Idyllic lovers care not about Valentine’s. Come February, they are already so comfortably snug in each other’s arms, so amazingly warm although the snow keeps falling, so oblivious of the world turning around them, let alone of dates that only those stuck in a routine need to remember.
However unburdened by the passage of time, winter is coming for lucky couples as well, which means that soon enough, the decision will have to be made – will you stay in and embrace the couch until all the BBC specials finally air, or will you hit the streets and search for a curious adventure of your own?
Madly in love with our city, we propose the latter. There’s nothing as silent and enchanting as the Battersea Park in November, so start your saunter there. Here’s where to head after.
The Meeting Place
No, not the lovely The Last Shadow Puppets’ song with a bitter end; there’s another Meeting Place in London, and unlike the first, this one’s sad only in the eyes of the viewer. When perceived with an enamoured mind, the Paul Day’s sculpture evokes the warmest of feelings.
Installed just below the famous Dent clock in St Pancras International Station, the statue depicts two people in a passionate embrace, welcomes strangers from the Continent and returners from afar. Whether sadly departed or happily reunited, the couple in bronze will shelter you from the London crowds for only a brief moment. Use it to share a kiss until continuing the urban ramble on.
The Whispering Gallery
A loving word is always a soft and hushed one. Everyone who’s tried to listen knows that a lover’s talk is impossible to understand. Such a talk has rules of its own; it’s a breezy exchange of indiscernible whispers and meaningful sighs, comprehensible only to those who speak the language of sweet sentiments themselves.
When spoken inside of The Whispering Gallery, these words travel all the way to the other side. Frequently visited by lovebirds from all over the world, the dome of St. Paul’s Cathedral is quite a mystical place – thanks to its acoustical supremacy, the Gallery spreads the words of love in a 110 feet radius, thus allowing you to chirp on as you were only a whispering distance away.
The Lover’s Arch
Ah, the royal beauty of Kensington Palace Gardens! The lush greenery and the blooming buds! The prince and princesses’ most beloved strolling spot is open for all kinds of wanderers and it makes a perfect place for clandestine kisses! And, however faraway the next spring might seem, the park will surprise you with a balmy afternoon and a couple of flowers to bring home.
Although you can spend a whole day in wonderful seclusion of flower beds, by far the most romantic place in the park is the Lover’s Arch; hidden in plain site, you two lovebugs can devote hours to getting to know each other a little bit better. And, if you already passed that relationship phase and are ready for something more exciting, the Arch is a whimsical spot for dropping down to your knees and asking the most important question in the universe.
The Dean Street Townhouse
Nothing says British bliss like a porcelain cup of English Grey, just as no romantic day in London is perfect without a tea date. No, it’s not a cliché, it’s a ritual that suggests warmth, commitment and stylish excellence. When shared with a loved one, the experience of picking the best flavour to suit the moment is as delightful as it gets.
If already strolling around the neighbourhoods, consider spending an afternoon in Soho. Over there, time passes lazily, the people are gentle and kind, and the Dean Street Townhouse offers the greatest selection of soothing beverages. Served with a traditional sandwich or a fragrant cookie on the side, their tea is delicious as a peck on the cheek.
The Gordon’s Wine Bar
In case the occasion is a special one and your significant other is more of a wine than a tea gal (or a mate), you shouldn’t think about calling it a night before you spend an hour at the Gordon’s Wine Bar simply exploring the depths of each other’s eyes. The venue is certainly the most experienced of its sort in London, but if not particularly interested in oenology, you should still pay it a visit for its cuddly ambience.
Candle-lit and intimate, the Gordon’s Wine Bar is heaven-made for reveries about the past and scheming about the future. Whatever the arrangement, remember to choose the perfect gift beforehand and present it with a smile – set in a cave, this bar will encourage you to make the most romantic of promises.
However homely on the inside, don’t wait for the streets to turn all white before you finally decide to taste the London smoke. The City’s magnificent once the tree leaves start going bronze, and the only thing you need for a perfect winter date is a long scarf to snuggle you both.
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