Forest Hill is an area of south London, located in the London Borough of Lewisham. It is an affluent area, renowned for its greenery and traditional British atmosphere, with an abundance of parks, woodland and nature reserves; Forest Hill has become a popular destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The area has many attractions for couples to explore, from art galleries to live music performances, offering plenty of ideas for first dates.
1. Forest Hill parks and places for a walk on a first date
Forest Hill is home to many parks and outdoor spaces, providing a great place to take a romantic stroll. Horniman Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden with a variety of plants, including a cactus house and an arboretum. It is a peaceful place which is perfect for a leisurely stroll and light hearted conversation. The oasis of Brockwell Park is another great option, with its rose gardens, a boating lake, and a lido perfect for cooling off in the summer. Sydenham Hill Wood is a delightful woodland that is ideal for exploring and romantic picnics.
2. Places for a coffee date in Forest Hill
If you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere for drinks and conversation, there are several great cafes in Forest Hill. Kaffa Coffee House serves locally roasted coffee, teas, fresh juices and treats, with a selection of vegan and gluten-free options. The other highly rated cafe is La Mano Café which offers a selection of coffees, cakes and pastries. The atmosphere is soothing, and the seating area is ample, making it a great spot for a first date.
3. Forest Hill galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Forest Hill is home to a number of galleries and museums, offering a wide range of interesting exhibitions to explore. The Horniman Museum is famous for its ethnography, natural history and anthropology collections, as well as its tranquil garden. The South London Gallery is a contemporary art gallery with a variety of exhibitions and events. It is the perfect place to take a date to discuss art and culture. There are also several smaller, independent galleries in the area, each providing a unique experience.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Forest Hill
Forest Hill provides a number of live music and entertainment venues for couples to enjoy. The Institute of Contemporary Music Performance is an intimate venue which often hosts jazz, pop, and rock concerts. The nearby Half Moon Pub is the place for live music with a variety of acts performing each week. The Rivoli Ballroom is an iconic venue and a great place to have a romantic night out, with its regular swing, RnB and soul nights.
5. Forest Hill pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
For couples looking for a romantic dinner or drinks, Forest Hill has a variety of pubs, bars and restaurants. The Sherwood is a traditional pub in the heart of Forest Hill, known for its great selection of beers. The nearby New Cross Inn has a relaxed atmosphere with a wide range of beers and ciders, perfect for a casual date. Forest Hill is also home to some delicious restaurants, such as the Tapas Revolution, serving Mediterranean dishes, and The White Bear, a British restaurant with an eclectic menu.
6. Other date ideas to try in Forest Hill
For those looking for something a bit different than the usual dinner and drinks, there are plenty of other interesting date ideas in Forest Hill. The O2 Academy and the Horniman Museum both host regular events and music nights, from comedy events to outdoor movie screenings. For something a bit more active, the nearby Forest Hill tennis and swimming centre is a great place to have a friendly match, paddle or take a dip. And for a truly unique experience, you can take your date for a ride on the Forest Hill railway line – one of the oldest in London - for some wonderful views of the city.
