London dating has a reputation.
A little reserved. A little polite. A lot of quiet assessing over a perfectly decent drink.
And honestly? That’s not a bad thing — if you choose the right room.
At MyCheekyDate, London is where our philosophy feels most at home. Thoughtful spaces. Proper conversation. A sense of ease that doesn’t need to shout.
This is Cheeky Thoughts: London Edition — our lovingly opinionated guide to cheeky‑approved venues for fantastic date nights across the capital.
🍸 The Alchemist (Liverpool Street / Canary Wharf) — Playful, Not Pretentious
The Alchemist understands something essential about dates: a little theatre goes a long way.
Yes, there’s smoke. Yes, there’s drama. But underneath it all is structure, comfort, and room to actually talk. It’s playful without being chaotic — a rare balance.
Why it’s cheeky‑approved: • Fun conversation starters built into the drinks • Lively energy without sensory overload • Encourages laughter early on
A wonderful choice when you want to break the ice without breaking your focus.
🕯️ Gordon’s Wine Bar — Timeless, Candlelit Romance
If walls could talk, Gordon’s would tell stories.
Low ceilings, flickering candles, and a timeless London atmosphere make this one of the most quietly romantic spots in the city. It’s intimate, historic, and wonderfully unbothered by trends.
Why it’s cheeky‑approved: • Soft lighting that flatters everyone • Encourages leaning in (literally) • Feels meaningful without effort
Perfect for dates that want depth over dazzle.
🍷 Noble Rot — Conversational Sophistication
Noble Rot is for daters who appreciate substance.
It’s elegant without stiffness, intelligent without intimidation. The kind of place where conversation naturally drifts from light banter into something more interesting.
Why it’s cheeky‑approved: • Calm, confident energy • Tables designed for conversation • Grown‑up charm without formality
A favourite for dates that feel quietly promising.
🌿 The Culpeper — Relaxed, East London Ease
The Culpeper feels like London at its most comfortable.
A proper pub at heart, with thoughtful touches and a rooftop garden that softens everything. It’s ideal for dates that want to feel natural, warm, and refreshingly unforced.
Why it’s cheeky‑approved: • Casual atmosphere that lowers defences • Excellent for first or second dates • Lets personalities shine
No pressure. No performance. Just ease.
🍸 Swift (Soho / Shoreditch) — Intimate, Grown‑Up Energy
Swift understands pacing.
It’s calm, polished, and quietly confident — a bar that knows when to step back and let the date take centre stage.
Why it’s cheeky‑approved: • Low‑key sophistication • Excellent acoustics (a rarity) • Ideal for meaningful conversation
A wonderful spot for dates that feel intentional without being intense.
💡 What Makes a Venue Cheeky‑Approved?
Whether it’s New York or London, we look for the same essentials:
• Spaces that prioritise conversation • Lighting that feels human, not harsh • Energy that’s warm, not overwhelming • Rooms that allow people to be themselves
These are the spaces we gravitate toward for MyCheekyDate events — because good rooms do half the work.
💌 A Final Cheeky Thought
London dating doesn’t need fixing. It just needs the right setting.
The right room turns politeness into ease. Turns small talk into something real.
These venues understand that.
And that’s why they’re cheeky‑approved.