Quirky Date Ideas In London

• Location: multiple locations
• Price: from £10 per person, per hour
• Date type: activity, boozy, competitive, games
• Why we recommend: Flight Club really takes darts to a whole new level, featuring several whacky games and interactive boards that keep track as you play - and they'll even capture the best moments from your date on camera

When it comes to ideas for fun dates in London? With a locations all over the place, including Victoria, Shoreditch and Bloomsbury, Flight Club will add the fun and games to your date night. The quirky destination offers a range of multiplayer darts games that put an exciting twist on the pub classic - complete with electronic scoring boards that do all the maths for you.

The quirky cocktails and pizza paddles here are to die for too, with toppings like spicy nduja or four cheese, perfect for sharing or eating all to yourself - we won't judge.

• Locations: Canary Wharf, London Bridge, King's Cross
• Price: from £13 per person (games), brunch from £38
• Date type: activity, boozy, competitive, games
• Why we recommend: we think that it's a playful and competitive way to break the ice on a first date, or even a second if you're still warming up. It also makes a great double date activity as you can go head-to-head with a little bit of friendly rivalry 

If your idea of romance involves a little friendly competition, Electric Shuffle in Canary Wharf, London Bridge, and King's Cross is a top-tier pick of things to do in London on a date. This spot takes the classic pub game of shuffleboard and gives it a seriously slick glow-up, complete with instant-scoring games that keep things fast and fun. 

Spread across two floors with two buzzing bars, it's where you can sip on showstopping cocktails while battling it out across the shuffleboard tables. Feeling peckish? There's a lineup of sharing plates perfect for grazing mid-game, or you can level things up with their brunch offering, like prosecco, bottomless pizza and a shuffleboard sampler thrown in for good measure.

• Location: Arch 16, Leake Street, Waterloo, SE1 7NN
• Price: varies
• Date type: activity, games, competitive
• Why we recommend: this is a great place to unwind and disconnect, with endless board games to choose from in their huge library

One of the best board game bars, Draughts is a great pick of fun London date ideas. They've got the largest collection of board games anywhere in the capital, guaranteeing hours of screen-free entertainment.

Head to their Waterloo or Stratford locations and get the dice rolling with cocktails and craft beers, before moving onto more complex players and comfort grub - whether that's Baja fish tacos, buttermilk fried chicken burgers or broccoli and cauliflower tater tots.

• Location: Mr Fogg's Apothecary, 34, Brook Street, Mayfair, W1K 5DN
• Price: from £62.64 per person (including booking fee)
• Date type: activity, cocktail making, immersive experience, themed bar
• Why we recommend: it's theatrical and hands-on - you'll be testing, tasting and approving your own creations, all while surrounded by curious ingredients and a wonderfully quirky, old-world setting that feels straight out of a storybook

Mr Fogg's Cocktail Experiments is about to be your new obsession if you like the thought of a date that revolves around a mad scientist's way of mixology. Tucked away in a hidden Elixir Room in Mayfair, this two-hour experience transforms you and your date into Victorian-era pharmacists, tinkering with potions that fizz, bubble and even change colour.

From the moment you step inside, you're welcomed as eager apprentices by eccentric 'doctors' who guide you through a series of cocktail creations. Expect to shake, stir and experiment your way through three unique drinks, starting with a remedial concoction at your table, before heading to the pharmaceutical counter to craft something a little more advanced.

• Location: One New Change, St Paul's, EC4M 9AF
• Price: from £19.95 per person for racing
• Date type: activity, competitive, simulator racing, games
• Why we recommend: it's a lively, competitive way to spend a date together, and the simulatours are super fun. Even if you have no experience, there are different levels of difficulty that make it perfect for all 

F1® Arcade can be found sitting right by St Paul's Cathedral. This experience drops you straight into the driver's seat with state-of-the-art Formula 1® racing simulators that are seriously addictive.

With over 60 full-motion sims to choose from, you and your date can go head-to-head on iconic tracks like Silverstone and Suzuka, complete with surround sound and visual effects that make every overtake feel real. The best part? You don't need to be a racing pro, as there are different skill levels, so it's just as fun whether you're competitive or not. You can also look forward to a slick bar serving Champagne, cocktails, wines and beers, plus a menu of crowd-pleasing dishes to refuel between races. 

• Location: Southside Shopping Centre, Wandsworth High Street, SW18 4TF
• Price: varies
• Date type: activity, arcade, games, competitive, e-karting
• Why we recommend: you won't find many places that boast this amount of varied activities, and it's an amazing pick for competitive, acion-packed date nights

If you're wondering where to go for activity dates in London, get Gravity Wandsworth on your radar - ideal for couples that like to add a little extra edge to their date night. This next-level entertainment venue offers VR headsets and immersive experiences from e-karting and AR bowling to a modern twist on retro arcade games and shuffleboard, to name a few.

You can enjoy some tasty street food while you're at it too, including classic hotdogs, burgers and dirty fires, with a whole plant-based menu to choose from as well.

• Location: Westfield London, Ariel Way, Shepherd's Bush, W12 7HB
• Price: from £13 per person
• Date type: activity, crazy golf, competitive, games
• Why we recommend: you can do away with paper and tiny pencils, as this high-tech golf bar automatically adds up your scores for you, and the cocktails are excellent too

Get your game on at this epic state-of-the-art mini golf bar in White City, perfect for competitive couples or breaking the ice on a first date. Make your way around the course, tackling whacky obstacles on their colourful holes.

Alongside their tech-savvy set up, complete with automatic point scoring and electronic leaderboards, you'll find a fantastic array of food and drinks to bring out your best skills - think stone-baked pizzas or hearty burgers alongside quirky cocktails.

• Location: multiple locations
• Price: from £18.70 per person
• Date type: activity, creative, classes
• Why we recommend: this whacky event removes any potential awkwardness from life drawing, and you'll get to try out some new artistic skills

Ditch the dinner and movie and go for this quirky life drawing class from Neon Naked Life Drawing, for a truly fun night out using neon-coloured models as your muse. You can get stuck into this fantastic experience wherever you are as well, as it takes place at venues in Hackney, Aldgate, Angel Peckham and beyond.

