Art & Culture
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in the Royal Docks
Love is in the air - it’s Valentine’s Day on 14 February! Celebrate in the Royal Docks with some R&R, chilling with friends or quality time with that special someone in your life. Read our guide to romantic, fun and simply lovely things to do locally.
Plan a romantic European city break
Europe boasts to some of the world’s most romantic cities. With London City Airport nearby, its perfect for a romantic getaway. Choose from over 30 exciting European destinations including Sardinia, Florence, Rome and the city of love, Paris.
London City Airport, Hartmann Rd, London, E16 2PX
www.londoncityairport.com
Get creative at Bonbon Pottery Cafe
Recreating the iconic pottery scene from Ghost might be a bit tricky but individually you could give wheel throwing a go at BonBon Pottery Cafe. The lovely team guide you through all you need to know to get started. Located at Royal Wharf, this pottery studio and café offers a variety of workshops for all ages and abilities. It’s a fantastic place to get creative and enjoy a coffee and a sweet treat.
Bonbon Pottery Cafe, 3 Royal Crest Ave, London, E16 2PG
www.bonbonpottery.co.uk
Sweheat Sauna
Opt for a long-lasting gift at Plant Lovers London
Think outside the vase. For a more sustainable gift, give your loved one a houseplant instead of a bouquet. Located in Custom House, Plant Lovers London sells a beautiful selection of houseplants with a small selection of cut flowers. There’s also a café, so stop for a cuppa and choose from homemade cakes and samosas, authentic biryani and more.
Plant Lovers London, 29 Freemasons Road, London, E16 3AR
www.facebook.com/PlantLoversLondon
Snuggle up at Heroica Lounge
For a unique dining experience, visit Heroica Lounge, a delicious pizza restaurant set on a double-decker bus. For an extra touch of romance, book one of their cosy igloos, beautifully decorated with faux fur blankets and fairy lights.
Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock London, E16 1FA (next to the IFS Cloud Cable Car)
www.heroicalounge.com
Dine in and create your own love story
Fancy a meal at home instead of dining out? Impress your dinner date with fresh Asian flavours. Visit Jiamart Asian Grocery or Tian Tian Market to stock up on authentic and niche East and Southeast Asian products. Both stores offer a wide range of seasonal ingredients, exotic fruits and vegetables, seafood, aromatic herbs and spices and more. With food sourced from over 25 Asian countries, including China, Japan, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam it’s a foodie's paradise!
Jiamart Asian Grocery, Royal Wharf, 5 Starboard Way, London, E16 2NY
www.jiamart.co.uk
Tian Tian Market, 6-8 Minnie Baldock St, London, E16 1YE
www.tiantian.london
Explore local tours and trails
Walk along the dock and immerse yourself in the area’s unique heritage and landscape with our self-guided tours and trails of the Royal Docks. The Pews and Perches bench on the Floating Garden is also lovely little spot to cuddle up and enjoy the calming views of Royal Victoria Dock.
www.royaldocks.london/articles/explore-the-royal-docks-terrific-tours-and-trails
Go for cocktails
For cool cocktails head to Myma in Canning Town. The restaurant and cocktail bar offer authentic Japanese-inspired cuisine and drinks reflecting the culture’s appreciation for balance and simplicity. For an alcoholic-free option, go for the sweet and creamy, My Dream. This delicious mocktail is a perfect blend of coconut puree, pineapple juice, falernum syrup and lime juice with pineapple chips.
Myma Restaurant, 2 Caxton Street North, London, E16 1XJ
Relax at Sweheat Sauna
Unwind with a relaxing experience at Sweheat Sauna in the heart of Royal Victoria Dock. The authentic wood fired saunas feature a Finnish designed stove and is also available for private hire. For the ultimate feel-good experience, take a refreshing dip in the 12ft plunge pool and the cold-water barrel.
Western Beach, 1 Dock Road, London, E16 1AH
www.sweheatsauna.co.uk
Strike a pose at London Lighthouse Gallery and Studio
Book a photoshoot at London Lighthouse Gallery and Studio located at London City Island. Treat yourself to a solo portrait session, capture your family bond with a group shot or strike a pose with the one you love to celebrate your relationship in this cutting-edge photography studio.
For more Valentine’s Day gifts, browse the gallery of unique and exciting pieces from emerging and established creatives. You can also look around the gift shop for artistic presents including vibrant homeware, books, handmade pottery, vases and candles. Gift shop items are also available in the online shop.
