Experiences
Date Ideas in London
Beyond dinner: date ideas in London that give you something to talk about, for a first date or a fiftieth.
In short: our top picks are Sky Garden, Electric Cinema Portobello and Ronnie Scotts. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.
The idea is what makes a date, not the table you book afterwards. These are date ideas in London with something built in to talk about, from late galleries and hidden bars to views and walks, for a nervous first date or an easy fiftieth.
| Place | Area | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sky Garden | The City | £££ |
| Electric Cinema Portobello | Notting Hill | £££ |
| Ronnie Scotts | Soho | £££ |
| Frameless | £££ | |
| Kew Gardens | Kew | ££ |
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Editor’s choice
Sky Garden
Why we pick itA free rooftop garden with a bar; book a slot at golden hour for an effortless first date.
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Electric Cinema Portobello
Why we pick itSofas, footstools and a cocktail bar; the most romantic way to see a film in London.
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Ronnie Scotts
Why we pick itLondons legendary jazz club; book a late set and let the room do the work.
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Frameless
Why we pick itAn immersive art space where the paintings move around you; strange, beautiful, talkable.
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Kew Gardens
Why we pick itGlasshouses and a treetop walk; a whole unhurried afternoon for two on a bright day.
Before you book
Pick something with a natural talking point and pair it with one drink rather than a full dinner, so the evening can run long if it is going well. Book anything popular ahead. And keep a good nearby bar in your back pocket; the best dates rarely end where you planned.
Common questions
What are the top picks in this guide?
Sky Garden is our editor's choice: A free rooftop garden with a bar; book a slot at golden hour for an effortless first date. Sky Garden, Electric Cinema Portobello and Ronnie Scotts lead the guide, with 5 places in total, all chosen on merit.
How does Lamplit London choose its recommendations?
Every place is chosen on merit, after first-hand visits where possible, with no pay-for-placement. Read our full method at https://www.lamplitlondon.com/how-we-choose/.
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