Soho is one of London's most vibrant and diverse areas. It is a mixture of residential, cultural and entertainment hubs and is known for its array of independent bars, pubs and restaurants. There's a great selection of independent shops, cafes, theatres, galleries and music venues. The area is also full of parks and squares, making it perfect for a relaxed and romantic stroll on a first date.
1. Soho Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
One of the best ways to get to know your date is to take a stroll in one of Soho's many parks and green spaces. Leicester Square is the ideal place to start your date - it's surrounded by some of London's most famous theatres and cinemas, so you can explore the area before or after your walk. Another popular choice is Soho Square, which hosts events throughout the year and is often the venue for summertime markets. If you're looking for something a little further afield, then take a trip to the stunning Regent's Park, where you can enjoy the tranquil setting and admire the stunning views of the city.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Soho
If you don't fancy a walk and would prefer to just have a chat over coffee, then Soho has plenty of great independent coffee shops to choose from. There's Soyo Coffee and Bar, a stylish café located in the heart of Chinatown, which serves specialty coffee, craft beers and small bites. Another popular destination is The Bar with No Name, a hidden coffee shop tucked away in a basement. There's also Allpress Espresso, where you can enjoy a selection of coffee and snacks, as well as some jazz inspired artwork.
3. Soho Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
If you're both into art and culture, then Soho is the perfect place to explore. Affordable art galleries such as Simon Lee, Copperfield, and White Cube galleries all offer fascinating exhibitions throughout the year. If you're looking for something a bit different, then head over to the Museum of Soho, where you can learn about the area’s fascinating past and explore its unique and vibrant culture. For even more culture, visit the nearby National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery to marvel at stunning works of art.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date To in Soho
One of the best things about Soho is its lively nightlife, with a huge selection of bars, clubs, and live music venues. So why not take your date to a live show and enjoy some great music together. For a unique and atmospheric setting, The Montague Arms or The George and Dragon offer a variety of live music events and DJs. Or, if you’re looking for something more traditional, then head over to Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, one of London's most famous jazz venues, and enjoy a night of top quality jazz.
5. Soho Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Soho has a great selection of pubs and bars, so why not start your date with a drink and a bite to eat? There's the King John Tavern, a traditional pub that serves a selection of British dishes, which is the perfect spot for a relaxed evening. For something a bit classier, then check out the Jerk Chicken Bar, where you can enjoy a variety of cocktails and Jerk chicken dishes. Or for something a bit more special, try the award-winning Wright Brothers Soho, which serves fresh seafood and oysters, as well as delicious cocktails.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Soho
If you're looking for something a bit out of the ordinary, then check out some of the other attractions in Soho. There's the House of MinaLima, where you can explore the film sets and artwork from the Harry Potter films and other films, as well as the House of Illustration, the UK’s only public gallery dedicated solely to illustration art. Or you can take a stroll down Carnaby Street and admire the unique boutiques, vintage stores and eateries. If you're feeling adventurous, then you can even take a tour of the hidden tunnels and underground bunkers of Soho.
