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Valentine's Day in South Ken

Looking for something special to do on Valentine’s day? Thankfully our extraordinary museums and cultural venues in South Ken offer a host of inspiration this year, from music events, dance, tea parties, tours and much more… Here are some highlights to treat your Valentine on this special day:

Lates with the theme of love:

Lates: Romance and Reproduction, Imperial College London, 8th Feb, 6pm – 9pm

This Valentine’s Day and LGBT History Month. Explore the mysteries of human reproductive health and animal sexual selection through creative workshops, thought-provoking discussions, and interactive exhibits. Activities include, origami workshops, talks and quizzes all accompanied by a delightful blend of music and delectable snacks.

Valentines at the Museum, Natural History Museum, 14th Feb, 6.45pm – 10.30pm

Take inspiration from the natural world, and join the Natural History Museum scientists as they delve into love in the animal kingdom. From dance classes to science stations, there’ll be plenty of after-hours antics to get involved in, plus a fully stocked bar and even a live harpist serenading you.

Valentines Silent Disco, Natural History Museum, 15th Feb, 7.30pm – midnight

On the 15th Feb the Natural History Museum will host a late to help you fall in love with the natural world. See stunning images of nature in their new-look Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. Then grab a cocktail and dance the night away at their silent disco in Hintze Hall underneath Hope the blue whale.

Love Lates, at the Science Museum, 7th March

Not strictly on Valentine’s, but extend your celebrations in March and enjoy a late inspired by love. Hosted by the Science Museum explore what the latest neuroscience tells us about the strongest human emotion. Plus, enjoy regular Lates activities including their iconic silent disco and your chance to see their galleries after hours.


Date ideas:

Valentines with Duo Eunoia, at Leighton House, 14th Feb, 7pm – 8.30pm

Join Duo Eunoia for a creative evening of drawing and music, inspired by artworks exploring the theme of love, in all its expressions and complexities.

A Trip to the movies at Institut français, Ciné Lumière

Looking for a relaxed date night spot Ciné Lumière might be your option. One of London’s landmark arthouse cinemas it offers daily screenings of new and exclusive releases, UK premieres, classics, documentaries and family screenings as well as series, retrospectives and festivals.

A romantic walk in the Royal Parks

Why not go on a beautiful walk around Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens? Make sure of course, to add in the stop at the Serpentine Bar and Kitchen for a well-deserved warm drink. Take a look at our trail which follows a tranquil and beautiful route around the parks. 

Chamber Spotlight series 'Mysterious Barricades', at the Royal College of Music, 14th Feb

Enjoy an evening listening to this captivating solo keyboard work by French baroque composer François Couperin. The first instalment of Royal College of Music’s ‘Chamber Spotlight Series’.

Afternoon tea, at the Royal Albert Hall

Treat yourself and your significant other to the quintessential English activity of afternoon tea. Enjoy classic finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and a whimsical mix of classically-inspired cakes as a nod to the legendary performances that take place at the Royal Albert Hall.

AKIRA Restaurant, at Japan House

Indulge in a fine dining experience and check out AKIRA at Japan House. Enjoy Japanese-style omotenashi hospitality and a theatre of cooking as chefs prepare dishes reflecting Japan’s diverse culinary cultures, using seasonal ingredients over roaring robata (charcoal grill) flames. Guests can also enjoy the cocktail bar adjacent to the restaurant, serving an array of sake and AKIRA’s original cocktails, made using Japanese ingredients including rare sake, yuzu and shiso.


Gift giving this Valentines:

Design Museum, the Natural History Museum and the V&A have curated wonderful lists to make gift-giving as easy as can be!

Or perhaps go the extra step and surprise them with a membership from one of the many outstanding institutions in South Ken so they can enjoy culture, creativity and discovery all year round!


Finally...

We can’t mention valentines in South Ken without recommending a special day of exploring all the beautiful curated exhibitions on offer. For example, Diva, Wildlife Photographer of the Year or the the Serpentine's new exhibition: Barbara Kruger: Thinking of You. I Mean Me. I Mean You. However, for the full list, check out our great exhibition itinerary!

Wishing you all the best on this day dedicated to celebrating love, romance, and friendship! May your heart be filled with cherished moments and delightful connections.

 

 

Valentines Silent Disco, Natural History Museum

Love Lates, Science Museum

Cine Lumiere, Institut Francais

Chamber Spotlight series 'Mysterious Barricades', Royal College of Music
Afternoon tea, Royal Albert Hall
AKIRA, Japan House