Gray's Inn is one of the four Inns of Court in London, situated just north of the City of London. It was founded in 1370 and is the oldest of the Inns of Court. It is a place of iconic London beauty, with many of the buildings dating back to the 16th century, and stunning gardens full of mature trees, vibrant plants and wildlife. Gray's Inn is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike: it is a short distance away from the City and London’s West End, and is easily accessible by tube, bus and foot.
1. Gray's Inn parks and places for a walk on a first date
A great way to get to know your date is a leisurely stroll in a calm and beautiful environment, and Gray's Inn is the perfect place for this. Gray’s Inn Gardens are a lovely spot for a relaxing walk with plenty of tree-lined pathways, flowerbeds and plenty of benches for rest. There are also lovely gardens to admire, with plenty of birds and other wildlife, and a café for refreshments. Just outside of Gray's Inn is Lincoln’s Inn Fields, a great spot for a romantic walk, offering spectacular views of the London skyline. There is even a memorial garden dedicated to world peace.
2. Places for a coffee date in Gray's Inn
For a relaxed and informal first date, why not meet for coffee in Gray's Inn? There are plenty of cafés around the Inn, offering a great range of beverages and snacks. The Café in the Crypt at St. Martin-in-the-Fields is a great option, with its lively atmosphere, a great selection of teas, coffees and cakes, and regularly held events such as live music performances. The courtyard at Staple Inn is also a great spot for coffee or tea, as is the Russell Square Café, which is tucked away in the heart of Gray's Inn.
3. Gray's Inn galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Gray's Inn is home to a number of interesting galleries and museums, which offer great opportunities for a different type of date. The British Library is a great spot to explore, with its huge collection of books, manuscripts and other resources. There are also exhibitions to explore at the Sir John Soane’s Museum and the Foundling Museum, which both offer interesting insights into the history of the area. For a more contemporary day out, there are also a number of independent galleries in Gray's Inn, such as the Barbican Art Gallery and the Holborn Arts Account.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Gray's Inn
For those looking for something a bit more lively, there are plenty of options for an entertaining date. The Royal Court Theatre is a great spot for an evening of live theatre, with a number of interesting plays on offer. The Live at Zédel music venue is also worth a visit, with its broad range of musical styles, from jazz to opera to pop. For a more low-key evening, the British Library offers regular events such as storytelling and talks, as well as its regular live music concerts.
5. Gray's Inn pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Gray's Inn is full of great places to grab a drink or have a bite to eat. The Courtyard bar has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with a great cocktail and beer selection and a small menu of tasty light bites. The Lamb & Flag offers an extensive range of craft beers and a large outdoor space, while the Lighterman pub is the perfect spot for a romantic first date. Alternatively, why not try the Holborn Dining Room, which offers a mix of modern and traditional British cuisine, with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients.
6. Other date ideas to try in Gray's Inn
Aside from the usual first date ideas, Gray's Inn offers lots of other ways to spend a day out. Why not explore the area on a rented bike? Take a guided walking tour, or visit the nearby Kensington Garden and explore the many beautiful parks and gardens in the area. Take a trip to the West End and take in a show, or visit one of London’s many markets and browse the stalls. Or if you’re looking for something a bit different, why not book a ghost tour, or take a trip to the Gerry Museum to explore its collection of antiques and curiosities? Whatever you choose to do, Gray's Inn is a great place to spend a day, and perfect for