You'll get to try your hand at drawing multiple poses, with friendly instructors on hand to help you. All the supplies you need are provided, with multiple mediums to work with.

• Location: The Post Building, High Holborn, WC1A 1PB
• Price: from £29.50 per person
• Date type: activity, competitive, games, VR, immersive
• Why we recommend: you'll be transported to a whole new world here, and who doesn't want a drink made by a robot?

If you're looking to wow on a date then take your beau to Sandbox VR London, just off Tottenham Court Road, for a virtual reality experience like no other. Immerse yourself in eight different alternate realities, from Squid Game to alien invasions.

Afterwards, refresh at the bar after with a cocktail whipped up by the UK's first ever robot bartender - keeping the futuristic vibes going.

• Location: 75-89 Lower Walkway, West Yard, Camden Lock Place, NW1 8AF
• Price: from £10 per hour (off-peak darts)
• Date type: activity, darts, games, cocktails, competitive
• Why we recommend: it's relaxed, competitive and ideal for a playful date. Plus, you're right above Lockside, where late-night DJ sets and a dancefloor provide an easy move from darts to dancing

Tucked inside the buzz of Camden Market, 180 Club Camden brings a modern twist to a classic pub game, with sleek electronic boards and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it easy to settle in.

With four dart lanes available for up to 14 players, it's perfect whether you're going head-to-head or teaming up and taking on the boards together. To drink, expect the usual crowd-pleasers like cocktails, beers and shots, alongside some light bites.

• Location: multiple locations
• Price: from £38.50 per person
• Date type: activity, creative, classes, cute
• Why we recommend: not only will you learn some new artistic skills, but you'll also leave with a beautiful painting to take home as a memory of your date

A talented artist as your guide, all your kit already provided, a bar on-site to help you loosen that inner creativity, what more could you want? Paint a Pic is a brilliant event and one of the best quirky dates in London, taking place at venues all over the city.

Guaranteed to gain you brownie points for originality, this artsy session will see you both taking home your own masterpieces - whether it's a cherry blossom, a sunset scene or even your take on Starry Night on the canvas.

• Location: Greenwich Peninsula Driving Range, 265 Tunnel Avenue, SE10 0QE
• Price: from £13 per person
• Date type: activity, sports, games, competitive, golf, outdoor
• Why we recommend: driving ranges don't have to just be for seasoned golfers, as this welcoming destination provides fun, interactive games for players of all abilities

Get a little competitive at this quirky date idea, where state-of-the-art radar technology and software will level up your outing. They welcome players of all abilities, so even complete beginners can have a go on their excellent range.

Entertainment Golf will have you taking on some of the world's greatest golf courses in an amazing outdoor setting, with views of the city acting as your backdrop throughout the experience. 

• Location: 194 Kensington Park Road, Notting Hill, W11 2ES
• Price: from £79.50 per person
• Date type: activity, food, classes, cute
• Why we recommend: these guys really know how to make a biscuit, and you can put your own personal touch on them by icing them however you like

Learn the art of icing or indulge in a tasty afternoon tea at Biscuiteers' café in Notting Hill. Thanks to pretty interiors, quirky themes and an all-round welcoming feel, this experience is set to make for one quirky date - complete with treats to take home.

Their events include from late-night icing classes and floral-inspired 'school of icing' sessions. Sample some premium biscuits, and you're bound to learn something new while you're there as well. 

• Location: 117 Bruce Grove, N17 6UR
• Price: from £13.50 per person
• Date type: activity, nostalgic, roller skating
• Why we recommend: filled with nostalgia, a night out at Roller Nation promises great tunes and a retro activity to pass the time - with an American-inspired menu to boot

Head to Tottenham where Roller Nation is waiting to become your new favourite date night spot, packed with nostalgia and throwback tunes. Think old-school disco vibes, with booths you can hire and ample outdoor space alongside the actual skating.

Take a few zips around the rink or sit back with a juicy burger, classic hotdogs or mac 'n' cheese balls and a glass of the good stuff while you watch the pros do their thing. Plus, they host regular events too - from roller discos to soul skate Thursdays.

• Location: multiple locations
• Price: varies
• Date type: activity, arcade, video games, nostalgic, competitive
• Why we recommend: these retro games will take you back to childhood in the best way, perfect for competitive couples

You might be twiddling your thumbs on this alternative date London has to offer, but it will be a whole heap of fun. Four Quarters have got venues in Hackney, Peckham and Elephant and Castle, complete with all the retro games, themed cocktails and craft beer to ensure you snag a second date.

We're talking Pac-Man, pinball, Guitar Hero and Donkey Kong, as well as original consoles for video gaming - Mario Kart, anyone?

• Location: The O2, 23 Entertainment Avenue, Greenwich, SE10 0DY
• Price: varies
• Date type: activity, competitive, games, food and drink
• Why we recommend: this is one of the best London date ideas for competitive couples, with an array of fun games and activities to choose from

Bored of your standard date night movie and dinner? Then get on down to Boom Battle Bar at The O2 or on Oxford Street, where you can get competitive with your partner at an affordable price.

Not only is this joint home to a bucketload of fun games, including axe throwing, beer pong, crazy golf and more, but also a mega menu of mouthwatering munch like pizza or chicken wings and cracking cocktails to boot.

• Location: multiple locations
• Price: from £10 per person
• Date type: activity, competitive, games, bowling
• Why we recommend: these venues take bowling to a whole new level, with retro American decor and a delicious US menu to add to the experience

If you need day date ideas in London, check out All Star Lanes. Modelled on American bowling, you can expect colourful, retro interiors and a welcoming atmosphere at their venues in Stratford, Holborn, White City and Brick Lane. 

They offer 14 lanes and several other activities, from shuffleboard to karaoke. Plus, you'll find their restaurant cooking up US-style dishes like buttermilk chicken burgers and mac 'n' cheese, alongside a quirky cocktail bar serving signature sips.

