Cosy winter date ideas in London

Winter in London can be cold, grey and wet, but it has its own charm: frosty parks, lights across the West End, skating rinks, markets and a warm welcome in a cosy pub. If you've been waiting for the right moment to meet someone, the quieter months are a good time to start.

Out in the cold

Walk on Hampstead Heath on a frosty morning

The bare trees and the view from Parliament Hill look beautiful in winter light. Stick to the paths and be back before the light goes, as it gets dark early.

Wrap up for the river

A walk along the South Bank or the Thames Path at Richmond is bracing on a cold day, and it's easy to duck into a café when you've had enough. Check the forecast before you set off, and take care on wet and icy paths.

Warm and cosy

Find a cosy pub

Every part of London has pubs with a quiet corner, and many have a fire in winter. For a first date, a weekday afternoon is ideal: calm, unhurried and easy to leave after one drink if you'd like to.

Visit a museum or gallery

The National Gallery, the British Museum, Tate Modern, the V&A and the Natural History Museum are free to enter and full of things to talk about. Check opening times and any charges for special exhibitions before you go.

Wander through the covered markets

Borough Market, Covent Garden and the other covered markets are good for a wet day, with plenty of food to try and places to sit. They get busy at weekends, so a weekday visit can be easier.

Festive and seasonal

Each winter London often has Christmas lights across the West End, markets along the South Bank, ice rinks at places like Somerset House and festive events in the parks. Check this year's dates, tickets and opening times before you plan around anything, because the crowds can be big. A stroll to see the lights with a hot drink makes a lovely early date.

A few winter tips

• Check opening times. Many places keep shorter hours in winter, so check before you go.
• Plan for the dark. It's dark by four o'clock in December, so a lunchtime date is often easier.
• Check the travel. Weather and engineering works can disrupt trains and the Tube, so have a plan B.
• Dress for the weather. Nobody is at their best cold and soaked.
• Stay safe. Meet somewhere public and make your own way there. Our guide to dating safely has more.

Looking for more ideas? Our first date ideas in London work all year round.

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