Calling all love-birds. As if first dates weren't stressful enough, the last thing you want to do is end up spoiling that big day by going to the wrong place at the wrong time. That's why we've created a guide to the best first date ideas in London.
Whether you're looking for a snug secret bar or something a bit different to get the conversation flowing, use this list as inspiration. Discover new favourites below, and secure yourself that second date.
Find out more about how we curated this guide in our Editorial Policy.
Tracking down Opium is by no means an easy task, but stumble upon this nondescript green door and make your way inside to find a winner of a bolthole. Known for its fire-cracker cocktails and delicious baskets of dim sum, this Soho haunt has a lovely atmosphere to match.
Perched just off the main Islington strip, Little Bat is a cosy and comfortable neighbourhood bar that's brought to us by the cocktail whizzes behind the award-winning Callooh Callay. With impressive drinks, charming vibes, plenty of quirks by candlelight and friendly service, this Angel joint is an absolute must-try date night venue.
Based upon the HQ of the secret society that ran Victorian London, The Escapologist is a beautifully designed basement bar pegged as 'part modern-day Victorian men's club and part Masonic Lodge'. Ideal for a relaxed first date, this vintage-themed bar serves a fun yet refined list of cocktails and cheese-drenched pizzas in the heart of Covent Garden.
Slick, sexy and a little bit secretive, Callooh Callay is renowned for its date night credentials. With a menu of signature concoctions, the drinks alone should add a little extra spark to conversation, but if you're really looking to impress, show your date their even more secret members bar, JubJub.
The Parisian chic of this dark and intimate Soho haunt is certainly fit for impressing on a first date. Head on down to Basement Sate for indulgent, silky cocktails and handmade dessert pairings that are quite literally a piece of melt-in-the-mouth deliciousness. They even host cocktail classes if you fancy more of an activity.
Right by London Bridge, Nancy's gives you all the epic views, old school glamour and elegant vibes you need to impress on a first date. Up on the roof, you can sip on something truly special as you soak up the city skyline.
Inspired by Borough Market and the makers that surround it, the mixologists here pour fresh market-to-glass cocktails packed with only the finest ingredients. If the date lasts long into the night, there's DJs behind the decks until the early hours.
For those seeking a top-notch spot to cut the awkwardness with gorgeous decor and lip-smacking drinks, Supermax in King's Cross is a great choice. With interiors and cocktails inspired by Italian culture, this hotspot is perfect for first dates.
Stylish, relaxed and bursting with excellent bottles of wine, Vagabond is a top spot for making that first date a good one. With venues sprinkled across South West and Central London, you're sure to find one that makes the perfect meeting spot for grabbing Italian and Spanish small plates.
Have a hot date on the cards? Then make sure to impress them by showing off your knowledge of London's best bars. Diogenes the Dog is the atmospheric spot that's decked out with romantic lighting and indoor foliage, boasting a fabulous selection of wines, meat and cheeses.
A go-to for a first date in London, Found is hidden away down Ravey Street. Just look for the unobtrusive door and head inside to a swanky speakeasy. Although it may be a bit cramped, the beautiful interiors and delicious cocktails make it well worth a visit.
The world-famous Long Bar is ready to welcome you into their expert cocktail making arms for an unforgettable first date in London. Sit at the 80 foot bar as you work your way through the delicious cocktails and admire the unique artwork scattered around.
Blink and you might miss it, but this secret little bar beneath Bishopsgate is well worth the hunt. The bare brick walls, low lighting and wooden finish give WM Barker & Co an intimate feeling. Try one of their beautifully crafted cocktails and get a bite to eat from the kitchen - the toasties are a real treat.
This iconic little cocktail den in Covent Garden is awash with beautiful bespoke art and luxurious décor that'll make any first date happy. And when you've both indulged in a theatrical drink, and listened to the roster of live music or tunes from the best local DJs, the second date is all but guaranteed.
The Racketeer has a long history of mischief, and it's that kind of character that'll keep the sparks flying on a first date. Relaxed, welcoming and boasting its own secret garden, this charming Essex Road pub is the type of spot you stop in for a few pints and end up staying until closing time.
Renowned for its prowess on the London bar scene, The Bar at Hush is certainly one of the more esteemed first date bars in town. With a gorgeous 60s-inspired setting and a menu of globally inspired cocktails, your date will feel like you've taken them far further than Mayfair.
There's an unmistakable party spirit to The Cocktail Club's venues, which comes out to play no matter what time of the week you're visiting; perfect for impressing a date that doesn't take themselves too seriously. Better yet, the drinks are spot on too.