• Location: 83 Scoresby Street, Southbank, SE1 0XN
• Price: varies
• Date type: activity, games, immersive, competitive
• Why we recommend: working together at one of these high-pressure challenges can help you bond, or at least have a good laugh trying to solve challenges and puzzles

Test your crush's Squid Game survival skills at Immersive Gamebox. Step into a world of hyper-interactive rooms featuring motion sensors and surround sound, with five different experiences to choose from.

Embark together on an array of themed challenges such as the Alien Aptitude Test and Ticket To Mars across Wandsworth and Southbank, each one fully immersing you through cutting-edge technology.

• Location: Unit 1110/11, Montfichet Road, Stratford, E20 1EJ
• Price: varies
• Date type: activity, games, competitive, watching sports, food and drink
• Why we recommend: from live sports to playing ping pong or even karaoke, there are plenty of conversation starters to be found at this cool activity bar

After first date ideas in London? Bat & Ball in Stratford and Covent Garden boasts a range of games and activities to take the pressure off your chat. Think table tennis, pool, interactive darts and live DJs, or even a private karaoke booth to really break the ice.

This can all be enjoyed alongside burgers, pizzas and a selection of craft beers, wines or cocktails from the bar. And for sports fans? They show all the biggest games live as well.

• Location: multiple start points
• Price: from £25 per person
• Date type: activity, outdoor, puzzle-solving
• Why we recommend: this challenge will get you exploring the city as a pair and working together on all sorts of tasks, almost as if you were really on the show

Whether you're taking it on as a pair or looking for fun double date ideas in London, the official Race Across The World Experience promises a day full of fun. This is based on the hit BBC show, giving you three checkpoints to reach on foot while completing challenges and solving puzzles.

Public transport is banned, and you'll have to rely on your navigation skills to get you to the end. There are also optional work tasks to earn more money, which is important if you want to make it on the leaderboard as you're rated on both time and budget.

• Location: Fishermans Walk, Canary Wharf, E14 4DH
• Price: from £15 per person
• Date type: activity, games, competitive, arcade, funfair, food and drink 
• Why we recommend: this place takes all the fun of a fairground and makes it an adult experience, with killer cocktails and street food to fuel a night of competition

Located in Canary Wharf and St Paul's, Fairgame is a colourful, Instagram-worthy venue that's inspired by old-school fairgrounds. The adults-only spot promises all sorts of nostalgic fun, reimagining childhood games like Roll-A-Ball Derby, Skeeball and Whac-A-Mole.

Their cutting-edge wristband technology allows you to track your scores easily, with a leaderboard showing you how you're doing compared to the whole room. When you're all gamed out, nab creative cocktails, boozy slushies and tasty eats from the likes of Taco Collective, Rudy's Pizza or Burger & Beyond.

• Location: multiple locations
• Price: from £41.80 per person
• Date type: activity, classes, creative, cute
• Why we recommend: a unique opportunity to shape whacky candles for your home, you're bound to leave with fun memories as well as your creations

The couple that plays together stays together. So make your way to a Bendy Candle Making Workshop hosted by Harri at Habit Haus to get bonding. Book into a session one of their locations to sculpt, dip and twist dinner candles until you've crafted a creation fit for your mantelpiece. 

Your £41.80 ticket includes everything you need, from wax and wicks to decorations and a bag to carry your candles home. 

• Location: Unit 8, 6 Hornsey Street, Holloway Road, N7 8GR
• Price: from £54 per person
• Date type: activity, classes, food and drink, competition
• Why we recommend: couples that bake together stay together, and the competitive element allows you to really show off your skills in front of the judges

Located close to Holloway Road station, Bake Master are hosting The Ultimate Baking Challenge. This is a great choice for couples, as you work in teams of two to create the ultimate three-tier cake, decorated however you like.

You'll have 80 minutes to create your masterpiece, with vegan and gluten-free recipes available. This also includes a cocktail or mocktail making session, and there are other drinks available to purchase throughout.

• Location: 5 Cunningham Avenue, Woolwich, E16 2TN
• Price: £38.50 per person
• Date type: activity, creative, classes
• Why we recommend: art classes are always a great way to bond, and this is an opportunity that doesn't come up often - you might even find your new career path as a tattoo artist

• Location: One Hamilton Place, Park Lane, W1J 7QY
• Price: from £70.20 per person
• Date type: food, classes, activity
• Why we recommend: everything you need to know about Italian cooking can be found out here, and there are sumptuous dishes to be enjoyed at the end of the class

A list of unique date night ideas in London wouldn't be complete without Theo Randall at The Intercontinental Park Lane. Here, you can expect everything from fine wine tastings with top producers to cooking masterclasses alongside the award-winning chef himself.

Many of their events accompanied by an amazing four-course meal, showing off everything you've learned in the session, alongside plenty of top tips from his 20 years of cooking experience. 

• Location: 1 Sky Garden Walk, City of London, EC3M 8AF
• Price: from free
• Date type: romantic, food and drink, music, views
• Why we recommend: the views here are second-to-none, and when paired with live music, you'll want to stay all night long

Make your beau feel extra special with a trip to the music events at Sky Garden, one of London's most popular rooftop bars that makes an unbelievably Instagrammable night out. Combining enviable 360-degree views of the city with a DJ and live bands, these nights out will see you soaking up the view from this 35th floor haunt while you listen or dance.

Otherwise, head here for yoga sessions with a view, sunrise sessions and breakfasts too - with several different bars and restaurants to take advantage of. And if you're just making a regular booking, admission is free.

• Location: 6 Marble Arch, W1H 7EJ
• Price: from £20 per person
• Date type: cultural, art, immersive, daytime
• Why we recommend: designed to evoke all your senses, these immersive exhibitions bring you classic pieces of art in a way that you've never seen before - bound to leave you amazed

An immersive art gallery like no other, Frameless reimagines classic works of art in a way that's never been seen before. Across four different rooms, you'll be transported directly into these paintings as they appear all around you.

