Valentine's Day is upon us, and although we can hear your exasperated sighs; you should take solace in the fact that - if you look in the right places - there's a plethora of exciting things to do, no matter what your relationship status. DesignMyNight have the low-down on this year's most exciting events, from lustful cabaret shows to Valentine brunch sessions with bottomless bloody marys. So, whether you're nauseatingly loved-up or happily single, you can count on this Valentine's being your best yet.
Take a romantic voyage this Valentine's and hop aboard Alfred Le Roy.
Departing from Hackney Wick, this canal cruise will take you and your other half on a two hour cruise through London's scenic east end. A special brunch menu will be on offer throughout the cruise too, so you needn't worry about bringing along a packed lunch, just your good humoured self. It's also good to note that diners have the option of bottomless bloody marys, prosecco and mimosas for £25, which is an absolute steal. But if you want to put all your attention towards River Lea's views (and your partner), a fully stocked bar serving five decadent cocktails will keep you both busy.
Photo Credit London On The Inside
Last Night a Speed Date Changed my Life
With Tinder available at the touch of a button, you may think speed-dating is a little dated, but then you clearly haven't been to Last Night a Speed Date Changed my Life. Now in its seventh year, it has been heralded as the dating night for creative Londoners to mix and mingle, and on the 14th singletons will flock from all corners of the capital to their flirtatious event at the Looking Glass Cocktail Club. Tickets are only £15, but the possibility of finding love on the night is priceless.
Treat your lover to a Champagne dinner of Champions
Thinking of treating your other half to a traditional Valentine's meal this year? The Clerkenwell Kitchen are hosting a special Champagne dinner on the 11th and it boasts an impressive four-courses, with all dishes paired with hand-selected grower Champagnes. Hosted by Neil Deacon, founder and fellow wine-lover, you and your partner will be in for a relaxed and romantic evening of good food, and even better company.
Photo Credit: The Clerkenwell Kitchen
BEER my Valentine with Goose Island
Not a lover of champers? Luckily for you and your Valentine, the guys down at the Vintage Ale House are throwing a 'BEER My Valentine' three-course dinner on the 14th, and it sounds incredible. Choose from either the meat-heavy or vegetarian menu and watch as your dishes are expertly paired with Goose Island Vintage Ales. Menu wise, you can expect flavoursome dishes, from chorizo stuffed dates to smoked aubergine with kale and hazelnut pesto.
Photo Credit: The Vintage Ale House
Watch Notting Hill at the Courthouse Hotel this Valentine's
Do you have your heart set on watching a romantic flick this Valentine's? If you do, say a big fat yes to Notting Hill. If for whatever reason you haven't already seen this classic, then you're in for a treat. In a nutshell: life is fairly mediocre for a bookshop owner until the most successful actress in the world wanders into his shop. We're not going to give away any spoilers, but you can expect plenty of awkward encounters and a cheesy Ronan Keating ballad. The screening will take place in the stunning five star Courthouse Hotel, you and your date will be greeted with a glass of fizz each and a box of popcorn to share during the film.
Photo Credit: Courthouse Hotel
Beach Boys Valentine's Night
The Nightspot Cinema will be showing Love and Mercy this Valentine's; a biopic based on the life of Brian Wilson, the lead singer of the the Beach Boys. But before your attention turns to the big screen, you and your date can fawn over each other while enjoying a three-course candlelit dinner. The 'Good Vibrations' ticket option is £80, and covers the meal, film and cinema seats for two. If you want to go all out with a bottle of prosecco and your own personal sofa, go for the 'God Only Knows' ticket, which is £120 for two.
Photo Credit: The Institute Of Light
Take a Thames Rockets Valentine's ride
Bid farewell to the dull dinner and flowers combo this year and hop aboard Thames Rockets. Their 'Rocket Rush' Valentine's special will see you and your partner strapped into a speedboat to whizz down the Thames past London's famous landmarks. Seize this excuse and hold onto your lover as you both take in views of Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. Once you've sorted out your windswept hair, grab your goody bag for free cocktails at London dim sum favourite, Ping Pong. Tickets will set you back £79 but this covers both you and your partner.
Photo Credit: Thames Rockets
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