50 London date ideas for a romantic and memorable day in the city

50 London date ideas for a romantic and memorable day in the city

Exploring London with your partner offers endless date possibilities, from vibrant nightlife to daytime adventures. Whether you're local or visiting for a romantic getaway, London's unique experiences guarantee unforgettable quality time together. This article has some great London date ideas that are perfect for rekindling connections and making lasting memories.

Happy couples having fun (L) and the Carnaby Street, London, UK (R)
There are numerous places in London to go for a date. Photo: Marco Bottigelli, Andresr (modified by author)
Source: Getty Images

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Planning the perfect date can be challenging, but with so many unique London date ideas, this guide makes it easy. From first-date ideas to anniversaries, this piece has gathered the best options to suit every couple's style, ensuring a memorable outing without the usual stress of planning.

London date ideas

Date nights in London offer couples essential time to reconnect, explore shared interests, and create lasting memories. These unique outings, from cosy experiences to thrilling adventures, spark joy and deepen bonds. Here are a few date night ideas in London for you.

Unique date ideas in London

London is a beautiful and fun place, perfect for unique date ideas that blend history, creativity, and unexpected adventures. If you are in London, you can try these date ideas.

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1. Escape room extravaganza

Escape room extravaganza is among the secret London date ideas you can try. Test your teamwork and create adrenaline-fueled memories while solving puzzles and uncovering clues.

2. Brewery tour adventure

Brewery tours make a date a delicious journey for those who taste craft. With each unique flavour in your wine glass, you'll toast to love, enjoy refreshing drinks, and a day filled with flavorful discoveries.

3. Enjoy dinner with a view at Duck & Waffle

Treat your date to dinner at Duck & Waffle. This 24-hour restaurant offers classic dishes and stunning views, perfect for an impressive date night or a memorable sunrise breakfast.

4. Crazy golf fun

Show off your putting prowess at a quirky, crazy golf course. Every hole is designed to surprise, with eccentric obstacles, lively colours, and a little competition. You will uncover a playful side of each other, making for a delightfully light-hearted date.

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5. Horseback riding in Richmond

If you are looking for a romantic date idea in London, horseback riding in Richmond would be a great way to go. Ride side-by-side, taking in the peaceful countryside as you explore natural beauty from a unique vantage point.

6. Hotpod Yoga together

Why not try a yoga session in a cosy pod, where warmth adds an extra relaxation layer? The shared mindfulness and peace will strengthen your connection, leaving you with a sense of calm and shared balance.

7. Rooftop bar with a view

For an urban romance, sip cocktails while gazing at London's sparkling skyline from a rooftop bar like Midnight Apothecary. As you watch the city glow below, the experience becomes enchanting, blending sophistication and awe.

8. Gin tasting delight

London's gin culture is vibrant, and a gin-tasting tour is an elegant way to unwind. Savour flavours, learn about distilling techniques and share this classic spirit's rich history. Each sip is a refined experience, creating a sophisticated and utterly enjoyable date.

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9. Treehouse stay

End your experience with a dreamy escape in a treehouse retreat. This serene hideaway brings a sense of adventure and intimacy, blending cosy interiors with the beauty of nature.

10. Catch a film at BFI Southbank

Although cinema dates aren't ideal for first meetings due to the darkness, film enthusiasts will appreciate BFI Southbank's selection. Afterwards, enjoy a stroll along the South Bank or relax with drinks at the cosy outdoor bar.

London first date ideas

A couple having a romantic dinner date
A romantic dinner date is perfect for a first dinner date. Photo: Ronnie Kaufman
Source: Getty Images

Finding the perfect first date idea in London can be tricky, but the city offers endless charming and fun options. Here are a few options you can choose from.

1. Enjoy London's outdoor romantic spots

Skip indoor venues and enjoy London's scenic outdoor spots. From sweeping views atop Primrose Hill to the peaceful beauty of Nunhead Cemetery, these settings offer breathtaking backdrops for unforgettable dates.

2. Explore Kew Garden's hot houses

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You can also try Kew Garden's hot houses in London for a first date. Take a romantic stroll through the gardens with tropical vibes. Enjoy a peaceful escape surrounded by rare plants and beautiful architecture.

3. Play board games at Draughts

For a relaxed date, head to Draughts café in Waterloo or Hackney, home to over 1,000 board games. Grab drinks and snacks, reserve a table, and start enjoying your date.

4. Discover a Green Oasis

Walk hand in hand through Regent's Park or take in the sunset from Primrose Hill with a picnic and some bubbly. It's a tranquil way to connect and enjoy London's natural beauty.

5. Meet the dinosaurs in Crystal Palace Park

A first date gives you a first impression of a person; therefore, you need to be in a neutral place. The Crystal Palace is a perfect place for such a date. The park includes life-sized dinosaur models set within a scenic landscape, a maze, lakes, and a concert area.

