Summer Loving – The Alternative Guide for a Romantic Minibreak in London
Campfire Cosy – Make the most of the long summer evenings with these two romantic campfire experiences in London. The Campfire Club is all about live music as it was meant to be enjoyed - unplugged in a beautiful setting, lit by the glow of a campfire. The venues and the artists vary, but the intimate relaxed nature of their live shows makes them perfect for a romantic date night with a difference. An equally cosy alternative is the Midnight Apothecary hosted in the rooftop garden of the Thames Tunnel. Hire a firepit, toast some s’mores, sip on an award-winning botanical cocktail and enjoy the ambience with your special someone.
River Romance – Whether you’re walking alongside it, or sailing down it, romance and the river go hand-in-hand. Skuna Boats turn up the romance with their Scandinavian floating hot tub boats. Slip into your swimwear and make yourself comfortable in the 38oC water as you cruise on past Canary Wharf. Skuna also hire BBQ boats for an equally unique floating date. If you’re planning a summer date that doesn’t involve getting wet, then climb on board the London Shell Co’s Prince Regent canal boat. You’ll be served a menu of some of the country’s best shellfish - including famously aphrodisiac oysters - along with pretty views of the historic Regent’s Canal.
Horseback and Dodgems – Experience some Jane Austen inspired romance in one of London’s prettiest outdoor settings. Hidden away in a charming mews, Ross Nye Stables is one of the only places in Central London with horses for hire. Trot your way around the 5 miles of Hyde Park’s trails in undoubtedly one of the most unique and romantic riding locations in the country. For something totally different, hop on the tube and ride the District Line from Aldgate East (a stones throw from The Gate Hotel) to Temple, and head to Somerset House for their Summer Dodge experience. Mix dodgems, contemporary art, music and great food together, and situate it in one of Europe’s most beautiful courtyards, and you’ve got a date that won’t be forgotten.
Beaches and Ball Pits – Two of London’s most surprising cocktail-party-venues, also happen to be perfect for a date day-or-night with your significant other. Reserve a table for two, or hide away in your own private beach hut and enjoy the live music, DJ’s and drinks at The Fulham Beach Club, where the summer vibes are always in full swing. Over in Shoreditch, Ballie Ballerson is as fun as its name suggests. In between their famous prosecco and pizza, the pink ball pit is a grown-up fantasy that’s a hit with couples looking for a date with a difference.
Sweet Suite Romance – Book a Thomas Scott Organic Prosecco Package or a Louis Roederer Cristal Indulgence Package at The Gate and experience one of London’s best luxury apartment hotels combined with the most romantic extras. Both of these fabulous packages take care of everything you need to complete your romantic London experience - hand-picked flowers, chocolate, luxury accommodation, and of course a bottle of premium Prosecco or famous Cristal Champagne.