Quirky Date Ideas In London

After first date ideas in London? Bat & Ball in Stratford and Covent Garden boasts a range of games and activities to take the pressure off your chat. Think table tennis, pool, interactive darts and live DJs, or even a private karaoke booth to really break the ice. This can all be enjoyed alongside burgers, pizzas and a selection of craft beers, wines or cocktails from the bar.

In desperate need of a date night idea with your sweetheart? Gorgeous South London wine bar Diogenes The Dog features a range of delicious food including boozy cheeses, toasties, cured meats and terrines, served in an intimate and cosy setting. Pair your food with delicious vino imported from all over the world, with sips produced everywhere from Poland to Texas. This spot has won multiple awards, including Hybrid Retailer of the Year from The Drinks Retailing Awards 2023 and Decanter's Best Newcomer in 2020, so you can be sure it's worth the visit.

If you're on the hunt for fun immersive experiences with your sweetie, head to Alcotraz. Sneak past the warden with bottles of booze as you interact with the theatrical actors while sipping on four bespoke cocktails of your choice in a prison cell, whipped up by the talented inmate bartenders. Oh, you'll both get to don orange jumpsuits too.

Mix up your date night with Queens Skate Dine Bowl, the quirky Queensway venue that's jam-packed with fun activities. Not only can you enjoy romantic cocktails from their bar, but you can also challenge your other half to a game of bowling or run rings around them in central London's only year-round ice skating rink. You can even expect DJ sets as you skate, followed by a delicious meal of buffalo wings, bacon cheeseburgers and black bean chilli loaded fries from MEATliquor.

Paradise Under The Stars is the perfect way to spice up your usual date night plans, as you'll be immersed in a brilliant live performance by some of the city's most talented actors. This takes place at The Lost Estate in West Kensington, which has been transformed into the Tropicana nightclub in 1950s Havana.

You'll be guests of honour for the evening, watching in awe as Cuban dancers perform under the tropical moonlight. As part of your £279.95 ticket, you'll also receive a tasty three-course meal that features the likes of croquettes with cheese, slow-roasted pork and dulce de leche.

At the point in your relationship where you want to show off your singing voice? Or just fancy a boogie with some cocktails and a live DJ? Either way, Lucky Voice is the place for you, whether you want to party like a rockstar in a private booth or hit the dancefloor all night. They've got over 11,000 songs to choose from here, so you can guarantee hours of entertainment.

You might be twiddling your thumbs on this alternative date idea in London, but it will be a whole heap of fun. Four Quarters have got venues in Hackney, Peckham and Elephant and Castle, complete with all the retro games, themed cocktails and craft beer to ensure you snag a second date. We're talking Pac-Man, pinball, Guitar Hero and Donkey Kong, as well as original consoles for video gaming.

With a locations all over the place, including Victoria, Shoreditch and Bloomsbury, Flight Club will add the fun and games to your date night. The quirky destination offers a range of quirky darts games that put an exciting twist on the pub classic, with electronic scoring boards that do all the maths for you. The quirky cocktails and pizza paddles here are to die for too, with toppings like spicy nduja or four cheese, perfect for sharing or eating all to yourself - we won't judge.

Not sure what to do for your next night or looking to impress a new beau? Over at various venues in Battersea, Forrest Hill and more, Laugh Train Home is bringing you a top-quality comedic performance, so get ready for a bit of a giggle. They've had some big names performing there in the past, such as Joe Lycett, Seann Walsh and Sara Pascoe, so you never know who you might see.

For a date that's a little bit out of the ordinary, take them to The Natural Philosopher where you'll be sipping on unique cocktails made with locally foraged ingredients. The cool East London bar is owned by award-winning bartender Josh Powell and features botanical decor in the form of wrap-around vines, alongside vintage portraits. Get excited to try the likes of the Boliviana, featuring Muyu Jasmine and common sorrel, and the tequila-based Seeing Red. 

A hidden treasure in Rotherhithe offering a slice of history, The Mayflower boasts a decked jetty and a candlelit restaurant perfect for enjoying stunning river vistas. For an extra-delicious date night, munch on classic British grub crafted from fresh, local ingredients, paired with a massive selection of traditional ales, craft beers, and fine wines.