The multi-sensory experience can be found in Marble Arch, featuring work from the likes of Dalí, Van Gogh, Munch, and more. You can take it at your own pace, exploring for as long as you like.

• Location: 11 Barley Mow Passage, Chiswick, W4 4PH
• Price: from £27.50
• Date type: evening, music, dancing, BBQ
• Why we recommend: there's always a hoedown happening at Lil' Nashville. Whether you're here for a gig or its Big Nash Bash, you'll get a taste of honky tonk in the heart of London

Sweep your date off their feet Southern-style at Lil' Nashville. There's all kinds of entertainment on offer, with line dancing, live music, BBQ and plenty more at its legendary Big Nash Bash.

Whatever gets you through the door, stick around for some seriously good cookin', creative cocktails and ice cold beers. Tickets to these epic events start from just £27.50.

• Location: multiple locations
• Price: from £48.60 per person
• Date type: classes, romantic, food and drink
• Why we recommend: some things just go together in life, like you and your partner, and cheese and wine. These fun masterclasses allow you to pair both, and promise plenty of tasty bites

Gift your special someone with something a little different come the next date night, offering up tickets to cheese and wine masterclasses at Vagabond. Head to one of their locations across London to learn how to pair the two, with sites in Fulham, Battersea, Shoreditch, Paddington and beyond.

Check out their regular lineup of events throughout the week, with tickets starting from £35 per person and promising a selection of five indulgent cheeses and complementary vinos to match each one.

• Location: 15 Bruton Lane, Mayfair, W1J 6JD
• Price: from £64.80 per person
• Date type: activity, immersive, cocktails
• Why we recommend: we always love a good murder mystery, and cocktails can only elevate an experience in our opinion

In need of something quirky for date night? Here's where Mr Fogg's Victorian Murder Mystery comes in. At this immersive experience in Mayfair, you'll both have to uncover clues and interrogate five suspects in order to find out what happened to John Sullivan.

Work as a team to get to the bottom of what happened, while sipping carefully crafted drinks. Tickets cost £64.80 per person, which includes two cocktails made with Belvedere and Moët & Chandon.

• Location: 90 Worship Street, Shoreditch, EC2A 2BA
• Price: from £16 per person
• Date type: activity, bingo, bottomless 
• Why we recommend: this is one of the most futuristic events in the entire city, promising jaw-dropping graphics and special effects - and the prizes don't hurt either

Bored of all the same old date ideas? Hijingo is ready to upgrade your idea of fun with your other half. Located in the heart of Shoreditch, this Tokyo Nights-inspired bingo club offers a ninety-minute immersive game, complete with with stadium-grade lighting, mind-blowing special effects and incredible graphics.

There are plenty of chances to win a prize as you play, alongside cracking cocktails and street food plates like jalapeno poppers, buttermilk chicken burgers or deep-fried tiger prawns. They even do bottomless brunches on weekends for something a little more boozy.

• Location: secret location in Central London
• Price: from £30.25 per person
• Date type: immersive, music, food and drink
• Why we recommend: if you love all things 1920s then you can't go wrong here, from themed outfits to jazz tunes and cocktails

Why head to an ordinary bar when you can whisk yourself away to The Candlelight Club? Located in the heart of Central London, this speakeasy-style joint is oozing 1920s glamour, taking place at a secret location that will only be revealed close to the time of the event.

Expect Gatsby-inspired glamour and be sure to dress accordingly, with a soundtrack of jazz to dance to. While you're here, get stuck into lip-smacking cocktails and three-course meals with dishes like beetroot carpaccio or pork medallions with a creamy mushroom sauce, alongside live jazz and other entertainment.

• Location: Lee Street, Haggerston, E8 4ED, or 38 Tooting High Street, SW17 0RG
• Price: from £32.40 per person
• Date type: activity, baking, games, competitive
• Why we recommend: it's competitive, creative and guaranteed to get you laughing (and covered in flour) together. We love the fact that each month brings a new theme, and with up to 12 teams baking side by side, the atmosphere is buzzing 

The Big Bakes is basically your chance to live out your own baking competition fantasy, minus the pressure. Set inside a charming marquee, this immersive baking experience throws you and your partner into a 90-minute race against the clock to whip up, decorate and present your masterpiece.

The best part? You don't need to be a star baker. Everything's prepped for you: ingredients measured, recipes designed to be foolproof, and a head baker on hand to guide you if things start going creatively off-piste. All you need to do is show up, team up and try not to argue over icing choices.

• Location: 350 Brockley Road, Crofton Park, SE4 2BY
• Price: from £17.60 per person
• Date type: music, dancing, nighttime 
• Why we recommend: the stunning Rivoli Ballroom transports us to the past in the best way, and these fun-filled nights are perfect for letting loose with your partner

Looking for something a little different to do with your other half? Head over to Rivoli Ballroom in Crofton Park and spend your evening dancing to 70s and 80s bangers at one of their Rouges disco and funk-themed bashes.

If that's not your kind of music, then they've got 90s nights too, complete with tunes from DJ Kobayashi. It's fun, it's carefree and you'll both love every minute of it - in a setting that has been beautifully preserved since the 1950s.

• Location: 127 Hackney Road, Hoxton, E2 8GY
• Price: from £39.22 per person
• Date type: activity, immersive, boozy
• Why we recommend: this is one of the quirkiest ways to enjoy cocktails, tailored to your taste and served in an interactive prison setting

If you're on the hunt for fun immersive experiences with your sweetie, head to Alcotraz. Sneak past the warden with bottles of booze as you interact with the theatrical actors, using crooked guards your advantage.

You'll both don orange jumpsuits, making for some excellent photo opportunities along the way. And once inside, you'll get to enjoy four bespoke cocktails of your choice in a prison cell, whipped up by the talented inmate bartenders.

• Location: Pedley Street Station, Arch 63, Pedley Street, Bethnal Green, E1 5BW
• Price: from £92.90 per person
• Date type: activity, immersive, theatre, food and drink
• Why we recommend: a murder mystery to remember, this theatrical experience comes with award-winning eats and a shocking story full of twists and turns

Sometimes we don't fancy going to our local boozer for date night, so why not check out The Murdér Express at Pedley Street Station, an immersive experience that combines theatre and fine dining. Delve into the investigation, find the culprit, all the while you're tucking into a three-course feast - created exclusively for this event by award-winning restaurant Lunar.

