Your weekend in London: Fri 13 Feb to Sun 15 Feb 2026
- 6 min read
Emma’s Weekend Guide to London
Friday 13th to Sunday 15th February 2026
Hello, lovely readers! Emma here with your insider guide to a rather special weekend in London. Yes, Valentine’s Day falls on Saturday, and whether you’re celebrating with a partner, your best mates, or treating yourself to some quality solo time, this city has something wonderful in store for you.
What the Skies Have in Store
February in London is, well, February in London. Expect temperatures hovering between 5-9°C, with that classic British mix of overcast skies and the occasional drizzle. My advice? Layer up with a warm coat, pack a compact umbrella (the wind can be unforgiving near the Thames), and wear comfortable waterproof shoes. The good news is that most of this weekend’s activities have you indoors or offer cosy refuges when needed.
My Top Picks for the Weekend
Friday 13th February
🌍 Language Exchange Social at Aldgate Craft Beer Co - St Mary Axe, Aldgate
Kick off your weekend with something genuinely unique. This international language exchange brings together speakers of English, Spanish, French, Japanese, Italian, German, Mandarin, Portuguese, Korean, and Arabic under one roof. It’s not a formal class but rather a relaxed social evening where you can practise languages, meet fascinating people from around the globe, and enjoy some excellent craft beer in the process.
Insider tip: Arrive early (around 6:30pm) to grab a good spot and make introductions before the venue fills up. The Craft Beer Co has an impressive rotating selection of ales, so ask the bartender for their current recommendation.
More info: Meetup Event Page
✨ Your Twin Flame Journey with Theresa Cheung Watkins Bookshop, Cecil Court
For something more contemplative on this pre-Valentine’s evening, head to the legendary Watkins Bookshop in Cecil Court for an evening with bestselling author Theresa Cheung. Whether you’re curious about spiritual connections or simply enjoy thought-provoking discussions, this intimate event offers a meaningful way to spend Friday the 13th.
Local knowledge: Cecil Court itself is worth arriving early to explore. This charming pedestrian alley near Leicester Square is lined with antiquarian bookshops, vintage print dealers, and curiosity shops. It’s like stepping back in time, and it’s absolutely magical in the evening light.
More info: Meetup Event Page
Saturday 14th February - Valentine’s Day
💬 Let’s Discuss… Conspiracy Theories! The Mad Hatter Hotel, Southwark
Looking for something completely different this Valentine’s Day? This quirky discussion group meets at the wonderfully eccentric Mad Hatter Hotel to explore conspiracy theories in a friendly, open-minded atmosphere. Whether you’re a sceptic or a believer, it promises fascinating conversation and plenty of laughs.
Emma’s tip: The Mad Hatter Hotel is a genuine hidden gem. The Alice in Wonderland-themed decor is delightfully whimsical, and their cocktail menu is creative and reasonably priced for central London. Grab a “Drink Me” cocktail and settle in for an evening of spirited debate.
Location: Stamford Street, Southwark (short walk from Southwark tube or Blackfriars)
More info: Meetup Event Page
🍷 Private Italian Dining Experience Fitzroy Wine Cellar Kitchen
This is the Valentine’s option I’d personally choose. An intimate Italian supper club at the gorgeous Fitzroy Wine Cellar Kitchen, featuring authentic cuisine and wonderful wine pairings. It’s social, it’s romantic, and it’s far more interesting than battling for a table at an overbooked restaurant.
Practical note: These private dining events typically book up fast, so do check availability immediately if this appeals. Expect to pay around £45-65 per person including food and some wine. The venue is tucked away in Fitzrovia, one of my favourite neighbourhoods for its village-like feel despite being minutes from Oxford Street.
More info: Meetup Event Page
🍺 St. Giles Pub Crawl - Craft Beer, Music & Dancing Starting at The Angel, St Giles
For those who want to celebrate Valentine’s Day with energy and new friends, this pub crawl through the St. Giles area offers craft beer, live music, and dancing. It’s wonderfully inclusive whether you’re single, coupled up, or somewhere in between.
Insider knowledge: The St. Giles area has transformed remarkably in recent years. What was once a bit rough around the edges now hosts some brilliant independent pubs and bars. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking between venues, and pace yourself with the craft beers since they tend to be stronger than your average pint!
More info: Meetup Event Page
Sunday 15th February
🚶 Singles Sunday Park Walk (Ages 30-45) Meeting at The Regents Bar & Kitchen
Shake off the weekend cobwebs with a social walk designed for singles in their 30s and 40s. Starting from The Regents Bar & Kitchen near Regent’s Park, this is a lovely low-pressure way to meet people while enjoying one of London’s most beautiful green spaces. February in the park has its own charm, with the first hints of spring bulbs starting to appear.
Weather consideration: Given the forecast, wrap up warm and bring a waterproof layer. The walk will go ahead in light rain, so come prepared. Hot drinks at the pub afterwards will be most welcome!
More info: Meetup Event Page
🎨 Free Sketch & Social at the V&A Victoria and Albert Museum, South Kensington
This is my absolute top recommendation for Sunday. Join a friendly group of sketchers at the magnificent V&A for a free afternoon of drawing and socialising. You don’t need to be an artist; all skill levels are welcome, and it’s a wonderful way to really see the museum’s incredible collections.
Emma’s essential tips:
- The V&A is free to enter, making this a completely budget-friendly afternoon
- Bring your own sketchbook and pencils
- The museum’s cafe is pricey; grab a coffee beforehand at one of the excellent independent cafes on Exhibition Road
- Don’t miss the Cast Courts if you’re sketching; the dramatic lighting on classical sculptures is absolutely stunning
More info: Meetup Event Page
🀄 Mandarin Learning Games Working From_ Southwark
For language enthusiasts, this interactive Mandarin session uses games to make learning fun and memorable. It’s suitable for beginners and intermediate learners alike, and the Working From_ space in Southwark is a lovely modern venue with good coffee.
More info: Meetup Event Page
Practical Tips for the Weekend
Getting around: The Tube runs its normal schedule Friday and Sunday, with slightly extended hours on Saturday night. Consider getting a day travelcard if you’re planning multiple activities.
Booking ahead: Valentine’s Day restaurants book up months in advance. If you haven’t made reservations, consider the social dining events above, or explore food markets like Borough Market (Saturday) for excellent casual eating.
Budget-friendly options: The V&A sketching session and language exchanges offer fantastic free or low-cost entertainment. London doesn’t have to break the bank!
Have a wonderful weekend, London. Stay warm, stay curious, and as always, feel free to drop me a message with your discoveries.
Emma x