If your other half is a big foodie, we recommend bringing them to Vinegar Yard in London Bridge. They'll have a blast from start to finish as they tuck into scrumptious eats from various vendors including Nanny Bill's, Baba G's and Bad Boy pizza Society; plus there are multiple bars, pop-up shops and art installations just waiting to be explored. What's more, their open-air space is perfect for the summer months, while the covered seating is great for colder weather too.

Situated in Battersea is one of the most romantic wine bars, Aspen and Meursault, brought to you by the creators of the award-winning venue Diogenes the Dog. Take your sweetheart to this gorgeous spot, decked out with plants and alfresco seating. Plus, you can pair vino with nibbles such as chorizo bites and baked camembert. Looking for something a little earlier in the day? You can grab brunch here from Thursday 'til Sunday as well.

Impress your beau by getting them to hop aboard Thames Lates' speedboat, which will jet you both down London's famous river. Admire the stunning views of the city's landmarks at dusk, with a stellar soundtrack of the biggest hits to add to the vibes. After all the high-speed thrills on this 50-minute ride, you can relax with a refreshing G&T on the way back.

Head to Tottenham where Roller Nation is waiting to become your new favourite date night spot, packed with nostalgia and throwback tunes. Take a few zips around the rink or sit back with a juicy burger, classic hotdogs or mac 'n' cheese balls and a glass of the good stuff while you watch the pros do their thing.

Bored of your standard date night movie and dinner? Then get on down to Boom Battle Bar at The O2 or on Oxford Street. Not only is this joint home to a bucketload of fun games, including axe throwing, beer pong, crazy golf and more, but also a mega menu of mouthwatering munch like pizza or chicken wings and cracking cocktails to boot.

Looking for a quirky and intimate date night? SUPERMAX is hidden beneath Happy Face Pizza, offering a unique Italian-inspired bar with a 1970s Milan vibe.

Enjoy Vermouth-led cocktails, indulgent neon decor, and a soundtrack of Italo pop and deep house, while vibing to the beats spun by DJs. It's an ideal date spot for those who want something a little different - secluded, stylish, and full of character.

If you're searching for a unique date idea in London, Plonk Golf in Hackney or Borough Market is sure to impress your sweetie. Enjoy playing golf on these challenging courses, complete with ramps, obstacles and colourful decor, alongside their retro arcade games and multiple pool tables too. And don't forget to check out the tiki cocktail bar as well.

Fancy switching up your usual date night plans with a quirky immersive experience? Avora is the fantastic adventure in Shoreditch, brought to you by the team behind Alcotraz and Moonshine Saloon.

Step into a whole new world full of magical woodland and interactive actors, where you'll sip on bespoke cocktails that change colour as you're drinking. You'll be tasked with completing all sorts of scientific missions as you venture deeper into the landscape, wearing custom jumpsuits and working as a team to discover more about this land.

Why head to an ordinary bar when you can whisk yourself away to The Candlelight Club? Located in the heart of Central London, this speakeasy-style joint is oozing 1920s glamour, alongside offering up a range of lip-smacking cocktails and three-course meals with dishes like beetroot carpaccio or pork medallions with a creamy mushroom sauce, alongside live jazz and other entertainment.

For something unique to do with your boo, London Wing Fest delivers time and time again. Whether you want to battle it out in a wing-eating contest or think you can handle the hottest wings in a different challenge, then this is the place. But that's not all, since you can try 45 contestants and 90 types of wings to vote for your favourite from the best traders across a number of categories.

Other entertainment includes live music, DJs until late, cooking demos, a new water fun splash zone, amusements and free axe throwing.

Looking to impress on a first date or rekindle the spark? Reverend JW Simpson is Fitzrovia's best-kept secret, offering intimate vibes, candlelit corners, and a cocktail menu full of surprises. Inspired by the mysterious former occupant, the bar retains its original quirky apartment aesthetic, with peeling wallpaper and vintage touches adding to the intrigue.

The bartenders, aka the Reverend's disciples, are true masters of mixology, crafting unique, seasonal cocktails using forgotten spirits and foraged ingredients. Cosy up, sip something unexpected, and let the night unfold in this one-of-a-kind drinking den.

