Best hotel to Stay in London for Valentines day

November 27, 2025

Valentine’s Day hits differently in London. The city turns into a soft glow of fairy lights, riverside strolls feel cinematic, and even the crisp February air seems to carry a little extra romance. Whether you are planning a classic couple’s escape or a fun celebration with friends, London in 2026 is full of experiences that make the day feel genuinely special.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do around the capital, plus where to stay with Blue Orchid Hospitality (Tower Suites or Tower Residence with views of the Tower of London or The Wellington just a stroll from St James’s Park) so you’re perfectly placed for every moment.

 

Romantic & Fun Valentine’s Day Activities in London

Where to find romantic things to do in London for couples?

1. Take a sunset cruise on the River Thames
 

 

Watch the city skyline shift from day to night as you drift past the Tower of London, St. Paul’s, and Westminster. Here are a few ideas for you to consider:

  • Thames River Cruise Dinner Sailing: Three-hour cruise with a plated dinner, welcome drink, and music, departing from Westminster Pier.
  • Evening Jazz or Cocktail Cruise: Two-hour sailing with canapés, a glass of Prosecco, live music, and open deck viewing as the skyline lights up.
  • Thames Lunch Cruise: Two-course lunch with tea or coffee, commentary, and plenty of time on deck as you sail past Tower of London, Shakespeare’s Globe, and more.
  • Afternoon Tea on the Thames: Finger sandwiches, pastries, scones, tea/coffee, and optional champagne, all set against views of Tower Bridge and Parliament.

Explore more on cityexperiences.com.

 

2. Book one of London’s most romantic restaurants

From candlelit French bistros in Soho to modern British tasting menus in Shoreditch, the city’s restaurant scene sets the perfect tone for an intimate evening.

Have a look at Time Out London’s list of the most romantic restaurants in the city for some inspiration.

 

3. Stroll through Kew Gardens’ light installations

Kew often runs spectacular winter trails, and walking together through illuminated glasshouses and glowing pathways feels incredibly romantic.

Book your experience at Kew Gardens here.

 

4. Explore the Sky Garden after dark

London’s highest public garden offers lush greenery, panoramic views, and live music nights, making it a dreamy combination for February 14th and it is only a 10-minute stroll from our Tower Suites hotel.

Book you visit to Sky Garden here.

 

5. Take a couple’s chocolate-making workshop

Valentine’s Day and chocolate? Always a winning pair. Several artisan chocolatiers around the city runs hands-on experiences. One for you to look at is MyChocolate, who run regular workshops near Old Street Station, E28HL.

Explore their workshops here

 

6. Plan a West End theatre night

A classic London date. From sweeping romances to big musicals, the West End makes Valentine’s unforgettable.

The West End offers a wonderful mix of romantic stories for theatre lovers, from light-hearted fun to deeply emotional journeys. There are so many musicals that have a romantic theme running through them, and a few you should have a look at are:

  1. Mamma Mia! is a feel-good, joyous musical that celebrates love in all its forms, following Sophie as she navigates family, friendship, and romance on a sunny Greek island, with ABBA’s timeless hits adding energy and charm.
  2. In contrast, The Phantom of the Opera presents a dark, Gothic romance full of obsession and longing, as the mysterious Phantom falls in love with the young Christine, creating a love triangle brimming with tension and emotion.
  3. Les Misérables blends epic historical drama with intimate love stories, including the sweet romance of Marius and Cosette and the heartbreak of Éponine’s unrequited love, offering a rich tapestry of passion and sacrifice.
  4. For something mythic and hauntingly beautiful, Hadestown tells the story of Orpheus and Eurydice, whose doomed love is set against a world of gods and underworld trials, accompanied by a stunning jazz-folk score that captures the depth and intensity of their bond. Together, these musicals showcase the range of romance on the West End, from joyous and playful to tragic and unforgettable.

You can find Theatre Tickets on London Love Affair’s website.

