Romantic Things to Do in London by Season (From Free to Fancy)

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From cosy restaurants to once-in-a-lifetime evenings, this is your guide to romantic things to do in London.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit some of the most famously romantic cities over the years and I fully believe London deserves a place on that list. There’s something magical about it, from the pretty terraced streets and leafy parks, to the candlelit pubs and cosy little corners that feel romantic no matter the season.

I’ve lived here for almost ten years now, and my partner and I love a romantic staycation in London, so I’ve built up a pretty solid list of favourites along the way. Whether you’re planning a first date, Valentines day activities or just want to add a little romance to your everyday life, here’s my guide to the most romantic things to do in London by season and budget.

Romantic Things to Do in London in the Spring

As the days grow longer and London begins to bloom, spring brings with it some of the city’s most romantic potential. There are so many lovely things to do with your partner at this time of year. Think sun-dappled walks, admiring the cherry blossom and sunset cruises along the Thames. These are my top picks based on every sort of budget!

1. Spring Walks Along Regent’s Canal – Free

One of the most romantic walks in the city is along Regent’s Canal when the blossom is in full bloom. Start near Angel tube station and wander towards Broadway Market, stopping for takeaway coffee and pastries along the way. It’s simple, slow, and completely romantic, especially on a sunny afternoon when there is still a slight chill in the air.

2. Kew Gardens in Peak Bloom + Champagne Nearby – Affordable

Spring at Kew is genuinely breathtaking, with cherry blossom, tulips and magnolia trees all in full show. Spend the afternoon wandering the gardens hand-in-hand, then head to the iconic Petersham Nurseries (it’s a 20-minute taxi but definitely worth it) for a glass of champagne or a late lunch. It’s calm, beautiful and ideal for birthdays or anniversaries.

Kew is typically open from 10:00 am–6:00 pm in the spring and adult tickets start at around £14.00. It’s best to book in advance, especially on sunny days, as visitor numbers are limited.
→ Book your Kew Gardens Entrance Tickets here

3. A Spring Thames Dinner Cruise at Sunset – Special Occasion

There’s something undeniably romantic about seeing London from the water as the sun goes down. A spring sunset dinner cruise along the Thames combines soft evening light and a leisurely multi-course meal as you drift past the city’s most iconic landmarks. It’s unique, memorable and has real main character date energy. This is perfect for couples visiting London looking for a particularly special evening.

There are a few dinner cruise options on Get Your Guide but the top-rated option includes a welcome glass of sparkling wine, a four-course dinner and live entertainment.
→ Book your River Thames Dinner Cruise here

Romantic Things to Do in London in Summer

There’s nothing quite like summer in London. The golden light, long evenings and dates that start with one drink and accidentally turn into five make it one of the best times of year in the city. It’s perfect for spontaneous outdoor activities, skyline views and romantic picnics in the park. Here are my top picks for romantic things to do in London in the summer.

4. Sunset on Hampstead Heath – Free

There are few things more romantic (or more London) than watching the sun go down from Hampstead Heath on a warm summer evening. Bring a blanket, a couple of cold drinks or something fizzy and sit facing the skyline as the light fades over the city. It’s relaxed, intimate and completely free – perfect for thoughtful, romantic first dates.

5. Open-Air Theatre at Regent’s Park – Affordable

There’s something incredibly romantic about watching a play under the stars and I find Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre hard to beat for atmosphere. The performances are seasonal and the venue has a lovely bar wrapping around the outside of the theatre. You can get there early to enjoy a drink or make a night of it with a relaxed dinner nearby. It feels special, summery and memorable without tipping into full splurge territory.

I go every summer, and this year I saw an incredible performance of Noughts & Crosses, based on the book by Malorie Blackman. And I can confirm – every seat has a great view.
→ Check out what’s on at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre here

6. A Boutique Summer Staycation with a Rooftop Pool – Special Occasion

If you really want to lean into summer romance, a boutique hotel staycation with a rooftop pool is hard to top. Spend the day lounging in the sun, head upstairs to change for dinner, then drift between rooftop cocktails and late-night swims without ever needing the tube. It’s indulgent, sexy and perfect for big birthdays or unforgettable anniversaries.

My partner and I are BIG fans of staycations. It keeps things interesting, especially when you’ve been together for a long time or can’t afford a trip away. Likewise, if you’re visiting London, these hotel recommendations are perfect for you!

Autumnal Romantic Things to Do in London

Autumn in London is truly beautiful. The parks turn golden and pubs feel more inviting as it starts to get chillier again. It’s the season for slower dates, warm drinks and leaning fully into the city’s softer, more romantic side.

7. Tate Late on a Friday Evening – Free

Tate Late on a Friday feels like one of London’s best-kept free date secrets. Wander the galleries after hours, catch live performances and pop-ups, then spill back out into the night feeling cultured. It’s relaxed and effortlessly cool — ideal for an autumn evening when you want something a bit different without spending a penny.

8. Barbican Conservatory Tour with Dinner & Drinks – Affordable

The Barbican Conservatory is almost a hidden gem and feels wildly romantic in autumn. Book onto one of their guided conservatory tours to wander through tropical plants and steamy glasshouses, then stay on for drinks or dinner inside the Barbican afterwards. It’s atmospheric, slightly unexpected and perfect for when the weather turns crisp outside.

9. The Belmond British Pullman Experience – Special Occasion

If you’re going all-in on autumn romance, it doesn’t get much more glamorous than the Belmond British Pullman. This one is firmly on my bucket list! Step aboard the beautifully restored 1920s train for a full dining experience complete with fine food, champagne and old-school elegance as you roll through the countryside. It’s extravagant, nostalgic and they even have a vegan menu!

Romantic Things to Do in London in Winter

Winter in London is all about fairy lights, frosty walks and leaning fully into cosy, candlelit plans. It’s the season for mulled wine, Christmas lights, steaming coffees and dates that feel extra magical just because it’s cold outside.

10. A Christmas Lights Walk Through Central London – Free

One of the simplest and most magical winter dates in London is a walk through the city’s Christmas lights at night. Wander along Regent Street, Carnaby, Covent Garden and Soho with a takeaway hot chocolate in hand, soaking up the festive atmosphere. It’s romantic, nostalgic and completely free.

11. Southbank Christmas Market + Dinner & Drinks at Forza Wine – Affordable

Start your evening wandering the Southbank Christmas Market with mulled wine and street food as the Thames sparkles beside you. Then head into the National Theatre for dinner and drinks at Forza Wine. This is one of my favourite spots for a date – cool, relaxed, and ideal for a winter evening that feels special without being over the top.

12. A West End Show with Pre-Theatre Cocktails – Special Occasion

For a full winter showstopper of a date, nothing beats getting dressed up for a West End show. Book great seats for a play or musical, add in pre-theatre cocktails at a nearby bar, and make a real evening of it. It’s classic London romance at its finest – exciting, immersive and perfect for December celebrations when you’re escaping the cold.

For pre-theatre drinks, The Blind Pig above Social Eating House is hard to beat if you’re after something intimate and glamorous. It has proper speakeasy, 1920s energy with low lighting, plush seating and seriously good cocktails. For dinner, I’d recommend Bubala in Soho, which has the same low, romantic lighting and incredible sharing plates. It’s perfect for easing into the night before the show.

Final Round-Up on the Most Romantic Things to Do in London

Whether it’s a canal-side walk in spring, rooftop sunsets in summer, cosy pub dates in autumn or Christmas lights in winter, London does romance well. Some of the most special dates here don’t cost a thing, while others are perfect for those once-in-a-while celebrations. However you choose to do it, the magic of London will certainly help make things special.