London is a beloved tourist destination for Indian travellers and celebrities alike, from Kareena Kapoor Khan to Alia Bhatt. Currently, Hindi actor Nakuul Mehta is holidaying there with his spouse, vocalist Jankee Parekh Mehta. Their photos are lighting up Instagram and inspiring couples to follow in their trail. The city offers plenty of romantic spots and things to do that will keep you busy during your UK tour.
Here are seven of the best romantic experiences that you can have in London.
The iconic O2 arena has played host to the likes of Prince and Madonna. But did you know that visitors can also climb it? Up at the O2 provides an exhilarating outdoor climb from where you can see 360° views of historic Greenwich, The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf. There are three main times you can do the climb: during the day, at sunset and twilight. In addition to this, you and your partner can have a special afternoon tea experience where you will be treated to a selection of precisely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones, delectable cakes and a refreshing Lipton iced tea upon reaching the summit. Lots of couples have opted for the proposal package, a private 90-minute experience for two people led by a guide. If your partner says yes then you can toast one another with a glass of bubbly on the roof.
Hop onto a narrowboat and sail from Little Venice to Camden Town on the Regent’s Canal. You will pass through Regent’s Park, the London Zoo and the 248-metre-long Maida Hill Tunnel. The ride gives you the opportunity to discover an enchanting world of beautiful Edwardian streets and to see London in a different light. Choose from Jason’s Trip, who operate a boat dating back to 1906 and provide live commentary about the canal’s history from the 1800s to the present day; the London Waterbus Company, whose boats have large slide-to-open windows for that perfect Instagram shot; or GoBoat if you want a private experience—their electric boats can seat eight people and can be hired for upwards of one hour.
The St Katherine Docks on the east side of Tower Bridge is a tranquil oasis that offers a variety of dining and leisure activities. It has a rich history as a commercial dock dating back to the 12th century but has been transformed into an elegant marina with shops and restaurants. Pick up a coffee from Urban Baristas, check out the Princess Diana exhibit in the underground cavern of the Dockside Vaults, and sample the freshest and finest shellfish, seafood and fish from across the British coast at The Melusine. Don’t miss the Classic Boat Festival when it opens this September for the opportunity to see over 40 beautiful vintage and exquisitely preserved vessels such as the Dunkirk Little Ships and motorboats from the Bates Starcraft range.
Clos Maggiore has been listed as one of the most romantic restaurants in the world by Architectural Digest and Harden’s. So, it should be a no-brainer that you must spend an evening here with your partner. They offer a contemporary take on modern European cuisine and their décor and atmosphere is inspired by the sophisticated country inns of the South of France and Tuscany. Wherever possible, their cooking uses local and seasonal products throughout the year to create perfectly balanced menus. In fact, they source their seafood directly from British fishing boats, lamb from the Welsh mountains and game from Windsor Royal Park. Clos Maggiore’s organically grown fruit and vegetables are delivered fresh from Kent each morning. The first-floor private dining room is the perfect location for a private gathering and special celebrations. With sumptuous wood panelling, a roaring log fire and sweeping views over Covent Garden, this will be a night to remember for you and your loved one.
The Parliament Hill Viewpoint is the perfect place to watch the sunset light up London’s skyline in hues of red, orange and pink. The summit is one of the highest points in London—98m in fact—and you can see St Paul's Cathedral, the Palace of Westminster, The Gherkin, The Shard, Canary Wharf and more such icons from here. Stop for a coffee at the Parliament Hill café or enjoy a free concert on the bandstand during the summer months. If it appeals to you and your partner, come here to shop at the farmer’s market on Saturday mornings, swim in the bathing ponds of Hampstead Heath or take a nature walk to Kenwood House, which has a free art gallery.
You have seen London through its waterways so why not try an aerial experience, too? Book a helicopter tour to treat a loved one, to celebrate a special occasion or to simply see the British capital from a different angle. The experience will allow you to enjoy an exciting combination of countryside and urban landscapes, ticking off famous landmarks as you go. Spot iconic sights such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Tower of London and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Follow the river Thames as it winds its way through the centre of the city. Helicopter tours are at their best during the spring and summer months when the city experiences brighter weather and clear skies. They last from 20-50 minutes.
The West End of London is a major tourist attraction due to the number of shops, businesses, government buildings and entertainment venues that are in its vicinity. Much like what Broadway is to New York City, the West End is packed with theatres putting on plays and performances that will leave you in awe. Choose from “The Tina Turner Musical” at the Aldwych Theatre, “Back to the Future: The Musical” at the Adelphi Theatre, “The Book of Mormon” at the Prince of Wales Theatre, “The Wizard of Oz” at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, “The Phantom of the Opera” at His Majesty’s Theatre, “The Lion King” at the Lyceum Theatre, “Les Misérables” at the Sondheim Theatre and “Moulin Rouge: The Musical” at the Piccadilly Theatre.