Quirky Ideas For Valentine's Day 2026 In London

The Sublime Society Valentine's Edition at Dear Darling offers something far more intriguing. Hidden behind a velvet curtain in Mayfair, this silk-draped boudoir invites you into an atmosphere of refined hedonism, where live performance, sensual artistry and pure spectacle take centre stage. 

Expect an evening built around observation and immersion, with mesmerising performers, a dress code that leans into black tie meets kink, and an emphasis on elegance over excess. If you're searching for truly unusual Valentine's Day ideas in London for adults, this is about as far from ordinary as it gets.

From Haggerston to Tooting, prepare for the ultimate baking experience this Valentine's Day as The Big London Bake invites you for a romantic day out of competition, decorating and - of course - eating. What's more, tickets start from just £32.40 for these 90-minute sessions.

Creative things to do on Valentine's Day in London? Have a fun and flirty day out with BucketRace as you embark on an epic scavenger hunt across the capital. Fill in the blanks of a love poem while completing tasks and challenges among iconic landmarks. There's even a chance to win bonus points for your team.

Escape the Power Cut is a thrilling escape room experience located in the heart of Battersea Power Station. Your mission? To restore power in 90 minutes. Dive into the historic Control Room B, solve intricate puzzles, and work as a team to crack codes, all while enjoying two specially crafted cocktails to fuel your adventure.

Perfect for double dates this Valentine's Day, this immersive activity challenges your problem-solving skills while you race against time. Available for groups of up to six, it's an electrifying experience you won't want to miss.

Spend your Valentine's Day locked up at Alcotraz's prison-themed cocktail experience. You'll be dressed in orange jumpsuits and challenged to smuggle liquor in past grumpy guards and blabbing inmates in order to gain some knockout tipples in the comfort of your cell. 

Looking to seriously turn up the heat this Valentine's? Scandalous! is a full-throttle evening of musical theatre, circus and cabaret, set in a decadent vision of Venice where nothing, and no one, is quite what they seem. As acrobatics soar and voices swell, the show builds an intoxicating atmosphere of seduction, humour and danger.

Beyond the spectacle, it tells the stories of women who refused to play by the rules, embracing pleasure, intellect and freedom in an era determined to deny them all three. 

Monopoly Lifesized brings the classic board game to life in an interactive and thrilling way. Players navigate a 15m x 15m board, taking on physical challenges like escape-room style tasks and property acquisitions, all while trying to outplay opponents.

You'll use iconic tokens like the Scottie dog and race car to rack up wins in the game's four unique versions. Ready to have some serious fun while trying to escape jail? Book your spot for a completely immersive, larger-than-life game experience. And if you're hungry after all that action, the Monopoly-inspired Top Hat Restaurant and Bar serves up delicious, themed food and cocktails.

Fairgame is one of the most quirky Valentine's Day activites for adults in London's Canary Wharf, that's perfect for unleashing your inner kid. As soon as you're inside, you'll find it filled with nostalgic, colourful decor. Get competitive with your beau at their fairground-inspired games, which range from Whac-A-Mole to Shoot the Clown and Roll-A-Ball Derby.

No need for mental maths, as they've got high-tech wristbands that track your scores for you on a virtual leaderboard. You can sip on unique concoctions like the popcorn old fashioned or a spiced rum Sucker Punch while you play, before devouring street food from vendors like Burger & Beyond, Taco Collective or Rudy's Pizza. Not in the area? Head to their City venue instead.

Dutch Courage Comedy is serving up a Valentine's Special that proves it, with a brilliant comedy lineup and a cocktail included for only £10. You can expect big laughs from Felicity Ward and Marcus Brigstocke, with Andrew White keeping things running smoothly between sets.

If you're looking to level things up, there's also the option of a three-course Valentine's dinner before the show, all wrapped up in a £50 package that includes comedy entry and a Dutch Barn cocktail. 

Looking for alternative Valentine's Day events in London? Boogie Shoes Silent Disco Walking Tours is taking you on a dance-walk through the city with hilarious commentary. Perfect for couples, singles and pals, this will see you flash mobbing to your heart's content.

When it comes to unusual things to do on Valentine's Day in London, how about entering the Wild West together at Moonshine Saloon?

Their Western cocktail experience will have you becoming part of a covert operation where you'll smuggle in your own liquor, resulting in bespoke cocktails as you interact with talented performers.

