Date Night
Things to Do in London at Night
Beyond dinner and drinks: the best things to do in London after dark, from late galleries to skyline views.
In short: our top picks are Ronnie Scotts, The View from The Shard and Tate Modern. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.
London changes character after dark, and the best of it has nothing to do with a nightclub. Late galleries, rooftop views, hidden bars, river walks and shows worth staying out for: these are the things to do in London at night that make an evening feel like more than dinner.
| Place | Area | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ronnie Scotts | Soho | £££ |
| The View from The Shard | London Bridge | £££ |
| Tate Modern | Bankside | ££ |
| Sky Garden | The City | £££ |
| Frameless | £££ |
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Editor’s choice
Ronnie Scotts
Why we pick itLondons legendary jazz club; book a late set and make a night of Frith Street.
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The View from The Shard
Why we pick itThe highest viewpoint in the city; go near dusk and watch London light up.
-
Tate Modern
Why we pick itLate openings turn the turbine hall into the citys best free night out; check the Lates.
-
Sky Garden
Why we pick itThree storeys of public garden above the City; free, but book a slot for the sunset.
-
Frameless
Why we pick itAn immersive digital art experience, open late; mesmerising for an evening.
Before you book
Mix one booked thing with one loose one, and check late opening times, as the best cultural nights are usually midweek. Build the evening around a walk between spots rather than a single venue. And keep a good late bar in mind; the best London nights tend to end somewhere unplanned.
Common questions
What are the top picks in this guide?
Ronnie Scotts is our editor's choice: Londons legendary jazz club; book a late set and make a night of Frith Street. Ronnie Scotts, The View from The Shard and Tate Modern 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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