London Date Ideas for an Autumn of Social Distancing

After being cooped up for months, it's time to go out and explore London. We have compiled a list of things you can do in line with social distancing guidelines, so you can still have a fun filled autumn. 

Head to Hampstead Heath for a long walk across undulating parkland and perhaps even a dip in one of its ponds. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, it is now necessary to book swimming in advance. If walking and swimming work up an appetite, the nearby Spaniards Inn offers great food and ambience.

Bag yourself a bargain at this world famous, open-air market. Peruse over the many antique stalls selling vintage household items, books and other collectibles. Walk in the direction of the westway for vintage clothing and jewellery, stopping off at the independent boutiques dotted along Portobello Road.

A sanctuary for over 1,500 species of plants hidden within brutalist architecture and free to enter. If that’s not enough to tempt you, just down the corridor the Barbican Art Gallery has reopened its doors to the exhibition 'Masculinities: Liberation through Photography.'

Walk down the Thames from Jubilee Gardens to the Tate Modern, ending at its pop-up riverside restaurant. For a longer, more tranquil walk, check out the Thames Towpath between Richmond and Hampton Court. 

Battle it out on a tennis court to decide who will buy the first round of drinks. You can book a court through Will to Win which operates in various parks around London.

Admire the ceiling at the Painted Hall in Greenwich, a retreat from the hustle and bustle of central London, then sample some of the delicacies its market has to offer. Afterwards, why not settle into one of its riverside pubs.

Book a booth at Brixton Jamm for some outdoor evening entertainment. The courtyard will be hosting live music, DJs, street food stands and a bar throughout the summer in an all-weather, socially distanced setting.

Show off your nautical skills (don’t worry, none actually necessary) with the small boat hire, GoBoat, situated in Paddington. Meander through Little Venice all the way up to Camden with a glass of wine in hand. A short boat tutorial is given before setting off.

Look out towards an incredible view of London as the sun sets. Bring a picnic, drinks and maybe even a pack of cards to thoroughly unwind.

With seventeen streets pedestrianised each night, Soho has become a continental-style dining district. From 5pm, diners and drinkers take over the streets. Make the most of the new outdoor seating and book a table at Cecconis pizzeria or Café Boheme for a shared charcuterie board.

With many different routes to choose from, this summer is the perfect opportunity to explore London on a bike. The trail between Finsbury Park and Alexandra Palace offers a magical leafy route along an abandoned railway or go market hopping following Regents Canal from Camden to Notting Hill. 

 

For an alfresco cinema experience try Luna Cinema which will return to Hampton Court in August to screen cult classics, feel-good films and indie favourites against an idyllic backdrop. Bring a blanket and enjoy food and drinks delivered to your patch.

Soak up the sunshine from a pedalo boat in Battersea Park or the Serpentine. These verdant oases provide wonderfully relaxing date locations. Best followed by a picnic in the park.

Open until 9pm on a Friday night, The National Gallery offers masterpieces dating from the 13^th to the early 20^th century. Its current Titian exhibition should give you plenty to talk about to continue the evening in Gordon’s Wine Bar. 

Cover image - Margaret Howell SS14, Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5, Image 6, Image 7, Image 8, Image 9, Image 10, Image 11, Image 12, Image 13, Image 14 & Image 15.