If you’re hoping that 2023 is your year for romance, then you might just be in luck. Because we’ve partnered with South Western Railway to bring you recommendations for some of the best London date ideas. Whether you’re courting a foodie, a creative or an old-fashioned adventurer, we’ve got the perfect date for you…
Play hide and seek in the Hampton Court Maze
Let’s face it, dating is nothing without a little element of the chase. And in the Alice-in-Wonderland-esque Hampton Court Maze, there is a frisson of excitement waiting at every corner. So close your eyes, count to ten and get ready to seek out your fairytale ending. The Wilderness, Hampton Court Palace Gardens, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU
Do a dumpling crawl in Chinatown
Put the word ‘crawl’ after any activity and it immediately sounds more exciting. But you’ll need to dream up something a little more imaginative than bar hopping if you want to impress. So why not wander through Chinatown and grab a dumpling from every dim sum restaurant that takes your fancy? And there’s plenty of amazing dessert parlours where you can find a sweet treat afterwards.
Make some bling at a jewellery workshop
POV: You’re on your second date and he/she/they presents you with a ring…
But this is no proposal – you’ve both spent the afternoon crafting sterling silver in a workshop led by award-winning jewellers. So while marriage might not be on the cards (yet!), you can take home some lovely hand candy and a ton of knowledge on how to make your own jewellery in the future. Book your space here.
Dine on delicious Italian fare at TOZI Grand Cafe
When it comes to picking out the perfect dinner spot, the setting is equally as important as the food. And at the newly opened TOZI Grand Cafe, you can rest assured both elements will be 10/10. The cylindrical building is adorned with stunning modern art and tapestries, and the eclectic menu offers irresistible Venetian-inspired dishes that’ll make your taste buds sing. 3A Electric Boulevard, Nine Elms SW11 8BJ
Wes and Sandy’s pick of the week
South Western Railway’s winged friends, Sandy and Wes are always on hand to provide their top London recommendations. Sandy is a culture vulture with a love for the arts, theatre and lunching with the girls, while Wes loves clubs, pubs and going to gigs with his mates. But one thing they can both agree on is their love of hitting the dance floor. And there’s amazing dance classes across all genres right at your fingertips in London, find some suggestions here. Alternatively, rock up to one of the city’s fantastic Salsa bars, grab a drink and let your feet guide the way.
Enjoy a riverside tipple at one of West London’s cosy pubs
There is so much to be said for a frosty pint accompanied by a scenic river view. And West London is home to pubs that offer both such things in abundance. If you’re hoping for some good pub grub with your drink, The Dove in Hammersmith is a great place to start. But the Blue Anchor, The Old Ship or the White Hart are also excellent choices.
The Dove, 19 Upper Mall W6 9TA
The Blue Anchor, 13 Lower Mall W6 9DJ
The Old Ship, 25 Upper Mall W6 9TD
The White Hart, The Terrace SW13 0PX
Marvel at the stunning London skyline
Admiring the river at eye-level with a bev in hand is one thing. But taking in the Thames from up high is another experience entirely. And with this SWR reward you and your date can embark on an exhilarating guided tour, a-top none other than London’s iconic o2 arena. Its 380 metre long walkway is 170 ft above ground, making it an incredible vantage point to soak in the skyscrapers and the sunset. Provided you’re not staring into eachothers eyes the whole time! Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX
Plan a staycation in the city
When you’ve passed dinner-and-a-movie but you’re not quite booking weekends in Paris, why not test the waters with a staycay? Whether your style is cool and quirky or stylish and understated, London is full of wonderful hotels for your magical night away. Alternatively, check into an Airbnb and enjoy the run of the house!