London offers a wealth of choice for fantastic first date ideas. There is so much available it can be hard to narrow down where to head with a new love interest. Whether you are looking for something on your doorstep or you’re both up for exploring what’s on offer in a different neck of the woods, there is always something available in the capital to suit all tastes and interests.
We’re launching a series of blogs aimed at highlighting the date venues on offer all over London. We’re starting with vibrant North London, easily accessible by train, or if you lucky enough to live elsewhere in the capital then it’s an area well worth a visit to seek out great places to explore together.
Here are our top tips for interesting and varied venues which provide the perfect opportunity to get to know each other better:
Stroll around Coal Drops Yard: The cobbled streets and brick arches of Coal Drops Yard in Kings Cross are a foodie hotspot offering an impressive range of cuisines and dining experiences. Try the delicious gourmet doughnuts at Longboys, tasty tacos at Casa Pastor or a relaxed weekend brunch at warehouse-style restaurant Caravan. You can stroll along the canal on a nice day, as well as sitting and watching the world go by, or hit the independent shops if you both enjoy a bit of retail therapy.
Enjoy the views: Parliament Hill in Hampstead Heath offers great views of the iconic London skyline. Grab a flask of coffee on a cool day or a picnic when it’s warmer and enjoy spotting some of London’s top landmarks. There are also great views from Primrose Hill, and it can be a great spot for romantic star gazing on a clear night. Alexandra Palace is good place to watch the sunset over the London skyline once you’ve explored the 196 acres of parkland. You could also enjoy ice skating while you are there!
Have a relaxed dinner: You are spoiled for choice when it comes to great places to eat. Trullo in Highbury is the ideal date-night spot offering tasty Italian cooking with a daily changing menu. Jolene on Newington Green also offers a daily menu and delicious baked goods if you visit in the daytime. Fancy a bit more spice? Try Sambal Shiok, a Malaysian laksa bar in Holloway Road, which offers highly rated dishes. If it’s your sweet tooth you’d like to indulge, then check out Hans and Gretel in Camden Market, a dessert venue which offers deliciously innovative sweet treats.
Explore interesting bars: If open fires and cosy backdrops are your thing, then head to grade II listed The Holly Bush in Hampstead, a cosy gastropub which is the perfect spot for sharing a bottle of wine. Book lovers will enjoy checking out BookBar, an independent book shop and wine bar in Blackstock Road.
Do something awesome: The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks is currently showing at The Lightroom in Kings Cross. It uses powerful projection and audio technology to offer an immersive experience exploring voyages to the moon. There are a range of live music events on offer at the Jazz Café in Camden, while The Pleasance offers great comedy and theatre shows in Islington. If museums are more your thing, then there’s always something to discover at the Wellcome Collection near Euston station.
Take a dip: Cool off on a hot day with a swim in Hampstead Heath Ponds. There is a mixed natural swimming pond alongside the Ladies’ and Men’s ponds. You can also try the Parliament Hill Lido, a 60 metre-long open-air swimming pool which is open 365 days a year!
We’d love to hear your top tips for amazing things to do in North London, whether you are meeting somebody new or sharing a date night with your significant other. Share you suggestions over on our Facebook or Instagram page!
Ignite Dating is an elite matchmaking and introductions agency that helps busy professionals across the UK find a life partner. Our experienced matchmakers offer guidance and support to provide clients with a dating journey that leaves them feeling confident, energised, and safe. Find out more about our award-winning service and how it can help you here.
