Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend away or looking for new date ideas, we’ll help you find the perfect match in central London.
The allure of the West End is timeless; there’s endless things to do for couples, with date ideas to suit all occasions. If you’re looking to impress your other half or a potential partner, our black book of romantic dates ranges from special gift ideas to arranging more thoughtful time together.
Plan a romantic walk in London
- St James’s heritage is visible around ever corner. Wander hand in hand through the neighbourhood, browsing boutique Princes Arcade and Piccadilly Arcade.
- Show them your cultured side with a wander past the latest outdoor art installation at St James's Market Pavilion or a stop off at the Royal Academy of Art.
- Warm hands and hearts with a coffee from The Gentlemen Baristas before strolling through beautiful Green Park or circling the lakes at St James’s Park and Buckingham Palace Gardens.
Our favourite romantic restaurants in London
- Share a love of good food? Book a table at Fallow in St James’s Market and dine beneath its floral canopy.
- From authentic street food to fresh salads and morish seafood, escape to Italy for the evening and share stories and small plates at Cicchetti.
- If you’re looking for a great first date restaurants, sample dishes that’ll get you talking at Papa L’s, choose from the extensive vegetarian and vegan menu at Franco’s.
- Treat your pizza lover to a candlelit dinner at ‘O ver. We’re obsessed with its traditional saltwater wood fired pizzas – it’s a popular date night restaurant so be sure to book your table pronto.
- Plan the ultimate romantic dinner at The Ritz. No matter the date, this iconic Michelin-starred London hotel delivers perfection on a plate every time.
- Whether you choose the sumptuous honey ice cream or creamy custard tart, order dessert with two spoons at Wild Honey St James’s.
Must-try intimate London bars
- The vaulted ceilings inside former champagne cellar, Davy’s St James’s, make for a memorable wining and dining experience.
- Surround yourself with beauty inside and out with a table for two amid the bookshelves at Maison Assouline in its Swan Bar.
- With seasonal cocktails and exquisite views across Trafalgar Square, the Rooftop at the Trafalgar is an ideal spot to make memories and capture picture-perfect moments together.
Upgrade your date night activities
- Plan an all singing all dancing date night in London with live performances at Quaglino’s.
- Watch the latest rom-com or debate the finer points of the latest release at the Vue or St James’s Empire Cinema.
- Save the drama for the stage and enjoy a relaxed pre-theatre dinner in St James’s before you take in a show at one of London’s finest theatres.
Plan a couple’s weekend at London most romantic hotels
- Got an important question to ask? Let St James’s Hotel & Club take care of everything.
- Unwind with an indulgent couple’s spa day and stay at the Sofitel St James’s or boutique Haymarket Hotel.
- Spend the weekend locked away or find serenity after a long day exploring the city at The Cavendish, just opposite Fortnum & Mason on Jermyn Street – your haven in central London.
Romantic gift ideas
Looking for memorable Valentine’s Day gifts, an anniversary present or to simply treat your other half? Step into St James’s for gifts that are guaranteed to bring a smile to their face.
- Blend head and heart notes to create a bespoke fragrance they’ll love at Floris. Or plan a unique day out with its Together Fragrance Customisation and take pleasure in the experience together.
- Elevate a classic gift of chocolates with a sweet selection from chocolatier, Prestat in Princes Arcade.
- Add a personal touch with a monogrammed gift from Aspinal of London or find something tailored specially to them on Jermyn Street.
- Found your pair? End your date in matching pyjamas from Emma Willis.
Find more gift ideas and things to do on a date in central London by following @StJamesLondon and @RegentStreetW1.
