Mother’s Day is nearly here, and if you’re planning a day out, there’s plenty to work with locally. Whether you want to go all out with a show, keep it low-key with lunch and a wander, or just use it as an excuse for wine, cake and a bit of shopping, Waterloo’s got loads of ways to make the day feel fun.
1. Book a show on The Cut
A theatre trip is a brilliant way to kick things off. Have a look at what’s on at The Old Vic or Young Vic and build the rest of the day around it – ideal if you want something that feels a bit more like an occasion.
2. Start with a pre-show stop at Backstage
If you’re heading to The Old Vic, make the most of it and stop in at Backstage Cafe & Bar first. A drink or bite before the show is an easy way to stretch the plan out and make it feel a bit more special.
3. Have a Lower Marsh mooch
If you’d rather keep things more relaxed, Lower Marsh is perfect for it. Have a wander, dip into the independents, and check out what’s on at The Glitch if you fancy adding something a bit different into the mix.
4. Go for wine and a catch-up
If the plan is more ‘sit somewhere nice and chat for ages,’ keep it simple with a glass at Lower or Unwined. Both are great for a slower, easy-going Mother’s Day if you don’t want anything too formal.
5. Keep it classic with coffee and cake
Sometimes that’s all you need. Songbird Cafe is a lovely spot to settle in for a catch-up, and Konditor is always there if you want to bring cake into the equation too.
6. Settle in for a cosy pub lunch
If lunch is the main event, there are plenty of places to choose from. The Walrus, The Anchor & Hope, The Hercules and The Stage Door all make great spots for a long, relaxed Sunday lunch and a proper catch-up.
7. Pick up a gift while you’re out
If you’re still after a present, make it part of the day. Stop by Twice the Siren for jewellery and accessories, Urban Plant Store for something green, or Calder Bookshop for a gift that feels thoughtful and a bit more personal.
Bonus idea: do something a bit different with Thames Rockets
If you want to go beyond the usual lunch-and-flowers plan, Thames Rockets is a fun one to have on your list. A speedboat ride is a brilliant way to make the day feel memorable – and definitely one they won’t be expecting.
Whether you go for a show, a pub lunch, a Lower Marsh wander or a few stops rolled into one, there are plenty of ways to make Mother’s Day feel fun while supporting local businesses at the same time.
