A budget is one of the lesser romantic aspects of student living. But we’re here to show that you can still have a good time with a special someone – without breaking the bank.

1. Sunset Picnic on Primrose Hill

Spring is upon us, and with it, cheaper date locations. The exact price of this one will depend on how far you want to go with the picnic, but the views are top dollar. Enjoy a relaxing sunset on top of this hill at Regent’s Park and watch the city light up at night-time.

2. Serpentine Lake at Hyde Park

This 40-acre lake is one of the defining features of Hyde Park and a beauty to behold from summer to winter (although we may be biased towards the warmer season). Enjoy a romantic walk around the grounds and the river, which the geese may try to join. The Serpentine Bar and Kitchen also offers a reasonably priced menu, including a burger and chips for 13.50, or beers at around a fiver.

3. Canary Wharf Rooftop Garden

Address: Crossrail Pl, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AB

The Crossrail Place Roof Garden delivers on many points: views, nature, warmth, shelter, and if you go during weekdays, privacy. Everyone enjoys the novelty of being in a garden in what is one of the busiest districts in the city. There’s also an Alice in the Wonderland themed display on now only adds to the experience. This is also just a short trip away from Canada Square, which is beautifully lit up every night.

4. The Rooftop of the Madison

Address: Rooftop Terrace One, New Change, London EC4M 9AF

As one of our top 10 hidden gems in London, this rooftop offers stunning views of St. Paul’s as well as sweeping views of London. Entry to the rooftop is entirely free, but you can also enjoy a cocktail at the rooftop bar as you take in the skyline. This is the perfect way to feel expensive on your romantic day and forget that you’ve been surviving off of pesto pasta for a month

5. Emirates Air Line

Address: Emirates Air Line 27 Western Gateway London E16 4FA

Offering a round trip view above the Thames, this will be a date to make up for the lack of travel over the past year. The round trip in the cable car costs 4.50 for adults, but 3.50 with any form of the Oyster card. You can take the “Night flight experience” for no extra cost and an extended journey time for maximum quality time and views as a bonus.

6. Tower Bridge Viewing Platform

Nothing says romance like standing 42 metres above the Thames on a glass roof. You can enjoy watching London from above, followed by a viewing of the Victorian Engine Rooms, for 10.60 a ticket. This is one to save for post lockdown. Although we should warn you, partners with a fear of heights may never let you plan another outing.

And there we have it: proof that romance doesn’t end with your overdraft. From nature walks to high rise wonders, London has everything you could need for a date to remember. Be sure to share any other suggestions you may have and your best (and even worst) date night experiences in London in the comments.