Tried and tested, here are 22 date ideas to try with your lover in London
Cooking classes, life drawing, and themed bars to make sparks fly
Whether you’re a long-time Londoner or a recent newcomer, the list of things to do in the city can seem endless. London’s packed with some of the world’s best Michelin-starred restaurants, museums that take entire days to explore, and a West End with happenings every night of the week. These all make for scrumptious date night opportunities, but sometimes you need something a little off the beaten rose-petaled path, right? An alternative experience may be the answer; something you’ve never tried before that you’re unlikely to ever forget. From neon naked life painting to immersive bars, we’ve rounded up some of the most fun things to sign up for with your partner.
You might also be interested in the best things to do in London for Christmas in 2024.
The best date ideas in London
1. Be seduced by Barcelona at The Duke of York’s Theatre
Emily in Paris becomes Emily in Barcelona as Lily Collins makes her West End debut this October. Barcelona is a seductive new thriller in which an American tourist goes home with a handsome Spaniard, and what begins as a bit of drunken holiday fun quickly takes a turn for danger. You’ll be on the edge of your seat. Often hilarious, captivating throughout, and superbly acted by Collins and her co-star Alvaro Morte, the 90-minute must-see performance ends on 11th January. Hurry.
Find out more about Barcelona
2. Visit a jazz speakeasy at Rhythm&Ruse
You’ll switch off from the office completely when you spend the evening at Rhythm&Ruse, a sultry underground jazz club in Waterloo strewn with candlelight in mystic allure. Whisper a password to gain entry and the journey begins with a handcrafted cocktail from an award-winning mixologist, and of course, jazz and cabaret numbers to the stage. Magic tricks and tarot readings punctuate the spellbinding adventure. Tickets include five alcoholic beverages, and snacks are available to purchase.
Find out more about Rhythm&Ruse
3. Watch glow-in-the-dark ballet with We Call It Ballet
What do you get when you mix a classic fairytale, ballet dancers, and glow-in-the-dark lights? A We Call It Ballet show. In October, the team reimagines Sleeping Beauty, telling the story of a cursed princess awakened by her true love’s kiss using a kaleidoscope of colours. The event takes place in Glaziers Hall, and unlike traditional ballet, is a manageable 60-minutes-long.
Find out more about We Call It Ballet
4. Sail the city with GoBoat
Glide through the Docklands and see your office from another angle; GoBoat lets you take the captain’s hat. You don’t need any experience or even a licence to drive their easy electric rentals, and an instructor will arm you with everything you need. Speeds reach three knots (or 3.5 mph) so captain and passenger(s) can focus on conversation, enjoying the sights, and having a drink on board. As well as Canary Wharf, the service operates in Paddington, Kingston, and Thames Ditton.
Find out more about GoBoat
5. Enter a new dimension with Sandbox VR
Fancy yourselves a couple of gamers? You’ll be in your element at Sandbox VR, the most advanced virtual reality experience in London (and possibly the planet). Wire up and place your entire body in complete immersion to tackle games including the Netflix Squid Game arena. Participants can play as a duo or in a group of up to six, and there’s also a robot-staffed bar, so you can kick back and watch your efforts on the big screen with a cocktail. Note: wear light clothing, it can get very physical.
Find out more about Sandbox VR
6. Turn back time at Cahoots: Postal Office
A brand new Cahoots just opened, and it’s modelled on a vintage post office in Borough Yards. Enter through a postbox and you’ll arrive to two floors of 1946 surrounds. We don’t want to ruin the surprise but here are a few clues: mail train carts, rattling parcels, carrier pigeons, and a post office cat. First-class cocktails make this one of the best immersive bars in London.
Find out more about Cahoots: Postal Office
7. Learn to make Asian food with School of Wok
You needn’t wait for that annual trip to Asia when you can get an authentic sushi, dumpling, kimchi, and curry fix right at home: School of Wok arms you with all the tools to do it yourself. The award-winning Covent Garden cookery school specialises in Asian cuisine, with teachers who are masters of their craft.
Each class is all-inclusive, fun, and of course, delicious. You’ll be well-fed with a drink in hand. Situated a short walk from Chinatown; be inspired to pick up ingredients before the journey home to plan another feast. Classes range from three hours to full-day, with ingredients and equipment ready so all you need to do is turn up.
Find out more about School of Wok
8. Book a couples massage at AIRE Ancient Baths London
In London, the best place to hide away is deep underground. AIRE offers a cavern of delicious dreams tucked beneath posh Strand builds, and enchanting all upon entry—this is the former residence of Peter Pan creator J.M. Barrie (go to reception for a peak at the rare first edition book).
Couples can select a luxurious treatment paired with cava and truffles, and then relax in one of the variety of baths dotted in the candle-strewn space. They include a hot bath, a thousand jet bath, and a saltwater bath (highly recommended). No mobile devices are permitted and all experiences can be gifted this Christmas. This is unlike any spa you’ve ever been to.
Find out more about AIRE Ancient Baths London
9. Try Virtual Clay Shooting at Clays Bar
Experience the thrill of clay target shooting at Clays Bar, right in the heart of the city. Compete in interactive games while enjoying cocktails and sharing platters. Photos and game results are sent to you afterward, so you can relive the fun.