Debauchery and sultry moments all happen at The London Cabaret Club in Holborn, so why not take your date along? Make your way inside this glamorous venue to enjoy fine dining and bubbles, all while catching some Copacabana or Gatsby-themed immersive entertainment. The menus are inspired by the entertainment too, ranging from Brazilian to Mexican or European cuisines. Oh, yes.

Located in Canary Wharf, Fairgame is a colourful, Instagram-worthy venue that's inspired by old-school fairgrounds. The adults-only spot promises all sorts of nostalgic fun, reimagining childhood games like Roll-A-Ball Derby, Skeeball and Whac-A-Mole.

Their cutting-edge wristband technology allows you to track your scores easily, with a leaderboard showing you how you're doing compared to the whole room. When you're all gamed out, nab creative cocktails, boozy slushies and tasty eats from the likes of Taco Collective, Rudy's Pizza or Burger & Beyond.

If you're looking for quirky LGTBTQ+ date ideas in London, be sure to head down to The Karaoke Hole in Dalston - brought to you by the team behind queer haven Dalston Superstore and pizza icons Voodoo Ray's. Expect to find everything from drag karaoke brunches to cabaret and comedy shows.

A talented artist as your guide, all your kit already provided, a bar on-site to help you loosen that inner creativity... Paint a Pic is a brilliant event and one of the best quirky date ideas in London. Guaranteed to gain you brownie points for originality, this artsy session will see you both taking home your own masterpieces.

For a cute date idea with your other half, Evans & Peel Detective Agency is hosting The Cantina By El Cabron, an immersive masterclass where you'll learn to whip up some tasty concoctions in a 1920s-style drinking den. Discover all the family secrets at this Mexican experience as you make cocktails and watch mixologists do their thing, with live performances of jazz, swing, and blues every night.

Ever had a romantic meal on a canal? Or dined under a floral ceiling at a cute cafe? Wherever you are in the city, the Daisy Green group have got a unique venue for you and your beau to try out. From Marylebone to Soho or Kensington, these Australian-inspired restaurants have got something for everyone.

There's an all-day menu on offer, with a particular focus on hearty brunch plates. Think fancy bacon rolls, sweetcorn fritters and an award-winning banana bread sandwich, paired with cracking cocktails or fresh coffee.

Spice up the usual dinner and drinks with a trip to the stunning Barge East, voted London's number one restaurant by TripAdvisor in 2019 and best newcomer in 2021 by the Catey Awards. You'll want to head east to Hackney Wick, where the historic 114-year-old barge has been transformed into a drinking and dining destination, complete with a British fusion menu and dreamy views. Book a table at sunset for an extra special evening.

Get your game on at this epic state-of-the-art mini golf bar in White City, perfect for competitive couples or breaking the ice on a first date. Alongside their tech-savvy set up, complete with automatic point scoring and electronic leaderboards, you'll find a fantastic array of food and drinks to bring out your best skills - think stone-baked pizzas or hearty burgers alongside quirky cocktails.

Set sail for the party of the year with Silent Sounds: On The Thames. This silent disco takes place aboard The Dutch Master, a two-deck boat offering unbeatable views of London's iconic landmarks, including Big Ben and Tower Bridge. Tickets start at just £27 per person, making it an unmissable night out.

Dance to your own beat with three music channels featuring everything from disco hits to house anthems. Need a break? Grab a drink from one of the boat's bars and soak in the city lights. And when the night on the water ends, the fun continues at Ballie Ballerson, London's legendary ball pit cocktail bar, with free guest list entry for select ticket holders.

To take your other half to somewhere a little different, BYOC City is the cool spot that has casino-inspired decor and expert mixologists who are waiting to whip you up delish cocktails from ingredients of your choice. The best thing about it? You get to bring your favourite booze for them to use. There's even roulette and blackjack tables too.

Test your crush's Squid Game survival skills at Immersive Gamebox. Step into a world of hyper-interactive rooms featuring motion sensors and surround sound, with five different experiences to choose from. Embark together on an array of themed challenges such as the Alien Aptitude Test and Ticket To Mars across Wandsworth and Southbank.

Gift your special someone with something a little different come the next date night, offering up tickets to cheese and wine masterclasses at Vagabond. Head to one of their locations across London to learn how to pair the two, with tickets starting from £35 per person and promising a selection of five indulgent cheeses and complementary vinos to match each one.