Everyone is a suspect here, even you, and you'll work alongside live actors to figure it out. The menu features asparagus velouté, beef bordelaise and sticky toffee pudding, with 1930s-style cocktails available to purchase too.

• Location: 231 Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green, E2 0EL
• Price: from free
• Date type: comedy, live entertainment, evening
• Why we recommend: it takes the pressure off completely for a date, as you have the laughs provided for you. We love the affordability of this idea too 

Backyard Comedy Club is a smart switch-up for a date. As one of London's biggest purpose-built comedy venues, it regularly hosts everything from big TV names to up-and-coming comics - so you're pretty much guaranteed a few proper laugh-out-loud moments.

You can grab a drink before, settle in for the show, then chat in the breaks or afterwards about your favourite acts (or the ones that bombed). With options ranging from free new act nights to bigger weekend line-ups, it's easy to tailor the vibe.

• Location: 61-63 Tower Hamlets Road, Walthamstow, E17 4RQ
• Price: from £11 per person
• Date type: cabaret, theatre, live entertainment
• Why we recommend: twisting the world as you know it into a nightmarish realm, this Lynchian performance is totally unique and destined to mesmerise you

Enjoy an evening of mystery and nightmares with your beau at The Double R Club, a monthly cabaret event inspired by the dark and beautiful words of David Lynch. There's burlesque, comedy, live music and more, all with a sinister twist and different themes each time.

These spooky shows take place at Walthamstow Trades Hall, with tickets starting from £11 per person. And if you get down early enough, there are a limited supply of free doughnuts and Agent Cooper shots.

• Location: 350 Brockley Road, Crofton Park, SE4 2BY
• Price: from £13.20 per person
• Date type: dancing, nighttime, live entertainment, music
• Why we recommend: we feel that it's a different kind of date night - one that's built around doing something together. The mix of a beautiful old-school venue, a welcoming dancefloor and music that's easy to get into makes it ideal if you want something a bit more involved than drinks

A Northern Soul night at the Rivoli Ballroom is a strong contender for date night. It's a vintage ballroom with a sprung maple dancefloor, ornate interiors and a slightly time-warped feel that immediately gives the night a sense of occasion.

The format is simple but works brilliantly for dates. You've got hours of Northern Soul classics (plus a few deeper cuts), a friendly crowd, and a dancefloor that's made to be used. Crucially, you don't need to be a good dancer; the whole scene is more about energy and enthusiasm than technique, which makes it easy to get involved without feeling self-conscious.

• Location: 28-30 Houndsditch, City of London, EC3A 7DB
• Price: from £41.80 per person
• Date type: activity, immersive, boozy
• Why we recommend: we love a good immersive experience, and this is certainly one of London's best, promising a fun storyline that you can get involved in yourself

Perfect for a quirky date night, channel your inner cowboy at this cool pop up bar in East London. Interactive actors will immerse you into a world of the Wild West, where you'll have to sneak past the sheriff to smuggle in your own booze, before the talented mixologists will create a bespoke cocktail for you.

Step into the Moonshine Saloon for an immersive evening of tasty cocktails and cowboy hats, with card games to get involved in and outlaws surrounding you.

• Location: multiple locations
• Price: from £15 per person
• Date type: burlesque, live entertainment, evening
• Why we recommend: seeing a burlesque show together promises an intimate, seductive experience that's bound to bring you closer, and you can even learn some skills of your own at their masterclasses

House Of Burlesque is a unique group that gives everyone the chance to get involved in this art form. You'll find them at locations around the city, hosting affordable shows and events that make for an unusual date idea.

Watch some of the UK's top burlesque performers dazzle you on stage, from speakeasy-style acts to competitions where you get to choose your favourites. Or for something a little more hands-on, check out their lessons on fan dancing, striptease and more.

• Location: 7 Roach Rd, Fish Island, Hackney, E3 2PA
• Price: from £38.50 per person
• Date type: festival, bottomless, daytime, boozy, cocktails
• Why we recommend: if you're a couple of agave spirit fans, then Margarita Rumble is right up your street. We live this event for its unlimited margarita sampling and live music, so you can find your favourite marg from leading London bars and bartenders while having a blast

Looking for boozy date inspiration? The sixth annual London Margarita Rumble is taking place this August at Two More Years in Hackney Wick, offering the chance to taste a huge range of margaritas crafted by leading London bartenders.

• Location: 2 Shepperton Road, Islington, N1 3DT
• Price: from £5.50 per person
• Date type: theatre, music, comedy, live entetainment
• Why we recommend: there are a huge variety of weird and wonderful performances to check out at this unusual theatre, and it's a great choice for budget-friendly dates too

If you're looking for somewhere a little different to take a date in London, then The Rosemary Branch Theatre is a great bet. Treat the pair of you to a night of stellar performance from a choice of weekly acts or one-off shows - think music, cabaret, comedy and more.

You're bound to see some pretty unique acts, and their prices are very affordable too. Enjoy the show, before heading downstairs to the charming pub for drinks and a bite to eat.

• Location: 127 Hackney Road, Unit 11, Hoxton, E2 8GY
• Price: from £56.50 per person
• Date type: immersive, boozy
• Why we recommend: these guys really know how to immerse you in a story, and the interactive actors make sure that everyone is involved in this magical tale

One of the most fun date activities in London? Hexmoor is no ordinary night out - it's the world's first immersive wizarding prison bar, where you'll trade your everyday clothes for an official inmate jumpsuit and find yourself locked up with a gang of dark-arts-obsessed wizards. This fully interactive experience blends immersive theatre with live actors, giving you the chance to engage with characters, uncover secrets, and even plot your magical escape.