 

7. Wander along South Bank

Take a romantic stroll along the river, where you will encounter street performers, riverside bars, bookstalls, and skyline views, making it one of London’s most atmospheric spots for date night.

 

8. Visit a luxury spa for a couples’ treatment
 

Indulge in a relaxing escape together with massages, pools, and wellness therapies.

For massages and luxurious treatments, consider Adamo Spa

 

How to celebrate Valentine’s Day with friends in London?

1. Indulge in Blue Orchid Hotels’ Glam Getaway Package
 

Our Glam Getaway package is perfect for a celebration with your best-friends. Enjoy stylish rooms, a relaxed spa treatment, photo-ready spaces, and plenty of opportunities to explore central London. It’s a fun, feel-good way to make Valentine’s Day all about friendship and self-care.

 

2. Plan a dinner at a special London restaurant

London is full of vibrant restaurants which are ideal for a night out with your friends where the only rule is to laugh loudly and make memories.

Here are some ideas of where to go for a fun dinner with Friends in London

  1. Tiffin Tree (Westminster near Victoria Station): Experience the authentic tradition of the Indian tiffin at our restaurant in London. Each tiffin is a thoughtfully curated selection of regional delicacies, served in stacked containers, brimming with fragrant basmati rice and biryanis, rich curries, fresh vegetables, and warm, hand-rolled Indian bread.
  2. Cento Alla Torre (Tower Hill): An authentic Italian dining experience in the heart of London, our Italian restaurant combines the refined simplicity of delicious fresh Italian food, with timeless interiors, sensational views of the Tower of London and the vibrant atmosphere of leading eateries.
  3. Bubala (Spitalfields): Middle Eastern vegetarian sharing plates in a stylish, cosy space. Fun and full of personality.
  4. The Ivy Asia (St Paul’s / Mayfair): Glam interiors and theatrical dishes which are ideal when you want dinner to feel like an occasion.
  5. Mercato Mayfair (Mayfair): A stunning converted church with global street-food vendors which is perfect if everyone wants something different.
  6. Bob Bob Ricard (Soho): Iconic for its “Press for Champagne” button. A fun, slightly cheeky pick for a celebratory night.

 

3. Karaoke night

 

Who doesn’t love a karaoke night-out? Gather your pals together for an evening you will always remember

1. BAM Karaoke Box in Victoria: For Valentine’s, BAM runs a “Cupid’s Date Night” event: dinner + cocktails in a lounge setting + time in a private karaoke room to duet or serenade each other. Their private rooms are very stylish, and you can record your performance — great for creating memories. For more information click here.

2. Be At One on Regent Street: Their “SingPods” are private karaoke booths: you can book for 30 minutes or 60 minutes. For more information click here.

3. London Karaoke Club in Soho: They don’t do tiny, padded boxes. Instead, their karaoke space is more open, with studio-quality sound, velvet drapes, and very atmospheric decor. You can book for groups of 10 to 50+, so it's ideal for a Valentine’s night out with friends (or a big couple’s gathering). For more information click here.

 

4. Take a cooking or cocktail class

 

  1. The Gordon Ramsay Academy offers a special classes where couples cook together. In these classes, you’ll make a fresh handmade pasta dish, followed by a shared dessert, under the guidance of their chef team. There is also a wine tasting component: you learn how to taste and pair wine, guided by a sommelier. For more information visit their website.
  2. Zouk Tea Bar & Grill is hosting a Valentine’s cooking class on 14 February 2026. This is designed for couples: a relaxing, romantic morning where you learn to cook “food of love” inspired dishes. After cooking, you sit down to enjoy the meal together in Zouk’s stylish restaurant. For more information visit their website.
  3. Mixology Events runs 100% hands-on cocktail classes in multiple London locations: Covent Garden, Shoreditch, Fitzrovia, etc. Typical class format is 2 hours, and you will receive a welcome cocktail on arrival, then learn mixology techniques and make four cocktails yourself. Non-drinkers are also catered for: alcohol-free options are available. For more information visit their website.

