If you’re looking to spend a day full of love and romance, what better city to spend it in than London? A city that is a melting pot of cultures, with all sorts of attractions like historic landmarks, lush parks, and beautiful feats of engineering, London is the perfect place to celebrate your love. If you’re looking for ideas on how to spend Valentine’s Day in London, look no further. The city offers experiences for all sorts of romantics — those looking for adventure, those looking to rest, those who want great food, and even those who want nothing but each other!
While the city is currently under lockdown, there are multiple experiences you can indulge in on Valentine’s Day in London. Take your pick and make this a memorable day for you and your partner.
Top 10 experiences for a Wonderful Valentine's Day in London
1. Take a romantic Thames River cruise
Cruise down the mighty Thames as you and your partner admire some of London’s iconic bridges and monuments. Looking to up the romance? Take a meal-based cruise, and have lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner as part of your cruise. Woo your partner as you enjoy some delicious English food with live music and fine wine and watch the city pass you by.
Tip: A meal cruise combines the best of both worlds — good food and good view.
Recommended Thames River Cruise experiences on Valentine's Day
2. Kiss at the top of the London Eye
The London Eye is one of London’s top attractions, visited by millions of people annually. It also makes for a romantic experience. While you will share your capsule with others, there is enough space for you and your partner to make your own space and watch the vast expanse of the city underneath you. Once at the top, make sure to steal a kiss at one of the highest points in London!
Alternatively, you can also treat yourself and your special someone to a luxurious private capsule experience! Your host will provide you with a bottle of Pommery Brut Royal Champagne and an assortment of Charbonnel et Walker pink champagne truffles.
Tip: Getting the fast track tickets is highly recommended as the London Eye is a very popular attraction in the city.
Recommended London Eye experiences on Valentine's Day
3. Take a day trip from London
London is close to some of the best holiday spots in England. Be it a day trip from London or a weekend trip, you can pick and choose from destinations like Bath, Cotswolds, Stonehenge, Windsor, and more. What could possibly be more exciting than to explore a new place with your loved one by your side? So pack your bags and get ready, because this is one way to make Valentine’s Day a day to remember for ages to come.
Recommended day trips from London on Valentine's Day
4. Go for a romantic West End show
You know what they say: "the only way to a person's heart is through the theatre!", or at least we think so! Whether you're in the early stages of your relationship or have been together for years, there's nothing quite like a romantic night at the theatre. Get yourself two tickets to one of West End's most beloved shows and surprise your partner with an unforgettable evening. Whether you choose to take in a classic musical or a critically acclaimed drama, it's sure to be the perfect way to show your affection and ignite some passion! Plus, nothing says love like a few hours of live entertainment. So, if you're looking for an extra-special Valentine's Day activity, make sure to go for a romantic West End theatre show! It's sure to be an evening you and your loved one won't soon forget.
Recommended West End Shows on Valentine's Day
5. Explore the city
Play a tourist in your own city as you explore the best of what the city has to offer. As we tend to overlook the touristy spots in our cities, what better way to spend the day with your loved one exploring this city and unfurling all of its secrets? Learn more about what your partner loves about this city and their favourite places as you embark on this adventure together!
Tip: While the city can be explored on foot, you can also opt for a guided tour or hop on hop off bus tour. Read our guide on the London city tours.
Recommended city tours on Valentine's Day
6. Eat at Camden Market
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend Valentine’s Day in London, Camden Market is the place for you. Lined with shops and eateries that offer unique products and dishes, Camden Market is a longstanding favourite of all Londoners.
Tip: Camden Market has an array of eateries, each serving more mouth-watering delicacies than the next. Look up their food & beverage offerings before you visit.
7. Picnic at Hyde Park
Hyde Park is known for its verdant grass, massive lake, and exciting activities. Celebrate your love with a quaint picnic. Pack yourself some hot chocolate, sandwiches, dessert, and enjoy the serenity. Take a walk around the park, and don't miss the Rose Garden and The LookOut.
Tip: The Serpentine Lido Cafe offers stunning views of the lake, along with delicious snacks, so instead of a picnic, you can even come to have a meal here.
8. Meet some underwater creatures at SEA Life
From the moment you step through the doors, you and your date will be swept away by the plethora of sea creatures that await you at SEA Life London. You'll have a blast spotting seahorses, exploring jellyfish gardens and admiring giant green turtles as they paddle around their tanks. And don't forget to check out the amazing Shark Walk – where you can get up close and personal with some of the ocean's greatest predators!
Recommended SEA LIFE experiences for Valentine's Day
9. Take a stroll at Kew Gardens
With its stunning botanical displays, tranquil lakeside views, and miles of picturesque pathways, Kew Gardens is a romantic wonderland that will make your day extra special. From the iconic Palm House to the fascinating Princess of Wales Conservatory, you'll find plenty of breathtaking sights to marvel at during your wander around this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you plan on proposing or simply taking in the tranquil atmosphere, Kew Gardens London is sure to be a Valentine’s Day to remember.
Recommended Kew Garden experiences for Valentine's Day
10. Climb the O2!
Take your Valentine's Day celebration to new heights this year with a climb up the O2 in London! Forget about roses and chocolates - it's time to show your special someone just how adventurous you two can be. Challenge yourself to reach the summit of one of the world’s most iconic landmarks and take in breathtaking views of London from up high. With its iconic white dome, the O2 is a sight to behold both during the day and night. The experience will be even more romantic under twinkling stars and a bright moon in the sky. It’s sure to make for an unforgettable Valentines Day - one you won't soon forget!
Recommended O2 experience on Valentine's Day
FAQs
There is plenty to do in London for Valentine's Day. Ranging from watching a National Ballet Show, to simply a romantic picnic in Hyde Park, London has a lot to offer. Mixology classes, solving murder mysteries together at Play Dead London, riding the London Eye and exploring the places around London like Bath and the Cotswolds
Valentine's Day does not have a special name in London. However, the British celebrate Pancake Day with equal, if not more fervour. In 2024, it falls on February 13th. It changes every year because it falls 47 days before Easter Sunday.
England started celebrating Valentine's Day since 1382 thanks to the celebrated poet, Chaucer. In celebration of King Richard II's engagement to Anne of Bohemia through a poem with the lines: "For this was on St. Valentine's Day, when every bird (fowl) cometh to choose his mate."
The Feast of Saint Valentine was established in AD 496 by Pope Gelasius I in honour of Saint Valentine of Rome.
Valentine's Day in London is guaranteed to be chilly. Afternoon high temperatures don't cross 7-8 degree celsius, to be prepared to be bundled up in warmth as you explore the city with your partner!