When it comes to finding a truly impressive location for a first date, rooftop bars are always an excellent shout. Head over to central where Jin Bo Law is offering panoramas across London, alongside some vibrant drinks to get stuck into, and plush interiors to really set the scene.
Looking to impress that someone special? We know just the place. A Borough watering hole with oodles of personality, Amazing Grace simply screams date night vibes. Head along and get to know each other over delicious pan-Asian food like Japanese fried chicken or tofu and charred broccoli bao buns, alongside top-quality cocktails and craft beer.
This former church maintains its stained-glassed windows and original woodwork, but now you'll find amazing audio-visual technology and 3D light projections as well - perfect for the regular lineup of live music on offer. Not in the area? Head to their Canary Wharf location instead.
Located down in the already picturesque Hackney Wick, just a stone's throw from the Olympic Park, Barge East is a bar and restaurant aboard a century-old Dutch boat. Offering tasty plates and an excellent selection of wine, cocktails and craft beers, it's a calm and quiet spot to get to know your date.
In need of an intimate date spot? Aspen & Meursault in Battersea offers up an extensive low-intervention wine list, as well as small plates and nibbles to enjoy throughout the evening. With boozy cheese boards and botanical décor, this venue evokes nothing but romance.
Finding the ideal first date spot can be pretty tricky... but that's where The Rosy Hue comes in. Whether you're looking to sit in its gorgeous indoor space or on its swoon-worthy alfresco terrace, there are plenty of good vibes and hearty grub to enjoy. Need we say more?
Nervous for your first date? Not to worry, LOCKES has got you covered. Located in Covent Garden with a sister site in Battersea, this top-notch haunt is perfect for delicious tipples and sumptuous pizza slices. You'll get to sip on everything from espresso martinis to mezcal margaritas and pina coladas galore.
Situated in Covent Garden, The Wild Monkey is a great shout when it comes to cute first date spots. This haunt showcases the most delicious cocktails in a slinky space - we mean gorgeous greenery, forest-themed interiors and a focus on Monkey 47 beverages.
Looking to impress your crush with a fab first date? Head to The Lounge Bar and it won't disappoint. Enjoy signature cocktails and a wide range of gin, alongside a killer bar snacks menu filled with truffle fries, nachos and much more.
For a laidback first date in traditional Italian-inspired surrounds, Il Maremmano is an apericena bar which serves delicious Tuscan wines from an independent producer and delicacies from the beautiful Maremma region. Their dishes range from cheese or meat boards to mini pizzette topped with fresh buffalo mozzarella, and there's a cracking cocktail selection here too which includes refreshing spritzes and signature serves.
Looking for the best first date spots in London? Lost and Found is a charming venue with a relaxed, kitschy atmosphere, perfect for a memorable first date. Enjoy cocktails, fun karaoke, and delicious pizzas while getting to know each other in a quirky and comfortable setting. It's the ideal place to break the ice and have a blast.
Looking to impress on your first date? Disrepute, with its mix of history, mystery, and modern charm, offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening.
Hidden in the heart of Soho, this basement bar is steeped in scandal and elegance, offering an intimate, sophisticated setting for you and your date to explore. With cocktails that tell a story, you can bond over shared tales from Soho's storied past, creating a conversation that's as intriguing as your connection.
Looking for a perfect first date bar in London? MUSE delivers ambience, conversation-starting cocktails, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Just steps from Covent Garden, this hidden bar blends old-world charm with contemporary mixology, offering sustainable, seasonal drinks crafted with care. Its intimate size and calm elegance make it a relaxed but impressive setting for getting to know someone new.
If you want to impress your date while still going somewhere relaxed, then London Bridge Rooftop strikes the perfect balanced. This is a chilled venue with lots of outdoor space, boasting views of The Shard, the London Eye, St Paul's Cathedral and more.
They offer a selection of affordable cocktails, with a happy hour running from 1 to 4pm between Monday and Wednesday. There are also juicy burgers and sides available if you're hungry, with an interactive dartboard for some added competition.
A cosy pub that's great for getting to know someone, The Hayden Pub & Rooms can be found in Notting Hill. Relax on one of their comfy leather sofas together, sipping an expertly crafted cocktails while watching the world go by out of their large windows.
Their drinks are made with premium spirits and fresh ingredients, and the food menu doesn't disappoint either. Think mezze boards, fish tacos and Buffalo chicken bites to start, followed by hearty burgers, slow-cooked BBQ pork ribs or a goat's cheese and red onion tart.
