There is something magical about Valentine’s Day in London. Whether you gravitate toward candlelit dinners, scenic strolls or something a bit quirkier, there are countless ways to celebrate love in the city. There is a romantic experience for every couple — from rooftop views to secret gardens, intimate jazz clubs to indulgent afternoon teas. 

Whether it’s your first Valentine’s together or an annual tradition, here are 15 ideas to have the ultimate date. So put on your warm clothes, light the fire, and prepare to fall in love with London — and each other — all over again. Here’s how to turn it into an unforgettable event.

1. Take a Sunset Cruise on the Thames

There are few things as romantic as gliding along the Thames at sunset, watching London’s skyline shimmer in the twilight. Climb aboard a luxury river cruise, sip champagne and take in views of landmarks like Tower Bridge and the London Eye as they sparkle on the water. 

For added romance, choose a dinner cruise with candlelit tables, gourmet dining and live jazz. As the vessel drifts along, you’ll have quality time to bask in each other’s company as the city dances around you. Whether it’s their first Valentine’s or one of many, this experience feels extra special.

2. Share a Cosy Afternoon Tea for Two

Valentine’s Day is the ideal reason to indulge — and is there any better way than with a lavish afternoon tea? The Ritz is the epitome of timeless glamour and Sketch’s whimsical pink-hued tea room is quirky charm personified. From dainty finger sandwiches to rich pastries and bottomless pours of tea (or bubbly), it’s a snack made for two. 

For something more intimate, The Zetter Townhouse has a cosy, candlelit atmosphere with plush sofas and vintage interiors. It’s an intimate practice, a meditative one, the best way to slow down, take in that which is around you, to share the moment with someone else — because love is like a good cup of tea: it should be savoured.

3. Stroll Through Kew Gardens by Moonlight

Dress up warm in a cuddly coat and wander hand-in-hand at Kew Gardens’ magical after-dark experience. Special evening openings around Valentine’s Day allow you to meander among glasshouses bursting with exotic blooms, murmur under ancient trees and get lost in paths lit with a gentle glow. The Palm House with its steamy, tropical vibes is especially enchanting on a chilly February night. Stop at one of the garden cafés for a warming hot chocolate or cup of mulled wine and allow the tranquil setting to work its charms. It’s a dreamy diversion from the city — you, your partner and nature’s silent romance.

4. Enjoy a Rooftop Dinner with a View

For a date that feels like it jumped off a movie screen or a book page, book a table at one of London’s sky-high restaurants. Aqua Shard boasts near-panoramic vistas of the glittering city below, while Duck & Waffle serves luxurious late-night snacks from the 40th floor. For a more intimate affair, Seabird’s flickering terrace and oyster platters provide the seductive backdrop. 

For a slightly more secluded option, Aviary’s rooftop igloos provide a private dining experience with a 360-degree view of the city. And there’s something about being high above the city with cocktails and your favourite person next to you that makes Valentine’s Day feel above average.

5. Watch a Classic Film at an Independent Cinema

Forget about the multiplex, go for an old-school movie date instead. For the ultimate cosy experience, the Electric Cinema in Notting Hill has plush armchairs, footstools and even beds. Or head to Everyman Cinema, where you snuggle up on a velvet sofa with gourmet snacks and a bottle of wine. 

The BFI Southbank does a good line in old Hollywood glamour, screening the likes of Casablanca or Breakfast at Tiffany’s romantic classics. There’s something irresistibly romantic about tucking into a tub of popcorn, whispering comments into the dark and losing ourselves in a love story on a big screen.

6. Get Lost in a Hidden Cocktail Bar

Some of London’s best cocktails are served behind unmarked doors. Walk through a Smeg fridge at The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town, or whisper the password at Evans & Peel Detective Agency for an immersive speakeasy-style experience. These hushed hideaways are designed for romance — shadowy nooks, ambient jazz and drinks made like little masterpieces. 

For a sultry vibe, try Nightjar, modeled after a 1920s speakeasy, or go to Cahoots, a cheeky, wartime-themed bar where martinis arrive in vintage tins. Having a secret place together, out of sight of the crowds, is an extra thrill for the evening — just as a secret love.

7. Take a Romantic Ride on the London Eye

It’s touristy, yes, but there is something undeniably special about gliding above London alone in your own private capsule. Book a champagne experience, and, as the city sprawls below you, make a toast and share a moment just for the two of you. Sunset is the most dreamy time to visit, when the sky goes pink and gold over Big Ben and St Paul’s. For even more exclusivity, choose the Cupid’s Capsule package and enjoy chocolates, a personal host and a longer ride — ideal for popping the question or just celebrating love from a higher perspective.

