There’s a reason why they call it cuffing season. When the weather takes a turn for the worse, suddenly everyone wants to do cutesy couples’ activities with their significant other. But whether you’re in a solid relationship or putting in the legwork to get one off the ground, we’ve partnered with South Western Railway to bring inspo on fun rainy day dates to enjoy in London.
1. Eat brunch at Parissi
Cosy cafes really are the one when it’s wet outside, and Parissi is Brixton’s ultimate brunch spot. You can start your morning with irresistible fresh pastries, focaccia toasties or opt for an elaborate breakfast dish such as shakshuka or turkish eggs. The coffee is amazing, but their drinks menu also offers an impressive variety of cocktails to sip on, if you want to bring that ‘date night’ feel to your relaxed, rainy weekend brunch. 76 Atlantic Rd SW9 8PX
2. Settle into a cosy corner at the Compton Arms
There’s so many pubs in London perfect for your rainy day dates, but one of our favourites for this particular type of occasion is the Compton Arms. The low, wooden-beamed interior couldn’t be a more inviting refuge from the drizzle outside, plus its only minutes walk from Highbury and Islington tube. And the latest addition to their longstanding legacy of kitchen residencies Tiella will be on hand to nourish you with rustic Italian dishes, should you get peckish. Compton Arms, 4 Compton Avenue N1 2XD
3. Gorge on glorious Italian fare at Noci
If the rain stops long enough for you to make a dash to a new location, Noci is a great option for a delicious date night dinner. Their Islington branch is less than a 15 minute walk from the Compton Arms, and here you’ll find everything from ‘nduja arancini and crispy fried mussels to brown butter cacio pepe and porcini mushroom tagliatelle. And if you (somehow) haven’t gone too wild on the pasta menu, the coffee and tequila cheesecake is our dessert recommendation .
4-6 Islington Green N1 2XA
Battersea Power Station SW8 5BN
211 Old Street EC1V 9NR
4. Watch a matinée show
We don’t know why it feels slightly subversive to go to the theatre in the middle of the day, but we’re here for it. Not to mention, matinée shows can also be a great way to save a bit of money on tickets – especially if you’re buying on the day! Check out TKTS London to see what rainy day entertainment you can find.
5. Have a luxurious staycay in a central London hotel
You know how people always tell you to put your money away for a rainy day? Well, when said rainy day arrives – use this SWR reward to splash out a boujee hotel stay with your partner. This gorgeous Georgian townhouse hotel is seriously romantic vibes, and is perfectly situated for you to reach all of the West End’s greatest attractions. Check in and enjoy 10% off your stay, along with a complimentary full English breakfast per room, per night. 15 Montague Street WC1B 5BJ
6. See some seriously strange and spectacular art at the Tate Britain
Intriguing, thought-provoking and daring all at once, Happy Gas is Sarah Lucas’ exploration of sex, death and what it is to be human. Throughout this titillating exhibition you can gawp at sculptures depicting everything from cigarettes protruding from human genitalia to wooden dining chairs with unexpected… additions. Tate Britain, Millbank SW1P 4RG
7. Take a pasta making class at Eataly London
You might be familiar with their popular Liverpool Street Market, but Eataly London also offers some great cooking classes. And whilst there’s nothing we love more than dining out in London’s exceptional Italian restaurants, there’s something very ‘couple goals’ about you and your partner whipping out the fresh pasta when you’re hosting. Spend an evening learning to make long pasta, ravioli or pizza whilst enjoying free-flowing prosecco and plenty of Italian antipasti before tucking into the fruits of your labour. Rainy day dates for the win! 135 Bishopsgate EC2M 3YD
8. Wes and Sandy’s pick of the week
South Western Railway’s winged friends, Sandy and Wes are always ready to share their top London recommendations. Sandy loves the arts, theatre and lunching with the girls, while Wes loves clubs, pubs and going to gigs with his mates. But one thing they will never disagree on is their fascination with the world of science. And AI: Who’s Looking After Me? is a fascinating, free exhibition at Science Gallery London, taking a deeper look at the growing role of AI in today’s society and how this could impact our wellbeing and happiness. Great Maze Pond SE1 9GU