Whether you team up with other couples or go just the pair of you, StreetHunt Games is a great choice of quirky activity for Valentine's Day. These outdoor, self-guided mysteries combine scavenger hunt, escape room and murder mystery elements.

Spice up your dinner plans with a trip to Lush and Hush in Notting Hill Gate, a gorgeous restaurant that's preparing a special set menu for the occasion. For one night only, you can indulge on a journey through land and sea, with a choice between two menus that are split into five chapters.

As each dish arrives at your table, you'll be invited to guess which chapter it is, and anyone who does will receive a free cocktail. Expect premium, indulgent ingredients throughout, such as oysters, Wellington beef and lobster.

With venues in Shoreditch, Bloomsbury, Victoria and Islington, Flight Club is a great shout for some interactive darts this Valentine's Day. Compete with your other half on the electronic boards at these London gaming bars, while munching on pizza paddles and sipping creative cocktails.

Fancy a Valentine's date that's a little… darker than usual? Hexmoor: Wizarding Prison lets you suit up in your official jumpsuit and step into a cell block full of dark arts mischief. You can expect a Hollywood-style set design, with magical special effects and cocktails that literally transform before your eyes.

You'll sip three expertly crafted 'potions' while colluding with notorious wizard inmates, completing quests that could save humanity (or at least make your evening unforgettable). 

Swap dinner for a brush this Valentine's Day at Paint Jam's immersive art night, inspired by iconic abstract duo Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner. With tickets from £36, couples can enjoy a romantic evening of painting to live music, surrounded by themed projections, with all materials and guidance included.

Whether you're splashing neon under UV lights or creating your own love-fuelled masterpiece, it's a playful and memorable way to connect through creativity.

The year is 1873, a man has been fatally poisoned at the residence of Mr. Phileas J. Fogg. Only you can crack the case.

At Poison at the Card Table – A Gentleman Struck Down in Mayfair, you'll follow hints laid by themed cocktails, interrogate suspects and find the poisoner. Tickets to this night of betrayal, jealousy, and fatal desire are just £64.80.

Looking for different things to do on Valentine's Day in London? One of the most unique cocktail bars in the city, Evans & Peel Detective Agency is sure to impress your other half this February. Meet with a private detective in this immersive experience, before he sends you into his secret, 1920s-inspired drinking den behind a hidden door.

Sip on smuggled liquor in the speakeasy, expertly mixed by their talented bartenders. There'll also be some fantastic live music - think jazz, swing and blues.

Dans Le Noir near Farringdon offers one of London's most memorable Valentine's experiences. You'll be guided into complete darkness for a surprise multi-course meal, where sight is stripped away, and taste, smell and conversation take centre stage. With no menus, no phones and no visual distractions, it's a refreshingly intimate way to connect.

Once you've emerged blinking back into the light, the cosy bar area is the perfect place to debrief over cocktails, sink into armchairs and unpack what you think you just ate. 

Looking for a unique and fun Valentine's date? Head over to Plonk Golf in Hackney and Borough Market for a playful yet intimate experience. Enjoy a round of quirky golf with your partner, set against the backdrop of vibrant decor and arcade games.

Whether you're competing for the best score or just enjoying the atmosphere, it's the perfect combination of fun, friendly competition, and casual charm.

Get your chef on with your next date night at Pizza Pilgrims Canary Wharf or Selfridges. Together you'll learn how to stretch dough like a pro, top it your way and cook it to perfection under the guidance of expert pizzaiolos.

Whether you bag the bragging rights or burn your base, there's a three-course feast plus fizz to celebrate your hard work. If you're going Dutch, tickets start from just £63.72.

Love Notes - Valentine's at Greek Street Live is dialling things all the way up on the 14th, hosting a joyful night where love notes are passed, songs are requested, and dedications are sung straight across the room.

You'll get a multi-course dinner designed for the occasion (£64.80 per person), a glass of bubbles on arrival and a sweet treat for the table, but the real star is the crowd-powered soundtrack. Serenade your partner, hype your best mate, call out a crush or dedicate a song to yourself, all backed by a full live band playing big tunes for big feelings.

For couples who bond best over food, this Valentine's Dim Sum Masterclass at Chino Latino delivers something far more fun than a set menu. Kick things off with a complimentary Valentine's cocktail, then spend the afternoon learning how to make two iconic dim sum dishes from scratch under the expert guidance of Head Chef Ederson.