Bored of all the same ol' date ideas? Hijingo is ready to upgrade your idea of fun with your other half. Located in the heart of Shoreditch, this Tokyo Nights-inspired bingo club offers a ninety-minute immersive game, complete with with stadium-grade lighting, mind-blowing special effects effects and incredible graphics, alongside crackin' cocktails and street food plates like jalapeno poppers, buttermilk chicken burgers or deep-fried tiger prawns.

Sometimes we don't fancy going to our local boozer for date night, so why not check out The Murdér Express at Pedley Street Station, an immersive experience that combines theatre and fine dining. Delve into the investigation, find the culprit, all the while you're tucking into a four-course feast from a Michelin star chef - expect tempura courgette, braised beef cheek and sumptuous chocolate desserts. 

Need a cute date idea? We've got you covered. Check out London Bridge Rooftop, where the ski-high space with close-up views of the Shard has had an Après Bar makeover. Expect ski lift seating in Aperol orange colours, fully covered and heated pergolas decked out in lights and firs, and vintage ski memorabilia throughout to set the scene.

Cuddle up in cosy blankets with your other half, grabbing everything from free-flowing mulled wine teapots to themed cocktails.

Bounce on Old Street is an absolute classic for competitive dates, boasting table tennis, both physical and virtual, as well as beer pong. Make your way around their neon tables with your boo, all before plenty of pizzas, loaded fries and cocktails at the bar. Prices start from just £6 per person too, making this an affordable and fun choice.

Make it a date night to remember by taking them somewhere really special. Amazing Grace, which can be found at a 12th-century church in London Bridge, is cool, quirky and downright romantic. Pop along for dinner and cocktails, with live music to soundtrack your evening, as well as mesmerising 3D light projections using their cutting-edge audio-visual technology. As for the menu? Expect pan-Asian eats like Vietnamese fried tofu, Korean pulled pork bao buns and Korean potato bites.

A list of unique date night ideas in London wouldn't be complete without Theo Randall at The Intercontinental Park Lane. Here, you can expect everything from fine wine tastings with top producers to cooking masterclasses alongside the award-winning chef himself - either way, they're accompanied by an amazing meal and plenty of top tips from his 20 years of cooking experience. 

If you're looking for somewhere a little different to take a date in London, then The Rosemary Branch Theatre is a great bet. Treat the pair of you to a night of stellar performance from a choice of weekly acts or one-off shows - think music, cabaret, comedy and more, before heading downstairs to the charming pub for drinks and a bite to eat.

For couples that like to add a little extra edge to their date night, make your way over to Gravity Wandsworth. This next-level entertainment venue offers VR headsets and immersive experiences from e-karting and AR bowling to a modern twist on retro arcade games and shuffleboard, to name a few. You can enjoy some tasty street food while you're at it too, including classic hotdogs, burgers and dirty fires, with a whole plant-based menu to choose from as well.

Make your beau feel extra special with a trip to the music events at Sky Garden, one of London's most popular rooftop bars that makes an unbelievably Instagrammable night out. Combining enviable 360-degree views of the city with a DJ and live bands, these nights out will see you soaking up the view from this 35th floor haunt while you listen or dance. Otherwise, head here for yoga sessions with a view, sunrise sessions and breakfasts too.

In need of something quirky for date night? Here's where Mr Fogg's Victorian Murder Mystery comes in. At this immersive experience in Mayfair, you'll both have to uncover clues and interrogate five suspects in order to find out what happened to John Sullivan - costing £60 per person which includes two cocktails made with Belvedere and Moët & Chandon.

New York's 58th Street was a haven of hedonism, music, and high society, and now, London's most imaginative creators have brought it back to life. An immersive journey into 1930s Manhattan, this speakeasy-meets-feast is a playground of rich flavours, live jazz, and decadent design.

Sip, savour, and sway to the rhythm of the city as it once was - bold, brilliant, and brimming with possibility.

For a date with a difference, Ballie Ballerson in Shoreditch is a sure fire winner. A quirky cocktail bar featuring their signature glowing ball pit, it makes the perfect place to sip retro-inspired cocktails like pornstar martinis and picantes. You can even dig into a bottomless brunch here, complete with cheesy pizzas and 90 minutes of unlimited booze.

