Discover the best couple’s date ideas in London, from spectacular Michelin-starred dining to romantic walks in the city. Read more here.
The Best Couple Activities in London
When thinking of the world’s most romantic cities, Paris, Venice or Bruges may spring to mind, but with its winding river, classic architecture, abundance of green space and plethora of restaurants and bars, London is not to be dismissed as a romantic destination. Whether you’re a resident, visiting the capital for a staycation weekend or even just for the day, there are plenty of romantic activities in London to make your time as a couple truly special. From daytime strolls around the iconic sights of the city to an intimate dinner in the Michelin-starred Ritz Restaurant, we have a whole host of charming recommendations on how to spend time in London with the one you love.
Daytime Date Ideas in London
Whilst dates are usually reserved for the evening, a couple’s day out in London can be equally as romantic if you choose a beautiful location and captivating activity. Here are a few of our daytime date suggestions.
Lose yourselves in beautiful art
Many of history’s greatest love stories have been immortalised by artists from around the globe and several now reside in London’s museums and galleries. Wander through the Victoria and Albert museum’s sculpture hall and marvel at the delicate works of Rodin, Bernini and Michelangelo. If it’s contemporary art that sets your heart alight, Tate Modern houses an impressive permanent collection featuring photography, paintings, sculptures and multi-media exhibits from the past century, as well as special artist commissions in their famous Turbine Hall. Alternatively, for an artistic day out where the location is as romantic as the artworks, head over to The Wallace Collection, a historic townhouse a short stroll away from The Ritz. Home to Fragonard’s ‘The Swing’, it’s easy to lose yourselves in the attractive ensemble of works.
An afternoon at The Ritz
Light and delicious pastries and scones, lashings of cream and jam, expertly brewed tea and naturally a glass of Champagne or two, afternoon tea at The Ritz is an ideal daytime date activity for those looking for a sweet treat. With our resident pianist setting the tone and shimmering chandeliers illuminating your surroundings, there’s no more elegant a setting to indulge in the dainty and delightful creations from The Ritz Pastry Kitchen. What’s more, dining at The Ritz is the perfect excuse to put on your most elegant outfit to look your best for your partner.
Take a meaningful meander
London has plenty of iconic sights on its skyline, with Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye and more recently the Shard creating the instantly recognisable landscape of the city. A relaxing stroll along Southbank is the perfect place to spot many of these famous sights, as well as take in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Expect street performances, food markets and many cafés and bars for a much-needed cosy pit-stop. If you time your afternoon stroll just right the golden sunset reflecting on the river makes for a stunning photo opportunity to capture your date.
A trip down rose-scented streets
The most iconic symbol of romance must be a blooming bouquet of red roses, so why not take a trip to one of London’s flower markets to handpick a fresh bouquet for your special someone. Columbia Road is arguably London’s most legendary flower market with seasonal blooms lining the street every Sunday from 8am. Whilst you’re there, try one of the many independent cafés for a coffee and a croissant or perhaps some oysters and a Bloody Mary to start the day with a pep in your step. Some other of London’s prettiest flower markets include Berwick Street in Soho, New Covent Garden, Borough Market and Chiswick Market, so no matter whereabouts in London you find yourselves you’re never too far from the sweet scent of fresh flowers.
Find your zen
The bustling streets of London may not immediately suggest a relaxing day out, however a tranquil escape is closer than you might think. Luckily London is home to a wide range of spas for a truly relaxing daytime date. There’s nothing quite like a couple’s hot stone massage or mud facial to bring you closer together and relieve any tension. Finish the day with a glass of Champagne or perhaps a green juice to continue the detox.
Date Night Ideas in London
Once the sun sets, a whole new realm of date activities in London open up. A door that you would walk straight past at 11am is suddenly a portal to a hidden speakeasy come nightfall, the lights of the West End glow invitingly and now that the morning espressos are finished, it’s time for an espresso martini. Here are a few of our date night ideas in London for a special evening to remember:
A table for two in The Rivoli Bar
Any good date starts with cocktails and there’s no more romantic a setting for them than the intimate, golden cocoon of The Rivoli Bar. Perfectly located on Piccadilly, your next destination in central London is never far away, leaving you to focus your attention on your partner rather than Citymapper. When it comes to the cocktails themselves, our Rivoli Bar team is on hand to mix up whatever your heart desires, be it a classic or a creation. If you would rather keep things simple, The Rivoli Bar has an envious Champagne selection, which can be paired with Royal Belgian caviar if you’re really looking to treat that special someone.
The best seats in the house
The West End alone is home to almost 50 theatres, with plenty more across the city as a whole. Londoners are spoiled for choice when choosing the destination of their next theatre date, yet securing tickets for the most lucrative of shows is no easy task. For Ritz resident guests our Concierge team pride themselves on finding the best seats in the house, but if you’re just in town for the day we recommend booking in advance to avoid a disappointing date night. Tickets in hand, the feeling of the house lights dimming and the curtain rising is certainly something special, especially when shared with a loved one. Romantic shows such as the dramatic Phantom of the Opera, the upbeat Mamma Mia or the iconic Romeo & Juliet await for an evening escape in Theatreland.
Bask in the bright lights
Whilst it may not be possible to stargaze, admiring the dazzling lights of the city skyline is a romantic way to bring your date night in London to a close. Whether you find a rooftop bar, take a night-time stroll through Green Park, up to Primrose Hill or around Kensington Gardens, taking in the iconic views of London, made all the more magical during the evening is sure to create some wonderful memories.
Spectacular Romantic Dining in London
Finally, to pull out all the stops, a Michelin-starred dinner in The Ritz Restaurant is arguably the most romantic date activity in London. Dressed in your finest suit or dress, see your partner in their best light, flattered by the gentle blush of the peach-hued dining room, as lights from the elegant chandeliers dance around the ceiling and the golden statue adds a subtle glow to your surroundings. It’s unsurprising that The Ritz Restaurant is widely known as one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the world.
Having taken in your surroundings, it’s time for the main event to begin. For a truly indulgent romantic dinner, opt for the seven-course Epicurean Journey, which showcases the Escoffier-inspired menu to its fullest. Changing with the seasons, the dishes created by Executive Chef, John Williams MBE and his brigade of Chefs take you through the finest preparations of sustainably sourced ingredients, from Cornish Turbot to Anjou Pigeon à La Presse and everything in between. Of course, dining at The Ritz is an occasion to remember with the tableside service adding a touch of theatre to your meal, be it the carving of a Beef Wellington to share or perhaps a dramatic flambé of the iconic Crêpes Suzette.
The final flourish to a romantic evening in The Ritz Restaurant is the live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights for ‘Live at The Ritz’. Live performances from the London Dance Orchestra are accompanied by a production by professional dancers, before you are able to put on your dancing shoes and dance the night away under the glittering chandeliers. The combination of a Michelin-starred menu, fine wines, unparalleled surroundings and ambiance, not forgetting exquisite company, is sure to be a date for the books.
With that our guide to romantic things to do in London for couples is complete. Whether you’re planning a trip to London for Valentine’s Day, a special anniversary or simply a weekend away we hope to welcome you and your partner to The Ritz for a truly magical date.