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6. Make your candles

Being artistic on the first date is one way to get to know the person you are dating. If you enjoy lighting candles and creating a cosy atmosphere, try a romantic candle-making date with Yougi Botanicals.

7. Explore London bookshops

London's bookshops create a dreamy date setting, offering cosy corners to explore and discuss unique finds together. With endless genres, relaxed atmospheres, and even coffee spots in some stores, browsing a bookshop fosters conversation and connection.

8. Play Giant Monopoly

You can play a giant Monopoly game with life-sized character figurines on a massive board. Teams face off, completing challenges and making purchases with Monopoly money. It's a fun couples' date idea that's great for groups, too.

9. Slide down the ArcelorMittal orbit

You can slide down the ArcelorMittal Orbit on a first date! This thrilling experience in London offers an adventurous way to break the ice and create unforgettable memories.

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10. Experience God's Own Junkyard

Take a photo-worthy stroll through God's Own Junkyard in Walthamstow. Explore this neon paradise of salvaged signs crafted by Chris Bracey. Don't miss the quirky Rolling Scones café nearby.

Anniversary date ideas in London

A young black couple sitting on the lake's pier with a picnic basket
You can enjoy an outdoor date night in London on your anniversary. Photo: Evgeniia Siiankovskaia (modified by author)
Source: Getty Images

Anniversaries are for making memories. There are numerous fun London date ideas, as shown below.

1. Embark on a scenic train journey

Experience luxury train travel with a meal aboard a restored Twenties steam train on your marriage or relationship anniversaries. The Belmond British Pullman offers scenic journeys with brunch, afternoon tea, or dinner, making for a uniquely romantic date with old-world charm.

2. Dive into secret cinema

A secret cinema is a beautiful idea for anniversaries. Here, guests dress up, interact with themed sets, and enjoy scenes brought to life, making them feel like they're part of the film—a fun twist on classic cinema outings.

3. Craft your rings

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If you are a couple celebrating several years in a relationship, you can opt to create unique rings in a hands-on workshop led by expert jewellery designers. It's a relaxed, fun environment ideal for couples looking to create something memorable together.

4. Visit Neon Life Drawing

For couples who want to spice up their marriage, Neon Life Drawing is the place to go for their anniversary. Participants engage in life-drawing sessions featuring vibrant, neon-coloured models in this unique event.

5. Visit an East London Lighthouse

You can explore a lighthouse featuring "Longplayer," a 1,000-year musical piece for a unique date. Climb the bell tower to enjoy scenic views of the Thames, and afterwards, visit the retro diner nearby for a classic milkshake and fries experience.

6. Dine in complete darkness

This is an excellent idea for couples who love exploring new adventures. You can experience a sensory adventure at Dans Le Noir, where dining happens in complete darkness. This unusual setting encourages guests to engage with each other without visual distractions.

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7. Make custom cocktails together At BYOC

Date night ideas in London are not dull when you have places like BYOC. You can bring a bottle of your favourite spirit and let skilled bartenders mix custom cocktails.

8. Rent a hot tub on the River Thames

Renting a hot tub on the River Thames is one of the best memories you can create. This hot tub boasts famous places for parties and hen dos, making for a romantic experience when rented privately.

9. Get hands-on with pottery

For a creative and romantic date, try a pottery class. You will learn basic techniques and craft unique ceramic pieces. It's a tactile, interactive experience where couples can create personalised mementoes, adding a touch of artistry to the date.

10. Lucky Voice Karaoke

Karaoke brings spontaneity and laughter, making it perfect for anniversary couples to celebrate freely. Why not take your date to Lucky Voice for a rockstar experience? Here, you will enjoy a private booth or dance the night away.

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11. See a classic at the Prince Charles Cinema

The Prince Charles Cinema, the sole independent theatre in the West End, is nestled just behind the lively Leicester Square. This historic venue features classic movies and musical sessions.

Double date ideas in London

Couples on a double date
You can go on a wine walk in East London for your double date. Photo: Dimensions
Source: Getty Images

London offers fantastic double-date options for any vibe you're looking for. Try these unique date ideas in London for a fun, memorable outing with friends:

1. Try a collage class together

Attending a collage class together is one of the unique date ideas in London. Express creativity in an evening collage class where you can create, cut, and paste with your partner. All skill levels are welcome, and materials, drinks, and popcorn are provided.

2. Dine aboard the London Shell Co

Savour seafood and champagne while cruising Regent's Canal on the London Shell Co. This scenic dinner offers breathtaking views, a cosy setting, and fresh British cuisine for a truly romantic evening, setting a pace for bonding and getting to know each other.

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3. Challenge each other to crazy golf

Double dates are equally beautiful if they are held over a game. With quirky courses and plenty of delicious snacks and cocktails available, it's a playful way to add a bit of competitive fun to a date.

