By Martin Turner

There is nothing more stunning than an endless, superlative British summer, when all the ingredients are right for romance. Now we are not giving up just yet on summer, there is a heatwave on the way, and if you live in London that means there is still plethora of exclusive matchmaking opportunities to set the scene for vivid conversation and something authentic to show your potential partner that you know what genuine is all about.

Take a summer stroll

Let’s start with something simple like meeting at the Goring Hotel for tea on the veranda overlooking the garden. With a loaf of bread secreted in your bag, you can take a walk through St James’ park to feed the ducks and swans, an ideal way to combine activity with conversation and ensure your personal matchmaking efforts go down a treat.

Romantic picnic dating

If it’s a second date it behoves you to snap up some tickets for the Open Air Theatre in Regents Park. Don’t worry about the weather, it takes a hurricane to stop performances, and what better excuse than to sneak holding hands under a blanket or cowering under an umbrella together in a giggly mid-summer downpour that Britain is so fond of serving up. It’s your opportunity to pull together a delicious summer picnic ensuring you have included many of the favourite foods you have took a mental note of during previous conversations. Whatever you do, make sure your partner is comfortable.

All aboard the love train

If you want to venture out of town, then make plans to meet under the clock at Victoria Station and take the train to Whitstable on the coast of Kent, and easy one hour twenty minutes away, very ‘Brief Encounter’. Arrive early and pick up the Café Nero coffees and tickets so you can sweep the object of your affection aboard. To keep it simple and not overwhelming, on arrival head for lunch at Wheelers or the Crab and Winkle on the harbour. If you feel the need to impress or the weather is suddenly biblical take a quick taxi ride to Michelin-starred Seasalter for something more gourmet. Bookings are essential don’t get caught without one or you’ll embarrass yourself.

Indulging, vintage style

Alternatively head out to Cliveden for your very own Profumo affair in a suitably summer car. Europcar do prestige rentals for 24 hours that are just the trick if you are urban and without wheels.  Take the vintage Suzy Ann built in 1911 or the Belmont launched in 1933 for a jaunt up the Thames. Floating along with delectable canapés and chilled champagne is terribly ‘Merchant Ivory’ and simply oozing with promising romance.

So you see, lots of exclusive matchmaking ideas for a wonderfully English affair, enjoy…

Martin Turner has had a 25 year global career in events which resulted in the book Travel Secrets in 2010 and a new career in journalism and lecturing. A recent graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Art, he has won his way into the heart of the VIDA team while zooming about the planet on new assignments and escapades.