You have mustered up the courage to download the app and you’ve connected with one or two like-minded single parents. You’ve been chatting back and forth for a while and the idea of meeting up face-to-face comes up… It might have been a while since you have been back on the “dating scene” and often coming up with a place to go on a first date can be super overwhelming.
We’ve compiled our favourite locations for a relaxed first date.
1. Walk one of London’s scenic walking routes
A walk is a really good way to get to know someone in a comfortable, relaxed environment. It’s great for a first meeting as it’s not as intrusive or pressured as a sit down meal can sometimes feel. Grab a coffee and stroll around while taking in one of the beautiful paths or parks the capital has to offer. Our favourite is Primrose Hill for the beautiful panoramic view.
We love a walk as a first date as it can take place during the day – when the kids are at school or during your lunch break at work. This is especially handy if you are unable to sort childcare for an evening out.
2. Spark some friendly competition with a game or two
A great way to break the ice and ease the pressure is engaging in a fun activity where you can both let your hair down whilst getting to know each other. You definitely get to know another side of a person when you see them playing something competitive.
The number of game and activity venues in London aimed at adults has exploded over the last year. Now you can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat alongside anything from bowling and darts, to mini golf and ping pong. We’d recommend Bounce (they have two venues, one in Old Street, one in Farringdon) or Puttshack.
This date option is great as it leaves room, if the date is going well, to extend the evening to a meal elsewhere or a nightcap at a nearby bar.
3. Take in some live music
Live music creates a great atmosphere and provides an immediate talking point to settle any first date jitters. London has a sprawling music scene, everything from Jazz to drag shows – so you’ll be sure to find a venue to suit your and your date’s taste. Our favourite is Quaglinos – it has live music 7 days a week, alongside an excellent food and drink menu.
4. Laugh together at a comedy night
They say laughter is the best medicine – and it certainly makes a date more fun!
The Top Secret Comedy Club is a cosy unassuming venue that has some of the top comedians in the UK.
On a budget? There are a whole host of cheap or free comedy nights in London to keep spending to a minimum – we know dating can add up!
5. Enjoy a boat ride along the Thames (with a picnic!)
Sun shining? Why not make waves with a boat trip along the Thames. Go Boats are self-driving boats you can hire for 1, 2 or 3 hours. You can even bring your own picnic and drinks to enjoy while you sail through the sites of London.
Go Boat now offers three route options in London – Paddington (via Little Venice and London Zoo), Kingston (via Hampton Court Palace) or Canary Wharf.
Don’t forget, we’ve partnered with Bubble, the UK’s no1. sitter app, to take the stress out of finding childcare! Bubble are giving you £10 off your first sit with code PLAYDATE.
