Don't know much about your date, but know what you like? Well, why not arrange a rendezvous at the Tate Modern? But ignore the galleries - instead head up to the seventh floor café, grab a couple of bar stools at the window, and treat yourself to a coffee. You'll also be treating yourself to the best view in London - which will be some consolation if your date turns out not to be. And if you've seen more regular features on a Picasso portrait and need to make a sneaky escape, the lifts are on the way to the toilets. Tate Modern, Bankside, London SE1 9TG.

They say that romance is dead. And so are all the people commemorated on the plaques that line one wall of Postman's Park. Take a picnic, sit together on one of the benches, and contemplate the selfless acts of bravery during which they gave their lives. Poignant and tragic, they'll make you yearn for the days when gallantry and good manners were commonplace. And if that inspires you to at least hold the door open for your date for the rest of the evening, then all the better. Postman's Park, King Edward Street, London EC1.

Apparently, absence makes the heart grow fonder. But so does Absinthe. If you're on a first date, nothing will help you shed your inhibitions - and possibly your clothes - faster, particularly when it's the basis for one of the fabulous cocktails mixed by the staff at Detroit. This funky subterranean bar has enough hidden corners and secret alcoves to ensure the most intimate of evenings, but make sure you take note of where you're sitting - you want to get lost in each other's eyes, not on a trip to the toilet. Detroit Bar, 35 Earlham Street, Covent Garden WC2H 9LD.

Do your research, and your date will be a stroll in the park. Particularly if it's Hyde Park. This 350 acre oasis in the middle of London is the perfect first date venue - packed full of art, architecture, sporting facilities, wildlife, and nature, there's something for everyone, from the culturist to the, er, naturist. Check out what's on at the Serpentine Gallery. Dip your toes into the Diana memorial fountain. Start an argument at Speaker's Corner. Show off your ball skills on the putting green or tennis courts. If you're feeling brave, why not go horse riding, or hire a rowing boat? If you're feeling braver still, try one of the park's eateries. Or alternatively, just walk, talk, and get to know each other. Hyde Park.

Want to give the impression you're hip crowd rather than hip replacement? Glamorous and chic, and with a clientele to match, the Philippe Starck-designed Long Bar at the Sanderson is hard to beat for sheer sophistication. Show her you're a man by managing to attract the attention of the visually-impaired bar staff. Don't wince when the bill arrives and she'll be even more impressed - the drinks aren't cheap, but then surely, neither are you? And if the date goes exceptionally well, double rooms start at around £250 per night. Sanderson Hotel, 50 Berners Street W1T 3NG.