Romantic Getaways in London

Nestled in well-heeled northwest London between Maida Vale and Paddington is one of the capital's most charming pockets. The canals of Little Venice are home to hundreds of traditionally painted narrowboats, whilst the banks of the waterways feature the handsome, brightly coloured period homes of London's celebrity elite. Take a narrowboat tour, stopping at cosy independent bars and restaurants along the way.

With any luck, one of Shakespeare's more romantic plays will be on, such as 'Romeo and Juliet', 'As You Like It', or 'Twelfth Night'. Either way, a trip to this unique theatre is one of the most romantic things to do in London. Treat your date to gallery seats (as opposed to standing in the yard) and be whisked back to Elizabethan times. After the play, cross the Millenium Bridge over the Thames and enjoy a romantic walk along London's Victoria Embankment.

The most elegant place in London to watch a film, the Electric in Notting Hill was built in 1910 and is also the oldest working cinema in the capital. Forget uncomfortable cinema seats, and instead enjoy the luxury of leather armchairs, side tables, and a licensed bar. The most romantic tickets, however, are for the velvet double bed in the front row or the two leather sofas at the back.

London is home to numerous top spas, but the most romantic is Ushvani in Belgravia. Designed with Malaysian opulence in mind, the spa has a dedicated couple's suite, the Amara, which features twin treatment beds in a private setting. Book a luxurious pampering treatment such as the Warming Herbal Retreat, a combination of Thai and Shiatsu massage and reflexology.

This independently owned restaurant in Covent Garden has won the impressive accolade of World's Most Romantic Restaurant. Step away from the busy streets outside and find yourselves whisked away to a Provençal-style tavern. With its blossom-filled interior and glass ceiling, it's the perfect setting for a candle-lit dinner.