London has some very charming spots for romance, from cosy wine bars to secret gardens and quaint streets. Here are the 20 most romantic places in London that you’re sure to love.
Most Romantic Places in London
Is London romantic? Although the capital city of England doesn’t have as romantic a reputation as Paris or Venice, it definitely has its charms! The abundance of green spaces make it easy to get peace and quiet in London.
London is quite spread out, so we suggest exploring the capital by area rather than trying to visit all these places in one day! In the centre of London there are many romantic spots including art museums and architectural gems. Here are the best places to visit in London for couples.
20. Notting Hill
Whether you’re a fan of the film or not, Notting Hill is one of the most romantic spots in London. Many of the houses are painted in pastel colours and there are some quaint cafes and boutiques to explore.
If you’re keen to see the film locations, 142 Portobello Road is where Hugh Grant’s character had his travel bookstore. Hugh’s character, William, lived behind the blue door at 280 Westbourne Park Road.
Rosmead Gardens is the private square that he and Anna, Julia Robert’s character, broke into. Don’t attempt that as we hear that the walls are very high and the drop on the other side is severe!
19. Gordons Wine Bar
A great place for a London first date, Gordon’s Wine Bar on Villiers Street has been popular since it opened in 1890. It’s considered to be the oldest wine bar in London and has a very relaxed vibe.
If you’re going to Gordons in the daytime, take a walk in the adjacent Victoria Embankment Gardens beforehand. There’s often a brass band playing in Summertime.
This is also one of the most romantic places in London at night, when candles burn on every table. Reservations are not taken so turn up early for your date night.
18. The Wallace Collection
One of the best art museums in London, The Wallace Collection is famous for its decorative art from the 15th to 19th century. From Old Master paintings to French porcelain and armour, there’s lots to see. The 18th century Marylebone townhouse has a lovely tea room where you can whisper sweet nothings to your date whilst admiring the surroundings.
17. Primrose Hill
From the top of Primrose Hill, you can enjoy one of the best London views, all the way to Canary Wharf. The high street is a charming place on which to grab a coffee or why not enjoy a Martini in the courtyard garden at Michael Nadra.
16. Swan Pedalos, Alexandra Palace
There are a few boating lakes in London including the iconic Serpentine in Hyde Park but the swan pedalos in Alexandra Palace really have our heart. If swans aren’t your thing, you can reserve a sportscar pedalo instead.
This is one of the lesser known romantic spots in London so a good choice to take someone who knows the capital like the back of their hand.
15. The Meeting Place, St Pancras
Although it’s officially called The Meeting Place, this 30 foot bronze statue in St Pancras International Station is nicknamed The Lovers by many. Created by the sculptor Paul Day, it was installed when the station was renovated in 2007.
A strong contender for most romantic place in London, it’s also a great meeting point. After admiring the statue, there are lots of things to do in Kings Cross, such as checking out Platform 5 and ¾.
14. Kenwood House
You’d almost believe you were in the countryside, not London when visiting Kenwood House. The Georgian former stately home in Hampstead has been recently renovated and has some superb artworks to admire.
The perfect place for a picnic in the grounds, there’s also a cafe called The Brew House and toilet facilities.
This London stately home features in a scene of the film Notting Hill where Julia Robert’s character, Anna, is making a period drama. Talking of movies, there are some great luxury cinemas in London if you are meeting up with your date on a rainy day.
13. Hampstead Heath
For romantic walks in London, you can’t beat Hampstead Heath. This huge open space has some more intimate areas such as the Hill Garden and Pergola, a Georgian arbour popular for engagement photo shoots. Afterwards, head to The Spaniards inn, one of the most romantic pubs in London with its open fire and stunning garden.
12. Secret Garden, Regent’s Park
We could tell you where this place is but first we’d have to kill you. Joking aside, this little park is one of the best secret romantic places in London. Head to the Inner Circle in Regent’s Park and you’ll find an unmarked gate with a wisteria-clad tunnel.
Inside St John’s Lodge Gardens as they are known, there are some lovely statues, park benches and lawns on which to enjoy a picnic. If in season, take a look at the rose garden in Regent’s Park afterwards.
11. Little Venice
We always find being near water romantic and the canalside walks in Little Venice are no exception. The area is one of the best romantic places in London.
If you’d like some romantic restaurant suggestions, The Summerhouse overlooks the canal and does a good line in brunches and seafood. At Clifton Nurseries you can enjoy coffee and cake inside a greenhouse.
10. Southbank
Southbank is another very romantic place in London. Who could resist a stroll here, whilst admiring the river views and street performers.
Stretching from Westminster Bridge to Blackfriars Bridge where it becomes Bankside, it’s packed with museums, restaurants and other interesting attractions. There are some great bars on South Bank too.
Head to Flat Iron Square for the food stalls and one of the most Instagrammable London restaurants, Bar Douro.
9. The London Eye
One of the highlights of the Southbank is the Coca Cola London Eye. Standing 443 feet tall, the views over London are pretty good and you can hire a whole capsule to yourself.
It’s one of the most romantic things to do in London, especially if you are going to propose.