Spice up your date night with a truly one-of-a-kind experience at Blood on Broadway. This immersive show combines burlesque, cabaret, and a suspense-filled murder mystery, set in the glamorous Roaring Twenties.

Watch as the captivating performers, from aerialists to sultry dancers, bring the stage to life while secrets unravel and a chilling crime takes place. Perfect for couples looking for something different, Blood on Broadway offers a seductive mix of glamour, intrigue, and excitement that will keep you on the edge of your seat all night long.

Bunga Bunga Covent Garden isn't your average date night - it's a full-blown, vibrant variety show that will have you laughing, singing, and possibly even dancing by the end of the night.

From live performances to hilarious antics, the evening will keep you entertained as you indulge in tasty pizzas and cocktails. Plus, enjoy 10% off your experience through the end of March 2025.

Looking for a date night with a twist? Disrepute, a hidden gem nestled under Kingly Court, offers a journey into the scandalous past of Soho. Step into a world where history meets modern cocktail culture, and let the atmosphere transport you to the swinging '60s.

With its vintage charm, wood-panelled walls, and a cocktail menu filled with stories from Soho's past, it's the perfect place for a quirky date that's as memorable as it is unique.

Whether it's a first date or you fancy a bit of quality time together, YO!'s sushi schools are a great shout. Together, you'll try your hand at making a range of different bites, from maki through to sashimi, with guidance on knife skills and how to roll the perfect bitesize eats. There will also be snacks like edamame and gyozas with a drink to keep you refreshed too, all for just £34.95 per person.

If you're looking to wow on a date then take your beau to Sandbox VR London, just off Tottenham Court Road, for a virtual reality experience like no other. Immerse yourself in eight different alternate realities, from Squid Game to alien invasions, and then refresh at the bar after with a cocktail whipped up by the UK's first ever robot bartender.

If you need day date ideas in London, check out All Star Lanes Stratford. Modelled on American bowling, it's even bigger and brighter than sister venues in Stratford, Holborn, White City and Brick Lane. They offer 14 lanes and an open-plan restaurant cooking up US-style dishes like buttermilk chicken burgers and mac 'n' cheese, alongside a quirky cocktail bar serving signature sips. 

Explore all the nooks and crannies of London with CityDays, the escape room-style puzzle and tour round the capital that's guided entirely by you using just your phone. Pair up with other couples or go alone to get involved in this fun activity, where you'll solve riddles built into quirky statues, uncover cool facts and find quirky locations. Even better? Tickets starts from just £15 per person.

Not only is The Little Yellow Door a lovely restaurant and bar off Portobello Road, but it's also home to The Flatmates. These guys will cook up a storm and make you feel right at home with their raucous house parties, boozy brunches and kooky supper clubs, which are sure to make for the perfect quirky date. 

Looking for something a little different to do with your other half? Head over to Rivoli Ballroom and spend your evening dancing to 70s and 80s bangers at one of their Rouges disco and funk-themed bashes. If that's not your kind of music, then they've got 90s nights too, complete with tunes from DJ Kobayashi. It's fun, it's carefree and you'll both love every minute of it.

Located near Russell Square Station in the Grade II listed Kimpton Fitzroy London hotel, Fitz's is a luxury venue decked out with a jazz age mirrorball and stained glass windows. By sharing a few tipples from its 'Theory of Colour' interactive cocktail menu, which features 14 original drinks to suit every taste, you and your sweetie can really personalise your experience for a unique date night to remember.

Learn the art of icing or indulge in a tasty afternoon tea at Biscuiteers' cafés in Notting Hill or Belgravia. Thanks to pretty interiors, quirky themes and an all-round welcoming feel, this experience is set to make for one quirky date - complete with treats to take home. Prices start from £95, and you're bound to learn something new while you're there as well. 

You've made the decision to go to dinner, and that's great news, but how about trying something a little different this date night? Famous for their interactive tables, head on down to Inamo for gaming and touch-screen menus alongside some of the best Japanese bites in the business. You can even play sudoku while you're waiting for your order, and you're only ever a few taps away from soft shell crab tempura, yuzu pork belly, bang bang cauliflower and more.

