Summer Date Night In London

The sun is shining, the weather is sweet and you're on for a special evening with your number one; the only question is: where are you taking them? In a city filled with romantic rooftop restaurants, quirky events and intimate wine bars, there's almost too much choice. Luckily we've rounded up our favourite spots that are guaranteed to make for a memorable summer date night in London.

Last edited by Jasmine Lee Kennedy

Last updated on 22nd April 2024




Vagabond Northcote Road

Found on Northcote Road, Vagabond is an intimate wine bar where lovebirds can get to know the extensive drinks list while on the secret garden, which is especially atmospheric on a summer's evening, thanks to the glowing fairy lights strewn above. Cuddle up with your date, taking advantage of the 100-strong collection of self-pour wine, then stay a little longer by chowing down on Mediterranean small plates, like grilled Galician octopus with pickled red onions or Iberico ham croquetas.

Diogenes The Dog

Diogenes the Dog is the ultimate wingman, offering you a gorgeous setting for your date night. Grab a table on the alfresco terrace or inside, where the décor echoes the natural style of the wine list. Surrounded by bottle upon bottle of the good stuff, lined up along the trendy roughed-up walls, and verdant plants dotted around, make your through the dynamic wine list or even go for a tasting flight. Plus, if you fancy pairing your tipples with something to eat, you can tuck into brunch bites (such as a Reuben toastie or truffled eggs on toast with cured salmon) or check out the European small plates. From grilled spicy chorizo to cheeseboards and cured meats, it's the perfect accompaniment to a night of great wine and even better company.

Pergola on The Wharf

£12.50 Express lunch menu and 1 other offer

Pergola On The Wharf is perfect for casual, summery date nights, thanks to it's pretty interiors, featuring hanging plants, woven lanterns and huge floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as a lovely terrace with panoramic wharfside views. But it doesn't stop there; there's also an enticing menu showcasing dishes like steak frites, roasted miso aubergine and crispy Baja tacos – just pair that with a refreshing pint of craft beer or a smoked pineapple daiquiri and you're set for the night.

Vauxhall Food & Beer Garden

Make your way to Vauxhall Food & Beer Garden for a fabulous date under the sun. Fronting astroturf flooring, wooden crate seating and colourful shipping containers, it's as trendy as can be, offering an urban oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Plus, with a fantastic array of street food stalls, whipping up everything from Chinese and Greek to burgers and Mexican, not to mention two bars and three huge screens, it's got every want and whim covered.

Rivoli Pop up Cinema

Searching for summer date night ideas in London? Rivoli Pop up Cinema should be firmly on your radar. Nestled in Crofton Park, just across from the station, this 1950s ballroom is famed for its original interiors, which feature a grand domed ceiling and scarlet walls with gold detailing. The retro space is perfect for a unique evening out with your other half, as they host pop-up movie nights throughout the week, screening cult favourites like The Big Lebowski and Pulp Fiction.

Neverland

It doesn't get much better than Fulham Beach Club at Neverland. A unique summer escape, this riverside space comes complete with sand, swaying palms and deck chairs where you can fill your boots with tasty food, like pizzas and burgers, as well as cool off with cocktails, from pina coladas to jugs of Pimm's. Plus, you'll never be short of entertainment, as this place also packs interactive darts, shuffleboard and live DJs.

The Hari Hotel Bar & Terrace

For those of you who fancy taking your summer date night up a notch, The Hari Hotel Bar & Terrace awaits in Knightsbridge. Connoisseurs of all things luxury, this gorgeous space was simply made for a romantic rendezvous, featuring luscious walls of ivy illuminated by warm pendant lighting and the tall candles that start to flicker at each table as dusk begins to fall. In the same opulent vein, the drinks list showcases a seriously impressive (and extensive, might we add) list of wines and Champagnes, although you'll also find a strong selection of creative signature cocktails and upmarket spirits (not to mention cigars). And, if you fancy a bite to eat, there's truffle arancini and Maldon oysters waiting to be devoured.

The Prince

Stocks on the Rocks and 3 other offers

Looking for quirky date ideas in London? The Prince is the place for you. The gorgeous West London pub is famed for its stunning flower-entwined pergoda, which emits a warm glow come nightfall due to the strewn fairy lights. Snap up a table to woo your beau, digging into beautiful brunch dishes (including chicken and waffles), classic pub grub and fluffy Neapolitan pizzas from Crust Bros. Plus, if you happen to make it down on a Sunday, they have a bunch of BBQ specials up for grabs, including a BBQ pulled pork burger and fried corn ribs. The only thing left to do now is choose your topple – the chilli mango margarita sounds like the perfect accompaniment.

Jin Bo Law

For those of you looking to impress your other half this summer, make sure to bag a table at Jin Bo Law. A 14th-story rooftop bar, nestled atop the Dorsett City Hotel, it's a wow-worthy spot for date nights where you can enjoy unparalleled views of the Shard, the Gherkin, the Walkie-Talkie, Tower Bridge and so much more. As for the cocktails list? You can expect a whole host of signature sips, including the City Jingle, their twist on a classic sour, made with gin, pomegranate liquor, egg white and fresh lemon.