From shaping translucent har gau to filling rich chicken and foie gras siu mai, the experience is hands-on, sociable and just competitive enough, with prizes awarded for the best dumplings.

Head to The Lucky Pig in Fitzrovia for a Valentine's Day to remember, complete with live music from swing duo Mapleton Sessions. Tickets cost £20, also including tarot card reading, as well as canapes and a welcome drink.

This lively bar is known for its cocktails, and they're even offering 25% off their themed Valentine's concoctions until 9pm. And to finish your night, DJ Gari will be spinning non-stop tunes from across all genres.

UKG Bingo Valentine's special at Duo Clapham is the romantic alternative you didn't know you needed. Forget roses and violins as this is all about old-school UK garage, bingo cards and dancefloor nostalgia.

Expect bassline-heavy sing-alongs, throwback anthems, competitive bingo games with genuinely decent prizes and dance-offs. Dress code? Think Moschino shirts and bling; grab your tickets now from £18.70 per person. 

If your love language is chocolate, this might be London's most perfect Valentine's destination. The Chocolate Cocktail Club blends high-quality cocktails with cocoa indulgence, creating a date night that feels indulgent. Sip a complimentary chocotini on arrival and work your way through a menu designed for sharing, or at least stealing sips from each other.

With multiple events running through Thursday to Saturday, from cocktail-making experiences to indulgent afternoon teas, it's an easy win for couples who want something a little different.

Cupid called: he's trading roses for curling stones this year. Club Curling at Coal Drops Yard is a brilliantly quirky date idea for couples who like to mix a little friendly rivalry with their romance.

Battle it out on the ice, then cosy up in the vintage Italian-themed lounge for immersive sensory experiences that'll spark all five senses. Love, laughter, and a bit of competition - what more do you need?

Cupid has some cracking deals for couples at NQ64 this Valentine's Day. Snap up his Starterpack to bag 25 tokens and two drinks for £20 - or add 25 more tokens and a choice of cocktails for just £9 per person. 

Whether you get down to Shoreditch or Soho, there's plenty of ways to splurge your tokens. This place is packed with arcade machines, old school consoles and classic games, from Guitar Hero and Dancing Stage to Pacman and Street Fighter.

Flight Club Angel, Victoria and Bloomsbury are the kind of quirky, joyfully offbeat option that makes for a memorable date this Valentine's. The former is tucked just off Angel Station on Upper Street. It's an intimate social darts bar that blends nostalgic British pub charm with vintage fairground decor, complete with playful nods to the local area, including the iconic Devil's Mile mural.

The menu keeps the night moving too, with sharing plates, sourdough pizza paddles and a seasonal cocktail list that's ideal for toasting your wins - or laughing off your misses. 

If your idea of Valentine's Day involves feathers, fizz and a healthy dose of spectacle, Cupid's Cabaret delivers in spades. Hosted at the intimate Phoenix Arts Club, this one-night-only show blends high-energy burlesque, drag, circus and variety into a riotously entertaining celebration of love in all its forms.

Your ticket includes a glass of bubbles on arrival and a two-course dinner ending with a heart-shaped dessert and truffles made for sharing. 

Roller Nation in North London offers a unique blend of retro fun with a modern twist. Celebrate love this Valentine's by gliding into the roller disco with your special someone or a group of friends.

Whether you're an expert skater or a newbie, you can enjoy the neon-lit rink, groove to party tunes, and sip cocktails from the extensive bar. The venue is perfect for a fun-filled evening away from the usual dinner date, giving you a chance to laugh, skate, and make memories on the 14th.

Unique things to do for couples on Valentine's Day in London 2026 don't get much better than The Murder Express Part Deux - Jewel Of The Empire.

This award-winning immersive experience sees you delight in three courses while the mystery and theatre unfold, and you try to crack the case.

With locations in Peckham, Elephant and Castle, London Bridge, and Hackney Wick, Four Quarters is one of the city's best arcade bars.

They've got old-school computer games like Pac-Man, Space Invaders and the original Mario Kart, as well as a rotating menu of themed cocktails and tasty pizzas.

This Valentine's Day, whisk your loved one away to an unforgettable evening of enchantment at The Magic Hour, London's most exclusive parlour magic show. Nestled in the elegant wood-panelled room of the Sheraton Grand Park Lane, this intimate experience will transport you to the Golden Age of Magic, where sleight of hand and mind-bending illusions take centre stage.