Whether you're a cunning spellcaster or a curious newcomer, your sorcery skills will be pushed to their limits. You can choose your level of magical indulgence too, with three ticket options available: enjoy three enchanting cocktails for £56.50, upgrade to four for £65.50or go all in with four cocktails and a bespoke wand, hand-delivered to you mid-experience by the legendary Willbott's Wand Shop, for £88.50.

• Location: Upper Ground Turbine Hall B, 270 The Power Station, Circus Road South, Battersea, SW11 8BZ
• Price: from £13.20 per person
• Date type: cultural, tour, cocktails
• Why we recommend: this is a rare chance to learn more about one of London's most iconic landmarks, getting a closer look at original controls while sipping cocktails and Champagne

Found within Battersea Power Station, Control Room B is offering an audio guided tour of the space - giving you an insight into the history of this iconic landmark. Don your headphones and set off at your own pace, with tickets starting from just £13.20.

You'll enjoy a welcome cocktail, with the option to add on a glass of Champagne too. Sip these while exploring the original control desks, switchgear and synchroscopes, which powered the city in the 1950s.

• Location:  The Queens Walk, SE1 8XX
• Price: from £30.74 per person
• Date type: music, performance, live entertainment, evening
• Why we recommend: you can soak up the Motown vibes at this mesmerising live music performance inspired by decades of American songs

Sweep your date off their feet with all the magic of Motown. At Soul Supper Fridays, you'll take a trip back in time through the tunes that shaped American music.

As you groove to the sounds of Marvin Gaye, Four Tops and Supremes, you'll tuck into a choice of succulent chicken or flavour-packed falafel balls. Going Dutch? Tickets start from just £30.74.

• Location: 14 Handyside Street, King's Cross, N1C 4DN
• Price: varies
• Date type: cocktails, music, drinks, bar
• Why we recommend: this is as close as you'll get to Milan without leaving the country, and their weekend DJ sets are perfect for a romantic night of dancing

Looking for a quirky and intimate date night? SUPERMAX is hidden beneath Happy Face Pizza, offering a unique Italian-inspired bar with a 1970s Milan vibe and brilliant happy hour deals.

Enjoy Vermouth-led cocktails, indulgent neon decor, and a soundtrack of Italo pop and deep house, while vibing to the beats spun by DJs. It's an ideal date spot for those who want something a little different - secluded, stylish, and full of character.

• Location: 28-30 Houndsditch, City of London, EC3A 7DB
• Price: set menus from £58 per person
• Date type: food, restaurant, immersive
• Why we recommend: this is possibly the most unusual restaurant in the entire city, and it takes a little getting used to, but we think it puts the food on a whole new level

A unique date London has to offer? Spruce up your dinner with a trip to Dans Le Noir in Farringdon, which has you dining in total darkness for the ultimate foodie experience. Heighten taste sensations and change perceptions at this alternative restaurant that's sure to be a feast for the senses.

You'll be served surprise dishes and given the opportunity to guess what you've eaten afterwards, with a fully lit bar to mingle with other diners or just enjoy a drink at the end of your meal.

• Location: 4 Kingly Court, Soho, W1B 5PW
• Price: varies
• Date type: cocktails, drinks, bar
• Why we recommend: take a step into the past at Disrepute and you'll find plenty of vintage glamour, with cocktails that always keep us coming back for more

Looking for a date night with a twist? Disrepute, a hidden gem nestled under Kingly Court, offers a journey into the scandalous past of Soho. Step into a world where history meets modern cocktail culture, and let the atmosphere transport you to the swinging '60s.

With its vintage charm, wood-panelled walls, and a cocktail menu filled with stories from Soho's past, it's the perfect place for a quirky date that's as memorable as it is unique.

• Location: 310c Earls Court Road, SW5 9BA
• Price: varies
• Date type: cocktails, live music, immersive, bar
• Why we recommend: we love the Prohibition era vibes of this intimate cocktail bar, and be sure to swing by on one of their live music evenings for some added entertainment

For a cute date idea with your other half, Evans & Peel Detective Agency is a quirky cocktail bar that takes you back to the 1920s. You enter through a secret door to discover a speakeasy-style hidden bar - via Evans & Peel's private detective, who'll take your case file and get to work while you drink.

There are live jazz, swing and blues performances from Thursday to Saturday, and the cocktails are sublime. If you're feeling peckish, you can pair them with charcuterie and other small plates.

• Location: 428 Kingsland Road, Dalston, E8 $AA
• Price: from £7 cocktails, £8 martinis
• Date type: cocktails, drinks, bar
• Why we recommend: it's effortlessly cool and budget-friendly. It's a really lovely, buzzy place to grab a drink in Haggerston, and you can spot it a mile off with its neon green signage (it's also good for celebrity spotting) 

Ellie's in Dalston absolutely nails the low-pressure date night spot. Taking over the old Pamela space on Kingsland Road, this neighbourhood bar keeps things simple: great music and strong drinks.

The headline here is the £8 martinis, served all day, every day, and they're not messing around. There's also a tight menu of classic cocktails (plus some playful house twists like the Banana Blonde or the fiery Des Barres). Not seeing your go-to? They'll happily whip it up off-menu, which always scores points on a date. The space itself is small, cosy and softly lit, with stools lined along the bar, an alt throwback playlist in the background, and people spilling out onto the pavement on warmer nights.

• Location: Courtyard at St Martin-In-The-Fields, Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 4JJ
• Price: from £22 per person
• Date type: immersive, food and drink, art
• Why we recommend: for couples who love a dash of theatre, world-class food, and a thoroughly unconventional atmosphere, it is the ultimate quirky daytime or evening escape

Tired of the same old bars? If you are on the hunt for quirky date ideas that offer a fun twist of novelty, Lost Oasis brings plenty of eccentric charm to the table. This immersive pop-up invites you to pick your beverage from a literal, giant sculptural Cider Tree or order a signature cocktail from a bar inspired by Cornwall's famous mud sculptures. 

It's a fantastic conversation starter from the moment you step inside. You can bond over an exclusive menu crafted by legendary UK chefs, laugh your way through the interactive installations, and lose yourselves in a tropical rainforest hidden right behind Trafalgar Square. 

