5 alternative date ideas for a romantic December

27 OCTOBER 2026

Candlelit strings, a table for two and a very good reason to escape overnight

We’re all for keeping date night in the diary, especially in the midst of wedding planning. And with December bringing its own competing invitations, a plan for just the two of you deserves a little thought.

There’s plenty to love about ice skating and mulled wine, but this year, we suggest swerving the crowds and planning something a little more unexpected instead. Think candlelit concerts, winter swims and an overnight escape in front of a crackling fire.

Below, five alternative dates on the 374 team’s December wish list.

Source: Pinterest

A candlelit concert

Nothing beats a candlelit concert in the lead up to Christmas, and the vaulted ceilings of London’s Southwark Cathedral make for a spectacular setting. On 17 December, Candlelight’s Olivia Dean tribute will see a string quartet perform arrangements of her songs. Make an evening of it with dinner at Elliot’s in Borough Market, where Champagne and tiramisu are a must.

Book tickets

Source: Planque

A festive wine tasting

If an evening devoted to Burgundy sounds like your idea of romance, secure a spot at one of Planque’s wine tasting evenings in east London. As part of the restaurant’s Monograph Series, the restaurant will be hosting a Burgundy tasting with William Kelley on 9 December in its iconic cellar, along with a special accompanying menu by chef Sebastian Myers.

Source: Pinterest

Wild winter swimming

For experienced cold-water swimmers, a cold dip followed by a cocktail in front of a crackling fire is a combination worth considering. If you’re up for a trip to the coast, try Kingsdown Beach near Deal, followed by lunch at The Zetland Arms. Just remember to only swim in suitable conditions and check local safety advice, tides and weather before entering the water.

Source: The Bull Charlbury

A cosy night in the country

December has a way of filling the diary, which makes a night away all the more appealing. For a charming country escape, book a room at The Bull in Charlbury in the Cotswolds and settle in for an evening of good food and wine. If you’re travelling by train, the pub is just a short walk from Charlbury station. Make sure to leave time for an amble the next morning.

Make a reservation

Source: Pinterest

Nigel Henderson, Photograph of jazz musicians including Jimmie Deuchar, Ken Wray, Ronnie Scott, Tony Crombie, Lennie Bush, Pete King, Derek Humble and Benny Green [c.1949–c.1956]. Tate Archive. © Nigel Henderson Estate.

Late-night jazz

For a different type of Friday night, head to London’s Tate Modern on 4 December for Natural Jazz, an evening of live, improvised music with Voices Radio. Running from 6pm to 10pm, it’s a chance to spend an evening enjoying an unexpected soundtrack and a curated selection of wines from Tate’s cellar.