8. Greenwich Park
One of the most romantic parks in London, time seems to stand still in Greenwich. Walk on the Meridian Line which divides the eastern and western hemispheres of the Earth.
You can also gaze at the stars from within the Peter Harrison Planetarium. Finally, the Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College is a joy to behold and the covered market is also a good place to browse around if it’s raining.
7. Whispering Gallery, St Paul’s Cathedral
Whilst the whole of St Paul’s Cathedral is impressive, the Whispering Gallery has a real sense of intimacy. Climb the 259 steps up and due to the unique acoustics, you can hear someone whisper from the opposite side. It’s one of the best places to propose in London.
6. The Young Lovers Statue
Just outside St Paul’s Cathedral, you’ll find a romantic statue named the Young Lovers. It was created by George Ehrlich, an Austrian sculptor who lived in England.
5. Columbia Road Flower Market
Every Sunday, the streets of East London come alive with the scent and sight of beautiful flowers. Columbia Road is one of the most famous London streets. That’s due to the flower market that takes place every Sunday.
Columbia Road and the surrounding streets are a charming place for a romantic walk but arrive early to beat the crowds. There are many gift shops and great coffee houses to enjoy as well.
4. St Dunstan-in-the-East
One of the best hidden gems of London, St Dunstan-in-the-East has a certain melancholic romance to it. The ruins of this medieval church are a peaceful haven from the buzz of the city and popular with workers and tourists alike.
St Dunstan-in-the-East was bombed during the Second World War, however the tower designed by Sir Christopher Wren and the north and south walls still remain.
3. King Henry’s Mound, Richmond
As if seeing wild deer roaming around Richmond Park wasn’t romantic enough, there’s a secret London spot that we have to tell you about. King Henry’s Mound is a protected viewpoint and on a sunny day you can see all the way to St Paul’s Cathedral through a whole in the trees.
This has to be one of the most romantic views in London! In late April and at the beginning of May, nearby Isabella Plantation blooms with evergreen azaleas and rhododendrons. For an extra dose of romance, reserve lunch at Petersham Nurseries.
2. Kew Gardens
One of the most romantic places near London, Kew Gardens is easy to reach by public transport or car. Since opening 250 years ago, Kew Gardens have been a tranquil oasis for nature-lovers. The majestic conservatories are well worth a look and the new treetop walk is fun for kids and dates alike.
If your loved one is into art, then the Marianne North Gallery, tucked away to the rear of the garden is sure to delight. Marianne was a talented artist who broke free from Victorian convention to travel and make highly detailed botanical paintings. 833 of them are displayed in this purpose built gallery.
The Original Maids of Honour tea room has been doing a roaring trade in cakes for over 120 years. It’s just outside the main entrance to Kew Gardens, so do pop in if you need refreshment afterwards.
1. Eros Statue, Piccadilly
If you’re looking to capture the heart of that special someone, look no further than the Eros Statue on Piccadilly. It’s been a popular meeting point since it was first unveiled in 1893. After viewing the statue, why not take your loved one for a romantic picnic in the park nearby.
Romantic London Street Names
Alternatively, choose one of these romantic London street names as your meeting point: Love Lane in the City, Date Street in Southwark, Valentine Road in Hackney or Lovers Walk in Dulwich. If you believe that chivalry isn’t dead then make Chivalry Road in Wandsworth your starting point!
Romantic London Tours
Why not treat your loved one to a special London tour for an extra dash of romance. Here are some of our favorites:
- Champagne London Eye Experience – enjoy priority boarding and a chilled glass of Pommery Brut Royal Champagne during your 30 minute experience.
- River Thames Sunset Cruise – a 2 hour river cruise with canapes and a glass of sparkling wine as well as live music. See the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf by night.
- Romantic Private Guided Tour of London – a 90-minute chauffeur driven tour in a Mini Cooper, with handmade chocolates and romantic music playing as well as an expert guide and pick up from any Zone 1 London hotel.
Final Thoughts on the Most Romantic Places in London
Spending time with your significant other in a romantic setting is the perfect way to show how much you care. If you’re looking for ideas on where to take your special someone, look no further than this list of the most romantic places in London.
As you can see, there are a huge range of places for couples to go in London. From idyllic parks to stunning architecture, there’s sure to be a spot that suits your needs.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our complete list of the most romantic places in London. Check out the best places to propose in London as well as our list of luxury cinemas in London, handy for a rainy day London date.
Are there any romantic places in London that you would add to this list? What’s your favourite romantic spot in your home town?
Here’s a quick recap of the most romantic places in London:
- Eros Statue
- Kew Gardens
- King Henry’s Mound
- St Dunstan-in-the-East
- Columbia Road Flower Market
- The Young Lovers Statue
- Whispering Gallery, St Paul’s Cathedral
- Greenwich Park
- The London Eye
- Southbank
- Little Venice
- Secret Garden, Regent’s Park
- Hampstead Heath
- Kenwood House
- The Meeting Place
- Swan Pedalos, Alexandra Palace
- Primrose Hill
- The Wallace Collection
- Gordons Wine Bar
- Notting Hill
Read all our posts on fun things to do in London
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- 10 Romantic Valentine’s Rhymes
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