18 Lyell Street, London City Island, London, E14 0SZ
www.londonlighthousestudio.com
Book a romantic stay at Sunborn London
Experience a luxurious staycation at the Sunborn, a super yacht hotel permanently anchored in Royal Victoria Dock. The Romance Package includes breakfast, a tasting menu with petit four chocolates and a glass of Prosecco, plus artificial rose petals scattered in room and a tray of chocolates. Book direct at reservations@sunbornlondon.com to receive the best rates, complimentary Wi-Fi and a room upgrade.
The roof top terrace is perfect for enjoying stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. You don’t need to be a hotel guest to visit. Stop by for a meal or a drink and take in the beautiful sunset or sunrise over the iconic landscape. It’s also a hot spot for marriage proposals!
Sunborn London, Royal Victoria Dock, London, E16 1AA
Support small businesses at Crafted Corner
Discover a beautiful collection of handmade gifts at Crafted Corner, located in Canning Town. This shop is a treasure trove of unique items created by local makers and small independent businesses. The range includes jewellery, homeware, accessories, toiletries, greeting cards and more.
Crafted Corner, 27 Silvertown Way, London, E16 1DH
Love is in the air with IFS Cloud Cable Car
Take your love to new heights with the IFS Cloud Cable Car Special Valentine’s Experience. Soar above the River Thames enjoying a glass of bubbly or soft drink along with a box of chocolates in your own private cabin.
This non-stop round trip including fast-track entry allows you to take in the spectacular views of the city skyline. The IFS Cloud Cable Car Special Valentine’s Experience is available on 13, 14, and 15 February. Book now.
IFS Cloud Royal Docks Terminal, 27 Western Gateway, London, E16 1FA
https://tfl-cablecar.secure-cdn.eu.accessoticketing.com/embed/store.php?intcmp=70464&intcmp=70464
Enjoy a bit of me time at Dream Nails Royal Wharf
Embrace self-care at Dream Nails Royal Wharf. This nail and beauty haven is in the heart of the Royal Wharf development. Whether you want to pop in for a speedy nail shape and paint, a pedicure, wax or facial you’ll leave feeling fabulous. Men are warmly welcomed too.
Dream Nails Royal Wharf, 10 Royal Crest Ave, Royal Wharf, London, E16 2TQ
www.dreamnailsbeauty.com/locations/royal-wharf
Spice up your (love) life at Cafe Spice Namasté
On Friday 14 February enjoy an exclusive Valentine’s Day menu at Cafe Spice Namasté. Located in Royal Albert Wharf, savour the comforting flavours of traditional Indian dishes in a dining experience that celebrates love, connection and the joy of sharing.
Cafe Spice Namasté, 1 - 2 Lower Dock Walk Royal Albert Wharf, London, E16 2GT
www.cafespice.co.uk
Shop raw wines at Sad Meli
Located in Royal Albert Wharf, Sad Meli is a new family-owned Georgian restaurant and speciality coffee shop. Inspired by their family roots in the picturesque village of Sadmeli in Georgia, the venue specialises in raw wines. Explore the selection of natural wines crafted from organically grown grapes free from additives and book a table to experience the rich culinary traditions of Georgia.
Sad Meli Georgian Gastronomy & Raw Wines, 4 Silley Weir Promenade, London, E16 2AJ
Spoil someone special at Good Hotel
Indulge in a delicious three course Valentine’s meal with glass of Prosecco or soft drink at Good Hotel for £29 per person. Available 10 - 16 February, the tempting menu includes Thai seabass, tagliatelle caprese and crispy deep-fried squid. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert including Spanish baked cheesecake and a rich chocolate fondant. To book online visit Tableo.
Good Hotel, Royal Victoria Dock, Western Gateway, London E16 1FA
www.goodhotel.co/london
Romance your loved one at Bonnane Restaurant
Located in Royal Victoria Dock, Bonnane Restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for celebrating Valentine’s Day. 14 – 16 February, the authentic Italian restaurant is offering a special Valentine's set menu with a complimentary glass of Prosecco for £50 per person. The starters include gamberoni - king prawns served on artisan bread drizzled with homemade chili sauce. For main course try the crab cannelloni – fresh black pasta and crab served with asparagus and truffle oil followed by a tempting orange panna cotta for dessert. Bonnane is a popular choice for Valentine’s Day so be sure to book in advance.
Bonnane Restaurant, Unit G7 Capital East, 17 Western Gateway, London, E16 1AQ
www.bonnanerestaurant.co.uk
