London for couples: the most romantic things to do

Often the backdrop for many romantic comedies (here’s looking at you, “Notting Hill”) and timeless literary love stories, London is an ideal destination for lovers and honeymooners seeking a sprinkle of romance. There is no shortage of sentiment in the English capital, from enjoying breathtaking panoramic views across the city to strolling hand-in-hand along the River Thames after dark under the city lights. Here are some of the most romantic things to do in London.

Discover London’s romantic side

Showstopping romantic activities for special occasions: Take a dinner cruise down the River Thames at sunset.

Great neighborhoods for exploring on date night: Wander along Portobello Road in Notting Hill to stumble across romantic restaurants and cozy bars.

Picnic spots for romantic moments: Head up to the top of Primrose Hill to share a view of London’s skyline with other loved-up couples.

1. Walk hand-in-hand in London’s romantic Notting Hill

Notting Hill is one of the most romantic neighborhoods in London for couples to explore. Stroll hand-in-hand through the picturesque streets lined with pastel-colored houses and wander down the eclectic Portobello Road to discover antique market stalls and artisanal food pop-ups. See if you can spot filming locations used in the popular rom-com Notting Hill.

Hot tip

Visit St. Luke’s Mews, a hidden gem behind the colorful Lancaster Road, for a private moment away from the bustling crowds.

Address

Portobello Road, London, W11 2QD.

2. Take a romantic stroll along the South Bank

The South Bank, London’s lively riverside promenade, is a top spot for couples to stumble across things to do in London. View the city from above on the London Eye or take a tour of Shakespeare’s Globe, rebuilt on the site of the original theater that was destroyed by fire in 1613. Afterward, cross the Millennium Bridge for a charming view of St Paul’s Cathedral. End your night in one of the many bars by Festival Pier, or enjoy a magical riverside ride on the resident carousel.

Hot tip

Stop for a glass of wine in Borough Market, just a short walk towards London Bridge.

3. Picnic in the charming Kew Gardens

Pack a blanket, fill a basket with goodies, and head to Kew Gardens for a picnic underneath the exotic blooms. Located just a short walk from the quaint London village of Kew on the District Line, this Royal Botanical Garden is the perfect romantic picnic spot in London. Explore the tropical glasshouses, then pitch up beneath the Great Pagoda or the terracotta façade of Kew Palace. Visit the Kew Gardens website for details on romantic events, including seasonal light shows and music concerts.

Hot tip

Don’t miss the Treetop Walkway, an 18-meter-long elevated platform offering scenic views of the park and the Victorian Temperate House.

Address

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, TW9 3AE.

Opening hours

Generally open 10:00 AM-7:00 PM during the summer, closing at different times during the winter.

4. Grab a cocktail in the clouds at Sky Garden

Enjoy a moment of serenity at Sky Garden, a free urban oasis perched high above the bustling streets of London. Lush greenery and tropical plants span the 35th to 37th floors, set against the stunning cityscape featuring iconic landmarks like The Shard, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge. Soak up the views on the open-air terrace, then savor a romantic meal at one of the two restaurants. Book in advance to guarantee your visit.

Hot tip

For a magical experience, time your visit just before sunset to enjoy the breathtaking views with a cocktail in hand.

Address

1, Sky Garden Walk, London, EC3M 8AF.

Opening hours

Entry hours are 10:00 AM-6:00 PM Monday-Friday and 11:00 AM-9:00 PM on weekends and public holidays. Bars are open until midnight and 2:00 AM, respectively.

5. Take romance to the sky on the London Cable Car

For a unique date idea in London, ride on the London Cable Car for stunning views 300 feet over the River Thames, including landmarks like the O2 Arena and Canary Wharf. The journey is only 10 minutes, so pay for a return fare to enjoy the view for longer and from both sides. The best time to go is just before sundown when the financial district’s tall buildings reflect the setting sun’s orange light.

Hot tip

Visit on a weekday for a chance to ride privately in a cabin with just you and your lover.

Opening hours

October 1 to April 30: Mon-Thurs 7:00 AM-9:00 PM, Fri 7:00 AM-11:00 PM, Sat 8:00 AM-11:00 PM Sun/Bank Hol: 9:00 AM-9:00 PM.

May 1 to September 30: Mon-Thurs 7:00 AM-10:00 PM, Fri 7:00 AM-11:00 PM, Sat 8:00 AM -11:00 PM, Sun/Bank Hol: 9:00 AM-9:00 PM.

6. Gaze up at the stars at the Royal Observatory

What could be more romantic than journeying through space and time? The Royal Observatory sat atop Greenwich Park, is home to the Great Equatorial Telescope - perfect for stargazing with your lover. Learn how astronomers studied the skies and seafarers navigated the oceans, then spend an evening with the stars as you watch the immersive illumination show in the dome of the Peter Harrison Planetarium.

Hot tip

With views of the National Maritime Museum and the London skyline before you, coincide your visit with sunset to watch the city glow in an orange light.

Address

Blackheath Ave, London, SE10 8XJ.

Opening hours

Open daily, 10:00 AM-7:45 PM.

7. Ride over the city on the iconic London Eye

Celebrate your anniversary in London with a ride on the London Eye, taking in views of the city’s landmarks like the Shard, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament, and those even further afield like the Wembley Arch and Windsor Castle. Though a ride on London’s big wheel is spectacular at any time of day, it is incredibly romantic at night when the city is lit below. The 30-minute journey is long enough to take in the sights while enjoying quality time with each other.

Hot tip

Up the romance and book a private pod with champagne for a memorable time together. Book well in advance.

Address

Riverside Building, County Hall, London, SE1 7PB.

Opening hours

Open every day except Christmas Day, 10:00 AM-8.30 PM in summer and over the holidays, and 11:00 AM-6:00 PM for the rest of the year.

8. Take a dinner cruise on the Thames

Combine sightseeing with romance and take a dinner cruise along the River Thames, the ultimate way to celebrate your anniversary in London. Sail through the city's heart, past sights such as Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, while enjoying a gourmet meal and a glass of wine. Book an equally romantic afternoon tea cruise if you’d prefer to sail in the daytime.

Hot tip

Book a table window on the upper deck of your boat for the best view, and enjoy a sunset cruise for the most romantic atmosphere.

FAQs

What are some unusual romantic things to do in London?

Explore Little Venice, known for its serene waterways and quaint canalside cafes, or organize a private viewing at one of London’s many museums or art galleries after dark.

What are the most romantic spots to watch the sunset in London?

Some of the most romantic spots in London with the best views to watch the sunset are Primrose Hill, Greenwich Park, the observation deck at the Shard, Parliament Hill in Hampstead Heath, and Sky Garden.

What are some romantic day trips from London?

There are plenty of easy and romantic day trips from London. Hop on the train to Bath to explore the Georgian architecture and dip in the relaxing Roman baths, or visit the royal town of Windsor at the smaller end of the River Thames. The picturesque university cities of Oxford and Cambridge are just a short train ride from London. Escape the city life entirely and take a day trip to the Cotswolds, where you can find rolling hills and cozy tea rooms.

What are the best places to take romantic photos in London?

The charming glasshouses and tropical plants at Kew Gardens make the perfect romantic backdrop for photos, but if you want photos that are instantly recognizable as London, take a few snaps along the South Bank, in front of Tower Bridge, or the colorful Notting Hill neighborhood, one of the most instagrammable spots in London.