Gremio de Brixton

Be transported to sunnier climes (without leaving South London) at Gremio de Brixton, a Spanish hotspot in The Crypt at St Matthew's Church. A huge patio surrounds the church, offering a rustic, alfresco dining vibe under the tree-dappled sunshine. Tuck into tantalising tapas here, like calamares, chuletas de cordero and pan y tomate, while necking a refreshing glass of sangria. And if you fancy carrying on the evening afterwards? The basement turns into quite the party bar...

Wagtail

Enjoy Weekend Bottomless Brunch At Wagtail

Wagtail is one of the capital's most talked-about rooftop terraces, found smack bang in the centre of the City, offering towering views of its most iconic landmarks, including The Shard. Grab yourself a cushy seat on the stylish alfresco space and top up your tan while you dig into charcuterie boards, wild venison tartare or roast celeriac. Just want to treat your beau to a few drinks? You'll find an array of unique cocktails, such as the Maracuja, which marries vodka, vanilla grass, stone fruit nectar and passion fruit kombucha.

Union Social at The Gantry

Take your date night sky-high with a trip to Union Social at The Gantry Hotel. The Stratford spot proudly boasts a terrace where you can enjoy gorgeous views of the sun setting over London (or top up your tan in the daytime). If you fancy heading over after dusk, there are atmospheric campfires, perfect for cuddling up around. Get to know the range of unique, signature cocktails (the Doughnut Colada is not to be missed) and international wines which go all too well with the menu of tasty fare; sink your teeth into beef ragu paccheri, juicy burgers and lamb shank with mash.

The BBQ Club - 2024

@ BBQ Club on Various dates from Thursday 2nd May 2024

Summer date night just got extra special with The BBQ Club. This Southbank haunt is showcasing London's top local artisan suppliers and fresh ingredients in the form of a scrumptious six-course tasting menu for £60 per person. Come for lunch or dinner to cook your own dishes over a tableside Big Green Egg, then feast on the likes of a British Caesar 2.0, made with Brixton honey-glazed chicken, a Caesar emulsion and tempus pancetta crumb alongside wine pairings, cocktails and more. 

Whitcomb’s At The Londoner

2/3 course pre-theatre set menu £34/£39 -Lunch and 11 other offers

Upgrade your summer date night plans with Whitcomb's in Leicester Square. Inspired by the Italian and French rivieras, this elegant restaurant found in The Londoner serves fine dining fare on their sun-drenched outdoor terrace. Dig into calamari, yellowtail carpaccio or salad nicoise and feel transported right to the Mediterranean.

The Murdér Express

@ Pedley Street Station on Various dates from Friday 26th April 2024

Save 10% on ticket Peak Week Evening 8.30pm with discount code THURSDAY10
Valid on the following dates: 25/04/2024, 02/05/2024, 09/05/2024, 16/05/2024, 23/05/2024 and 30/05/2024.
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Travel back in time to the 1920s for The Murder Express, an award-winning immersive experience that combines comedy, theatre, delicious food and cracking cocktails. The brilliant murder mystery is bound to keep you on your toes, complete with plenty of gripping twists, turns and surprises. While you enjoy the interactive performance, you'll also be treated to a stunning three-course feast designed by two Michelin-starred chef Niall Keating; entertainment and dinner? It's got your whole date night wrapped up.

Aspen and Meursault

Located in Battersea, Aspen and Meursault is a trendy drinking spot where calm, neutral tones meet leafy plants and racks of wine bottles along the walls. Ideal for date nights, it offers a stylish setting for delving into the world of biodynamic and organic wines, which you can also take on the outside terrace. You can also join them for brunch (the Catalan breakfast with truffled eggs is a highlight), although there are also tasty small plates – think anchovies with crumbled blue cheese, rillette of the week and alcohol-soaked cheeses.

Aviary

Sunday Roast with Bottomless Drinks!

For those looking to push the boat out, look no further than Aviary, one of the most luxurious date ideas in London. Found on the top of Montcalm Royal London House Hotel in Finsbury Square, it offers jaw-dropping views of the City. Settle into one of the plush sofas surrounded, by pretty plants and London's landmarks, and tuck into fancy fare, like roast Atlantic cod with crushed potatoes, samphire and creamed leeks. Plus, with a fantastic lineup of Champagne, cocktails and beers, your thirst will certainly be well-quenched.

London Bridge Rooftop

£6 APEROL SUNDAY

Searching for a summer date night? Head to London Bridge Rooftop for gorgeous views across London (including of The Shard) and some glorious sunshine. The relaxed space is a great place to spend some quality time with your better half under a canopy of fairy lights, complete with tasty burgers and halloumi fries, not to mention draught beers, cocktails and bottled cider.