Under the guidance of Sonic, a finalist for The Magic Circle Stage Magician of the Year 2018 and star of Penn & Teller: Fool Us, prepare for an evening of wonder and intrigue that will leave you and your date utterly captivated. A night of mystery, magic, and romance - perfect for a Valentine's date unlike any other.

Are you and your other half big gamers? To get that racing feeling, head to the F1 Arcade in St Paul's, where you can go head-to-head with cutting-edge simulators. What's more, this venue boasts a gorgeous bar serving Champagne, cocktails and an international range of dishes.

This Valentine's Day, step into a world where reality fades and love takes flight - literally - at Sandbox VR London. Treat your special someone to an unforgettable virtual experience in Holborn's futuristic haven.

Choose from thrilling adventures, whether battling zombies, playing in a virtual Squid Game, or navigating perilous realms together. A perfect date for couples looking to break away from the ordinary and explore together in new worlds.

Searching for fun Valentine's Day activities for couples? MAP Maison are bursting with things to do, from afternoon teas and bottomless brunches to cocktail classes. Not only that, but there are countless spirits-based tastings and more.

Whether you're all loved up or celebrating with your pals, the Valentine's Masquerade Silent Disco is the place to be. The iconic turbine halls of Battersea Power Station's Control Room B are coming alive with vintage glamour for one night only. 

Get dressed up, grab your mask and bring your main-character energy for a night of classy cocktails and big tunes. Tickets start from just £22 and include a welcome drink to kick things off.

Test out your sports skills this Valentine's Day at TOCA Social in Greenwich. Found in the O2, this digital football experience is fun for all abilities, perfect for a more active outing on the 14th. After you've finished your kickabout, head to the American-style restaurant, or check out the Willy Wonka-inspired dessert room instead. Not in the area? Head to West London for its Shepherd's Bush venue in Westfield. 

Whether you're in King's Cross, London Bridge or Canary Wharf, you can count on Electric Shuffle for a Valentine's Day to remember. This fun activity bar brings a modern approach to shuffleboard, with interactive tables that come with quirky games and screens that add up your scores for you.

They normally only taking bookings of six or more people on Saturdays, but on the 14th you can play with just your partner. There are a wide range of delicious cocktails on offer, as well as pizzas, small plates and more.

Andrenaline-fuelled and super fun, The Cube at Canary Wharf is London's ultimate playground for competitive couples. Spread over three floors with 21 high-tech challenge cubes, the venue lets you test your balance, memory, speed and judgement across seven immersive games.

When you need a break from the action, six mixologist-led bars and food from Toni Loco and THE BUTCHER have you covered, whether it's cocktails, craft beers, or indulgent bites.

Forget roses and fancy dinners - this Valentine's Day, immerse yourselves in something delightfully different. Hosted at the stylish Aera Coffee House, Love in Stereo brings together vinyl lovers, romantics, and dreamers for a unique night of music and meaning.

Hear Erykah Badu's Mama's Gun and Cleo Sol's Mother played in full on rich analogue sound, enjoy an intimate acoustic performance, and sip curated drinks in a distraction-free space that celebrates connection. 

The Nest in Treehouse, in partnership with The Psychic Sisters, brings you the Moon Manifestation Series. Whatever you're calling for, from romance to self-love, this immersive workshop will open your heart and align your intention. 

Your expert guide will take you through a 20-minute manifestation session, followed by a psychic reading. Tickets are just £40 and include two Johnnie Walker Black Ruby cocktails to help the magic unfold.

For a Valentine's date that's anything but ordinary, head to Immersive Gamebox and experience a thrilling adventure in Southbank's cutting-edge VR space.

Step into your own private Gamebox with your partner and challenge each other in a world of immersive games, from battling through Squid Game-inspired challenges to discovering hidden treasures in Ticket to Mars. It's the perfect combination of fun and bonding as you team up in these virtual worlds.

Mr Fogg's offers a truly immersive experience, perfect for a romantic and unique Valentine's Day escape. With quirky, Victorian-inspired cocktail adventures, from themed brunches to treasure hunts and mystery parties, the atmosphere is perfect for an evening full of intrigue and indulgence.

Whether you're making cocktails, solving puzzles, or enjoying a special event with a loved one, Mr Fogg's charming settings and unique offerings promise an unforgettable way to celebrate love in the heart of London.

