Whether you’re heading to London for a romantic mini-break, or you’re a city local looking for some date ideas, we’ve got you covered. Take a look at our top romantic places – from sky high dinner dates to immersive cinema experiences, and good old fashioned picnics in the park.


DINNER WITH A VIEW

There’s nothing more romantic than dining with the gorgeous London skyline as your backdrop, and there are plenty of sky high restaurants to choose from in the city. Ting restaurant in Shangri La at the Shard is a popular choice for couples, combining Asian fusion food with spectacular views from London’s tallest building. The Duck and Waffle is another great option – this place is open 24 hours a day and has tables for two handily positioned right by the window, giving couples the very best view.


THE PERFECT PICNIC SPOT 

There are so many gorgeous parks and gardens in London where you can find a perfect picnic spot. Hyde Park, St James’ Park and Regent’s Park offer plenty of green space for you to find a secluded spot, and all within walking distance of other major attractions. If you fancy somewhere a bit different, try the Kyoto Japanese Gardens in Holland Park where you’ll find quirky rock formations, mini waterfalls and a pond filled with Koi Carp. Or, head north onto Hampstead Heath to picnic on Parliament Hill. This stunning spot is one of the highest areas in London so you’ll get amazing views over the city from here.

Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to Hyde Park.


CINEMA WITH A TWIST

Swap your usual Odeon or Cineworld visit with a trip to one of London’s more unique cinemas. There’s the Electric Cinema in Notting Hill where you can lounge on velvet double beds while you catch the latest flick – this place is one of the oldest working cinemas in London, so you’ll be in for an old school experience. There’s also the Prince Charles Theatre in Leicester Square which puts on sing-a-long and act-a-long versions of films, to make things a little more interesting. And, there’s Secret Cinema, a truly immersive film experience involving dressing up as your favourite film character and interacting with huge purpose-built film settings. If you want a date to remember – this is the one.


Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to Leicester Square.


A WALK IN THE PARK

It wouldn’t be a date without a romantic stroll (preferably hand-in-hand). Choose Columbia Road Flower Market as your setting to browse hundreds of varieties of plants and flowers in bloom, and then pick the perfect bunch for your date. Or, head west towards Warwick Avenue to explore Little Venice. This winding network of canals is a little slice of Italy in London. Stroll along the towpath spotting colourful river boats and make a pit stop at one of the canalside cafes. Perfect.


Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to Little Venice.


UNIQUE DATE IDEAS

After something a little more unconventional? Here’s our pick of the unique activities you can get involved in…

Hire a rowing boat on the Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park. 

Dine in the dark at Dans Le Noir. Eye contact is overrated anyway – pick this unique pitch-black restaurant for a date you won’t forget in a hurry.

Go stargazing at the Royal Greenwich Observatory. During summer you can sign up to special stargazing evenings where you’ll enjoy some constellation spotting with a glass of bubbly and hope that the stars align.

Play ping pong at Bounce. Challenge your date to a match – just try not to let your competitive side come out.

Climb over the roof of the O2 Centre. If you’re after an adrenaline-fuelled activity to bring you together, get strapped into a harness and climb right over the O2.

Keats House in Hampstead. Visit the home of Keats and the quaint surroundings of Hampstead Village to be inspired by the romantic poet.

Take a spin around London Town on a Big Bus tour, passing all the iconic sights and landmarks that make this beautiful city so special. Click here for London Tour Tickets.

Sorted for your romantic London visit? Why not try working your way through the whole list? To plan your full city break itinerary, click here for more sightseeing inspiration.