It doesn't matter whether you're totally bowled over by the prospect of Valentine's Day, or whether you think it's a load of over-hyped, commercial nonsense, a little romance and a dash of passion are always important when it comes to nurturing relationships.
London is full of beautiful places to visit to set the scene for a night of romance. From the highest vantage point to the most comfortable and cavernous of haunts there is something to ignite everybody's fire, it's just about knowing where to begin.
Primrose Hill, Park and Village
Home to an array of fashionistas, celebrities and politicians, Primrose Hill, which lies North of Regent's Park, is a well-known and much loved London hotspot, and it's easy to see why. Stroll up to the top of the hill itself and prepare to be amazed by one of the most stunning views of London. February in the UK is bound to be a bit nippy, so it's the perfect excuse to don hats, scarves and gloves, snuggle up to your date and brave the winter elements. Go the whole hog and take champers and flutes to sip at the top before ambling back down for an intimate meal at one of Primrose Hill's many fantastic eateries.
The Cork and Bottle Wine Bar in the Heart of Leicester Square
This cosy, cave-like underground wine bar (located at 44-46 Cranbourn Street, WC2H 7AN) is a wonderful place to sit back, relax and let all the stresses of the day just ooze away. It is difficult to believe that as you sit supping fine wine and enjoying the company of fellow diners, the chaos of the city centre continues overhead – it feels a million miles away. Savour fresh, hearty, rustic food and relish the impressive wine list -– The Cork and Bottle boasts over 40 fabulous wines all sold by the glass – and when you've had your fill, take a stroll down Charing Cross Road past Trafalgar Square for some stargazing in St James' Park.
Westminster Bridge and the South Bank
Experience a real sense of space in the city walking across one of London's many bridges over the River Thames. In the evening the twinkling skyline conjures up feelings of hope and limitless possibility. Start off on Westminster Bridge, pausing to take in the magical views, and venture down the bustling South Bank to Golden Jubilee Bridge. Explore the area freely. There is no shortage of bars, cafes and restaurants to suit whatever mood you're in, or plan ahead to fit in a concert, an event, or even a ride on the world's tallest observation wheel, the London Eye.
St Pancras International Station
Heading to a train station, and not for the purpose of boarding a train, may not sound like the hottest idea for romantic date, but this is not the case with St Pancras International. Stations buzz with the anticipation of journeys and adventures yet to come, and this one in particular offers a stylish setting. Share a moment at the foot of The Meeting Place, the famous 9m high statue of a couple caught in the throes of a passionate embrace, and then trip over to Europe's longest champagne bar to get high on laughter and bubbles.
St Christopher's Place
This pedestrianized honeypot attracts tourists, visitors and London residents alike with its sophisticated yet laid back cosmopolitan vibe. In the heart of the West End, and a mere stone's throw away from busy Oxford Street, St Christopher's Place is a veritable gem tucked away out of sight. A treasure chest of pubs, restaurants, coffee houses and boutique shops it is an ideal destination whether the evening calls for fine dining, cafe culture, shop-browsing or simple meandering through the lanes arm in arm with your lover.
London is jam-packed with places to visit for a romantic date.Outdoors, indoors, underground, overground, free or for a fee, just open your mind, and your A to Z, and let the love flood in.
Emma Barrington - My background lies in healthcare. I completed my degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics in 2004 obtaining a distinction in my ...
