Tired of the same old chorus of tropes, trysts and tat which arrives in full song in the weeks approaching the 14th February? Not willing for your purse to be plundered in a restaurant where the most palpable flavour is the pressure of expectation? Used up all of your gift ideas on Christmas presents already gathering dust? Well, we’re the same. If you’re looking for something a little different, unique, fresh and new, then you’ve come to the right place. Here are 5 alternative Valentine’s Day ideas IDEAL for London’s lovers.
SILENT DISCO BOAT PARTY
Want to spend your date in headphones, not speaking to your partner? We understand. The Silent Sounds boat party, which takes in the Thames as you move and groove, could be just the ticket for those reluctant to engage in small talk. Romantic views of our beloved city, illuminated and twinkling, set the tone for a joyous celebration – who wouldn’t want to dance with that backdrop? This one is sure to bring about tired legs and amorous minds, so have somewhere booked centrally (we love Thistle Hyde Park) to tumble back to.
TAKE A ROMCOM BUS TOUR
Richard Curtis’ directing success owes so much to two constants; romance and London. Scenes from Four Weddings and a Funeral, Bridget Jones, Love Actually, Notting Hill and many more have all been framed in the capital city, with the films’ shots of London being just as romantic as the scenes happening on its streets. So why not take a romcom bus tour, taking in some of the sets and locations which made these movies so special. There’s also the opportunity to hear behind-the-scenes gossip from the films, and get some great selfies in some of their most famous locations. London has played the starring role in so many great romantic comedies, now’s your turn to see why.
POP UP TO EAT OUT
Rather than doing the rather formulaic Valentine’s Day restaurant experience, why not consider one of London’s many pop-up restaurants and bars for something a little different? While maybe not as slick and streamlined as the capital’s fine dining destinations, the proposition is far more unique, personalised and interesting. What’s more; you won’t be rushed, unlike so many restaurants keen to turn tables and get as many bums on seats as possible on this profitable night. It’s usually quite a lot kinder on the wallet, too!
PERSONALISE A PERFUME
Perfume is one of the most traditional gifts given on Valentine’s Day, and presenting your love with a bottle is great, but why not take the romance levels up a notch by curating a perfume scent for your partner with the Experimental Perfume Club or Perfume Studio. It’s a wonderful, personal gift requiring real care and effort, and while the result may not have the scented splendour of Chanel or Gucci, it’s the thought that counts, right?
FIND A PARTNER AT BATTERSEA DOGS & CATS HOME
Feline a little lonely? In need of some puppy love? Last year, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home hosted an event for single people to hang out with the home’s cats. What a great idea! While there’s no word yet on if they’ll be doing the same again this year, you could consider purchasing a Valentine’s Hamper for one of the home’s animals in the meantime. Give a little love to the lonely this year, and maybe cupid will be kind to you, too?