4. Go on a wine walk in East London

For a double date with a friend, join a curated wine tour around Hackney's best spots. Visit four handpicked wine bars, enjoy welcoming chats with bar owners, and indulge in exceptional wines and snacks.

5. Discover the Bank of England Museum

The Bank of England Museum offers insights into the bank's history and economic significance. You can even view actual gold bars from there.

6. Visit Wilton's music hall

If you're looking for unique date ideas in London, Wilton's Music Hall is a standout choice, with history dating back to the 1690s. Opened initially to bring West End entertainment to East End locals, it continues to impress today with diverse acts.

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7. Visit Harry Potter spots

Explore London's iconic Harry Potter spots for a magical double date. Walk through Diagon Alley at Leadenhall Market, snap photos at Platform 9¾ in King's Cross, and visit the Warner Bros. Studio for an immersive experience.

8. Try your hand at axe throwing

Right in the heart of Oxford Circus, there's an adrenaline-pumping experience to try together at an axe-throwing studio. You'll usually team up with other guests, competing tournament-style after practice rounds.

9. Circus at the Aeronaut

Visit the unique Aeronaut pub in East London for a dazzling circus night. With comedy, fun games, and jaw-dropping circus acts, it's an unforgettable evening.

Cheap date ideas in London

Happy couple visiting city farm
City farm exploration is one of the cheap date ideas. Photo: Anastasiia Shavshyna
Source: Getty Images

London has few options for close-to-free date areas where you can still have fun with your date. Here are a few options you can consider.

1. Go stargazing at Greenwich Observatory

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You can skip the light-polluted skies by heading to Greenwich's Planetarium. The Sky Tonight Live sessions offer an immersive, close-up look at the stars, creating a magical evening for couples who want a celestial experience.

2. Window shop at Leadenhall market

One of London's favourite free date activities is window shopping in lively markets. Leadenhall Market is a top choice; it's open 24 hours, but shop hours vary, so check beforehand.

3. Tour the Barbican's architecture

If you are adventurous, you can dive into the Barbican's Brutalist beauty with a guided architecture tour. Discover hidden features while exploring the building's unique structure with your date.

4. City farms exploration

For animal lovers, visiting city farms offers an adorable date. Feed the goats, laugh at the antics of friendly sheep, or enjoy the simplicity of the surroundings. Sharing these joyful moments brings a refreshing innocence, making the day full of warmth and fun.

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5. Indulge in afternoon tea at Sketch

If you want a cheap date idea in London, an afternoon tea at Sketch is excellent. Sketch's luxurious setting combines pink velvet, witty artwork, and a delicious spread of cakes, scones, and finger sandwiches.

6. Skate, dine, and bowl at Queens

Queens in West London has it all—bowling, skating, curling, and more. Stop by the photo booth, try beer pong, and grab a MeatLiquor burger for a memorable date night.

7. Browse Maltby street market

For cheap date ideas, enjoy delicious street food at Maltby Street Market. From artisanal sandwiches to gourmet gyoza, it's a feast for foodies. End the visit with a drink at a nearby taproom or gin bar for a complete culinary experience.

8. Try wildlife drawing

In a life-drawing class, you can discover artistic talents while sketching real animals and meeting creatures like micropigs, owls, and guinea pigs. Participants can also learn about wildlife conservation, adding an educational twist to this creative experience.

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9. Walk through the park

You will be amazed by the abundance of green spaces in London, especially the Royal Parks. In South West London, Richmond Park is vast for cycling, alongside Tooting and Clapham Commons for picnics.

10. Doodle on the walls at Doodle Bar

Scribble on the walls at Bermondsey's Doodle Bar to unleash your creativity. With ping-pong tables and tasty burgers, it's a casual date spot where art and fun collide.

What is a fun daytime date in London?

In the daytime, you can explore Borough Market's food stalls, then stroll the South Bank for riverside views, street performers, and iconic London landmarks.

What are some great date night restaurants in London?

For a memorable date night in London, try cosy bistros, rooftop views, or candlelit spots like Duck & Waffle or Sketch.

With so many unique London date ideas, planning memorable outings has always been challenging. From relaxed afternoons to exciting adventures, London offers experiences for every couple. Enjoy quality time together, exploring the city's endless romantic possibilities, and creating unforgettable memories that make every date something special.

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Authors:
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Peris Wamangu (Lifestyle writer) Peris Wamangu is a reporter with more than four years of experience as a content writer. Peris joined Yen in 2024. Before that, she worked with Legit's team from 2021 to 2024. Peris graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Nairobi in 2019. She enjoys writing about various topics such as fashion, currency, biographies, entertainment and business. In 2023, Peris finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. Email: wamanguperis@gmail.com