It’s about to be the most lovey-dovey day of the year. And what better way to mark the occasion than updating your Cute Couple Pics archive? We’ve partnered with South Western Railway to round up some of London’s most romantic Instagrammable spots, that would be perfect as backdrop for you to pose in front of with the person you love.
1. Kew Gardens
With over 50,000 living plants, a vast Victorian temperate house and a Japanese landscape garden (to name just a few), there really is no creative limit to the photos you could capture at Kew Gardens. With colours as vibrant as ever at every turn, these couple pics are guaranteed to make your feed pop. Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AE
2. Richmond Park
London’s largest Royal Park covers 2,500 acres and is home to ancient trees, a Grade II* listed Georgian mansion and beautiful woodlands, all of which make for very lovely romantic photo scenery. But if you’re really willing to persevere (and stay very, very quiet) you might be lucky enough to capture some wild deer in your shot.
3. Petersham Nurseries
If the frolicking deer have you on a roll and you feel like capturing more content, Petersham Nurseries is just a few minutes outside the park. This quaint little garden centre and lifestyle shop is brimming with wildlife, including the cosy tea house which has a trellis roof and walls, abundant with greenery that would look great in a ‘candid’ couple shot as you drink your coffees. Church Lane, Off Petersham Road, Richmond, TW10 7AB.
4. The Shard
It’s one of the most iconic features of the London skyline, and for good reason. The 72 storey skyscraper is London’s highest public viewing gallery and what you can see from up there is simply breathtaking. Stretching almost 40 miles, the 360 degree views would make an incredible backdrop for a very showstopping couple pic. With a glass of champers in one hand and your partner’s hand in the other, you’ll be ready for your close up! 32 London Bridge Street, SE1 9SG
5. Hampstead Hill Garden and Pergola
Standing on the west Heath, Hampstead Pergola is a magnificent Edwardian raised stone walkway overlooking the stunning landscaped gardens, once belonging to the wealthy Lord Leverhulme. He may no longer be around to enjoy its beauty, but we’re certain he’d want nothing more than for all of the lovers in London to come and admire it, and perhaps put it on the gram as well. The Pergola, Inverforth Close, NW3 7EX
6. St Dunstan in the East Church Garden
Many people visiting London for a romantic day out may not know about this serene, secluded garden surrounding a Grade I listed Christopher Wren church. Despite being so central, St Dunstan in the East is blissfully peaceful, a real inner city oasis, with trees and vines enveloping the gorgeous historic architecture. It’s the picture perfect spot for a moment of tranquillity amidst your busy day out in the city. St Dunstan’s Hill, EC3R 5DD
7. Wes and Sandy’s pick of the week
The round-up wouldn’t be complete without a recommendation from South Western Railway’s winged friends, Wes and Sandy. Whilst Wes likes to keep a bird’s eye view of London’s best pubs, clubs and music venues, Sandy spends her time tuning into the city’s hottest new restaurants and upcoming cultural events. But one thing they can always agree on is their love of the city’s iconic landmarks. And their favourite way to admire loads of London’s most romantic Instagrammable spots in one sweep is to fly along The Queen’s Walk, along which you can spot everything from The London Eye and Shakespeare’s Globe to St Paul’s Cathedral. And there’s plenty of nice places to pause, sit, sip a coffee and take some great snaps.