxim’s Casino – You’ll be expected to roll out in your best dress and tuxedo to get into Maxim’s Casino. And you’ll need to snag a membership too. But once you do, you are in for a treat. There are private rooms, three card poker, American roulette, and blackjack. Maxim’s is designed with luxury and etiquette in mind, and the bar and restaurant offer fine dining and a huge selection of whiskey.
Crockfords – The private suites at Crockford will leave you feeling more than a little opulent – what’s more is the rooms are stocked with free caviar, lobster, and Krug. This place is packed with high-rollers who like the finer things in life, and part of that is because this place is dripping in London history. They are a members-only club, too, so grab a membership before you turn up.
The London Hippodrome – The huge space is sprawled over five floors and has a jazzy, relaxed space on the ground floor with the feel of a speakeasy. But if you’re looking for a high-roller feel, head to the top floor of The Gods. You can check out some of the live entertainment in between table games.
Indulge in London’s Artistic Side
London is home to some of the world’s finest art galleries, making it the perfect place to enjoy a cultural date. There’s something for everyone, from world-renowned museums like the Tate Modern to smaller, more intimate galleries featuring work by local artists.
And if you really want to impress your date, why not try a spot of art appreciation? Our guide to the best art galleries in London should give you some inspiration.
Hayward Gallery – This iconic gallery on the Southbank is home to a range of contemporary art exhibitions, making it the perfect place to explore something new with your date. This gallery seeks out the most innovative and challenging contemporary artists, so you’re guaranteed to see something you’ve never seen before.
Saatchi Gallery – A huge 70,000-square-foot exhibition space, the Saatchi Gallery is devoted to contemporary art. With free admission and a constantly changing line-up of exhibitions, it’s the perfect place to explore with your date. If you want to get a bit more hands-on, there are also plenty of opportunities to take part in workshops and other events.
Wildcard
Picnics, wine, and art galleries aren’t for everyone. If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, why not try some of the more unusual experiences London has to offer?
Bounce – A night of ping-pong, pizza, and beer. What’s not to love? This unique date idea is perfect for couples who are looking for something a bit different.
Brunch on a barge – Darcie & May Green by Paddington Green are a pair of traditional barges that have been vibrantly painted by pop artist, Sir Peter Blake. Book a table for Aussie brunch and enjoy stunning views of the canal as you sip some of London’s best flat whites.
Eat in the Dark – Dans Le Noir is an experience like no other, with a price tag to match. But a night at Dans Le Noir will be unforgettable. You and your date will be served a three-course meal in complete darkness. It’s an experience that challenges all your senses, and one you’re sure to talk about long after the date is over.
London is a city full of endless possibilities, so there’s no excuse not to try something new. With so many different ideas to choose from, you’re sure to find something that’s perfect for you and your date.