8. Wander Through Little Venice

For a more intimate, quieter way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, take a walk along the canals at Little Venice. This delightful corner of London — known for its narrowboats, waterside cafés and quiet walkways — seems a world away from the city’s bustle. Grab a coffee at The Waterside Café, before continuing along the scenic towpath toward Regent’s Park. 

For the adventurous, take a canal boat to Camden Market for the scenic route. The pace, the soft lap of the water, the tucked-away beauty of the canals, this is a beautifully romantic way to while away the day.

9. Dine in a Candlelit Cave at Gordon’s Wine Bar

There’s romance, and there’s Gordon’s Wine Bar romance. With their flickering candlelight and cavernous vintage décor, London’s oldest wine bar is for whispery chats while sharing a bottle of something sumptuous and silky. Pick a deep red for a generous cheese board, and cosy in for a night that could’ve been ripped right out of a Parisian love story. 

The low ceilings and candlelit tables create the sensation of a secret hideaway — a place where time slows, and the only thing that matters is the person sitting opposite you. It is a classic London date night, but with a hint of old-world charm.

10. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride Through Richmond Park

For a fairytale-like Valentine’s Day, a ride in a horse-drawn carriage through Richmond Park is as enchanted as it comes. Cuddle under a blanket as you waft past gnarled oaks, open fields and (if you’re lucky) herds of a majestic deer. The clear February air and the light clip-clop of hooves create the sense that you’ve entered a romantic period drama. 

You can also fill a thermos with hot chocolate or champagne to toast to the moment. Whether it’s a grand gesture or simply a unique way to spend the day, it’s an experience neither of you will forget.

11. Visit a Late-Night Museum Exhibition

There is an entire level of romance to visiting a museum after hours. The Natural History Museum, however, throws special late-night occasions where you can stroll through the lofty halls and dinosaur skeletons with a glass of wine. The V&A offers intimate evening exhibitions that combine art, music and storytelling within a beautifully atmospheric location. 

For something really special, plan a candlelit visit to Sir John Soane’s Museum — a quirky townhouse treasury that you’ll feel is from another world. Wandering together through darkened galleries, far from the crowds, makes an unexpectedly close date night.

12. Escape to a Luxury Spa for the Day

Valentine’s Day is a great reason to take a break and truly relax. Indulge with a couples’ spa day at a luxury retreat such as ESPA Life at Corinthia or the Bulgari Spa, where soothing pools, steam rooms, and candlelit treatment rooms await. Choose a side-by-side massage, then slip into a hot tub with a glass of champagne. 

For something a little more out of the ordinary, AIRE Ancient Baths provides a dreamy, candlelit thermal bath experience modelled after those of ancient Roman customs. It’s that kind of day of pure bliss — just you two, fully unplugged from the world.

13. Get Competitive at a Retro Games Arcade

For couples who enjoy a little playful competition, a retro games arcade is a surprisingly great Valentine’s date. Or head to Four Quarters in Peckham, or Electric Gamebox for retro classics such as Pac-Man, pinball and air hockey. The claw machine is one of those dates where nothing says romance ever like winning your partner a stuffed toy — or letting them win, if you’re in a generous mood. 

Get a few cocktails, order a bowl of fries to share and revel in the lightheartedness of it all. Sometimes the best dates make you laugh, allow you to act a little goofy and remind you why you fell in love in the first place.

14. Have a Private Dining Experience in an Igloo

London’s dining scene has brought romance to another level with private igloo-style domes that have intimate, panoramic views of the city. Book one at Coppa Club, where you can eat under twinkling fairy lights with the Thames as your backdrop. Or head to Skylight for a rooftop experience with blankets, heaters and wintery cocktails to keep you toasty. 

These glass-domed hideaways provide the perfect compromise — an outdoorsy vibe with the cosiness and intimacy of an exclusive dining room. It’s an indelible way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, encircled by the city’s lights but cocooned in your universe.

15. End the Night with a Stay in a Romantic London Home

After a day of exploring, indulging and romance, why not end the day somewhere special? Skip the whole stay-at-home thing and book a cute London townhouse or stylish pad with Veeve. Be it chic getaway in Notting Hill, or a snug bolthole in Covent Garden, having your own place to relax makes all the difference. 

Cook up a late-night meal together, pop a bottle of wine, or simply get cosy on the sofa and relive the magic of the day. Because the best Valentine’s memories are not just about where you go — they’re about a good place to come back to.

Looking for a romantic place to stay in London? Choose Veeve

This Valentine’s Day redeem yourself by staying at a beautifully curated London home with Veeve. Whether you’re in search of a romantic hideaway or swish city pad, Veeve has unique stays that transform a celebratory day into an unforgettable getaway. Browse our selection, making your romantic trip easy to find.