Celebrate an Unforgettable Valentine’s Day in London
If you are in London for Valentine’s Day there are some incredible things to see and do. Here are some ideas on how you can combine sightseeing with plenty of opportunity for culture and romance.
A Morning Stroll
St James’s Park is situated next to Buckingham Palace and is one of eight Royal Parks, home to many of London’s ceremonial parades, with a rich royal history; thousands flocked here for the Queen’s recent Diamond Jubilee parade.
The flower beds surrounding the park are absolutely beautiful, combining red poppies and yellow begonias to create a beautiful collage of colour, perfect for a romantic afternoon walk. You can cross the lake’s bridge and wander through beautiful areas of low hanging trees, feeding the ducks – you might even find a photo opportunity with a Queen’s Guard.
Lunch at Heston’s
A trip to London wouldn’t be the same without sampling the food of Britain’s best chef, Heston Blumenthal, whose molecular cuisine is famous the world over. His ‘Dinner’ restaurant at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, includes a number of historical British dishes.
It’s not nearly as expensive as his ‘Fat Duck’ restaurant in Bray, with more than affordable mains at around £30-£40.
Primrose Hill for Sunset
Primrose Hill Park is one of my favourite areas of London, providing an incredible and idyllic view of London on a clear day. This beautiful park overlooks the South Bank skyline, with green trees and rolling lawns set against the London Eye and Big Ben.
You could venture down in the late afternoon and wait for sunset, treating your loved one to a champagne picnic, it’s so beautiful.
Scale the Evening Skies
The London Eye is one of the greatest icons of London, allowing you to climb the South Bank skyline and marvel at the incredible riverside view, which takes in the towering Houses of Parliament.
Couples can take a ride for as little as £22.50, or have their very own romance capsule, including a private host serving chocolates and champagne. For a real sense of luxury you can enjoy a romantic dinner as you soar into the sky.
Spectacular Show
For something really spectacular, Don Giovanni is on at the Royal Opera House, London’s most historical and spectacular home of live performance, an incredible feat of architecture and acoustics. The show’s protagonist, Don Giovanni, seduces an endless stream of women through his illusionary skills, offering a very alternative Valentine’s tale.
This post was written by Refresh Accommodation. If you are hoping to spend Valentine’s Day in London and need somewhere to stay, check out their range of fully-serviced apartments.
Photo by Adam Bowie