Plan the perfect summer date in London with these ideas! From crazy golf at Swingers to alpaca encounters, explore romantic and unique experiences in the city.
Warm balmy evenings, picture perfect sunsets – summer is romantic by its nature, and a great backdrop for dating. London comes alive during this season, and there’s plenty to do if you want to whisk a special someone off their feet. Whether you’re looking for fun and excitement, or something a little more quiet and intimate, we’ve got you. Here are our twelve date ideas for the summer, all taking place in London
Hit a hole in one with someone’s affections this summer with a date to Swingers. Rain, shine, afternoon, or evening, our two London locations have plenty to do with your paramour. Strike up some friendly competition with a round (or two) of crazy golf on our unique-themed courses. Afterwards, grab a scrumptious cocktail at one of our bars. Stylish and comfortable, these are an ideal place for striking up conversation. Feeling peckish? Take your pick from our gourmet food trucks. Enjoy burgers, pizza, or tacos – all great for sharing *wink wink*.
Credit: Patrick Nizan
What’s more romantic than taking a casual stroll in nature? The beautifully manicured gardens at Kew are the ideal setting for an afternoon date. Visit the iconic Victorian greenhouse, where you can enjoy the sights and scents of over thousand different species of plants. Show off your gardening know-how (or your attempts to pronounce latin names) as you walk through the rose gardens and rhododendron dell. Gently wind your way around the serene lake as you get deep into conversation. All that walking is bound to build up an appetite, so stop in for a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants on site.
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Dating a theatre-lover? We recommend booking tickets to The Play That Goes Wrong. This laugh-so-much-your-face-hurts kind of play is great for letting go of any pre-date jitters. Plus, it’s sure to create some memories. And giggles. Lots of giggles. There’ll be plenty to talk about afterwards over a tipple or too – especially if either of you have personal amateur dramatics tales to tell. We guarantee you’ll both be quoting lines for days afterwards!
Credit: Swan Online
Get into the bardic spirit with this afternoon tea at The Swan. Ideal for culture vultures, this Shakespearean take on this British classic is sure to delight your date. Teas themed to different plays are on regular rotation here – this summer, it’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Sip on themed cocktails, try fairy-inspired sweet treats, and tuck into some fresh-baked scones. Savoury, vegetarian, and vegan options are available too. The Swan is right next door to the Globe Theatre, so once you’ve feasted you can always pop in for a play or a tour. So, what say you to a piece of beef and mustard? Please note, we can’t guarantee either of these will be on the menu.
Credit: Old Hammam Spa
If you’ve both had a busy (and perhaps a little stressful week), a date where you can simultaneously unwind and spend quality time together might be just what you need. Visit the Old Hammam Spa for a relaxing few hours. This authentic Persian and Turkish Hammam offers a variety of packages and facilities for you both to enjoy. Take a dip in the pool, relax in the sauna, and wake up (rather abruptly) with the cold bucket. There’s also specific treatments available to, including a traditional exfoliation and foam massages. Sounds heavenly!
Credit: Big Belly Comedy Club
Feeling a little shy? We totally get it. Break the ice with your date at night at a comedy club. The Big Belly Comedy Club is host to a fantastic lineup of comedians, many you will have seen on television shows like TaskMaster, Live at the Apollo, and QI. Look up the events guide to see who is due to perform, or take a punt on up-and-coming talent. So grab a seat, a drink if you need a little dutch courage, and enjoy an evening of chuckles with your someone special.
Credit: Sébastien Vincon
No matter what your personal opinion of modern art is, it sure gives you something to talk about. The Tate Modern is guaranteed to get the conversation going on a date. Displaying both permanent and temporary exhibitions, this converted power station is home to an incredible wealth of contemporary art and is globally recognised as a staple landmark of London. Think Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, and David Hockney. Be sure to keep an eye on their calendar for upcoming exhibitions, late night openings, and special events. The newer Blavatnik Building is home to the Terrace Cafe, which offers incredible views over Southbank. We highly recommend stopping in here with your date for a drink and a light bite – it’s really quite romantic.
Credit: Bryan Smith
Yes, you can meet alpacas in London. If you or your date are animal lovers, then you won’t want to miss visiting London Alpacas. This lovely farm is right on the edge of Epping forest, and is home to these delightfully fluffy friends. During your visit you’ll meet and feed these friendly creatures, as well as learn more about this species – and who doesn’t love learning new animal facts?! Do note that visits need to be pre booked in advance, so be sure to do so to avoid disappointment.
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A date is a great opportunity to do something a little different. And what’s more different than exploring an Upside Down House? This playful installation can be found in Westfield White City, and is – as you guessed it – a completely upside down house with a bright orange exterior. Inside you can explore a bedroom, a children’s playroom, and the inside of a tube carridge. Once you’re done nosing around the rooms, there’s plenty of nearby cafes, bars, and restaurants to pop into. You can even visit the cinema and catch the latest blockbuster. Don’t forget the popcorn!
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There’s always a good deal to be had in London, and Groupon has plenty on offer. Snatch up a bargain to see London by night – an exciting adventure aboard a yellow, open-top bus. Be taken around the city as you see it all lit up. You’ll be able to see Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye. A lovely way to spend a warm summer’s evening, and pretty darn romantic if you ask us. Just be prepared that your hair might look a little windswept afterwards. We suggest bringing a brush with you just in case.
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Chanel Gob from Arrested Development, and book you and your date on a Segway Tour. Not only is this a great way to explore some of the city’s parks, it’s just plain fun. Segway Events offer a number of tours in London, including Alexandra Palace and Battersea Park. Master the art of balancing on one of these machines, and then get set, and go as you’re guided through parkland and different terrains. This is something truly unique, which you’re both bound to talk about for a long time coming.
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Cats might be slightly smaller than alpacas, but they’re just as cute. The Whiskers and Cream cat cafe offers everything you need for a cosy and romantic date. Meet loveable felines who call this cafe home as you both enjoy light bites, sweets, and drinks. There’s even an afternoon tea available if you’re feeling extra fancy! A range of dietary requirements can be catered for, so you and your date can visit knowing you’ll be completely taken care of. This is a perfect spot for relaxing together, cuddling kitties and getting in some quality time.
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Swingers, the crazy golf club takes the holy trinity that is crazy golf, street food and amazing cocktails and combines them all into one incredible social experience
