You're tired of wining and dining, bored of bars and craving something, anything, that's not another bloody night of 'Netflix and chill'... Well you're in luck as this city's filled with all sorts of classy and classical places that are helping you polish up your dating game. Whether you're looking to make a good first impression or you fancy serenading your boo with a stylish outing for two, we've got you covered with our pick of ideas for a cultural date night in London.
Roam Around The Barbican
It may look like an imposing cement jungle from the outside, but step into the Barbican and you'll discover a cornucopia of date night ideas. Go to the hall for a live concert or play, head up to the conservatory for a walk around the lush green space or check out a new exhibition; the choices here are as vast as they are varied. Then gaze out across the lake while tucking into Italian favourites at Barbican Brasserie By Searcys, if you don't visit some of the other bars and restaurants nearby.
Cultural things to do in London? This gem's got it all in one place.
Enjoy A Night At The Theatre
A no-brainer for cultural date ideas for couples in London, the theatre screams sophistication. And it's not hard to see why. The grand interiors, the plush velvet seats, the slick showbiz cast; it's all so suave. Glam up and spend a memorable evening in the West End or, for something a little more intimate, watch a brand new production at one of the quaint historic pubs around the city.
Catch an incredible lineup of performers with a night at one of London's theatres.
Check Out Some Relics At The Natural History Museum
Your one-stop shop for quirky date ideas, South Kensington's Natural History Museum is a treasure trove of artefacts from all over the globe. Roam around the various permanent and temporary exhibitions, exploring over two million years of history, before heading to some of the local restaurants and bars to refuel.
Get some knowledge while gawping at the incredible interiors of London's most famous museum.
Eyeball Antique Regalia At Kensington Palace
The birthplace of our late Queen Victoria and home to the royals for over 300 years, Kensington Palace is a great shout for fun date ideas around London in 2024, with a strong rotation of wow-factor exhibitions. As well as giving you an insight into how the other half lived, it's also a stunning place for a weekend wander, after a leisurely afternoon tea or morning brunch, of course.
This one's a great choice for all the history lovers among you.
See Some Art At Tate Lates
Arguably some of the capital's most popular attractions, the Tate Modern and Tate Britain bring you a wealth of after-hours fun with their schedule of Tate Lates events. Meet your other half and discover floors filled with an everchanging stream of workshops, live music and film showings that'll inspire you to let out your inner artist and have you gaining a new appreciation for certain pieces. Want more? Carry on your creative streak with our guide to London's best art galleries.
Take in some impressive pieces at this iconic London destination.
Listen To Soulful Tunes At A London Jazz Club
Trade in drinks at your local for something a little more exciting with an evening at a slinky jazz club. Filled with intimate nooks and oozing speakeasy vibes, these bars regularly play host to some of the industry's best musicians who'll provide you with smooth sounds as you whisper sweet nothings to one another. Head on over to Nightjar to enjoy live music in a soulful speakeasy, discover secret evenings at Hidden Jazz Club, saunter on over to Old Street Records or catch a jam session at The Spice Of Life.
When it comes to alternative date ideas, you can't beat an evening at a swanky jazz bar.
Spend A Day At The Serpentine
Located in the centre of all the action, this Hyde Park beauty has got all you could need for an afternoon of outdoor romancing. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, see some art at the Serpentine Galleries or push the literal boat out and hire your own rowboat, poetry book at the ready a la Bridget Jones - minus the falling in part...
These options have got you covered for both sun-soaked afternoons and rainy days.
Bask In Stately Splendour At Kenwood House
Head up to Hampstead Heath for a cultural day at Kenwood House. The English Heritage manor boasts quintessentially Georgian architecture, a collection of world-class masterpieces, including a Rembrandt, and a beautifully landscaped garden - which regularly plays host to live concerts and screenings. To round things off? Grab a drink with your boo at one of the cosy pubs nearby.
Most well-known for its cameo in Notting Hill, this beauty's appeared in a number of films and shows.
Take A Life Drawing Class
Tap into your creative sides at a life drawing class. Whether you fancy yourself a modern-day Picasso or you haven't picked up a paintbrush since GCSE art, these sessions have got you covered, with pros at the ready to teach you some tips and tricks. Pick between a traditional set-up or go for a more out-there event - we're talking neon-themed and nude experiences.
Let out your inner Van Gogh at these calming experiences.
Stand On The Prime Meridian At The Royal Observatory
Take a trip to the idyllic South London neighbourhood and delve into the history of time and astronomy at the Royal Observatory. Perched on top of Greenwich Park, this spot also touts stunning views across the City, the National Maritime Museum and the Cutty Sark - which are both handily stationed nearby if you fancy checking out more of the area.
Head here with your other half for a wholesome day of sightseeing.
Looking for more romantic things to do around the city? Check out our pick of ideas for a date night in London and sign up for our London newsletter.
