London is one of the most romantic cities in Europe. There's a good reason why the city has been featured in so many rom coms, and that’s not just because of the allegedly bad weather (think Hugh Grant in the rain). From the romantic viewpoints scattered across the cityscape, the couple-friendly hotels like the Montcalm Royal London House and the near endless supply of nights out, the English capital is the perfect place to spend Valentine’s Day.
Whatever the day, there’s something for loved-up guests of hotels near Old Street London to enjoy during their visit, but there’s definitely something special about Valentine’s Day. This blog will explore some of the events coming to London this Valentine’s Day that can make the sparks fly this February.
Rivoli Ballroom Pop Up Cinema
Located in Crofton Park, the Rivoli Ballroom has a long history as a popular London ballroom but in recent years, has seen a resurgence as a pop-up event space. The lavish interior then, is the perfect setting for a romantic movie night and this Valentine’s Day, couples can enjoy screenings of Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo and Juliet and Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn. Both romantic classics come kitted out with beautiful decor, cocktails and more for that extra special date night.
Sky Tonight Live
Greenwich Observatory - and in general the park it's situated in - have long been popular couples hangouts thanks to the observatory hill’s views over London and the park's regal landmarks (though the interior of the Royal Naval College is less romantic, unless you and your partner met on a boat).
The events within Greenwich Observatory are worth a look in too, quite literally. The Sky Tonight Live is a Valentine's Day event that has you make an audience with a professional astronomer who will guide you through what the stars are forecast to look like over the proceeding month. The planetarium in which the event takes place includes beautiful visuals of the night’s sky, all generated from photographs from the observatory telescope itself. Talk about “star crossed lovers!”
Gatsby With Love
London’s Cabaret Club, also known as the Kit Kat Club is well known for its alluring and extravagant shows, and Gatsby With Love is no different. Though it might take inspiration from a distinctly American city, the roaring 20s still hit England too, and you can indulge in the hedonistic highs and glamour of F Scott Fitzgerald’s classic tale of tragic romance.
Galentines Night
No date planned this Valentine’s Day? No worries, the Camden Club has you covered with Galentine’s Night. Dance the night away at one of North London’s most popular nightclubs at a night designed around female friendship. The night will include classic dancefloor hits paired with a great drinks menu, everything you need for a fun night out with your friends.
West End Theatre Shows
London is teeming with West End shows on every day of the week, but Valentine’s Day is an extra special time of year to enjoy the city’s famed theatre scene. With plenty on offer, the most romantic shows that you can book this February 14th include Mamma Mia The Musical at the Novello Theatre and Pretty Woman at the Savoy Theatre.
Alternatives for guests of hotels near Old Street Station who are less musical-inclined include Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons, a West End debut from Sam Steiner playing at the Harold Pinter Theatre and starring Jenna Coleman of Doctor Who and Victoria fame. The romantic comedy about a couple trying to get to know each other in a world where words are limited by law, was a fringe theatre hit and is now playing all through February and to the 18th of March.
Kew Orchid Festival
Once having hosted a long-gone royal palace, the Royal Gardens of Kew sitting on the banks of the Thames in West London is a great place for a date regardless of the time of year. With dozens of greenhouses and conservatories holding hundreds of thousands of plant species, February will see the annual Orchid Festival take place. The Princess of Wales Conservatory will host a new design and a colourful burst of tropical orchids, many of which have been crafted into the shapes of animals from across the world, animals that would be native to these tropical orchids' home countries.
Valentine’s Day At The Sky Garden
Though the Sky Garden can be visited at any time of year for free (with prior booking of course), there’s something quite special about its paid Valentine’s Day experience. The restaurants, bars and weekly live music programmes all help set the scene for a truly romantic experience on the 40th floor of this City of London icon.
Dinner At The Painted Hall
Circling back to Greenwich, The Royal Naval College’s Painted Hall is one of London’s most famous interiors, often being compared to the Sistine Chapel. You can visit the Painted Hall alongside the Maritime Museum that it’s part of, but on Valentine’s Day, visitors can enjoy a three-course meal there too. Alongside the beautiful meal and ceiling views (don’t forget to look at your partner), you’ll be welcomed into the hall with a glass of champagne.
Big Penny Social’s Valentine's Variety
Whether you’re visiting for the serene Walthamstow Wetlands reserve or for the busy market street, Walthamstow is an up and coming neighbourhood with a lot of history behind it. The Blackhorse Road taproom collection are popular drinking holes for London locals, and one of its largest, formerly owned by Truman’s Brewery, hosts regular gigs, comedy nights and thoroughly entertaining events.
Valentine’s Day is no different, with circus acts, magic and a mouthwatering selection of small plates and drinks that go down perfectly with the dazzling show. All of the razzle dazzle is prep for a headline set from popular London comedian Lou Sanders, a regular on many of the UK’s best panel shows.
