Possibly the most controversial holiday of the year is approaching on Monday. But whether it’s Valentines, Galetines or ‘Pal’entines, (that’s V day with your pals), there’ll always be something fun to do on the 14th. So why not group together some fellow single (or sceptical) friends and do something a little different in the City? Here are five ideas from us.

A cultural afternoon at the Mithraeum

If you’re looking to inject a little bit of historical and cultural energy into your day, you’ll have plenty to enjoy at the London Mithraeum within the Bloomberg Arcade. The ‘Bloomberg SPACE’ gallery area on the ground floor has a brand new exhibition from Chilean sculpture artist Fernando Casasempre. Alongside this, explore the ancient temple underneath showcasing archaeological treasures from the mysterious cult of Mithras. After that, why not head to one of the fantastic eateries in the Arcade for dinner and cocktails?

Find it: 12 Walbrook

A round of golf at Puttshack

The newer Bank branch of the ultimate tech golf venue Puttshack is a little quieter than its other branches, and that means it’s the perfect spot for a last minute get-together. Enjoy neon-lit crazy golf with display screens keeping score (great for eliminating cheaters!). Afterwards, tuck into the food and drink in house. (Psst – it’s also a stone’s throw from the Mithraeum).

Find it: 1 Poultry

Dinner at Emilia’s Crafted Pasta

This stylish Italian eatery in Aldgate is perfect for a catch up with friends. Emilia’s Crafted Pasta focuses on serving basic Italian pasta classics, really well – the béchamel slow cooked bolognese is a particular One City favourite. And you haven’t lived until you’ve tried the homemade signature amaretto tiramisu (pictured). Check out our full review here.

Find it: 77 Alie Street

Drinks at Punch Tavern

Fleet Street is known for its many historical and cosy pubs – and one of our favourites is Punch Tavern, the former gin palace so named because of its Punch magazine patrons back in the 1800s. It’s the perfect spot for pub grub or any form of liquid refreshment, with friendly staff and plenty of space for DMCs.

Find it: 99 Fleet Street

Watch Belfast at Everyman Broadgate

Shakespearean favourite and national treasure Kenneth Branagh recently scooped up Oscar nominations for his latest film, Belfast. Starring Judi Dench and Jamie Dornan, the film is largely based on Branagh’s own childhood, growing up in Northern Ireland during The Troubles in 1969. Catch it (before it wins the Oscar?!?) at Everyman Broadgate, the boutique cinema by Liverpool Street.

Find it: Broadgate Circle

^ Can you fit all five activities in one day? That would be a Valentine’s Day to remember. Tag us @onecityldn on Insta if you make it to one of our recommended spots.

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