Top shows to see this Valentine's Day

Whether you're looking for something romantic to do on Valentine's Day or hate the whole idea and want a nice alternative, check out our ultimate guide to help you navigate Valentine's weekend and find something a little different to do.

First date

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang – UK tour

An all-star cast including Jason Manford, Michelle Collins, Phill Jupitus and Lee Mead feature in this new touring production of the classic 1968 film. Let Truly Scrumptious and Caractacus Potts whisk you away and help to impress your date.

Wicked – Apollo Victoria Theatre

Telling the untold story of the Witches of Oz, this popular production has all the right ingredients for a first date – a love story, a little magic and a determined green witch to make for a wholesome night.

Chicago – UK tour

Everybody loves a little murder, betrayal and lust in a show. Throw in some classic tunes and you have the recipe for a perfect evening.

The Lion King – Lyceum Theatre

"Can You Feel The Love Tonight" – what more do we need to say to set the mood?

Bonus: Win brownie points with a romantic brunch overlooking London on the National Theatre deck (only open to public once a year on Valentine's Day).

Honeymoon period

Mrs Henderson Presents – Noel Coward Theatre

Centered around a WWII nude review show and described as "charming, a little bit naughty and full of heart", this show offers to add a little extra spice to your evening to get you both a little hot under the collar.

Close to You – The Burt Bacharach Musical – Criterion Theatre

Specially extended due to Valentine's Day demand, the show based on the songs of Burt Bacharach includes hits such as "Close to You", "I Say a Little Prayer" and "What's New Pussycat". Perfect to cuddle up and have a sing along to. Altogether now, "Why do birds suddenly appear…"

Kinky Boots – Adelphi Theatre

The musical not only features songs from Cyndi Lauper but has received rave reviews from numerous critics. Matt Henry leads the cast as drag queen Lola in an evening which is guaranteed to make you feel good.

Les Liaisons Dangereuses – Donmar Warehouse

Christopher Hampton's adaptation of the 1782 novel offers a mix of sexual intrigue, seduction and double dealing. A beautiful cast and costumes will help transport you back to the the sixteenth century. Cruel Intentions (with that famous kiss) is also based on this play.

Old married couple

Guys and Dolls – Savoy Theatre

Wayward guys are taught the error of their ways by gals in New York in the 50s in this fun, feel-good, classic musical. Look out for classic songs such as "Luck Be a Lady" and "Sit Down You're Rockin' The Boat".

The End of Longing – Playhouse Theatre

This new play from Friends star Matthew Perry is a bittersweet comedy about four lost souls searching for meaning as they approach forty.

Beautiful – The Carole King Musical – Aldwych Theatre

Featuring Carole King classics such as "Will You Love Me Tomorrow", "Locomotion", "You've Got a Friend" and "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman", Beautiful has songs in anyone would be happy listening to. Throw in overcoming some marriage drama and a true underdog transformation, you'll be up singing in the aisles with the cast at the end.

Something alternative

Shaggers: Valentine's Special – Leicester Square Theatre

A mix of comics discuss sex (and its mishaps) in an evening aimed to be filled with laughter and absolutely no smoosh.

The Book of Mormon – Prince of Wales Theatre

Bromance, AIDS and religious satire all appear in this award-winning musical which will have you laughing all evening.

The Homecoming – Trafalgar Studios

One of Pinter's more curious plays, this is the perfect anti-valentines production with a stellar cast and performances.

The Encounter – Barbican Centre
Escape from London completely with this five-star production from Complicite's Simon McBurney, taking you on a journey into the depths of the Amazon rainforest.