Local Guides

6 Active date ideas in London

When it comes to taking your crush out for a night (or day!) on the town, sometimes the classics – dinner, movie and drinks – just make it seem like you’re not putting in the effort. If you really want to impress, you’ll want to think of something unique and exciting to do.

This can prove pretty tricky if you’re only visiting a city. It’s difficult to know where the most interesting places are to go. Luckily, we’re here to help. This week, we’re counting down our favourite active date ideas in London that provide some alternative ways to entertain your special someone.

Let’s take a look!

Running in the park

If the idea of cocktails and ice cream makes you feel 3 kilos heavier, then you might be thinking up some healthier activities for your exciting date. London has more public green space than any other capital in Europe, making it one of the best cities to run in. Strap on your shoes with your date and take a romantic jog together around Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. It’s a tranquil yet vigorous way to connect.

Bouldering

Bouldering is a sport that’s perfect for first dates. It’s extremely accessible no matter your experience level, it’s active without being strenuous, and has a cerebral component that lets you puzzle over specific problems together. As the smaller brother of climbing, you won’t even have to worry about having a fear of heights. London has several fantastic bouldering locations, including the Climbing Hangar and Vauxhall West Climbing Center.

Cooking classes

There are few things more romantic than getting covered in flour together. Cooking classes are great fun and give you the chance to show off your creative side. Choose an exotic food like sushi for extra brownie points.

Immersive games

Teamwork? Check. Lots of activity? Check. A unique experience to show you the best side of London? Check. Immersive games like the ones over at Fire Hazard are the perfect solution if you’re looking for a fun, active date idea that will get the adrenaline pumping. These exciting games will have you chasing down clues across London’s streets, dressing up in disguises and pitting yourself against other teams for survival. Your date certainly won’t have experienced anything quite like it before.

Karaoke

If singing doesn’t seem like the most energetic activity then you clearly haven’t been to one of London’s fantastic karaoke rooms. Two hours of singing to Livin’ on a Prayer with your crush will have you burning more calories than any amount of running. Don’t believe us? Then I guess you’ll have to try it for yourself!

Play ping pong

Ping pong is fun, energetic, and doesn’t take itself too seriously – the perfect date activity. The best thing is that you can play inside some of London’s trendiest bars. Bounce Ping Pong in Old Street and Faringdon let’s you play together whilst enjoying some great cocktails and food. Make sure to book in advance, though, as the place gets pretty popular.


If you’ve decided active dates sound a little too strenuous, check out our range of fantastic walking tours. They’re the perfect way to see the city in a relaxed, intimate environment.