Summer has arrived and London is the place to be when dating this season (unless you are heading to Tel Aviv for the summer). It’s a city that with some unique dating spots come rain or shine — here are my top picks.
Head for the roof
Is there anything better than an evening spent watching the sunset over the London skyline? The city is heaving with rooftop bars, but many are secret spots that you only hear about by word of mouth.
Rooftops are great date options as the vibe is always chilled and the staff usually whip out blankets later into the night which helps create a romantic atmosphere. I hear Hotel Amano in Covent Garden is ticking all our roof top boxes this summer.
Board a boat
We may not have docks full of lavish yachts (and the ones that are there are liable to be seized by the authorities under Russian sanctions) but as our city is dotted with rivers and lakes there is many a boating experience to be had in London.
Any date that takes your feet off the ground always encompasses some sort of challenge. So while embracing the sunshine you also get the chance to see a different side to your potential suitor.
couple on boat GettyImages-689569940
Take your romance on the water
Are they strong enough to wield an oar? How’s their sense of balance? Whether you head out on the pedalos in Hyde Park or venture down the canal on a GoBoat these experiences can be hilarious as you navigate the boat, and your date.
A trip to the theatre
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is one of the most beautiful theatres in the capital. Sitting in an outdoor theatre surrounded by nature is a cool theatrical date experience.
If you prefer a more alternative theatre experience then the Underbelly Festival is back this year with circus, comedy and cabaret shows.
If you can’t take the heat and would prefer to be inside an aircon secure venue this summer, then a classic theatre date is always a winner too. Just check if your date is more Shakespeare or Sondheim.
Food for thought
Unless they are planned well, picnics can sometimes be a bit messy and rather stressful. Food markets are a great alternative for summer dating.
The environment is already buzzy and summery without you having to do anything. Borough Market, Old Spitalfields, Camden, Greenwich — London has a market in every district, so your options are almost endless. If your date lands on a rainy day then we have you covered (literally): take your pick from Eataly, Mercato Metropolitano, Market Hall or Boxpark.
Festival vibes
When it comes to music festivals there is something for everyone. It’s not the most intimate of settings but it is a date choice that will allow you both to let your hair done whilst dancing and drinking in the sun.
Also, rogue interactions with other festival goers is guaranteed, ensuring that this is a rare opportunity to see how your date handles exchanges with other people before you let them meet your mates. Wireless, Hampton Court Place and Somerset House are coming up first.
