Special Valentine's events

Tired of doing the same thing year after year on Valentine's day? If you want to try something different and impress your other half with your originality and spontaneity, pinch an idea from our guide to the alternative events going on in London...

To celebrate the lovers' season Spectrum Fine Art is holding The Kiss exhibition. Running from Valentine’s Day until Monday 28th February, the gallery will present generations of artists’ own interpretation of The Kiss, from Helmut Newton’s provocative images to Rosemary Masson’s charcoal representations of the love shared between familys as well as lovers. For more information go to www.spectrumlondon.co.uk.

The London Eye is hosting its first-ever weekend for lovers from Saturday 12 February. Where couples can choose from the 'aphrodisiac' or 'cupid' capsules complete with canapés, champagne and chocolate served by a waiter. Prices range from £299 all inclusive. For more information go to www.ba-londoneye.com.

London's wine tasting attraction Vinopolis is mixing up special cocktails for couples on the 13th or 14th February. Mixologists will prepare 'love potions' for you and your other half and there will also be a specially selected fine wines and champagnes to whet your palate. The package costs £7.50 when pre-booked or £10.00 on the day. For more information go to www.vinopolis.co.uk.

Amanda Waring's one-woman show For The Love Of Chocolate is showing at The Jermyn St Theatre. Organisers say 'It's a deliciously decadent, sensuous and saucy show so pack away your inhibitions and abandon the diet' and there will be an aphrodisiac liquid chocolate fondue for the audience to dip into and enjoy exclusively for Valentines week. Tickets cost £14. For more information phone: 020 7287 2875.

Three of the finest romances of this decade are playing alongside three of the all time classics in the National Film Theatre's Valentine's day festival of romance. The line-up includes Casablanca, Mambo Italiano, Far from Heaven, Breakfast at Tiffany's and Brief Encounter. There isn't a better excuse to snuggle up on the back row with a loved one anywhere else in London. For more information phone: 020 7928 3232.

Flowers and Valentine's day go hand-in-hand like a couple of love struck teenagers, so why not do something different this year and spend a romantic day at the beautiful Kew Gardens. They have organised a special Valentine's package where couples can view their stunning collection of orchids in the Princess of Wales Conservatory and then enjoy a romantic three-course meal for two in the Orangery, which will be accompanied by live music. Prices start at £60.00. For more information go to www.rbgkew.org.uk