One of the best board game bars in London, Draughts is the ultimate spot for your next quirky date night. Head to their Waterloo or Hackney locations and get the dice rolling with cocktails and craft beers, before moving onto more complex players and comfort grub - whether that's Baja fish tacos, buttermilk fried chicken burgers or broccoli and cauliflower tater tots.

Sherlock: The Official Live Game is one of our top picks for a quirky date night in London, offering a wide selection of immersive activities for you and your beau including the The Mind of Moriarty, a live escape experience. You can expect original content from the stars of the show too, including Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman and Andrew Scott. Whether it's taking part in a thrilling adventure, sipping cocktails in the Mind Palace or even enjoying an afternoon tea, this place is a must.

Spruce up your dinner date with a trip to Dans Le Noir in Farringdon, which has you dining in the dark for the ultimate foodie experience. Heighten taste sensations and change perceptions at this alternative restaurant that's sure to be a feast for the senses. You'll be served surprise dishes and given the opportunity to guess what you've eaten afterwards, with a fully lit bar to mingle with other diners or just enjoy a drink at the end of your meal.

To truly get to know someone? You should try battling zombies with them, adventuring underwater or escaping a high-security prison. Luckily, DNA VR are letting you do just that and more with their epic high-tech offering, promising 60-minute sessions across all of their experiences - from futuristic arcades to exhilarating escape rooms.

Looking for a touch of apres ski fun in the heart of Farringdon? Look no further than The White Haus. Open from Monday to Friday, this boozers, quirky, festive-themed decor is what really sets it apart - adorned with everything from cuckoo clocks to vintage cable cars and snowflake chandeliers, you won't be able to take your eyes off the fantastic sights around you.

Enjoy an evening of mystery and nightmares with your beau at The Double R Club, a monthly cabaret event inspired by the dark and beautiful words of David Lynch. There's burlesque, comedy, live music and more, all with a sinister twist and different themes each time. These spooky shows take place at Bethnal Green Working Men's Club, with tickets starting from £10 per person.

Perfect for a quirky date night, channel your inner cowboy at this cool pop up bar in East London. Interactive actors will immerse you into a world of the Wild West, where you'll have to sneak past the sheriff to smuggle in your own booze, before the talented mixologists will create a bespoke cocktail for you. Step into the Moonshine Saloon for an immersive evening of tasty cocktails and cowboy hats, with tickets starting from £35.99.

Ditch the dinner and movie and go for this quirky life drawing class from Neon Naked Life Drawing, for a truly fun night out using neon-coloured models as your muse. You can get stuck into this fantastic experience wherever you are as well, as it takes place at venues in Hackney, Aldgate, Angel Peckham and beyond.

Looking for a unique date night in London? Greek Street Live offers a quirky twist with its blend of intimate charm and lively entertainment potential.

Share signature cocktails in a setting that's both cosy and stylish, or take the night to the next level with live music performances. Nestled in the heart of Soho, this venue sets the perfect stage for a romantic evening infused with creativity and charm.

Looking for outdoor date ideas in London? StreetHunt Games offers a unique, self-guided adventure that blends scavenger hunt, escape room and murder mystery themes. Using an interactive map, you'll step into the shoes of a private investigator to solve clues as you explore the city and (virtually) meet some questionable characters along the way.

If you're after something a little different in the East London area, then head to Roof East in Stratford on your next date night. This fun-filled destination overlooks the Olympic Park, boasting an adult play zone full of games like crazy golf, glitter bowls, archery, ping pong and so much more. They've even got an open-air cinema here with films on almost every night, and you can get your hands on hearty burgers, Turkish street food and cracking cocktails while you're at it.

Get a little competitive at this quirky date idea in Greenwich, where state-of-the-art radar technology and software will level up your outing. Entertainment Golf will have you taking on some of the world's greatest golf courses in an amazing outdoor setting, with views of the city acting as your backdrop throughout the experience.  

Searching for unique date ideas in London? Head to Substation Brixton and enjoy over 100 different climbing routes as well as events and instructed tutorials for beginners. There's also a treatment room and cafe if you and your sweetie want to relax after your workout, with hand-stretched pizzas up for grabs too.