9 Magical Places In London For An Utterly Romantic Indoor Date

The weather may be getting colder, but the dating scene is hotting up with these indoor date ideas.

So long, outdoor park strolls and romantic evenings at open-air, rooftop bars. Winter is coming, as Game of Thrones fans would say. It’s time to hunker down and get cosy for day dates and date nights (or any other kind of meet up, to be honest). While ice skating is the classic go-to – and you mustn’t miss skating your last skate at the Natural History Museum ice rink, before it closes for good – there is only so much time that we want to spend outdoors. We overloaded on outdoor activities in lockdowns 1, 2 and 3, thanks.

Now that indoor mingling is back on the agenda, there’s plenty to do that’ll wow your partner of choice. From art to music, food to drink, there’s an indoor date for every couple.

1. Step into a painting at Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

Feel as pretty as picture at this immersive exhibition, inspired by the works of one of the most well-known, post-impressionist artists. Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience will enlighten visitors on the life and works of Vincent Van Gogh, as well as offering a chance to see them on a huge scale. A kiss in a seemingly endless field of sunflowers, or under a 360-degree projection of Starry Night, with musical accompaniment? You decide. Book your tickets here.

2. Catch a candlelight concert at a beautiful venue

If you opened the guide-book to romancing, you’d be sure to find both music and candlelight on the first page. Woo your way into a winter of love with a touch of classical music by candlelight. Whether you know your Brahms from your Bach or not, an evening of candlelit orchestral music is sure to set a romantic mood. Choose from a selection of Candlelight concerts here, which include the likes of Candlelight Halloween and Candlelight: Best of Magical Movies.

3. Travel to Vatican City (kind of) via the Victoria Line for See Sistine

The moment you enter Cannon Factory, you’ll be transported to idyllic Italy. Almost a couple’s mini-break (really mini: think one hour away rather than one weekend), See Sistine brings a reproduction of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel to North London. These 34 pieces emulate the original pieces using a special printing technique, so you can appreciate the iconic artworks from a new perspective. There will be audio guides available for a more in-depth look. Book your tickets here.

4. Get creative with comic-book style cocktails

An indoor date with a fun twist: you’ll be the lead in your love story at The Hero Cocktail Experience. Wow your date as you unleash your inner superhero and brew your own cocktails amidst a black and white 2D space that is something out of a comic book. Donning a mask and cape, you’ll watch the flavours surrender to your glass as you save the day with two delightful concoctions (plus a provided welcome drink). Book your spots here.

5. Visit a blues bar, jazz club and rock ‘n’ roll gig in one night

All of these in one night, without boarding a bus, tube or taxi – you’ll be in the good books with this indoor date! One Night Records: Snake Oil will transport you to six mystical worlds of live music, where the setting perfectly matches the tunes you hear. You can roam between a range of sets and genres as you listen to the finest musical talent. Perhaps you can sing along and serenade your date too? Tickets are available here.

6. Admire a huge collection of iconic Banksy artworks

The illusive artist is known worldwide, with fans keeping an eye out for the next spot his work will pop up. Well, that next spot is not on a wall in the cold this time: it’s at The Art of Banksy Exhibition. You’ll be able to wander the world’s largest collection of privately owned Banksy art, scouting out your favourites from 90 pieces, including the “Balloon Girl”. Nab your tickets here.

7. Head to a Regency era-style ball straight out of Bridgerton

Take centre stage at an experience inspired by one of Netflix’s biggest ever programmes. Secret Cinema Presents Bridgerton With Fever will provide a lavish evening of delicious food, enticing drinks and pop classics played by a classical string quartet. You’ll be able to relive iconic Bridgerton moments and even earn coveted ‘love tokens’. A great date night all in all. You’ll have to play the long game though; the event doesn’t take place until February, but you can get your tickets now.

8. Celebrate with a classy, champagne-filled evening at a top restaurant

There’s nothing more magical than fancy drinks on demand. If you and your love have a taste for the finer things in life, Bob Bob Cité is the place for you. Alongside sophisticated interiors and an indulgent French-style menu is the pièce de résistance: the ‘press for champagne’ button. It does what it says. You press. You get champagne delivered to your booth. A spellbinding date night with no heavy lifting. Find out more here.

9. Spoil yourselves silly at The Chocolate Cocktail Club

Sweeten up your sweetheart with date night at The Chocolate Cocktail Club. A chocoholics dream, the drinks menu will indulge your tastebuds with chocolate twists on classic cocktails, plus there’ll be chocolates available with creamy and caramel-filled supplementary flavours. The cushion-filled seating areas are laid back and stylish; perfect for an afternoon tipple. Grab your tickets here.