London is a great place to visit as a family, from the Natural History Museum to Hamleys toy store, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of the capital. But it’s also a great place to visit without the kids. Normally a romantic weekend away involves walks in the country, pub lunches and perhaps a spa treatment, but why not give the vibrant city a go and see if there is more to it than fancy restaurants, West End Shows, and strolls along the riverbank?
With quality hotels and holiday apartments London has plenty of romantic places to stay to set the backdrop for a great weekend away without the children, whether you want to go all-out with some opulence, or keep things convenient and low-key.
Here are some of the things you can place for your romantic weekend away:
Picnic in the park
Is there anything more romantic than a picnic in the park? Kensington Gardens is perhaps the perfect place for sandwiches in the sun. Surrounded by history and heritage with Kensington Palace and the Albert Memorial providing a stunning backdrop, whilst the Serpentine Galleries offers respite from the rain should the heavens open.
Visit a jungle in the city
The Barbican Conservatory in the City of London is one of the biggest greenhouses in London. Housing over 2,000 plant species, including palms and ferns it’s a real feast for the eyes. A totally hidden tropical oasis, it’s full of truly Instagramable opportunities – perfect for a photo together to remember the occasion.
Whisper sweet nothings
St Paul’s Cathedral is perhaps one of the most awe-inspiring and truly beautiful buildings in London, and the Whispering Gallery of the cathedral really is the icing on the cake. Climb the 259 steps to reach the ornate dome and have fun with the acoustics whispering sweet nothings to one another.
Enjoy some old-school entertainment
Enjoy a gig, theatre production or cabaret show at Wilton’s Music Hall. Cobbled together from five Georgian house fronts, the hall is the epitome of shabby chic. Surviving the Blitz, the music hall is a true celebration of yester-year, and really does feel like stepping back in time. As a listed Grade II theatre, it is a rare gem, and a totally different experience to the all- singing-all-dancing West End theatre productions.
Pick a bunch of pretty flowers
Make a Sunday morning stroll all the more romantic with a trip to Columbia Road Flower Market. Get there before midday for a full assault on the senses. A combination of bright colours and impactful scents, you can pick up a beautiful bunch of flowers for a cut-price deal. Plus, you can enjoy brunch in one of the independent cafes.
Go stargazing
Head to the Royal Observatory at the top of Greenwich Park for an uninterrupted view of the skies. Peer through the Great Equatorial Telescope or take a tour of the night sky at the Peter Harrison Planetarium. And of course, pose for the obligatory selfie on the Prime Meridian line. The after-hours evening events offers amazing views that are out of this world!
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