Situated in the West End of London, Bloomsbury WC1 is an ideal place for a first date. It's home to a wide variety of cultural attractions, parks and public spaces, as well as a vibrant nightlife. Whether you're looking for a romantic stroll or a lively evening out, there are plenty of options to choose from.
1. Bloomsbury parks and places for a walk on a first date
Take your date for a walk in one of the beautiful parks in Bloomsbury. The Russell Square Gardens, for example, offer stunning views of the city skyline and are bordered by grand Victorian townhouses – perfect for a romantic stroll. Alternatively, the Coram Fields is a great spot for a picnic and a quiet conversation. For a longer stroll, take a walk along the South Bank and enjoy the views of the Thames and the London Eye.
2. Places for a coffee date in Bloomsbury
For a casual coffee date, Bloomsbury has plenty of cafés and coffee shops to choose from. Try The Gower Street Coffee House, located in a charming Victorian building, or the independent Department of Coffee and Social Affairs, offering a wide range of coffee-based drinks and delicious pastries. For something a bit more unusual, try the Bloomsbury Bowling Lanes, which offers a café and bar alongside its range of bowling activities.
3. Bloomsbury galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Bloomsbury is home to a number of world-class galleries, museums, and exhibitions. The British Museum and the Sir John Soane's Museum are both great options, offering fascinating displays of art and history. The Sir John Soane's Museum also hosts regular special events, such as lectures and poetry readings, which could make for a great date. The Wellcome Collection, meanwhile, is a great choice for an interactive date, offering a range of creative activities, as well as a café and bar.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Bloomsbury
Take your date to one of Bloomsbury's live music venues for an evening of entertainment. The Jazz Café, for example, hosts a range of jazz, soul and funk music, as well as regular comedy nights and spoken-word events. Alternatively, for something a bit more intimate, try the Bloomsbury Theatre, which hosts a range of theatrical performances, including classic plays, musicals and cabarets.
5. Bloomsbury pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
For a drinks or dinner date, Bloomsbury has plenty of options to choose from. The Bloomsbury Club Bar serves up a fantastic range of drinks, as well as an ever-changing selection of dishes. The Alchemist Bar and Restaurant is another excellent choice, offering an exquisite range of cocktails and modern British cuisine. For something a bit more unusual, why not try The Cittie of Yorke, a traditional pub from 1603 offering a range of real ales and classic pub grub.
6. Other date ideas to try in Bloomsbury
If you're looking for something a bit different, why not go on a guided tour of the area? The Bloomsbury Association runs regular city walks, offering the chance to explore the history and architecture of the area, as well as to learn more about some of its lesser-known attractions. Alternatively, if you'd like to get active, why not take your date to one of Bloomsbury's sports facilities? UCL's Sports Centre, for example, offers everything from badminton to rock-climbing, and is a great way to bond with your date.