If Ellie's is good enough for Charlie XCX's wedding afterparty, it's plenty good enough for your next date night. All bar stools and casual seating, it's great for classic cocktails and creamy pints of Guinness.
You'll bond over £8 martinis and tuck into toasties before the night's through. Who doesn't love that?
Make your way to Fitzrovia to discover Bar Kinky, hidden underneath Kinkally. This sleek spot is filled with stainless steel decor, featuring warm orange lighting and a chef's-table-style bar where you can watch the mixologists work.
These guys are known for their quirky cocktails, so you'll have plenty to talk about. There are some truly unique ingredients in their list, from goat's cheese to roasted leeks.
With a stunning streetside terrace and cosy bar, Dynamic Vines is perfect for date nights. Settle in to sip and savour its carefully curated selection of low-intervention, biodynamic and sustainable European wines.
There's plenty to pair it with here, from cheese and charcuterie to the romantic sounds of spinning vinyl. If the date goes well, you can grab a bottle or two to share later on.
From laid-back lunches to lively catch-ups, 26 Furnival Street makes a convincing case for staying on the edge of the City a little longer. Its food offering moves effortlessly between much-loved pizzas and Mediterranean sharing plates, with fried cheese, spiced lamb and crispy potatoes all vying for your attention.
Pub favourites arrive with modern polish, whether you pick the Camden Town ale-battered haddock, one of the towering burgers or a plate of steak frites. Support for independent London suppliers means your meal champions homegrown businesses too.
All exposed brick, statement art and glowing fairy lights, Mowgli's decor is perfect for dreamy date nights. Over a candlelit table, you can tuck into epic Indian street food.
We're talking fiery gunpowder chicken, treacle tamarind fries, spicy chaats and house specials like Goan fish curry and lamb bunny chow. The cocktails will make you fall in love too, from the chilli mango margarita to the masala espresso martini.
Looking for an intimate Italian restaurant to sweep your date off their feet? Then check out 64 Old Compton Street, situated in the heart of Soho. This stylish space is decked out in plush seating and deep blue decor, as well as traditional wooden furniture.
Wondering what's on the menu? Think spinach and ricotta ravioli, prosciutto and mushroom pizzas or chicken Milanese, washed down with fine wines or cocktails.
Looking for the perfect spot for a romantic date night? Look no further than BÓHA London, where intimate ambience meets exquisite cocktails. From the moment you step inside, you'll be enveloped in a warm and stylish atmosphere, perfect for a cosy evening with that special someone.
Whether you're sipping on expertly crafted cocktails in the 1920s-style speakeasy, or sharing a delightful small plate, this restaurant and bar offers an intimate, chic setting that invites conversation and connection. The dimmed lights, sophisticated decor, and attentive service make this the ideal place to make your date night truly memorable.
Samba Brunch: Bottomless Food and Drinks. and 4 other offers
If you're on the hunt for some top-notch food on your London first date, Peruvian-Japanese fusion restaurant Ayllu is a firm choice. Set the scene for date night beneath the grounds of Paddington Central, with swoon-worthy dark green interiors and plush seating, alongside a cracking menu to boot.
Fancy taking your lovely date to a gorgeous sky-high restaurant and terrace bar? We thought as much. Head on over to Aviary Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, located on the 10th floor of the Montcalm Royal London House Hotel in Finsbury Square, for some mouthwatering grub or lip-smacking bevvies.
Looking for a cosy, intimate spot for a first date? Pedro's Wine Bar, tucked beneath a railway arch on Bermondsey's Beer Mile, offers the perfect backdrop. With its warm lighting, exposed brickwork, and stylish granite bar, this Portuguese wine bar creates a relaxed yet romantic vibe.
Share a bottle of hand-picked Vinho Verde or Douro red and enjoy small plates like salt cod fritters, making your date night both memorable and delicious.
If you're looking for a laid-back destination to take your date, Seven Dials Market in Covent Garden is a great choice. Seven days a week, these guys are offering up independent street food and drinks in a buzzing space - divided into four main sections and featuring a stage that's often used for entertainment.
Expect trendy warehouse vibes and a diverse selection of vendors. From tasty bao at Yum Bun to Hot Rocket's Cuban sandwiches or Taiwanese pancakes from Wheelcake Island, there's something for everyone - with delicious cocktails to wash it all down.
Is there anything more romantic than sharing some tapas-style plates? We thought not. Make your way to Berwick Street's Ember Yard for an extensive range of Spanish and Italian-inspired cuisine, cooked on a top-notch charcoal grill. Think smoked bream or pork belly. Yum.