Midnight Apothecary

Searching for fun things to do in London? Midnight Apothecary are hosting some seriously fun date night activities. You can join them on their stunning roof garden, complete with firepits, candlelight and toasted s'mores, not to mention botanical cocktails made using ingredients foraged from the very garden that surrounds you. And, adding a unique spin to the evening, you can also enjoy an underground tour.

In Horto

Head to London Bridge's In Horto to dine in their gorgeous outdoor space, which features rustic wooden pergolas and warm woven lanterns, and is centred around a wood-fired oven. They work directly with farmers and suppliers, such as Ginger Pig, Lake District Farmers and Neil's Yard, plus source some produce directly from chef Richard's own garden. Get your teeth around baked Tunworth with truffle honey and confit garlic, as well as whole sea bream with green sauce or baked cauliflower complemented by four-cheese potato.

601 Queen's Road

A gorgeous bar and restaurant from Darwin and Wallace, 601 Queen's Road is a gorgeous place to ignite romance in Wimbledon. Not only does it offer a pretty dining area, with a dome-shaped skylight window above, but it also has a leafy terrace where you can soak up the sunshine and the lovely views of the neighbourhood. Settle into the stylish alfresco space and dig into brunches, lunches or dinners, delighting in options like pappardelle with porcini mushroom ragu and truffle, as well as a lip-smacking range of burgers. Or if you just fancy a date night drink? Guzzle twists on classic cocktails, such as the cherry negroni.

Vinegar Yard

On the hunt for fun things to do this summer? Grab your sweetie and head to Vinegar Yard to enjoy all the sunshine while tucking into bites from Japanese Chicken Shop, Nanny Bill's, Bad Boy Pizza Society and more. But that's not all, as you can also guzzle all kinds of refreshing drinks, from cocktails to craft beers and wine.

LONDON WING FEST 2024

@ London Stadium, on Friday 26th July 2024 and 2 other dates

If you're on the hunt for things to do for couples this summer in London, Wing Fest is a bit of a no-brainer. The event will take you from day to night, complete with over 80 different types of cheap chicken wings, axe throwing, eating competitions and bourbon. You'll even get the chance to vote for your favourite dishes, and everyone who attends gets a free signature trucker hat.

Tequila Mockingbird Putney

Upgrade those summer date night plans with a trip to Tequila Mockingbird in Putney. Located on the river, this fabulous drinking den offers an alfresco terrace space that's perfect for basking in the sunshine. You can also make gooey eyes over lip-smacking happy hour cocktails, such as the Berries N' Cream, made with tequila rose and blanco tequila, Malibu, pineapple juice and grenadine. 

Flight Club Victoria

Afternoon Fizz

Flight Club Victoria is the perfect place for a quirky date night, thanks to its fairground-themed interiors (we're talking carousel-style bars, cabochon bulbs and rubber ducks dangling from the ceiling) and revolutionised version of social darts. But that's not all - it's also a great spot to soak up the sunshine on a summer's eve, with a huge rooftop terrace overlooking Central London. Head here to dig into paddles of pizza paired with prosecco in charming surrounds.

Steam Dreams

Departing from Victoria Station, Steam Dreams is one of the best experiences for a summer date. You'll get to enjoy a scrumptious three-course meal while seeing the gorgeous British countryside, including Surrey Hills, Dorking, Reigate and the Vale of Holmesdale.

Sky Garden

Searching for swanky date night ideas this summer? Impress your other half with a visit to Sky Garden, the famous rooftop space over at the Walkie-Talkie in the City of London. Along with gorgeous foliage and beautiful views, you can check out their music nights for top-notch tunes and chic cocktails to match. Otherwise, there are yoga classes, sunrise sessions and breakfasts to get stuck into as well.

Two More Years

For those of you after fun first date ideas in London, Two More Years is the perfect place for romance to bloom, boasting a waterside terrace overlooking the River Lea. The Hackney Wick hotspot doesn't just boast a cracking natural wine selection with sips by the bottle or on tap – it's also home to Lucky Chip, which slings out some of the capital's best burgers. Our favourite? The J Lopez, featuring a beef patty, chile con queso, onions, pickles and habanero honey mustard mayo.

DRAG ME TO THE BEACH

@ The London City Beach on Saturday 15th June 2024 and 2 other Saturdays

Spend your summer date soaking up rays on the sand over at Drag Me To The Beach, which sees London City Beach near South Bank play host to Awesome Events at a Havana-themed pop-up. Grab your choice of street food brunch while you sip 90 minutes of bottomless drinks and take in the entertainment - think a hilarious MC followed by a star headline act. Better yet? You can even upgrade to a VIP cabana too.

Devonshire Terrace

Make your summer date night an outdoor one with Devonshire Terrace, the stunning alfresco space near Liverpool Street. The chic spot from Drake & Morgan comes equipped with warming fires, streams of fairy lights and lots of pretty plants, making it the perfect place to woo your boo this summer. Dive into gorgeous small plates, like duck bao, burnt end pork bites and chorizo scotch eggs, or go big with a plate of fish and chips or Malaysian curry. You'll also find a selection of botanical cocktails that change with the seasons.