The room is ready, the lights are low and The Room Where It Happens is transformed into a mini Montmartre for one night only. Expect big, bold cocktails, a sensationally seductive menu and bubbles from the moment you walk through the door. 

After sitting down to a dreamy dinner served by singing waiters, it's over to the piano for showtunes and spectacular chaos. Bag your ticket to the show to make this Valentine's Day unforgettable. 

Fancy a boogie this Valentine's Day? Then head to The Rivoli Ballroom near Crofton Park for their Valentines Soul, Boogie and Rare Groove event.

These guys will have you dancing the night away to soul tunes. Think Luther Vandross, Teddy Pendergrass, Evelyn King, The Jones Girls and many more artists.

Sparks are sure to be flying at Paint a Pic's events. With guidance from a resident artist, you'll create a beautiful masterpiece, with all materials included. Plus, to keep the vibes going, there will be fun tunes and a bar so that you can enjoy a few drinks as well.

If your perfect day out involves coffee, cake, and a cat casually judging you from across the room, London's cat cafés are an absolute treat for Valentine's Day. Inspired by a concept that began in Taiwan before taking off in Japan, these feline-filled spots let you swap the usual café soundtrack for gentle purring, padded footsteps and the occasional dramatic stretch across a windowsill.

From kitten lounges and rescue cafés with adoptable cats to indulgent afternoon teas served alongside whiskered companions, the capital's cat cafés offer a calm, cosy escape from the city rush. 

Puppy yoga is one of the most wholesome, quirky Valentine's Day ideas London has to offer, and you'll leave with a calmer mind, a lighter heart and about 200 photos on your phone. This feel-good activity swaps candlelit dinners for calming yoga flows interrupted by tiny paws, wet noses and spontaneous puppy cuddles.

Across studios from Hoxton to Finsbury Park, sessions blend gentle, beginner-friendly yoga with structured puppy playtime, offering the perfect mix of mindfulness and serotonin overload. Expect lavender-scented studios, stress-melting stretches and a parade of dachshunds, cavapoos and golden retrievers roaming freely once the mats roll up. 

Gather your best friends and make this Galentine's one to remember at FRAMELESS. On the 13th and 14th of February, the immersive galleries become an after-hours playground for adults, showcasing 42 iconic artworks in stunning interactive displays.

Sip cocktails, explore captivating installations, and lose yourself in a night of shared wonder and laughter, the perfect way to celebrate friendship. Grab your tickets now from £20 per person. 

If you're tired of the usual drinks and dinner, then check out one of these immersive art exhibitions on the 14th. Whether you fancy the multisensory Dopamine Land in South Kensington or the interactive media art exhibition Delight in Southwark, there's something for everyone here.

God's Own Junkyard is a Valentine's date with a visual impact. Tucked away in an industrial yard in Walthamstow, this cult favourite is a kaleidoscope of glowing signs, retro slogans and oversized neon art.

Created by the late neon artist Chris Bracey, the space was once his working studio and now doubles as a bar, café and immersive art experience. Expect coffee, cocktails and comfort food from the Rolling Scones café, plus endless photo opportunities among signs once linked to music legends like Bowie and The Rolling Stones. 

Free things to do on Valentine's Day in London? We've got those. Venture on one of these romantic winter walks, whether that's on Hampstead Heath, Greenwich Park or Hackney Wick. Plus, you can also check out some great pubs to finish up at.

Whether you're visiting with your own pup, or just in it for the cuddles, dog cafés are one of the most unique things to do on Valentine's Day in London - relaxed, joyful and guaranteed to spark smiles. 

Scattered across the capital, these pup-filled hangouts let you sip coffee, snack on brunch plates or even clink glasses of wine - all while surrounded by wagging tails, puppy eyes and four-legged charmers who are very happy to steal your attention.

For couples who'd rather flirt over beer pong on the 14th, House Party in Soho is Valentine's Day done very differently. Co-founded by Stormzy, this seven-story immersive bar and restaurant recreates the chaos and charm of a legendary house party, with each floor styled as a different room, from secret DJ sets in the kitchen to karaoke in the parents' bedroom and rooftop games.

The whole place is built for playful interaction. Look forward to red cups, retro gaming consoles, massive New York–style pizzas and cocktails (the Dark & Stormzy is a must).