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10 Most Romantic Spots in London

1. Duke of York Square Fine Food Market

Oysters served at the open-air market, image sourced from London Perfect

This Saturday-only market runs from 10am until 4pm, and is located in the scenic heart of Chelsea. But what makes this particular market so romantic? It is, in fact, the presence of the Maldon Oyster Company’s stall.

Oyster’s are one of the world’s most famous aphrodisiacs, so a stop at the van will surely get you and your date in the perfect mood for a romantic day together.

If oysters aren’t your thing, worry not, as you’ll find everything here from sizzling burgers and organic fruit and veg, to maki rolls, cannoli, and vegan cakes. Once you’re done eating, the next door Saatchi Gallery offers a refreshing dose of culture, and nearby you’ll find a range of premium shops such as Boden and Jigsaw.

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Address: Duke of York Square, London, SW3

Hours: 1000 – 1600

2. Strawberry Hill House & Garden

Strawberry Hill House, photo by Beatrice Delarragoiti sourced from Secret London

Whether you’re after the perfect romantic picnic spot, to impress your date with some stunning architecture, or just fancy escaping bustling Central London, this iconic landmark is an essential visit.

One of the country’s finest examples of Gothic architecture, the estate has a long and storied history, and all ticket proceeds go to restoring and maintaining it. A stroll through the manicured gardens is completely free, meaning you don’t have to splash the cash to enjoy this scenic venue.

Strawberry Hill House, photo by Julies Explorations sourced from Secret London

If you do fancy contributing, consider a private guided tour to get the most out of your visit to the house, and don’t forget to take time to relax in the Garden Cafe. For something even more highbrow, the house hosts a regular Gothic book club for fans of the genre.

Address: 268 Waldagrave Road, Twickenham, TW1

Hours: 1200 – 1620 (Mon-Weds), Closed Thurs and Fri, 1200 – 1620 (Sat-Sun)

3. Wimbledon Common

Photo by Shaun Ferguson, sourced from Wikimedia Commons

There’s nothing more romantic than the great outdoors, and nowhere better in London to get back to nature than Wimbledon Common. The woods of the Common are old and dense, meaning it’s not hard to get some privacy as you stroll with your date.

It’s size also makes it easy to escape any tourists or large groups, making it perfect for weekend visits. If you search hard at the right time of year, you might find wild pear, plum or apple trees hidden among the oaks and bushes, providing the perfect sweet treat to keep you going.

The Common’s wild and densely wooded nature means there is also the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, or spot horses from the nearby Equestrian Club.

4. Chelsea Physic Garden

Image sourced from Nuvo London

Occupying a prime spot on the edge of the Thames, London’s oldest botanic garden boasts over 300 years of history, making it the perfect spot for lovers with green fingers or an interest in the city’s past.

The Garden’s unique microclimate means it can support over 5000 species of plants, all of which delight the senses. You’ll find plenty to touch, sniff and pick as you follow the Garden’s Historical Walk to find out why it remained one of the world’s leading plant centres for so many years.

Visit the Pond Rockery, a peaceful yet exotic water feature, or if the weather’s less than tropical, warm up in one of the historic glasshouses. With so much to look at and talk about, you’ll never be short of a conversation topic, and late hours make long, romantic summer evenings all the more special.

Address: 66 Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4HS

Hours: 1100 – 1700 (Mon), 1100 – 1800 (Tues-Fri), Closed Saturdays

1000 – 1800 (Sun)

5. Primrose Hill

Photo by Zdravko Batalic, sourced from Pixabay

If your idea of romance is breathtaking, unique views over London, skip The Shard or the London Eye and head to the refreshing open space of Primrose Hill.

Located north of Regent’s Park, within easy walking distance of Camden Town, the area surrounding the hill is home to sweeping Victorian terraces, charming boutiques and unique restaurants, meaning a walk doesn’t have to be the only thing on your romantic agenda.

The steep paths seem intimidating, but conquer the climb and you’ll be rewarded with a view like no other, hopefully impressing your date along the way with your peak physical fitness.

