Quirky Ideas For Valentine's Day 2026 In London

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 for these 90-minute sessions.

For a Valentine's Day celebration that combines fun with a dash of nostalgia, Queens Skate Dine Bowl is the perfect spot. Whether you're enjoying a round of bowling, gliding across the ice rink, or indulging in delicious food from MEATliquor, this venue offers a lively and interactive date experience.

Set in the vibrant heart of Notting Hill, it's an exciting alternative to the usual dinner date, making it ideal for couples who want to mix things up. Plus, with the addition of a retro arcade, there's plenty to keep you entertained before or after your meal.

With venues in Shoreditch, 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.

If you're looking for something to do on the 14th with friends or loved ones, then head to Zerodegrees in Blackheath for their Great Valentine's Quiz-Off. Entry is totally free, and they'll be testing your knowledge on all things romcoms, love and Valentine's-themed trivia.

While you're here, munch on award-winning pizza topped with the likes of wood-roasted vegetables, goat's cheese and chilli or barbecue chicken - washed down with refreshing pints.

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.

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.

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.

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, The Mandrake is the ultimate destination for romance, with YOPO's four-course dinner, specially crafted cocktails, and live performances making for a magical night. The Blue Velvet Valentine's Cabaret adds spice with avant-garde performances in the Masha Hari Theatre.

For a more intimate celebration, the Soulful Connection Valentine's Retreat offers a luxurious stay with wellness rituals. Guests can also enjoy the Art of Seduction Workshop or indulge in Mini Love Readings. Whether for romance or rejuvenation, The Mandrake promises an extraordinary Valentine's experience.

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.

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. 

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.

Looking to immerse yourself in a magical woodland this Valentine's Day? Then step into the glowing wonderland of Avora: A New World Cocktail Experience with your other half. You'll begin at Roscorp Laboratory, where you'll get a briefing on your mission - as well as your first of three cocktails.

You'll journey through the mystical space as part of a group, completing scientific tasks and interacting with their talented actors. Don your custom jumpsuits and get ready to enjoy some creative drinks, snapping plenty of great pictures along the way.

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.

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.

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.

With locations in Peckham and Hackney Wick, Four Quarters is one of London'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.

Mr Fogg's offers a truly immersive experience, perfect for a romantic 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.

Have a fun and flirty day out with BucketRace as you embark on an epic scavenger hunt across London. 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.

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. 

Unique things to do for couples on Valentine's Day in London 2026 don't get much better than The Murder Express. This award-winning immersive experience sees you chow down on three courses while the mystery and theatre unfolds, and you try to crack the case. 

Fairgame is a quirky, adults-only activity bar in Canary Wharf that's perfect for unleashing your inner kid, 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.

This Valentine's Day, ditch the traditional dinner date and set sail on an unforgettable silent disco cruise with Silent Sounds: On The Thames. Hop aboard The Dutch Master, a two-storey party boat, and enjoy an evening of romance, music, and breathtaking views of London's iconic skyline. With three music channels to choose from - whether it's disco classics, house beats, or pop anthems - couples can dance the night away under the twinkling city lights.

Enjoy drinks from the fully stocked bars on each deck, and toast to love with a crisp glass of wine or a cheeky rum cocktail. Plus, the party doesn't stop when the boat docks - guests can head to Ballie Ballerson for free entry and a playful ball pit experience to keep the night going.

Try out a fantastic immersive activity this Valentine's Day at The 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.

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.

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 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.

The Besties Brunch Social at Flight Club across London is the ultimate way to celebrate the love of friends (and maybe a little romance too). From the 13th to the 16th of February, this special event is all about fun, food, and drinks.

Kicking off with a welcome cocktail, guests will enjoy a bottle of prosecco or four beers per person, followed by an hour of intense (but friendly) competition in Social Darts. And of course, there are endless sourdough pizza paddles for two whole hours to keep everyone fueled up. Whether it's with your bestie or your sweetheart, this brunch is all about good times, great food, and plenty of laughs.

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.

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.

If you're looking to spend Valentine's Day at London restaurants, step it up a little with these Michelin Star destinations. From indulgent Indian feasts and gourmet French delicacies to carefully curated seasonal tasting menus, this city has got it all.

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?

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.

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.