Date Night Ideas in London

Imagine sailing down the river, with all the iconic sights like the London Eye and Tower Bridge lit up against the night sky. Whether you want a relaxed evening with simple dishes or something a little more elegant, there are plenty of options. Some cruises even have live jazz or themed events, like historical tours, to make the night extra special and personalised to you and your date. Consider a sunset cruise and watch the city transition from day to night.

There’s something magical about watching a movie under the stars, and London’s open-air cinemas are some of the best. Popular spots like the Rooftop Film Club and Luna Cinema show everything from cult classics to recent hits, all in cool outdoor settings that feel immeasurably more special than a regular cinema date. Grab a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy the show with your partner while soaking up the atmosphere

If you love a little mystery, exploring hidden bars around London is a fantastic date idea. These speakeasies are often tucked away behind secret doors, making the hunt part of the fun. Start with Bruno’s Bar, a cosy, floating bar in North London known for creative cocktails and elevated snacks, or try Discount Suit Company, a basement bar and former suit tailor’s storeroom with a vintage vibe and great playlist. For something truly quirky, head to The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town, where you enter through a fridge door and find a tiny, dimly lit basement bar in Spitalfields. Why not plan a mini bar crawl to make the night an adventure from start to finish.

London’s museums and galleries get a little more magical at night. Some of the city’s best-known spots, like the Natural History Museum and Tate Modern, stay open late for special evening events. It’s a great way to explore without the usual daytime crowds, and you can always grab a drink or bite nearby afterwards to keep the date going. Check their schedules for special events like live music or guest speakers to add something extra to your visit

Turn up the heat on your date night by taking a cooking class together. It’s a fun, hands-on way to bond while you learn something new. London has cooking classes for all kinds of cuisines, from sushi to Italian, so you can pick something you both love or try a new culinary adventure. There's Jamie Oliver Cookery School, Leiths School of Food and Wine, or School of Wok. Choose a class where you get to eat what you cook, so you can sit down and enjoy your creations together.

A night out in London’s West End is always a win, especially if you’re both into theatre. From big-name musicals like Hamilton to smaller, more independent plays, there’s always something good on. Make a full evening of it by grabbing dinner at a nearby restaurant before the show.