Dry January is over (huge sigh of relief), Covid restrictions are being eased, the days are getting longer and, more importantly, love is in the air!
This is the month of ‘lurve’ and a time to celebrate romance, compassion and kindness with those that matter most. Whether it’s your spouse, partner, friends, parents or grandparents – February 14 is the perfect opportunity to spread a little love in the name of that old romantic – St Valentine.
Whatever you’ve planned, you’ll find tons of ideas in Clapham Junction – a romantic breakfast for two, perfect pampering, evening tipples, a candlelit dinner or an evening show – The Junction ticks every box for Valentine’s Day (and every other day of the year!). Share the lurve and love local at The Junction this year – here are 14 ideas to help you on your way…
1. BREAKFAST IN BED
Image credit: The Breakfast Club
What better way to start Valentine’s Day than a cosy breakfast in bed with your funny Valentine? When it comes to the most important meal of the day, The Breakfast Club Battersea Rise (& Shine) know how to deliver a sensory taste explosion, quite literally, to your doorstep – leaving you to enjoy the fruits (and fry-ups) of their labour without any of the hard work! From Pancakes with Berries & Cream and Bacon and Egg French Toast, to The All American and The Greasy Spoon –The Breakfast Club delivers from 8am every day.
Fancy creating your own breakfast masterpiece? Then plan ahead and pick up your groceries at any of your local supermarkets here…
Of course, if you can drag yourself and your loved one away from underneath the duvet, Clapham Junction is full of fantastic cafés, on hand to whip up Valentine breakfast or brunch feasts, made with love. Discover your local eateries here…
2. A COUPLE’S WORKOUT
Image credit: Milo and The Bull
Ever heard the saying, ‘Couples who sweat together stay together’? Well, it’s true! Research has shown that couples who work out and train together, benefit from increased bonding time which can lead to greater feelings of connection and being emotionally attuned to each other. So, if you want to take a lunge with your lover this Valentine’s Day, why not join a local fitness centre:
12 Rounds Boxing | 1A St John's Hill | Boxing gym
Fitness First Clapham Junction | 34 St John's Hill | Gym & fitness centre
Fitness First Battersea | 276-288 Lavender Hill | Gym & fitness centre
Four Sides London | 179 Northcote Road | Physiotherapy & fitness centre
Fybre Fitness | 25 Northcote Road | Boutique fitness hub
Milo and the Bull | 62-64 St John's Hill | Boutique health & fitness studio
Pscycle London | 82-84 Battersea Rise | Single ride & fitness studio
Sadhana Yoga & Wellbeing | 91 St John's Hill | Yoga & wellbeing studio
Willow London | 135 Northcote Road | Yoga, Pilates & Barre studio
3. GIVE A UNIQUE GIFT
Image credit: Flying Tiger
If chocolates just don’t cut the mustard, why not try something a little different this year. Flying Tiger on St John’s Road is a romantic treasure trove of the unique and sometimes bonkers gifts (including a lifelike squeezy rubber heart!) which are guaranteed to make you smile. From a paint-your-poodle and heart figure and a book of love vouchers, to love balloons and obligatory Valentine’s socks, you’ll find something special for that someone special. Of course, if you’re after something a little more traditional, check out our shopping directory here…
4. SAY IT WITH FLOWERS
Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be the same without a beautiful bouquet and, fortunately, Clapham Junction is home to two fantastic florists that are on hand to deliver whatever floral surprise you have in mind:
Igloo Flowers | Shopstop, St John's Hill
The Flower Stand Battersea | Northcote Road
5. AFTERNOON TEA FOR TWO
Image credit: Biscuiteers
Biscuiteers on Northcote Road have come up with a delightful treat for you and that special someone – Afternoon Tea with a Valentine's twist! This is a celebration of all things Biscuiteers and everything sweet – the tea includes miniature versions of cakes and patisseries in beautiful flavours, along with some Valentine's heart-shaped hand-iced biscuits and raspberry and rose Valentine's macarons! Afternoon Tea is served between 11:00am and 4:00 pm daily and can be booked here…
6. GET PAMPERED
Why not show yourself a little love on 14 February and indulge in a little spa treatment, facial or treat yourself to new nails – Battersea Nails on St John’s Hill are currently offering 20% off all nail treatments if you need a manicure or shellacs! For all things Health & Beauty, check out our directory here…
7. DRESS TO IMPRESS
Image credit: Palmer
If you’re heading out on a Valentine’s date, you’ll want to wear your best togs. Clapham Junction has a fantastic selection of stores covering men’s fashion, women’s fashion, shoes and accessories. Find the perfect outfit here…
8. TRY A NEW COCKTAIL
Image credit: Sugar Cane
If you’ve ever wondered what tropical paradise tastes like, head to Sugar Cane on Lavender Hill this Valentine’s Day and get into the Aloha spirit with a Polynesian-themed cocktail made with Pacific rum. And, if you go between 5pm and 8pm it’s Happy Hour!
The Plough on St John’s Hill has also just launched a new cocktail menu to get you in the mood for love. Pick your poison here…
9. BE SERENADED
Image credit: Archer Street SW11
Enjoy a pink-themed drinks menu with discounted prices at Archer Street SW11 on Northcote Road, while singers serenade you with all your favourite love songs – tres romantic! To book your table email sw11bookings@archerstreet.co.uk or call 020 3887 4435. For all bars and pubs in the locale, click here…
10. TASTE NEW FLAVOURS
Image credit: Island Poké
A taste of Hawaii has arrived on Northcote Road at Island Poké where you’ll be served the best poké bowls in London. You and that special someone are invited to choose from a fantastic menu of healthy pacific-inspired ingredients which pack both flavour and quality in bowls, guaranteed to give you a taste of paradise.
11. DIY DINING
Image credit: Colette
Why not stay in, stay cosy and get romantic with fine dining in your own home? Courtesy of Colette
on Northcote Road, you can order a fantastic three-course, gourmet Valentine’s hamper to your doorstep. Marks and Spencer Food also have some fantastic foodie gifts, sensational sweet treats and a limited-edition Dine In menu which you'll find here – what’s not to love? Don’t forget the bubbles, you can pick up a bottle at your local wine shop or off-licence here…
12. TAKE IN A FILM
Image credit: The Clapham Grand
Whether you’re in a relationship, single or somewhere in-between, join The Clapham Grand in their massive room of love, grab a bottle of wine with a straw for one (or two), and get ready to sing All By Myself at the top of your voice. Or simply sit back and fall for Hugh Grant and Colin Firth – the choice is yours. Screening is on 12 February to get you in the mood!
13. GO TO A PARTY
Image credit: The Clapham Grand
Luisa Omielan – one of the biggest stand-up hits of the decade (The Telegraph) – invites you plus one (your best friend, your mum, your lover or someone you have matched with on Tinder) to her Valentine’s party at The Clapham Grand on 14 February. Come as a pair and enjoy!
14. GIVE BACK A LITTLE LOVE
Image credit: Traid
We all know Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love, but it’s also a time for compassion and kindness so, this is a perfect time to give back and show your community you care. Your local charity shops always need donations to help them raise important funds for worthy causes. Check out where you can donate here…
Happy Valentine’s Day!
#valentinesday
