London
Romantic things to do in London
London is a city for romantics. If the beauty of its historic streets doesn’t seduce, then the capital’s tranquil gardens, atmospheric museums and elegant restaurants are certain to win the hearts of visitors. From exploring the homes of Romantic poets and world-class jewellery stores to drinks in moody jazz clubs and a night at the ballet, take some time to explore London’s amorous side with this two-day itinerary.
Day one
Start your romantic day in London with a visit to Keats House, just half an hour from the hotel by taxi.
Keats House
Located in leafy Hampstead, the Romantic poet resided here between 1818 and 1820. During that time, he embarked on a famously passionate love affair with neighbour Fanny Brawne and composed many of his most famous verses. Explore the house to discover Keats’ original manuscripts and letters, as well as the engagement ring he gave to his fiancé.
Next take a taxi for the 10-minute journey to The Regent’s Park, and then stroll through the park to get to Queen Mary’s Garden.
Queen Mary’s Garden, The Regent’s Park
If Regent’s Park offers a rare moment of tranquillity in the heart of central London, the hidden Queen Mary’s Garden – a beautiful rose garden tucked away within the park – is a true oasis. The grounds, which opened in the 1930s, feature over 12,000 roses as well as delphiniums, begonias and other eye-catching blooms.
Bond Street is then half an hour on foot, or 15 minutes by taxi, from The Regent’s Park.
Engagement Ring Shopping on Bond Street
For those looking for that all-important symbol of everlasting love, Bond Street is the obvious destination. The street is home to a number of top-tier jewellers, including Boodles, Tiffany & Co., De Beers and Cartier, meaning whatever style you opt for, it’s certain to be a timeless piece.
Then, walk for 10 minutes from Bond Street to get to Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club.
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club
Since its founding by the English jazz saxophonist in 1959, Ronnie Scott’s has remained one of the best places to watch live music in London. The legendary Soho venue once hosted the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Miles Davis, and today welcomes top jazz, soul, blues and folk artists from around the world.
The final stop of the day is the Royal Opera House, just 10 minutes’ walk from the club.
Ballet at the Royal Opera House
Whether your taste runs to 19th century classics or innovative modern pieces, the ballet is one of the most compelling ways to spend an evening in London. One of the leading ballet companies in the world, The Royal Ballet is based at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden; pre-performance drinks in the architecturally impressive Paul Hamlyn Hall Champagne Bar are a must.
From the Royal Opera House, the hotel is 15 minutes away by taxi.
Day two
The first stop of the day is the Columbia Road Flower Market, 35 minutes from the hotel by taxi.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Columbia Road is a charming stretch in London’s East End, lined with boutiques, restaurants and independent galleries. Every Sunday morning the road blossoms into life with the arrival of its resident flower market. From freshly cut flowers to orchids, ferns and fruit trees, the selection is vast, and the scene lively until late afternoon.
From the Columbia Road Flower Market, Hatton Garden is 15 minutes away by taxi.
Ring Shopping at Hatton Garden
Hatton Garden is London’s jewellery quarter, a prestigious reputation that it has held since the 19th century. The legacy is still very much alive today, visible in its high concentration of jewellery shops. Unsurprisingly, it has a reputation for being the go-to destination for couples looking to make that special purchase.
Next, take a 30-minute taxi journey to Victoria Station, where the Belmond British Pullman departs.
An Afternoon on the Belmond British Pullman
Train journeys don’t get any more luxurious than this. The Belmond British Pullman promises the height of opulence as it wends its way around the British countryside. The expertly restored 1920s carriages feature elegant marquetry and vintage upholstery, whisking travellers back to a glamourous age. For those with just a few hours to spare, there are various round trips on offer from afternoon teas to five-course champagne lunches.
Back at Victoria Station, take a 15-minute Tube journey on the Victoria line to Green Park, followed by the Piccadilly line to Leicester Square station, or a 20-minute taxi ride to get to Clos Maggiore for dinner.
Dinner at Clos Maggiore
Often called London’s most romantic restaurant, Clos Maggiore serves contemporary French cuisine in idyllic surrounds. Those in-the-know opt for a table in the conservatory, with its blossom bedecked ceiling, but the wood-panelled dining room is another stellar option. The 100-page wine list, incidentally, is a thing of beauty, with over 2,500 bottles to choose from.
Then, take a 20-minute taxi ride to get to the Royal Albert Hall.
A Box at the Royal Albert Hall
The resplendent Royal Albert Hall is itself a testament to the romance between Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Conceived of by the Prince and named in his honour, the concert hall has welcomed a vast array of stars, composers, and dignitaries. No matter what the event, a private box provides an excellent vantage point.
The hotel is just 10 minutes from the Royal Albert Hall by taxi.
All journey times are approximate and subject to variation.
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