Bring a picnic, pick a clear day, and aim for sunset or sunrise for the best possible view with no lifts or stairs required.

Address: Primrose Hill Road, London NW3 3NA

6. Peggy Porschen Cakes

Autumn collection from Peggy Porschen, image sourced from their website

This adorable bakery was opened by German baker Peggy Porschen in 2003, and since then it’s become something of an Instagram sensation, and for good reason.

The baby pink exterior is adorned by flowers year-round, and the counters of gorgeous treats can easily tempt passers-by inside. Combine that with artisan coffees and teas, and you have the perfect date photo followed by an indulgent, sweet treat. It’s a win-win!

Parlour in Chelsea, image by @travelswithmiranda sourced from Instagram

Just make sure you get there early, as limited seating makes a queue necessary at peak times. Find it just a stone’s-throw away from Victoria Coach Station, or visit them at their latest location on the King’s Road in Chelsea.

Too busy to eat-in? They offer all items to take away, and also do whole cakes for occasions, made to order.

Address: 116 Ebury Street, London SW1W 9QQ (Belgravia) 219 King’s Road, London SW3 5EJ (Chelsea)

Hours: 0800 – 2000 (Mon-Sat)
1000 – 2000 (Sun, Chelsea only)

7. Gibbon’s Rent

Image sourced from Jo Midwinter Garden Design

An oasis of calm tucked away in Bermondsey near The Shard, this community garden manages to fit a surprising amount into its very small space.

The greenery extends across both sides of the path, and an information board encourages visitors to pick up a watering can and do some watering, or even bring along their own plants if they like.

If you look hard, you can spot a small wardrobe which houses a book exchange. A fun first date idea could be to both bring a book along to give away, a great way to get to know each other through your taste in literature.

However, please note that there’s no actual gibbons to be seen – you may have to visit London Zoo for that!

Address: Gibbon’s Rent, London SE1 2EN

8. Little Venice

Image by Uwe Aranas, sourced from Wikimedia Commons

Avoid the tourist crowds of Italy’s real Venice and visit London’s Little Venice instead for a low-key, yet romantic experience. Despite being just a stone’s throw from Paddington Station, this stretch of river where the Regent’s Canal meets the Grand Union canal is a peaceful haven in which dozens of narrowboats and more come to anchor.

Unsurprisingly, the attractions here are mostly water-based; you’ll have a choice of several floating cafes and restaurants, with the Canal Cafe Theatre as an ideal venue for music and comedy performances. Alternatively, escape London’s busy roads and join one of the many frequent boat trips which take visitors through Camden Town and Regent’s Park.

Don’t worry, however, if you or your date prefer dry land, as there are plenty of shops and restaurants which line the banks of the canals too.

Address: Blomfield Road, London W9 2PF

9. Westbourne Grove

For fans of the eponymous film, or those looking to visit the iconic Portobello Road

Westbourne Grove, image by mysunsweptloft sourced from Pinterest

Market, Notting Hill is the obvious choice for a romantic day out.

Avoid the peak time crowds by taking the Circle or Hammersmith and City tube line to Westbourne Park, and work your way slowly towards Notting Hill through the much quieter Westbourne Grove.

Here you’ll find a number of shops and cafes that can’t be found anywhere in London, and as a bonus get a perfect view of the huge white mansions that make the Notting Hill area so special.

Paul Smith’s boutique inside of a Notting Hill house, image sourced from the Paul Smith website

Address: Westbourne Grove, London W11

10. Columbia Road Flower Market

Columbi Roag, image sourced from ILoveMarkets.com

If your romantic excursion happens to fall on a Sunday, you’ll find no better place to spend time together than East London’s Columbia Road Flower Market.

The perfect place to find out your date’s flower preferences (and perhaps surprise them with a bouquet), the road also boasts over sixty independent shops and eateries, meaning there’ll be something to delight even the most exacting tastes.

The iconic Cafe Columbia is the perfect place for a bagel, or visit for some iconic British baking.

Address: Columbia Road, London E2 7RG

Hours: 0800 – 1500 (typically)