 

Where to stay in London for Valentine’s Day?

Finding the right hotel can elevate Valentine’s Day from “nice” to “wow.” Our London hotels are designed to give guests an experience that’s not just convenient, but genuinely special.

Tower Suites and Tower Residences, Tower Hill beside Tower Bridge

Located moments from the River Thames and directly opposite the iconic Tower of London, Tower Suites and the nearby Tower Residences offer one of the most striking backdrops in the city.

Why they’re ideal for Valentine’s Day?

  • The views: Many of our rooms overlook the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, giving your stay a postcard-perfect setting.
  • Spacious, apartment-style living: Our suites come with kitchenettes and living areas, ideal for couples who want a little more privacy or a longer romantic stay.
  • Close to key experiences: Staying with us at Tower Suites or Tower Residences, you are just moments away from some of the top romantic experiences including River Cruises, Sky Garden which is London’s highest garden, St. Katharine Docks, the West End, and South Bank.
  • Wellness and dining on-site: Enjoy spa treatments and our authentic Italian restaurant all on-site, which make staying in feel just as tempting as heading out.

For couples or groups exploring London’s most scenic neighbourhoods, Tower Hill is a dream location due to its historic, atmospheric, and wonderfully connected setting.

 

The Wellington, nestled in a Leafy Westminster enclave close to Victoria Station

The Wellington offers a space of calm, just steps away from London’s most popular attractions. With quick and easy access to Victoria Station you will be surrounded by elegant period architecture, making it the perfect place for those wanting a serene base with quick access to the London’s Valentine’s hotspots.

Why guests love it for a romantic stay?

  • A peaceful pocket of the city: Ideal if you prefer a calm retreat after a busy day. The Wellington is within short walking distance to St James’s Park, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Downing Street.
  • Effortless travel: Victoria Station links you within a few minutes to everywhere, the West End, Kensington museums, afternoon tea spots, Oxford Street and more.
  • Classic London charm: The area blends history with sophistication, lending your Valentine’s break a timeless feel.

Whether you’re here for romance or a friendship-filled celebration, The Wellington offers warmth, comfort, and beautiful surroundings.

Book directly through our website (BlueOrchid.com) for the best available rates, exclusive offers, and flexible booking options. You can also search our latest offers and packages.

 

FAQs About Valentine’s Day in London

1. Is London busy on Valentine’s Day?
Yes, especially restaurants, theatres, hotels and river cruises. Booking ahead is always a good idea.

2. Are there budget-friendly things to do?
Absolutely. Riverside walks, free museums, markets, and parks are all atmospheric and cost nothing.

3. What’s the weather like in February?
Cold but crisp. Bring a warm coat and enjoy London’s cosy indoor experiences and candlelit venues.

4. Is Valentine’s Day only for couples in London?
Not at all. Galentine’s/Palentine’s celebrations are growing, and the city offers plenty for friendship-focused getaways.

5. How far in advance should I book accommodation?
January and early February are ideal as Valentine’s weekend often fills quickly, especially in central London.

6. Do any of your hotels offer in-room romantic amenities like champagne or flowers?

Yes, Tower Suites offers packages that include champagne, rose petals, and chocolates for a romantic stay. The Wellington doesn’t have a standard romance package, but you can request champagne or flowers when booking, and the team will arrange special touches for your occasion.

7. Is there a special Valentine's Day menu or afternoon tea available at the restaurants in Blue Orchid hotels?

There’s no dedicated Valentine’s menu, but both hotels offer afternoon tea. There is a Romantic Escape package which includes champagne, rose petals, and a three-course candlelit dinner for a romantic touch.  

8. Do London restaurants offer special Valentine's set menus or dining experiences?

Yes, they do. You can search for Valentine’s set menus on Design My Night.   

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