Find out more about Clays Bar
10. Battle a martian invasion with The War of The Worlds: The Immersive Experience
Ever wondered what being in an epic film is like? Wonder no more. You’ll (literally) jump right into a martian invasion at this immersive experience set to Jeff Wayne album, “The Musical Version of The War of The Worlds’. There are 24 insane scenes and 300-foot martian fighting machines brought to life, plus live actors, 3D sound, holographic projections, and VR. In a nutshell, you’ll completely forget this is the City of London. Officially the UK’s longest-running immersive experience.
Find out more about The War of The Worlds: The Immersive Experience
11. Draw Nudes in the Dark with Neon Naked
Neon Naked offers a life drawing class with a twist. Under psychedelic neon lights, you and your date can sketch beautifully painted models using highlighters. It’s a unique and creative way to spend an evening together.
Find out more about Neon Naked
12. Savour fresh catch on a boat with London Shell Co.
Helmed by siblings Leah and Harry Lobek, London Shell Co’s The Grand Duchess is the ultimate destination for seafood lovers, specialising in British fish and shellfish of the utmost quality. You’ll easily forget you’re moored at Grand Union Canal in Paddington Central, each bite overlooking the canal transporting you far away, The midweek lunch special is excellently priced at just £16 with a glass of house wine, or you can come for the oyster happy hour, where they’re £2 a pop.
Find out more about The Grand Duchess: London Shell Co.
13. Master your swing at Puttshack
What’s better than a (semi) competitive couples game at mini golf? A high-tech version! Puttshack uses modern intelligence to elevate your game, so there’s no need to fuss around with pencils and scorecards. Pair that with wacky courses featuring quizzes and penalties, stiff but affordable cocktails, and amazing flatbread pizzas, and this becomes a date night staple. There are four locations in the UK to hit the ball with your beau, including Bank and White City in London.
Find out more about Puttshack
14. Karaoke Together with Lucky Voice
Sing your hearts out at Lucky Voice, where you can choose from over 11,000 songs. With locations in Waterloo, Soho, Islington, Holborn, and Liverpool Street, plus spots in Brighton and Dubai, it’s a classic date night activity for music lovers.
Find out more about Lucky Voice
15. Discover the life of Marilyn Monroe at Arches London Bridge
MARILYN – The Exhibition opens on October 18th, giving Londoners a rare and unprecedented glimpse into the private world of Marilyn Monroe. On display will be love letters, satin robes, vintage shoes, accessories, and more in a curated collection of 250 extraordinary objects from the exclusive private collection of Ted Stampfer, the world’s largest collector of Marilyn Monroe’s historical objects.
Find out more about Marilyn The Exhibition
16. Let Loose at Fairgame
Both of you will have a blast at Fairgame, Canary Wharf’s indoor funfair for adults. Play classic games from basketball hoops to whack-a-mole in a rain-free environment. Afterward, enjoy street food and drinks at one of the venue’s three bars.
Find out more about Fairgame
17. Dine and be dazzled at the London Cabaret Club
Why switch venues for dinner and a show, when you can have them both at one glitzy destination? The London Cabaret Club puts on spectaculars within a listed 1920s Art Deco building, and every night is filled with Gatsby-esque glamour. In other words, you’ll get dressed up, be wined and dined, and see West End-level performances, in what will be the ultimate date night. The set menus remove all decision-making, crafted by the capital’s top chefs, so you can focus on the fiesta of colour and sequins in front of your very eyes.
Find out more about London Cabaret Club
18. Make Fresh Pasta with Pasta Evangelists
Transform your date night with a pasta-making masterclass at Pasta Evangelists. Held in Farringdon or Shoreditch, these two-hour workshops immerse you in Italy’s culinary traditions, guiding you through the process of making pasta from scratch. Enjoy complimentary antipasti and unlimited prosecco as you create delicious dishes together. Linen aprons and beechwood pasta tools are provided, ensuring a hands-on, fun experience.
Find out more about Pasta Evangelists
19. Compete in Axe-Throwing with Boom Battle Bar
Bring out your competitive side with a visit to Boom Battle Bar. Engage in games like axe-throwing, augmented reality darts, pool, and crazy golf. With multiple locations across London, it’s an exciting date option with a range of activities to enjoy.
Find out more about Boom Battle Bar
20. Explore the London Underground with Hidden Tours
Discover the secrets of the London Underground with Hidden Tours. This year, the Access All Areas tour of Charing Cross reveals disused parts of the station seen in movies like Skyfall. Pair it with an afternoon tea at The Clermont for a memorable date.
Find out more about Hidden London
21. Attend Wizard School with Wands & Wizard Exploratorium
Step into the magical world of wizards at the Wands & Wizard Exploratorium in Soho. Create your own wand and enjoy a wizard-themed afternoon tea or potion-making cocktail class. It’s a whimsical date perfect for Harry Potter fans.
Find out more about Wands & Wizard Exploratorium
22. See a Show at Shakespeare’s Globe
Experience the charm of Shakespeare’s Globe with affordable £5 standing tickets. Enjoy a performance of Much Ado About Nothing or choose from a variety of shows throughout the year. It’s a cultural treat that won’t break the bank.
Find out more about Shakespeare’s Globe
But wait, there’s more…
- Looking for things to do with friends? We have an even longer list of ideas for groups in London. Have fun!
- For the ultimate dinner date, follow our guide to the most romantic restaurants in London
- Spoil your boo with an overnight in one of London’s most swoonsome hotels