• Location: River Lee, Sweetwater Mooring, White Post Lane, E9 5EN
• Price: varies
• Date type: food and drink, outdoor, bar, restaurant
• Why we recommend: it's an idyllic location to enjoy a meal in, looking out over the water as you dine at this unusual, award-winning restaurant

Spice up the usual dinner and drinks with a trip to the stunning Barge East, voted London's number one restaurant by TripAdvisor in 2019 and best newcomer in 2021 by the Catey Awards. You'll want to head east to Hackney Wick, where the historic 114-year-old barge has been transformed into a drinking and dining destination, complete with a British fusion menu and dreamy views.

Dishes range from Delica pumpkin tacos to lamb chop cooked over coal and roasted Cornish sole on the bone. Book a table at sunset for an extra special evening.

• Location: The Pavement, Clapham Common SW4 7AA
• Price: varies
• Date type: food and drink, intimate, bar
• Why we recommend: restored after being derelict for 30 years, this disused toilet gets new life as a hidden bar that's perfect for an intimate date of wine and bar snacks

Hidden below Clapham Common station, WC is exactly what the name implies - a 100-year-old water closet, but now restyled as an underground wine bar. Expect vino paired with charcuterie at this hidden spot, as well as cocktails if those more tickle your fancy.

The restored space has kept much of its Victorian vibes, from the unassuming entrance to subway tiles, mosaic floors and the original wooden stalls reused as booths, which only adds to the intimate atmosphere while you drink and dine. But that's not all, as locals founded this place; a treat for Londoners, by Londoners.

• Location: No.9, Caledonian Road, N1 9DX
• Price: house cocktails are all £13
• Date type: cocktails, speakeasy, drinks, intimate, bar
• Why we recommend: we feel like it's perfect for a low-lit, flirt-heavy evening. Whether you're perched up close at the bar or tucked into a cosy corner, the vibe is intimate enough for meaningful chats

If you're looking to impress with drinks, Keystone Crescent is a seriously slick choice. Hidden beneath the buzz of King's Cross, this speakeasy-style bar is tucked behind an unmarked door and down a set of dimly lit stairs, so you'll feel like you've stumbled into a secret before you've even ordered your first drink.

Inside, it's all about understated elegance and expertly crafted cocktails. The menu is playful: go for something indulgent like the After Eight One (think Baileys, Dark Mozart and peppermint for a dessert-in-a-glass moment), or turn up the heat with Diablo's Breath, a bold mix of tequila, fresh chillies and passionfruit.

• Location: 96, Isabella Street, Waterloo, SE1 8DD
• Price: varies (brunch and karaoke packages available)
• Date type: karaoke, music, karaoke, pub, brunch
• Why we recommend: it's loud and joyful - perfect for a date that's all about letting go and having fun together. Food is another highlight. Their Thai menu - especially the viral Spice Bag - gives you something a bit different to nibble on between songs, and their Spice Bag and bottomless Guinness brunch on Saturdays adds an extra layer of fun 

Tucked beneath the railway arches near Waterloo, this Irish singing pub brings together live music and private karaoke rooms in one gloriously lively space. What makes Molly Mc's such a great date spot is how quickly it breaks down any nerves; you're belting out tunes in a themed karaoke room, laughing through missed lyrics, or getting swept up in a live music session with the whole crowd. 

The space itself leans into that cosy, vintage pub charm, but with a twist - each karaoke room has its own personality, so you can go from intimate singalong to performance mode depending on your mood. And if you'd rather soak up the atmosphere, the main bar and terrace are perfect for drinks and people-watching. 

• Location: St. Thomas's Church, 9a St. Thomas Street, London Bridge, SE1 9RY
• Price: varies
• Date type: food and drink, music, live entertainment, restaurant, bar
• Why we recommend: with music events throughout the week and a menu that's destined to impress, this is a great choice for couples who love a night out with a twist

Make it a date night to remember by taking them somewhere really special. Amazing Grace, which can be found at a 12th-century church in London Bridge, is cool, quirky and downright romantic. Pop along for dinner and cocktails, with live music to soundtrack your evening, as well as mesmerising 3D light projections using their cutting-edge audio-visual technology.

As for the menu? Expect pan-Asian eats like Vietnamese fried tofu, pulled pork bao buns and Korean potato bites. Plus, they've got a second venue in Canary Wharf.

• Location: 117, Kingsland High Street, Dalston, E8 2PB
• Price: reserve a brunch spot from £6
• Date type: drag brunch, live entertainment, cocktails, bar
• Why we recommend: whether you're perched at a cosy counter or grabbing a booth with a front-row view, there's no such thing as a quiet moment here, which makes it perfect for a date where you want to skip small talk and dive straight into something unforgettable.

Waffles, wigs and a whole lot of sass - that's what Dalston Superstore's iconic Drag Brunch is all about. Known as East London's mothership of drag, this legendary spot serves up a mix of food, booze and some of the filthiest performances in the city.

Running every Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 4pm, the brunch pairs a rotating cast of drag royalty, like the likes of Sharon Le Grand, Yshee Black and A Man to Pet, with a menu that's just as indulgent as the entertainment. You can tuck into everything from stacked breakfast waffles to hoisin duck-loaded fries, plus plenty of cocktails to wash it all down with. 

• Location: Leyton Midland Road Station Arches, E10 6RE
• Price: drinks from £11.50
• Date type: cocktails, bar, drinks
• Why we recommend: this venue works perfectly for those early date nerves: relaxed, intimate and just off-the-radar enough to feel special

Leyton Calling is like a retro tropical daydream. Tucked beneath the railway arches at Leyton Midland Station, this hidden gem brings escapism with its 70s tropical Americana aesthetic, featuring warm lighting and kitsch interiors. 

Cocktail-wise, they lean heavily into rum and tropical flavours, with both classic serves and playful twists. Try something fruity like the Parakeet Punch, or go a little more refined with the Lei-ton Calling, a floral mix of gin, elderflower and sherry that feels just fancy enough for date night.

