London is one of those cities that never sleeps, bursting with energy and an endless array of things to do for free. It’s the perfect place for couples to kick back, relax and spend some real time together, without having to break the bank. Whether you’re an active couple, a pair of culture fanatics or two food lovers with an insatiable appetite, London tops the bill every single time.
London Walks
Even when it’s cold and raining outside, a day spent walking around London can be a really enjoyable experience. Walking is also definitely one of the best ways of getting to know the capital like the back of your hand. You could begin with the city’s many bridges. A criss-cross walk that takes you back and forth across the River Thames from Westminster bridge to Tower Bridge, for example, will take you past many of the city’s most interesting hotspots. In fact, if you wanted to up the pace a little and turn a pleasant stroll into a fairly decent jog, you could recharge the romance and get fit alongside your partner at the same time.
London Markets
If you enjoy being in the middle of the hustle and bustle, there are literally hundreds of different markets to enjoy in London, some more famous than others. Visiting each and every one of them is a free experience that you can schedule in for any day of the week. Camden Lock is a popular market for its memorabilia and canals, Portobello Road sells everything from antiques and silverware to second-hand clothing and Borough Market is a wonderful place to lose yourself in if you enjoy food: cheese, wine, fish and meat, the majority of which is organically produced.
Museums and Galleries
If there’s anything that makes London stand out from other cities in the world, it’s the culture. On almost every day of the week, you have to chance to discover the treasures of The British Museum, The Tate Modern, The Science Museum, The Natural History Museum, The National Portrait Gallery and The Victoria and Albert Museum, just to name a few. The list of free exhibitions to enjoy across London’s many museums and galleries is truly endless. If your partner has a particular interest in a period of history or a type of art, you can tailor the day out to appeal to his or her tastes.
Major City Attractions
Don’t forget about the famous stuff! A trip to Big Ben, Piccadilly Circus, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace isn’t reserved solely for foreign tourists. Covent Garden on the weekend, for example, is a glorious hub of social activity not to be missed. Again, most of the major attractions in London are free to visit, which means spending quality time with your loved one doesn’t have to be an expensive affair.
London Parks
Finally, if you haven’t made the effort to enjoy the huge green spaces that London has to offer, then you’re missing out big time. Granted that during the winter months London’s parks aren’t the greatest of places to visit, but in there’s something really quite romantic about spending an entire day lounging around on the city’s public lawns when the sun comes out. Particularly when you have a homemade picnic basket full to the brim with delicious goodies to keep you both company.
In short, whatever kind of activity takes your fancy, whatever your relationship needs to keep that spark alive, London can offer it. As a city that knows no bounds, it’s too big to ever get to know completely and that is one of its greatest charms. Sometimes the most romantic days out are the simplest of all. So grab your coat – the capital’s waiting for you.