London is bursting with romance. The city has captivated the hearts and minds of its residents and visitors with a cinematic backdrop that has provided the perfect scenery for millions of love stories across the centuries. There are tales here of drama, attraction and intrigue with connections that endure for generations from the days of lovelorn kings and queens to the modern dating world.
Valentine’s Day provides just the encouragement one needs to witness London in love. It is home to some of the best restaurants and hotels in the world, with unmissable cultural landmarks on so many of its streets and an exquisite collection of experiential gems hidden along the way.
Here is a guide to 5 of the most incredible Valentine’s Day ideas in London.
1.Book a Spontaneous Stay in the City
There is nothing quite like a mini break in one of London’s most prestigious hotels. It allows for reset and restoration in the hands of some of the greatest hospitality providers anywhere on the planet.
For couples, that can mean making the most of transformative spa facilities before dining on culinary creations from prestigious menus set by the best chefs in the business.
Raffles London at The OWO is a brilliant heritage conversion that is a relative newcomer to the capital’s hotel scene. It effortlessly combines its own fascinating past with a grandeur matched by modern luxury. The on-site Guerlain Spa is a state-of-the-art wellness facility that is currently the envy of all of London.
Alternatively, the timeless Mayfair glamour of Claridge’s has enough Art Deco delights to steal anybody’s heart. The soft lights of February evenings are just right for a micro holiday amongst the very centre of prime luxury London.
Also Read: Romantic Hotels in London
2. View a Gallery of the Greats
Hopping from gallery to gallery across Mayfair is a wonderful way to spend the day. In the heart of London’s prestigious art market, one can wander and drift through the spaces filled with incredible objects without a strict plan.
Some of the most impressive destinations to consider in the neighbourhood would have to be:
White Cube - Mason’s Yard
Museum-level exhibitions regularly take place here in a minimal and modern setting, with Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin famously represented.
Gagosian - Grosvenor Hill
The London flagship of this global institution. Blockbuster shows from artists such as Jeff Koons, Cy Twombly and Richard Serra have all found a home here.
Pace Gallery - Hanover Square
This is a specialist space for major 20th and 21st century modern masters and cutting-edge artists.
Once your cultural appetite has been stated then a short stroll to nearby Shepherd Market is always advised. This tiny village square in the middle of London feels like a suitably romantic and hidden masterpiece to finish on.
Also Read: Private Art Galleries in London
3. Take Afternoon Tea
The ritual of Afternoon Tea in London is still recognised, celebrated and perfectly observed in a collection of excellent venues. There is something uniquely intimate and joyous about sharing the delicate selection of sandwiches, sweet treats and world-class tea selections together as a couple. The Ritz in Piccadilly has a status all of its own for this idea, with live piano music to accompany the clinking of fine China in a harmonious chorus.
A seat at the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at the nearby Fortnum & Mason flagship store presents an altogether different Afternoon Tea experience. Menus created by the suppliers to the Royal household are certain to offer the highest standards possible for this little slice of old-school English charm. And if you would like something with a little contemporary twist in your teacup, then the Mirror Room at Rosewood London in Holborn is the place to head for. This is a more creative reimagining with delicate desserts added to the fun.
Also Read: Themed Tea in London
4. A Winter Walk In Royal Surroundings
February in London is often when the green shoots of spring are slowly beginning to emerge. Although the mercury is still low and wrapping up is always advised, the brisk air on a Royal Park stroll in the late afternoon is a sheer delight.
For lovers young and old, the majestic surroundings of Holland Park are the ideal setting for a stroll and a conversation. Starting with a coffee to go from any one of the great shops on the streets of Notting Hill is a great meeting point. Entering the park and meandering through the woodland paths would be charming enough, but making the Kyoto Garden your ultimate journey’s end adds another thrill.
It delivers a landscape that feels entirely separate from the city. The architecture here is designed to promote calm, serenity and restoration with stone lanterns lining the paths and koi carp gliding through the ponds beneath a small waterfall. This is a gentle and contemplative date idea that will never go out of fashion.
Also Read: Best Places to Walk in London
5. Explore the City at Night
There is bound to be plenty of movement and activity in the capital on Valentine’s Day. The city at weekend, under a waning crescent moon, places the focus on millions of lights from the cityscape to lead the way. And a simple nighttime walk across some of the most impressive London landmarks is a soul-stirring way to spend time with your significant other.
Begin at Waterloo Bridge just as the night’s energy is waking up and stroll across the South Bank with the National Theatre, Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe as your trusty wayfinders. The river at your side will be dancing with luminous motion as the street entertainers duly perform your own personal soundtrack.
Continue on to the Millennium Bridge to marvel at the uninterrupted view of the imperious St Paul’s Cathedral before entering back into the city for a cocktail at the water’s edge. No reservations are required for this cinematic and spectacular romantic journey.
Also Read: Things to do in London at Night
Let your heart rule your head this Valentine’s Day in London.
There is so much to offer that can be accessed at a moment’s notice to provide a memorable experience in this incredible city. All you have to do is be ready to make it happen, together.
