Most Iconic First Date Locations In The UK

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First dates can either be slightly scary, exquisite or (and happily this is probably the most common scenario) somewhere in between. Arguably, the associated nerves and anxiety are the price we pay for meeting a potential future partner.

It goes without saying that first impressions really do count, and can make or break your evening or afternoon. For that reason, the location you pick is a seemingly small but actually hugely important part of a first date’s success. It’s almost like a movie’s musical score – it needs to help along your emotions without being too noticeable. And while you do need to think about it, you won’t want to look as though you have, a bit like your choice of outfit!

Here are some ideas for first date locations across the UK which should give romance every chance to blossom:

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1. Take a city break or day out

The UK is truly blessed when it comes to dreamy cities stuffed with history, stunning architecture and endless lists of things to see and do. Make it a city break if you’re feeling brave enough, or enjoy a day out.

Oxford has its spires, cobblestones, ancient colleges and the river – what could be more romantic than a lazy meander in a punt? So it offers a magical blend of culture, history and natural beauty.

Another idea is York, with its medieval walls, breathtaking Minster and quaint streets, all drenched in the past. Get to know each other in tucked-away cafes, cosy restaurants and quirky shops – this city provides fresh delights at every corner and an idyllic backdrop to a perfect first date.

In Bath you’ll find Georgian elegance, more cobbled streets and the iconic Royal Crescent. You could even indulge in a couples’ spa session at the Roman Baths.  

When it comes to food, this city is home to intimate eateries including the famous First Dates restaurant from the hit TV show – The Botanist on Milsom Street.

For somewhere vibrant and a little edgier, think somewhere like Glasgow or Liverpool, both of which have a long history plus a buzzing cultural scene.

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2. Luxury London

Affluent singles on the lookout for love may turn their eyes towards one of the many refined venues London has to offer for an initial rendezvous.

The Dorchester Spa, for example, combines 1930s Art Deco with a modern, elegant feel – it’s earned its reputation for unparalleled sophistication. Enjoy one of the latest treatments from some of the city’s best professionals, and get to know each other away from the stress of work as you relax and recharge.

It’s always a nice idea to take in a show, then you’ll have something to talk about. Head for the glitz and glamour of the city’s West End and take in a play, musical, breath-taking ballet, hilarious comedy or the passion of an opera. The choice is yours, and even within each genre there are myriad world-class performances to choose from. Book exclusive seats in the circle and enjoy a glass of champagne before curtain-up or during the interval for the complete luxury experience, and to help break the ice.

Other high-end ideas include a helicopter tour or, if you’re going down the dinner route, a rooftop restaurant with stunning panoramic vistas – Coq d’Argent is just one example.

Finally, the ultra-swish champagne bar at Harvey Nichols department store in plush Knightsbridge is an elegant space in which to get to know each other over a signature cocktail – the terrace has stunning views over the city skyline plus you can indulge in some retail therapy at the same time if you wish. There are plenty of other stylish cocktail bars in town.

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3. Enjoy a champagne or wine-tasting event

Again, this will give you something to talk about, while the wine should also help the conversation flow. There are numerous of these events UK-wide that can take you and your tastebuds on an extraordinary journey around some of the finest vineyards in the world, from Australia, California and Chile to the Loire Valley. Combine with a visit to a tapas bar and some fine cheese or cold meats and you could find yourselves settling in for a very pleasant evening indeed.

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4. Take afternoon tea

This is another great way of acquainting yourself with someone new as you revel in this most British of traditions. There’s somehow less pressure than there is with a dinner date, plus the environment should be quieter than a bar or restaurant. It’s quirky yet refined.

Of course, you could go to an upmarket hotel, such as The Ritz or The Langham, or somewhere like Fortnum & Mason, in London. Elsewhere, Betty’s tearooms across Yorkshire combine tradition and history, while The Grand in York offers glamour in spadefuls. The Gainsborough in Bath is steeped in history, the Port Lympne hotel in Kent serves afternoon tea against a backdrop of spectacular surroundings.

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5. Take the air at a botanical gardens

Oxford, Durham, Birmingham and other UK cities have them, but Kew Gardens is the biggest and best of the UK’s botanical gardens. (Indeed, by acreage it’s the largest site of its kind in the world.) Take an idyllic stroll, chat about the plants and flowers and enjoy some high-end refreshment at The Botanical or The Orangery (both within the gardens) or the Petersham restaurant or the stylish pub and eatery The Botanist on the Green (both just outside) for a complete memorable experience.

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