Dinner and drinks is the default first date, but sitting opposite a stranger for two hours can feel more like an interview than fun. Doing something together takes the pressure off and gives you plenty to talk about.
We’ve counted down from ten to our favourite first date of all.
10. Visit a board game café
Board game cafés have shelves of games and staff who’ll explain the rules. Choose something light and fun.
You’ll find out quickly whether your date is a gracious loser.
9. Pack a picnic
On a sunny day, a picnic in the park feels relaxed and thoughtful. Bring a blanket, a few treats and something to drink.
Have a back-up plan in case of rain.
8. Go bowling
Bowling is easy, fun and lets you chat between turns. Nobody minds if you’re terrible at it.
It works especially well if you’re nervous about long conversations.
7. Take a class together
A one-off cooking, pottery or painting class gives you something to focus on and something to show for the evening.
It’s a great choice if you’d both rather do than just talk.
6. See a comedy night
Laughing together is a great way to relax. Local comedy clubs and open-mic nights are often inexpensive.
Sit away from the front row unless you both fancy being part of the act.
5. Join a pub quiz
Teaming up to answer questions shows you how the other person thinks, and you’ll quickly find out what they know about.
The quiz gives the evening a natural structure, with breaks to chat between rounds.
4. Play crazy golf
A little friendly competition is a brilliant icebreaker. Crazy golf is silly enough that nobody has to be good at it.
Expect plenty of laughter, especially on the windmill hole.
3. Explore a food market
Wander the stalls, share a few small dishes and try something neither of you has eaten before. It’s relaxed, sociable and full of choice.
Sharing food also breaks the ice in a way a formal restaurant rarely does.
2. Visit a museum or gallery
Exhibitions give you endless things to talk about, and you’ll learn a lot about each other from what catches your eye.
Many museums are free to enter, so it costs little. Finish with a drink in the café.
1. A long walk with a coffee
Grab a takeaway coffee and walk through a park, along a river or around a part of town you both like. Walking side by side makes conversation feel natural, and silences never feel awkward.
It’s cheap, easy to extend if it’s going well and easy to wrap up if it isn’t. That’s why it’s our number one.
What’s the best first date you’ve ever been on? Tell us in the comments.
