Things to Do in London This Valentine’s Day

With February fast approaching as the Christmas and New Year festivities fade further in to what feels like the distant past, it can only mean one thing – Valentine’s Day is almost upon us.

For the singles among us, it may pass by as just another Friday or it may embolden some to pluck up the courage and ask their crush out on a date. For those already involved with someone, it’s either a chance to spoil our loved ones or it’s a sham created by the card manufacturers to drive more revenue, depending on your point of view.

Either way, there’s no doubting that dating can be an expensive business, especially in the big city. For example, it’s estimated that a three-course meal for two in a run-of-the-mill restaurant in London will set you back £55, so why not switch it up a bit this year, enjoy a splash of variety and save some money while you’re at it?

Breathe in some fresh air

If you’re living in the hustle and bustle of the capital, constantly surrounded by people, traffic and tourists stopping to take photos of all the attractions, you might want a break from the rush. You can do that by hopping on a train, perhaps from Balham to Clapham Junction, and making your way to Clapham Common.

Once there, you can stroll around the vast acres of parkland and find yourself becalmed by the lack of noise and abundance of fresh air. You and your loved one could even make up a picnic basket and settle down on the grass for a bite to eat – just make sure you’ve wrapped up warm against the February chill!

Take in a street market

If you and your partner are keen foodies, then paying a visit to the markets could be your idea of heaven. You can wander around at your leisure, taking in all the sights, sounds, smells and tastes that the stalls have to offer. Most markets include free samples, so you can nibble away to your heart’s content and if anything takes your fancy, haggle over the price.

Visit the charity shops

It may not be everyone’s idea of a romantic day out, but charity shops can often contain hidden treasures. Keen readers can choose from a large array of second-hand books, while there are always plenty of trinkets and pieces of jewellery which might catch your eye or that of your other half. 

Even in London, Valentine’s presents don’t have to cost the earth to be meaningful – after all, it’s about who you spend it with, rather than what you spend it on.