• Location: 32 Goodge Street, Fitzrovia, W1T 2QJ
• Price: varies
• Date type: cocktails, drinks, bar
• Why we recommend: the intimate vibes are perfect for date night, and their creative cocktail menu spices things up a little more than standard drinks

Looking to impress on a first date or rekindle the spark? Reverend JW Simpson is Fitzrovia's best-kept secret, offering intimate vibes, candlelit corners, and a cocktail menu full of surprises. Inspired by the mysterious former occupant, the bar retains its original quirky apartment aesthetic, with peeling wallpaper and vintage touches adding to the intrigue.

The bartenders, aka the Reverend's disciples, are true masters of mixology, crafting unique, seasonal cocktails using forgotten spirits and foraged ingredients. Cosy up, sip something unexpected, and let the night unfold in this one-of-a-kind drinking den.

• Location: 11-14 Hanover Place, Covent Garden, WC2E 9JP
• Price: varies
• Date type: food and drink, games, restaurant, bar
• Why we recommend: dinner is always nice, but it can be a little boring - that's why Inamo's interactive tables and games are a great way to spice up your date night plans

You've made the decision to go to dinner, and that's great news, but how about trying something a little different this date night? Famous for their interactive tables, head on down to Inamo for gaming and touch-screen menus alongside some of the best Japanese bites in the business.

You can even play sudoku while you're waiting for your order, and you're only ever a few taps away from soft shell crab tempura, yuzu pork belly, bang bang cauliflower and more.

• Location: 48 Margaret Street, Soho, W1W 8SE
• Price: varies
• Date type: food and drink, bar, intimate
• Why we recommend: interior design doesn't get much quirkier than this, and the cocktails are just as enticing as the ship-inspired decor

Looking for a date night that's more memorable than your usual wine bar? Rhum Tavern delivers with a candlelit, intimate corners, and cocktails that spark conversation - styled as the hull of a 1650s pirate ship.

Share a minty Rhum Tavern Mojito, dive into the rich Pieces of Eight, or sample the tropical Inferno while soaking up the atmosphere. It's guaranteed to impress.

• Location: 26 Curtain Road, Shoreditch, EC2A 3NY
• Price: varies
• Date type: drinks, vinyl listening bar, music
• Why we recommend: the soundtrack is a big deal here - we're talking a seriously impressive Hi-Fi setup that delivers rich, immersive sound. It's ideal for those dates where the music enhances the mood

We think that 26 Curtain Road is a Shoreditch gem worth knowing about. Set across two floors in a charming early-1800s building, this laid-back hangout dials down the usual East London chaos in favour of something far more intimate and considered.

By day (or earlier in the evening), it's all flicking through their carefully curated vinyl library and settling into the cosy space, complete with a beautiful skylight and original fireplace. Come nightfall, the atmosphere gently lifts, with resident DJs and special guests spinning everything from downtempo and trip hop to niche gems like Japanese 80s pop. Drinks-wise, expect a thoughtful selection of rotating craft beers (both local and international), alongside wines, spirits and a few well-chosen cocktails.

• Location: Exchange Square, Liverpool Street, EC2A 2AE
• Price: varies (happy hour from £15 for two cocktails)
• Date type: cocktails, terrace drinks, bar
• Why we recommend: what makes it particularly good for dates is that it adapts well as the night evolves. You can start low-key with a drink outside - the terrace is ideal for easing into conversation without the intensity of sitting directly opposite each other - and then move inside if things pick up

If you're planning a date around Liverpool Street, Back to Mine is a solid choice that covers a lot of bases. Set in Exchange Square, it's got a mix of indoor bar space and a heated terrace overlooking the gardens.

The drinks menu also does some heavy lifting. Cocktails like the lychee martini and spicy margarita are crowd-pleasers without being boring, and the happy hour (2-4-1 beers and two cocktails for £15) makes it easy to keep things going without overthinking cost. Food is designed for sharing, which works well in a date context. The music leans into house and disco, and with a later licence plus extras like karaoke for bookings, it can shift from casual drinks into something more energetic without needing to change venues.

• Location: 492 King's Road, SW10 0LE
• Price: around £30 to £50 per person
• Date type: wine bar, drinks, intimate
• Why we recommend: it solves one of the hardest parts of date planning - finding somewhere that feels special without being too over the top. The Wee Sister gives you a genuinely comfortable setting to talk, while still offering enough quality (in drinks, food and atmosphere) to make the night feel considered

The Wee Sister gets date night right. Created by Anna Haugh as the more relaxed counterpart to Myrtle, it's designed for exactly for conversation and intimate moments. We find that the layout and atmosphere do a lot of the work for you. It's small enough that it feels personal but not so quiet that every pause feels amplified. That middle ground is what makes it particularly good for early dates.

The drinks offering is another reason it works well. A strong by-the-glass wine list means you're not committing to a full bottle (useful if you're not sure how long the date will last), and the focus on Irish producers gives it a point of difference without requiring any prior knowledge. If wine isn't your thing, the Guinness and cocktails keep it flexible and unfussy. The menu of Irish snacks (cheeses, charcuterie, sausage bites, fresh sourdough) is designed for sharing and grazing.

• Location: 63–66 St Martin's Lane, Covent Garden, WC2N
• Price: cocktails from £13.50, brunch from £40
• Date type: cocktails, brunch, cocktail classes, bar
• Why we recommend: from popping in pre-theatre, to planning a lively first date or heading out for a late-night 'After Dark' session (with pre-ordered drinks ready and waiting), this is one for couples who love their playful drinks 

The Alchemist on St Martin's Lane delivers cocktails that are the main character. Right in the heart of theatreland, this Covent Garden hotspot turns drinks into a ensory experience with smoke, bubbles, and colour-changing concoctions.

The menu is a chemistry experiment, with standout serves like the iconic Lightbulb Moment - a gin and Pimm's-based cocktail that arrives billowing with fragrant smoke - or playful picks like Bubblebath and Cherry Bomb that are as fun to look at as they are to drink. To nibble alongside, expect Pan Asian plates like bao buns and prawn lollipops.