London might not officially be considered the City of Love, but it's easily one of the most romantic capitals in the world - making it the perfect place to spend your Valentine's Day.
Its centuries-old architecture and cobbled streets hide hundreds of hidden romantic spots, while restaurants and bars offer the ultimate settings for a candlelit romance. Whether you're looking to wine and dine your loved one in a panoramic rooftop, stroll across to one of the city's stunning landmarks or impress your date with a fun activity, HELLO! writers have compiled a list of their favourite romantic things to do in the city on Valentine's Day and beyond.
DISCOVER: Romantic hotels in the UK you'll want to take your Valentine to
Most romantic activities in London
Flirt at the theatre for a romantic show with LOVETheatre
There's something special about getting dressed up and going to see a show, and this Valentine's Day there's plenty of romantic shows on at the theatre. Choose from fan favourites Pretty Woman, Moulin Rouge and Aspects of Love, or take the experience up a notch and immerse yourselves in the sexy world of the Kit Kat Club for an electrifying performance of Cabaret. The lounge experience is something else...
To book, visit LOVETheatre
Indulge in a romantic spa day for two
Whisk a loved one away for a romantic afternoon at the exclusive 5-star Sofitel London St James Hotel and indulge in a blissful pampering experience. Slip away, forget life’s everyday worries and let one of So SPA's expert therapists take care of everything. Sit back for a replenishing 60-minute facial, which is designed to leave skin looking and feeling radiant and moisturised, followed by a 30-minute massage to take care of any tension. To add to the luxuries, raise a glass with a complimentary flute of Champagne each. This is a wonderful way to celebrate a special occasion and relax and unwind in a truly elegant setting.
To book, visit Red Letter Days
Snuggle up on the sofas at Everyman Cinema for a romantic movie
With their plush velvet sofas and kitsch cosy vibe, Everyman Cinemas have always been the perfect spot for a romantic movie. On Valentine’s Day, the cult-favourite London cinema chain always hoste a range of steamy and sad romantic movies for lovers and hopeless romantics alike, from Notting Hill to Moulin Rouge, The Notebook and more.
Keep an eye out for Everyman’s nationwide cinemas' Valentine's offering which include complimentary romantic extras, including a welcome cocktail and indulgent sweet treats.
To book, visit EverymanCinema.com
Float down the Thames on a luxury spa cruise
Get ready for a luxurious pampering treat on the River Thames with this boat spa experience for two people at Thames and City Spa. You’ll get to enjoy two hours of exclusive boat use, including hot tub access, for a soothing spa treat that’s sure to leave you feeling like new and ready to take on the world. Sit back and let the therapist take care of the rest with a tension-busting 25-minute massage each to remove any aches and pains. For the finishing touch, head to the Captain’s cabin and indulge in a classic afternoon tea with a bottle of fizz to share for an added touch of luxury. This won’t be an experience you’ll forget in a hurry.
Sing your heart out at Mamma Mia! The Party
You might be in London, but it's never been easier to journey to the island of Skopelos as the O2 Arena transports you to the Greek island. Your loved one is guaranteed to be the Dancing Queen as the three-course meal at Nikos Taverna turns into a fabulous disco at Mamma Mia! The Party. This theatre-come-dining immersive experience showcases the very best of ABBA's legendary music and a hilarious new story adapted by Sandi Toksvig. Perfect for dancing the night away with your beau, you'll be taken from dinner to dancing and find yourself lost in a fabulous dream world for the night.
To book, visit Virgin Experience Days
Swoon your lover with London's skyline
Make the most of London's stunning sykline by treating your Valentine to a special dinner at one of the captial's iconic landmarks like The Shard, Sky Garden or Heron Tower. Not only are there some fabulous restaurants to choose from, such as Sushi Samba or Shangri-La, but you'll get to take in amazing panoramic views across the city while you eat. Take advantage of some of the great deals out there, like this visit to The View From The Shard and three-course champagne celebration dining at Marco Pierre White's London Steakhouse, with prices starting from £147 for two.
To book, visit Virgin Experience Days
Indulge in an afternoon tea at Caffé Concerto
With luxuriously decorated contemporary dining rooms across several gorgeous London locations, Caffé Concerto offers Londoners the perfect surroundings in which to enjoy an indulgent treat. Each branch of this opulent eatery has a relaxing atmosphere and gentle buzz awaiting you and your favourite plus one. You'll be served a luxury afternoon tea, complete with tiers of tempting sweet and savoury delights. And if you feel like adding an extra special touch, then why not upgrade and sip on a glass of Prosecco each - cheers!
Wowcher is currently offering an incredible deal, with afternoon tea for two available for just £29.95.
To book, visit wowcher.co.uk
Most romantic restaurants in London
Take your love to new heights at Duck and Waffle
There's nothing quite as breathtaking than viewing London from the sky - and Duck & Waffle is the place to experience it. For a truly special occasion, treat your loved one to a romantic meal on the 39th floor of the icon Heron Tower this Valentine's Day, indulging in mouthwatering food as you dine above the clouds.
To mark the month of love, Duck & Waffle has created a special Valentine's Day menu of celebratory dishes. Along with a welcome plate of crispy polenta & truffle mayonnaise, the menu will include dishes such as bacon wrapped dates or crab and lobster tots for starters, the famous 'Duck & Waffle' with mustard maple syrup or porcini ravioliu for mains and for the evening, a seriously indulgent fudge waffle is on offfer, promising a unique and memorable evening.
To book, visit duckandwaffle.com/reservations
Go crazy for pizza at Crazy Pizza
There's no better place for date night than Crazy Pizza, with Valentine's Day festivities bringing the love at the eclectic restaurant chain. From incredible wine offers, to free desserts for each pizza purchased, from heart shaped Nutella Focaccia to Pizza Making classes for kids, Crazy Pizza has an activity for every taste.
Both venues will be topping off the week of celebrations with a special Valentine’s Day set menu on Monday 14 February. Crazy Pizza invites guests to share the love this Valentine’s Day with live music, cheeky cocktails and a special heart-shaped pizza dessert on the menu for one night only.
To book, visit crazypizza.com
Dine at Harrods' iconic Caviar House
A romantic dinner date is a classic way to indulge with your loved one, and Harrods is easily the most luxurious way to do so. Head to the Caviar House & Prunier at Harrods, the central hub of the Dining Hall, and soak up the experience of this truly atmospheric room.
Take a seat beneath the Grade II*-listed tiles and indulge in the world’s finest seafood, from Norwegian Balik smoked salmon and beluga caviar to English rock oysters. Complement your palate with a round-the-world wine list compiled by our buyers, including more than 100 cuvées that can be sampled by the glass, with a further 1,200 bottles available via Fine Wines & Spirits on the Lower Ground Floor.
To book, visit harrods.com
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