Barge East
Take to the water for your next date in London by climbing aboard Barge East. Found in the heart of Hackney Wick, this beautiful boozer is lit up as dusk falls, and offers eye-catching views of the canal and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Where better to get to know someone than in the great outdoors? Whether you're keen to soak up some rays in a bustling beer garden, put your sporting skills to the test with mini golf or cosy up by a fire pit with a cocktail in hand, there's no shortage of fun outdoor date ideas in London. So, what are you waiting for? Strap on your shoes, don your weather-appropriate attire and get ready to swoon, alfresco-style.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 16th December 2024
Take to the water for your next date in London by climbing aboard Barge East. Found in the heart of Hackney Wick, this beautiful boozer is lit up as dusk falls, and offers eye-catching views of the canal and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Treat your other half to a little luxury with a trip to 116 Pall Mall, found on the site of a former palace in the heart of London. They've got a huge outdoor terrace for drinking and dining, as well as a Champagne bar by Searcys.
You can enjoy all sorts of delicious British fare here while you're soaking up the rays - think pan-fried sea trout, Hereford beef burgers, roasted winter squash and more.
Need outdoor date ideas? Then treat your beau with an evening out at Rotunda in King's Cross. Not only does this gorgeous venue offer an alfresco terrace flaunting views of the water, but there's also a mouthwatering menu touting Mexican flair up for grabs.
AIM Escape offers you an exciting Augmented Reality Outdoor Experience. Not only will you get to explore the city and its iconic landmarks, but also solve fun, challenging puzzles in the hopes of saving the world by using high-tech gadgets.
When you fancy outdoor double date ideas or fun on your own, CityDays is the ultimate escape room and treasure hunt-style game to try in London. Expect to solve riddles on quirky statues, uncover cool locations and explore the capital's hidden nooks.
As one of London's most talked about cocktail bars, Sabine should be at the top of your date night hit list – especially in summer. This rooftop sensation is famous for its close-up views of St Paul's Cathedral, which you can admire from its garden oasis. With classics and signatures on the drinks menu, you'll never run out of new sips to try. Think espresso martinis, brambles and the Champagne-topped French Harvest. You can also hang around for food – we reccomend the mac 'n' cheese bon bons.
@ London Eye Millenium Pier on Various dates from Friday 27th December 2024
Take advantage of the warm weather on your next date night by treating your partner to this cool speedboat experience in London. Thames Lates zooms you along the water, with hilarious commentary to help you spot landmarks (and a tasty drink to enjoy at sunset).
In need of a cute date idea? Jones & Sons offers the perfect place in London, complete with cosy interiors and a pretty courtyard. Head to the East London spot for a few tipples or settle in for a fine dining experience.
Wagtail Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is the rooftop bar that you need to have on your radar. You won't regret it. Head to the 9th and 10th floor, and soak up the cityscapes, as well as the sunshine, with gorgeous refreshments in hand and delish snacks.
A quirky date idea for couples that love getting their adrenaline racing, Urban Missions is challenging you and your sweetheart to take on a heart-pumping adventure. Simply crack codes against the clock, track down clues, follow signals and stop a critical threat.
When it comes to date ideas in London, visiting a swanky rooftop bar seems an obvious choice. Aviary Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is one of our top picks; offering twinkling views, modern decor and a menu of tasty cocktails and top-notch bites – best enjoyed in one of their deluxe bookable pods complete with plush chairs and blankets.
Offering quirky miniature golf courses all over the capital, from London Fields to The Horniman Museum and Gardens, the gang at Plonk know a thing or two about alfresco date ideas. Putt your way through 11 colourful holes, with tickets starting at just £6.
For an outdoor date in North London? The King of Prussia is one of our top picks. The friendly Finchley boozer has a huge terrace, which is heated and covered; ideal for when the British weather refuses to cooperate.
🥂 Cosy Cocktail Bar - Happy Hour Cocktails 2-4-£12 5pm - 7pm 🥂 and 1 other offer
Looking for cute date night venues around London? The Somers Town Coffee House is a traditional pub nestled near Euston station and has covered alfresco seating out front, perfect for evenings of cocktail sipping and craft ale swigging as you whisper sweet nothings to one another under the fairy lights.
Vinegar Yard is a sprawling alfresco date venue in the heart of London Bridge. Not only can you find a selection of fruity ciders and cocktails, but also street food from Nanny Bill's, Baba G's, Bad Boy Pizza Society and more.
Looking for cheap outdoor date ideas in London? Queen of Hoxton should be the first place you turn to. Shoreditch's trusty rooftop party bar serves amazing cocktails and street food from their terrace all year round, with the grub and decor changing every season. Past themes have included Alice in Wonderland, Mexican fiesta and 'Lost Vegas'.
