Just when you thought the stress of showering loved ones with gifts, hugs and kisses for Christmas was over, it’s time to do it again. It’s the day that all couples must co-operate to keep each other sweet and the day that singles simply pretend doesn’t exist (understandably). So to get to the point, if the thought of Valentine’s Day makes you cringe a little inside, look away now. If you’re totally loved up and in need of some inspiration that will sweep your partner off their feet, read on. London is ready for you to board the love train this Feb 14th, so here’s how you can spoil your partner with a gift they deserve!
First of all, we’re going to cut the cliché of valentines and not dive straight into all the restaurants you could dine at and what movies you could go and see. We’re going to start with an out-of-this-world event (literally) happening on the 14th at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. You and your special date are invited to an evening of romance where you can gaze through the 18-tonne telescope at the breath-taking night sky, with a glass of champagne in hand. A great idea to change up the traditional dinner and roses and tickets are £30, so why not be kind to your wallet while you’re spending an evening with the stars? Now bringing things back down to Earth and turning up the posh-meter, consider whisking your partner away to Keats House in Hampstead that is hosting a weekend of simply lovely events, such as soothing poetry reading, valentine’s card making and live music at the pop-up bar. It has soppy written all over it, so if it’s going to make your partner smile, tickets are just £15, don’t miss out. Our next favourite is the very special Midnight Apothecary held at the Brunel Museum Rooftop Garden on the 13th, where you can snuggle up around a campfire, toasting marshmallows, sipping on cocktails and admiring the gorgeous view of the sun setting over the river. All before descending to the Brunel Tunnel Grand Entrance Hall where you can enjoy some tasty Greek Grill food and take a guided tour. Honestly, we could go on listing the quirky activities you could treat your other half, from parties to picnics!
On the other hand, if you are the more traditional type of romantic, there are plenty of venues perfect for a first date, anniversary or a Valentine’s treat. For a real over the top experience, sit down to fairy lights, blossoms, candles and fireplaces at the Clos Maggoire restaurant in Covent Garden. Choose from dining in the very atmospheric conservatory or the wood-panelled restaurant, both set out like a dreamy wonderland and serving a wide range of tasty dishes, accompanied by an impressive wine selection. Sticking around the vibrant Covent Garden area, the highly recommended Opera Tavern is still one of the most popular places to dine among tapas restaurants in the city. The ideal destination for a pre or post theatre meal, the Opera Tavern has been transformed from a pub to a rather classy, yet cosy restaurant with a tasty Italian/Spanish-inspired menu that’s kept freshly updated with new specials. Not a 10-minute walk from our door by Victoria Coach Station is the increasingly popular Thomas Cubitt brasserie that has become quite well-known for its mouth-watering Sunday roasts. The interior boasts classic features and has a buzzing vibe on the ground floor, whereas the first floor is ideal for more relaxed privacy with its elegant layout, perfect for gazing into each other’s eyes!
To top off a romantic evening, you can never go wrong with a spectacular performance at a West End show! For a night not to forget, lose yourselves into one of the world’s greatest love stories with famous songs such as ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ and ‘Bring Him Home’, Les Miserables is still going strong after 26 years in action and is as highly recommended as ever. To lighten the mood, have a giggle with the romantic comedy ‘Shakespeare in Love’, the story that follows William Shakespeare’s difficulty in writing Romeo and Juliet and how he found inspiration in a beautiful woman he meets and falls in love with. For a bit of fun and an irresistible sing-along, be delighted by Mamma Mia! that will hands-down please any theatre-goer/fan of Abba songs. The colourful and feel-good performance is guaranteed to leave you in a very cheerful mood. So, after all this effort you’ve made, you are sure to romance your way into being partner of the year and if not, well at least you had a great time! Happy Valentine’s Day.
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