Found in Notting Hill, an area of London made famous across the world because of the rom-com of the same name, Portobello Ristorante Pizzeria is equal parts romantic and relaxed - ideal for that first date. Think an intimate space made cosy with an authentic trattoria feel, as well as a gorgeous sun-trap of a terrace for any warmer months.
Tuck into perfectly blistered, wood-fired pizza alongside traditionally cooked meat and fish dishes, like wood oven-roasted monkfish wrapped in pancetta and charcoal-grilled sirloin steak.
Whether you head to the Vauxhall, Harrow or Peckham location, Market Place is sure to hit the spot with its vibrant variety of street food traders under one roof. That's Sri Lankan Karapincha, Indian Curry on NaanStop, Caribbean Rudies and much more.
To keep your first date relaxed, and yet still impress them with authentic cuisine, look no further than yapix Coffee And Wine House. These guys are pairing glasses of vino with Italian fare, from fresh pasta to pinsa (the ancient Roman version of pizza).
Keep that first meet-up cool and casual with a few drinks at King's Cross's Drake and Morgan. With a pretty alfresco terrace for soaking up some spring and summer sunshine, it's the perfect place to split a bottle of wine or sink some tasty cocktails until late into the evening.
Looking to have your first date with someone special at a casual yet cool restaurant? Dim T in Hampstead has your back. Tuck into steaming plates of Pan-Asian fare, ranging from curries to noodles, dumplings and more.
So you're into the finer things in life? Show your date what you're about with a trip to one of Steak & Lobster's beautiful London venues. Treat them to a taste of luxury with classic cocktails ready for sipping, and a plate of juicy lobster and meaty steak.
Crazy golf has always been a go-to cheap first date idea in London, but Puttshack are doing things a little differently. One of the city's most high-tech golfing experiences, this Shepherd's Bush hotspot is keeping arguments to a minimum with interactive and detailed scoring - so let's just hope neither you or your date is a sore loser.
Looking for the perfect spot for a first date? Gravity Max at Westfield Stratford City and in Wandsworth offers a fun and unique atmosphere that's perfect for breaking the ice. With exciting activities like bowling, mini-golf, and arcade games, it's a great way to get to know each other while having a blast.
Whether you're competing in a friendly game of pool or enjoying a delicious cocktail at the bar, there's plenty to keep the conversation flowing and the energy high.
Discounts available on certain events
Fancy finding out whether your date is a top-notch chef in the making? Then be sure to check out The Big Bakes at various London locations for some non-stop fun. Not only will you have 90 minutes to whip up something tasty, but someone will also be crowned the winner.
Sometimes it's good to inject a little adrenaline into a first date that goes beyond the nerves you get pre-meet-up. Take your beau axe throwing at Boom Battle Bar as a fun ice breaker, then try your hand at crazier golf to cool down. Fancy a game of shuffleboard? This atmospheric venue has got you covered.
You can even stop for a bite to eat after and munch on an array of goodies such as juicy chicken burgers and loaded fries. The cocktails are not to be missed either, with signature concoctions such as the Boom Punch, made with passion fruit syrup, and a spiced mango margarita.
@ Pedley Street Station on Various dates from Sunday 20th September 2026
Looking for fun first date ideas in London? Break the ice with an experience like no other at Pedley Street Station. Head along to The Murdér Express, the immersive dining adventure where you'll solve the mystery and enjoy a three-course menu in your train carriage.
There are lots of activity date ideas in this guide, some standout options include Fairgame (adults-only fairground games with cocktails), Puttshack (tech-infused crazy golf), and The Big Bakes, where you and your date compete in a 90-minute baking challenge across various London locations.
It varies hugely depending on what you do. Drinks at a cocktail bar or wine bar can come in at £30–£60 for two, while an activity like Puttshack or Fairgame typically adds £15–£25 per person on top of drinks. A sit-down dinner at a mid-range restaurant like 64 Old Compton Street or Wildflowers will likely run to £60–£100+ for two with wine.
If you want to make a real impression, go for somewhere with a strong atmosphere and a point of difference. Some great options include Wildflowers in Belgravia, Aviary in Finsbury Square or 135 Bar & Lounge in Bethnal Green.
Seven Dials Market in Covent Garden is a great daytime option, with independent street food vendors, multiple bars, and a stage for live entertainment, so there's always something to keep the energy up. For something more active, Puttshack's tech-infused crazy golf works just as well in the afternoon as it does at night. Alternatively, The Big Bakes runs daytime sessions at various London locations.