Spend an enchanting evening wining and dining your beau at Conchiglia. A family-run Italian restaurant in Fitzrovia, this spot is serving up a large selection of classic cocktails, cheesy Roman-style pizzas, hearty bowls of pasta and a number of authentic antipasti.
Gain some date night kudos with a trip to London Bridge Rooftop. A hidden gem up above the hustle and bustle of the city, this cool urban bar is treating you to dreamy views of the Shard and free-flowing mulled wine teapots across the winter months.
The space has been transformed into an Après bar, home to vintage ski memorabilia, heated and covered pergolas decked out in snow and lights, and a whole ski lift as booth seating.
Fun things to do for couples outdoors in London don't get much better than Golf Kingdom Chadwell Heath, which offers both the UK's largest adventure golf course and FootGolf to boot. Expect to navigate around a huge lake, an eight-metre waterfall, a giant whale and more.
Between The Bridges is making a return this April, promising more fun than ever before. With street food, live DJs, craft beer, heated areas and views of Southbank, you can't go wrong with paying this spot a visit. They're also planning a lineup of killer events from bingo to karaoke.
The ultimate outdoor date night has arrived in London. Head over to 14 Hills where the Fenchurch Street bar and restaurant has an alfresco terrace some of the city's most iconic viewpoints. Take in panoramic views while feasting on contemporary British dishes alongside themed cocktails at this jungle paradise.
@ Royal Hospital Chelsea on Friday 27th December 2024 and 2 other dates
Celebrate the holidays at the Royal Hospital Chelsea's light trail, a mesmerizing journey through illuminated trees, radiant arches, and magical Christmas scenes.
Savour the diverse gourmet food offerings, including raclette, bratwurst, and vegan options, alongside Moroccan-inspired dishes. End your magical evening with sugary churros dipped in chocolate or a warm mulled wine to embrace the festive spirit.
Looking for London Bridge date ideas? Arthur Hooper's is the gorgeous Mediterranean restaurant overlooking Brough Market. Head to the heated terrace area to spend your evening toasting with vintage wines and chowing down on incredible plates.
Piccolino Exchange Square is a top place to outdoor dining, thanks to a beautiful, foliage-laden terrace. Not only will you get the tasty Italian fare, but also the drinks to match. Plus, you can head to Mayfair's Heddon Street venue too.
Can't afford a couple's trip to Miami? Union Social is offering up the next best thing. Found at The Gantry hotel, this hotspot has a stunning terrace that you'll never want to leave. Sofa seating, dramatic fire pits and tropical plants add to the luxe vibe, with cocktails and international plates keeping you fed and watered.
If in doubt? Whip a few slices out. The Green Room in Waterloo are inviting couples (and of course the general public) to enjoy pizza and cocktails on their dining terrace decked out with string lights. Fab for when the weather starts to warm.
@ Skuna Boats on Every Wednesday
Heard of someone touring London in a hot tub and thought it was a dream? Well, that concept is very much a reality, and you and beau can experience it for yourselves thanks to Skuna Boats. Sip on bubbly as you travel down the docklands of Canary Wharf in a floating jacuzzi, while hearing all about the area from an experienced tour guide.
Take your other half to the Caribbean with an evening at Limin Southbank. A themed bar, this quirky spot is setting the scene with sandy floors and palm trees, while rum cocktails and Trinidadian dishes are on hand.
From cosy pubs to swanky rooftops, there's plenty of places to enjoy an amazing brunch alongside views of London. Whether you're into lobster and truffle mac 'n' cheese, foliage-filled spaces or bottomless drinks, these winning weekend locations have got you covered.
Seeking fun first date ideas in London? Vauxhall Food & Beer Garden is a gorgeous alfresco space, combining live comedy, tasty street food and freshly-poured pints. The urban oasis is home to plenty of toasty heaters for when the temperature drops.
Putt a competitive spin on your next outdoor date in London by heading down to Battersea Park for a round of mini golf. The 12-hole, all-weather course is decked out with lush greenery and tricky rockeries, and there's even an alfresco café area to grab a drink after.
Looking for the best date ideas in East London? Rolling Stock is a fabulous choice, offering lovebirds a heated and covered space for sipping drinks, chomping on burgers and playing rounds of pool - there's even DJs every weekend if you fancy a boogie. With a range of events from quiz nights to 90s drag bingo and a Sunday jazz night, there's something to suit every couple's taste.
Thirsty for a pint of craft beer in the open air with your boo? Netil360 is the hidden Hackney oasis for you. Head down to sip on refreshing cocktails, locally sourced beers, and wines while enjoying the stunning vistas over East London and jamming to the in-house DJ's epic beats that'll keep you grooving all day.