Alone on Valentines Day? Join the club. From evil sex robots to anti-romance - The top 10 places to go solo

Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, but it doesn’t have to be of the romantic persuasion. If you're not doing the candlelit dinners and heart-shaped balloons this Valentine’s, there’s some love for you. Whether you're into empowering art or dystopian films, there are a string of cultural events to explore solo that show the less conventional side of the day. From female empowerment to evil sex robots - we've rounded up 10 places to indulge in some meaningful alone time tonight.

Dates: February 14, 2025, onwards. Venue: Hayward Gallery, Southbank Centre, London. If you're in the mood for a little self-love (of the empowering kind!), head to the Hayward Gallery for this exhibition celebrating the work of Mickalene Thomas. Known for her vibrant, multi-layered paintings, Thomas explores themes of female empowerment, beauty, and identity. Featuring paintings, photographs, collages and installations, All About Love transforms the Hayward Gallery with bespoke wallpapers, textiles and furnishings nostalgically evoking the artist’s 1970s childhood.

Valentine's Day can be about celebrating you. Dates: From February 14. Venue: The Electric Cinema, London. For those who’d prefer their evening to be more sci-fi than romantic, head to the Electric Cinema for a screening of Ex Machina, a chilling exploration of artificial intelligence, sex robots, and human connection. If you're feeling a little anti-Valentine’s, this one’s perfect for a thought-provoking, dark, solo night out.

Dates: February 14, 7:00 – 9:30 pm. Venue: The Divine, 33 Stoke Newington Road, London N16 8BJIf you're in the mood for a night of anti-romance, join the Vom-Com experience for an evening filled with cabaret, karaoke, games, DJs, and dancing. Centered around Hollywood's cheeky take on love, this event offers a hilarious and unapologetic way to enjoy Valentine’s Day, whether you're single, taken, or just want to avoid the heart-shaped clichés.

Date: February 14. Venue: Purcell Room Southbank Centre, London. Time: 7:00 - 9:00 pm. If you’re looking for a thought-provoking, cultural night out this Valentine’s Day, head to the Southbank Centre for an exclusive conversation between artist Linder and writer Marina Warner. The two will discuss themes of gender, identity, and the body in Linder's radical and groundbreaking art. Expect fascinating insights into her iconic works, alongside discussions on the intersection of art and feminism.

Dates: February 14, 2025. Venue: Rivoli Ballroom, London. The Rivoli Ballroom offers a special Valentine’s Day pop-up cinema experience. This event invites you to enjoy a screening in one of London’s most stunning venues, featuring classic films such as Roman Holiday (1953). With the ballroom’s vintage charm, you’ll enjoy a cozy, cinematic atmosphere perfect for a date or a solo escape. The venue offers a full bar and a delightful, nostalgic setting to enjoy this timeless romantic classic.

Venue: Natural History Museum, London. Head to the Natural History Museum for a unique night of culture and romance. The museum opens its doors after hours for a special evening featuring the museum’s iconic exhibits and an atmosphere filled with candlelight and music. Enjoy the chance to explore the exhibits, sip on cocktails, and take in the museum’s iconic dinosaur displays in a more intimate setting. It’s the perfect way to spend the evening for those looking for a memorable solo night or a different take on a Valentine’s date.

Dates: February 14. Venue: Old Royal Naval College, London. Celebrate Valentine’s Day in style with a dinner in the stunning Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College. This historic venue provides a breathtaking setting as you enjoy a specially curated three-course meal under the grand Baroque ceiling. The good news is they are encouraging groups of friends and singles to join in. evening is an elegant affair, complete with live music and the chance to explore the iconic surroundings of the Painted Hall. A perfect choice for a memorable and cultured night.

Dates: Until February 25. Venue: Design Museum, London. For a memorable Anti-Valentine’s experience, head to the Design Museum’s Barbie exhibition. This immersive display celebrates the iconic doll's 65-year history, highlighting her transformation and cultural impact, with a special nod to the 2023 Barbie movie, which sparked a new wave of female empowerment. The film’s success shifted Barbie’s image, showing her as a symbol of independence, ambition, and creativity—perfect for those looking to embrace themselves this Valentine’s Day. Time is running out, so make sure to catch it before it closes!.