Clerkenwell is an historic part of London, located to the north of the City of London and to the east of Holborn and Bloomsbury. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and its array of independent stores and trendy restaurants, cafes and bars. It is often considered a creative hub of the city and is popular among tourists and locals alike.
1. Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
The area is home to some beautiful parks and green spaces where couples can enjoy a leisurely stroll on a first date. Myatt's Fields Park is a great place for a first date, with its meadows and few small wooded areas and a bandstand providing the perfect backdrop for a romantic stroll. Closeby is Exmouth Market, which is full of vibrant cafes, bars and independent shops, where couples can also explore and get to know each other. Clerkenwell Green is another stunning park in the area which is steeped in history and surrounded by interesting architecture. It is the perfect spot to wander around and take in the sights and sounds of the area.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Clerkenwell
Clerkenwell is home to many independent cafes so couples can find a great spot to enjoy a coffee date. One of the most popular spots is the Little Marseille Cafe and Bakery, a cosy cafe with a lovely courtyard and a great selection of pastries and cakes. If you're looking for something a bit different, then try The Attendant cafe, an independent coffee shop and bar situated inside an old public toilet. It's a quirky spot and perfect if you're looking for something a little bit different. For something more hip and trendy, check out Look mum no hands!, an independent cafe and bike shop.
3. Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
If you're looking for a more cultured date, Clerkenwell has plenty of galleries, museums and exhibitions to offer. The Charles Dickens Museum, located in the former home of Charles Dickens, is a great spot to explore and learn more about the famous author's life and works. The Museum of the Order of St. John is also worth checking out, and it offers an insight into the history of the Order and the role it played in London's development. There are also plenty of contemporary art galleries, such as the Whitecross Gallery, showcasing the work of some of London's most talented contemporary artists.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Clerkenwell
Clerkenwell is home to some great live music and entertainment venues, so if you're looking for something a bit more lively, why not take your date to a live music event? The Lexington is a great spot for live music, offering everything from indie, folk and jazz to blues and rock. The venue has a great atmosphere and a great selection of drinks to choose from. If you're looking for something a bit more alternative, then check out The Phoenix, a live music venue with a huge range of genres, from punk and metal to hip-hop and electro.
5. Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Clerkenwell has plenty of options for those looking for a spot for a first date drink or something to eat. The area is full of great pubs, bars and restaurants to choose from. The Eagle pub is a great place for a drink as it is a traditional British pub with a friendly atmosphere and great selection of beers, ales and wines. If you're looking for something a bit more modern, then check out The Clerk and Well, a bar and restaurant with a great selection of craft beers and cocktails. The nearby Fabrica is another restaurant worth checking out, offering modern European cuisine.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Clerkenwell
If you're looking for a truly unique date experience, then Clerkenwell has some great options. For something a bit different, you could check out the Clerkenwell Tales Walking Tour, a guided tour of the area with stories of historic characters and some of the area's most famous spots. You could also take your date to the Farmiloe Building, an iconic piece of Victorian architecture in the area. It is a great spot for a leisurely wander and if you time it right, you may even catch a glimpse of the winter light show that takes place in the evening. Whatever you decide to do, Clerkenwell is sure to provide you with plenty of options for a great first date.
