Whether you’re all loved up waiting to surprise your partner or single and ready to mingle, London is the perfect place to be on Valentine’s Day. The city doesn’t discriminate neither on relationship status nor preference so let London be your playground to enjoy V-day whatever you choose to do. Those who want romance have plenty on offer so we’ve put together a guide of the best things to do in the city on Friday 14th February, 2020.
When Valentine’s Day in 2020?
Table of Contents
In 2020 Valentine’s Day falls on Friday, 14th February.
Is London romantic?
Yes, London is one of the most romantic cities in the world. The wonderful architecture and the steady bustle of London make it one of the most charming places to spend some romantic moments with your beloved.
What to do on Valentine’s Day in London?
- Visit a romantic place in London;
- Book dinner in a romantic restaurant in London;
- Surprise your loved one with a nice gift;
- Book a romantic get-away in a nice hotel.
What to do on Valentine’s Day in London when you’re single?
- Visit a cool restaurant in the city;
- Book a baking class with a friend;
- Treat yourself to something nice;
- Book a get-away with a friend in a nice hotel.
Romantic places to visit on Valentine’s Day
Few cities have seen as many love stories as London. Its centuries-old buildings and pathways hide hundreds of special places, each of them playing their own roles in the lives of couples for generations – here’s some to inspire your Valentine’s Day this year.
Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill, on the north side of Regent’s Park, commands one of the most iconic views over London – and certainly one of the most romantic. It’s a popular picnic and kite-flying spot, so for more peace and quiet aim for an early morning sunrise stroll before the crowds set in. The surrounding area of the same name is just as attractive as the celebrities who frequent at the gastropubs and quaint cafés along Regent’s Park Road and Gloucester Avenue.
Little Venice
This little-known spot close to Paddington station is notable for its tranquil waterside feel and relaxed atmosphere. Take a romantic stroll along the banks of the canal and admire its lovely barges and bridges along the way. You can also stop for a quiet glass of wine in one of its many pubs. There’s no doubt that this stretch of Grand Canal in north west London embodies peace and romance, making it one of the most romantic places in London. A boat ride through the Grand Canal is by far one of the most romantic things to do in London. Far away from the city, the colourful houseboats on the tranquil waterways make a visit to this place a delight in itself. Stop by at the Blomfield Road and the Brownings Pool as they are a few of the best spots here.
The Emirate’s Airline
There’s simply something magical about looking down and thinking about all the families living out their lives together. If you love that feeling too, make sure you take your partner on the Emirates Air Line to see the best of London from above. See Greenwich, Canary Wharf and the O2 Arena from a whole new perspective and relax together as you sail above the city.
Romantic restaurants in London for couples
Someone special to impress? Discover the best romantic restaurants in London to help you set the scene.
Pavilion Grill Restaurant, St John’s Wood
As part of Danubius Hotel Regent’s Park, The Pavilion Grill offers an exclusive and sophisticated option for dinner or afternoon tea. The seasonal menus are built around quality, locally produced British ingredients carefully chosen by the experienced Head Chef. You can enjoy the delicious canon of lamb with onion purée, asparagus, puffed rice salad and mint jus or try the cod fillet, served with curly kale, Japanese curry and potato trimmings.
The Ivy, St John’s Wood
Located in the heart of St John’s Wood, The Ivy Brasserie is an exciting addition to the sophisticated North London neighbourhood: a relaxed yet stylish dining experience offering an accessible all-day menu in a friendly, neighbourly environment. They always keep a number of tables unreserved throughout the day, allowing you to sample their range of café-style menus at your leisure from breakfast until late, or you can simply pop in for a drink and some nibbles – zucchini fritti and truffle arancini are amongst the favourites. Open seven days a week, The Ivy St John’s Wood includes outdoor Parisian style street seating, and brings some of the familiarity and charm of The Ivy brand to the already fashionable St John’s Wood.
Paternoster Chop House, St Paul’s Cathedral
Paternoster Chop House is more commonly known as the First Dates restaurant, on Channel 4’s smash hit programme. It is located right underneath St Paul’s Cathedral, with a spacious terrace ideal for al fresco lunches and a cosy bar for after-work drinks. Make the most of fine days on the terrace with the backdrop of St.Paul’s Cathedral or soak up the atmosphere in the Paternoster Chop House’s bustling restaurant & vibrant bar, while enjoying dishes created by Head Chef El-Shazly El Shazly. Enjoy larger sharing cuts cooked on open charcoal grills, in Josper ovens or on spit roasts, alongside daily specials inspired by the best ingredients the British Isles have to offer.
34 Mayfair, Steak and Fish Grill, Mayfair
You will find 34 Mayfair just off Grosvenor Square (with the entrance on South Audley Street), in the heart of Mayfair. With its polished oak parquet, soft lighting and colourful contemporary art collection, it has an Upper East Side-style elegance, which is enhanced by the open kitchen. Head Chef John Edwards’ modern, seasonal menu with international influences is based around the bespoke Argentine parrilla grill, with a great selection of beef (including pure heritage breeds from the Yorkshire Dales and A5 Japanese Wagyu), seasonal game and fish and a wonderfully diverse wine list.
