14 Places To Book Now For The Perfect Valentine's or Galentine’s Day

In Partnership With In Good Company

Love is in the London air, and whether you’re planning a candlelit dinner, a fun night out with friends, or something a little different this year, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to indulge in a beautifully plated seasonal tasting menu, sip sustainable cocktails with a skyline view, or cosy up in an independent cinema for a swoon-worthy film. And for those skipping the romance? Galentine’s plans are just as good — think wine tastings, creative workshops, and a chance to celebrate the people who bring you joy. 

To make your planning smoother, we’ve rounded up 14 of the best places in London for every kind of celebration – and even better, they’ll all have their own unique good twist. Whether you’re all about the fine dining experience, prefer a laid-back evening, or want to do something unique, we’ve got you covered.

For dinner with a (historical) view: German Gymnasium 

The three-star Sustainable Restaurant Association restaurant is offering a specially curated Valentine’s Day three-course menu at £65 per person for a blow-out romantic evening out. Available in both classic and vegetarian options, you can savour authentic German flavours while supporting charities such as Women’s Aid, Felix Project, Prostate Cancer UK, and Hospitality Action. 

For a glamorous or candlelit weekend dinner: Madison 

This New York-inspired restaurant boasts both good food and views, with a combination of different Valentine’s Weekend menus, live music, and the London skyline. Their parent company D&D London aims to achieve net zero internal CO2 emissions by 2025 and to reduce reliance on certain fish species by introducing low-impact alternatives, so you can enjoy their grilled delights while supporting more responsible sourcing and environmental consciousness.

For a refined yet relaxed meal: Levan London 

 Tucked away in the heart of Peckham, Levan is an effortlessly cool spot that feels both intimate and special — ideal for a romantic Valentine’s meal. Inspired by the flavours of European bistros, their seasonal tasting menu showcases bold, creative dishes crafted with sustainability in mind. Expect carefully sourced ingredients, natural wines, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere setting the perfect evening tone. 

For a romantic riverside escape: Barge East

A unique and intimate setting, Barge East is the perfect combination of rustic charm and luxury. This Valentine’s Day, Barge East is serving up a six-course tasting menu for £65 per person made from locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Moored on the Hackney Wick waterfront, this AA 2 Rosette award holder provides a cosy interior for a special meal.

For a fun live music accompaniment: OXO Tower Brasserie 

Enjoy a sustainable dining experience with modern dishes made from classic British ingredients, all with live music playing and the iconic River Thames in the background to set the mood. This London staple is also a Guardians of Grub champion and three-star Sustainable Restaurant Association partner.

For a Valentine’s feast: Hawksmoor Air Street

Known for their top-quality British beef and sustainably sourced seafood, Hawksmoor offers an ideal spot for steak lovers without the fuss of a set menu. Hawksmoor has digital gift cards as well for those looking for a perfect gift. In addition to their food and wine, Hawksmoor is a certified B Corp and uses responsibly sourced ingredients like carbon-neutral beef and seafood recommended by the Marine Stewardship Council. They also work with charity partners in the community to provide food and other resources available.

For a Cupid-approved meal: Sussex Bar and Restaurant 

Sussex Bar and Restaurant, part of the Local & Wild group by the Gladwin Brothers, is serving more than romance this Valentine’s Day. Starting at £78 per person, their Cupid’s Special Menu offers a five-course feast that celebrates the very best of local, sustainable produce. This cosy candlelit meal includes Jersey Oysters, Dorset Crab Crumpets, and Keens Cheddar Soufflé, all paired with wine curated specially for the holiday. Certified with both Soil Association Organic Standard and Sustainable Restaurant Association, Sussex shows that conscious dining can also be delicious. 

For a plant-based feast: Made in Hackney 

Made in Hackney’s Vegan Valentine Supper Club at Dauns is the perfect choice for a Valentine’s dinner that’s delicious, sustainable, and community-driven. This Scandi-inspired, four-course feast showcases seasonal, plant-based ingredients in a cosy, intimate setting. More than just a great meal, this event supports Made in Hackney’s mission to fight food insecurity and promote sustainable eating. Tickets start at £35 and 50% of each ticket sold will be donated to Made in Hackney, so you’re not just treating yourself — you’re giving back.

For a cosy plant-based date night: Valentine’s at Naifs 

This Valentine’s weekend, Naifs is serving up their first Special Valentine’s menu consisting of four courses and a sharing dessert, all made with seasonal ingredients at £50 per person. This cosy, family-run spot in Peckham is known for its creative vegetarian dishes and relaxed atmosphere. Sustainability is at the heart of Naifs, with a focus on low-waste cooking and locally sourced organic ingredients. 

For an easygoing wine tasting: Pretty Decent Beer Co 

Pretty Decent Beer Co is holding a Valentine’s Day Wine Tasting for those who want to enjoy a relaxed, no-fuss day. Held at their Victoria Park outlet, this £25 per person guided tasting features six expertly selected wines and live jazz, perfect for sipping with a date, friends, or solo. Known for their ethical brewing practices, Pretty Decent Beer Co is a Living Wage Employer and donates to causes supporting social justice and community initiatives. 

For a dreamy movie night: Castle Cinema 

Mood Indigo — a poetic, surreal and heartfelt love story — is being screened at Castle Cinema specially for Valentine’s Day. The independent and crowdfunded cinema offers plush seating, craft drinks, and a charming atmosphere for a film-filled cosy date night. Castle Cinema also champions independent films and sustainable practices to support London’s vibrant film culture. 

For a feel-good or thought-provoking film: Lexi Cinema 

Whether you’re in the mood for light-hearted romance or something a little deeper, Lexi Cinema has the perfect Valentine’s Day lineup. Choose between Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, the latest in the heartwarming, feel-good classic film series, or Anora for a bold, high-brow love story with an edge. As London’s only social enterprise cinema, Lexi is 100% powered by volunteers, with all profits supporting charity projects in South Africa. 

For a creative date night: Mercato Metropolitano 

Swap the usual dinner plans for something hands-on this Valentine’s Day at Mercato Metropolitano, starting at £25 per person. Whether you’re celebrating love or friendship, their Paint Your Partner event (running across all three locations) is a fun way to unleash your creativity — no artistic skills required, just a sense of fun! 

For a crafty personalised touch, Mercato Mayfair is hosting a drop-in candle-making session, where you can craft a custom-scented candle — perfect as a heartfelt gift or a treat for yourself. 

For a steamy escape: Community Sauna Baths 

If you’re after a Valentine’s or Galentine’s that’s all about relaxation and renewal, then Community Sauna Baths is the perfect place to unwind. With multiple locations throughout London, aromatherapy and other treatments available, Community Sauna Baths is the epitome of a date with a difference — whether you’re celebrating with a special someone or indulging in self-care with a friend. This community interest company (CIC) also offers concessions for various groups for their regular bookings and organises initiatives through their social prescribing and community outreach schemes.

Want more feel-good, guilt-free recommendations? Download the free 5-star rated In Good Company app on iOS or Android now and discover more hidden ethical spots across London.

Share This Story

Facebook
Twitter
Email
Pinterest
WhatsApp