Cool restaurants for singles
Sushisamba, Shoreditch
Located on the 38th and 39th floors of the Heron Tower at 110 Bishopsgate, Sushisamba London features the highest outdoor dining terraces in Europe, offering unparalleled, 360 degree views of the City. Two panoramic glass elevators whisk patrons from the ground to the 39th floor, opening up London from inside-out as the lifts climb further and further upwards. Sushisamba’s main dining room overlooks views of London with floor-to-ceiling windows. A grid of lights hung through the open bamboo ceiling at varying heights creating a magical experience during daytime and a truly intimate setting in the evening. Indoor-outdoor elements weave throughout the space, most notably, the structural orange tree on the west terrace.
Madison, St Paul’s
Madison at St Paul’s is renowned for its buzzing atmosphere and spectacular views, making it the ideal spot to catch up with friends and colleagues. Enjoy good food, drinks and music from in-house DJs and live acoustic trios as well as a spectacular view of St Paul’s Cathedral. Arrive at the Penthouse of One New Change and step out on to the award-winning rooftop terrace for breath-taking views of the London skyline, a buzzing vibe and killer cocktails.
ROKA, Charlotte Street
ROKA is a meeting place where food and drinks are shared with friends (ro) and heat, warmth and an all-embracing energy surround (ka). ROKA Charlotte Street serves contemporary Japanese robatayaki cuisine in striking yet informal surrounding in the heart of London’s media district. Dominated by the centrally located robata grill, fish, poultry, meat and vegetables are prepared in full view of diners at the surrounding counter and tables. In warmer weather the glass walls open onto the street outside creating a semi-alfresco ambience throughout.
Fun things to do on Valentine’s Day for both couples and singles
Silent Sounds Boat Party
Silent Sounds: On The Thames is waiting to take you on an unmissable trip and silent disco, all while showing you London’s most incredible sights along the Thames. Hop aboard The Dutch Master, a two-storey party boat, for a night of drinking and dancing with a difference as you float by iconic London landmarks while choosing the soundtrack to your night at a silent disco. From disco classics to hardcore house, you can pick your channel on the headphones meaning the dance floor will see some serious action. The boat also has a bar on each deck; play pirate and guzzle rum or live the high life with a glass of crisp white.
The Big London Bake
Challenge your partner or your friends at London’s first pop up bake off, The Big London Bake! All the ingredients are good to go, a top baker at your side, an irresistible monthly baking theme, an unforgettable experience and one winner. It’s time to unleash your competitive cooking streak. You’ve got 90 minutes to whisk, roll and drizzle your way towards a winning bake. You will get instructions, tools and tips to create a masterpiece or a right old mess.
Your key ingredients for the ultimate baking extravaganza…
• 1 x awesome marquee
• Ingredients provided
• 10 x cooking stations
• Mix in up to 10 teams of 2
• Add a dash of competition
• Set the timer to 90 minutes
• Stir in a slice of creativity
• And when the time’s up, the winning team is crowned
The Ultimate Dinner Party
Head down Fulham Road, knock on Number 871 and step into the flatmates’ gorgeous open plan kitchen for a delicious 2 course meal at one of their long dining tables, every Thursday and Friday from 8pm. Their dinner parties are a great way to meet people – come with 3 friends and leave with 10 as they always say.
The food is always determined by the culinary quirks of the latest flatmate. Currently on offer is a French styled feast in honour of their latest flatmate. Drink-wise they can give you a glorious hour and a half of either of the following: Rose, White Wine, Red Wine, Beer, Rum Punch and Soft Drinks for only £15 a head from 8pm-9:30pm. They play all sorts of fun and games at the Dinner Parties, from Giant Jenga and Pictionary to poetry readings and more. The bartenders usually decide the winning team at the end of the dinner and award them a round of shots on the house.
Shopping in London
Shopping in London could be a whole day activity as there is so many stores and locations to check out. We listed 2 of our favourites where you find all stores you’d need for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift.
Oxford Street
Oxford Street has loads of different shops to suit all budgets. There are some department stores as well as independent designers and other shops available. Along Oxford Street you will find shops including Zara, Swarovski, Boots, Currys Digital, French Connection and many more. If you are looking for variety to buy Valentine’s Day present for any of your loved ones, then you are sure to be satisfied with Oxford Street and its 300 different shops.
Westfield Shopping Center
Westfield London is a shopping centre in White City. At the time of its opening it was reported to be the second largest commercial centre in the UK (after MetroCentre near Newcastle), however after an extension opened in March 2018, the centre became the largest in the UK and Europe. Westfield offers an immense choice of stores such as Victoria Secret, Swarovski, Pandora, John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Debenhams, House of Fraser, Next or Primark just to name a few. The nearest London Underground stations are Wood Lane, White City, Shepherd’s Bush and Shepherd’s Bush Market.
Valentine’s Day Hotel deals
Danubius Hotel Regents Park is a central London hotel with a difference. Located minutes from iconic London landmarks such as Lord’s Cricket Ground or the romantic Regent’s Park with Primrose Hill and London Zoo. Conveniently located a casual 10-minute walk from St John’s Wood and Baker Street tube stations, this four-star London hotel offers easy access to all the West End attractions as well as Central London.
With their Romance Package you can surprise your loved one and take them for a romantic get-away. Book now and experience on arrival a Queen-size bed covered with rose petals, a bottle of Champagne, chocolates and strawberries to spice up your night. In the morning relax and enjoy a delicious breakfast served in your room.
Regardless you relationship status, age or preferences, London will spoil you to its best on Valentine’s Day. Traditional or less traditional, loved up or casual, enjoy the day of love and celebrate the people closes to your heart.
