22 Dates to Go On in 2022

As we're now halfway through the year, it's a good time to reflect on your journey and tick off some adventures from your annual wish list. Or perhaps you're in need of some inspiration to keep your love life fresh. Whether you're in a relationship or dating, here are 22 dates to go on in 2022.

Date ideas for 2022

Each year we see more diverse opportunities when it comes to things you can do on a date. There are many universal themes circling this year that may affect your choice of activity or outing, like the emphasis on sustainability and the rising cost of living. Plus with lots of new trends hitting our towns and cities, you may want to venture into territory you've previously not explored.

1. Play retro games

Arcade bars are popping up all over the country, where you can play retro titles and re-connect with your inner child. They're often paired with some ping pong tables and colourful themed cocktails. Or you may be lucky enough to have a Gesen (Japanese-style gaming bar) in your city.

2. Dine at a chef's table

Planning to spend a little bit more on an extra special date? Book a VIP seat for an exclusive tasting menu at a fancy restaurant. Usually, dining at the 'chef's table' involves a surprise, bespoke menu cooked up before your eyes and served directly by the venue's chef patron.

3. Attend an immersive art experience

We've seen installations across the country taken to the next level in 2022; with virtual reality, soundscapes and site-specific events (such as an outdoor pool art piece you can swim in) enabling visitors to step into the world of the artist.

4. Go for some CBD-infused drinks

While we've been seeing the rise of CBD in the form of oils for some time, its many benefits are now being harnessed in the form of food and drink. Find a local establishment that's following the trend and sip on some herbal lattes, smoothies and cocktails together.

5. Play crazy golf with a difference

Crazy golf is certainly nothing new. But this year we've noticed a proliferation of courses with quirky concepts, including themes like Harry Potter's world, landmarks from the venues' home cities and junkyard courses.

6. Watch some comedy

After a dearth of live entertainment across 2020 and much of 2021, top comedy is back; from little local gigs in basement clubs, to top comedians touring stadiums. Grab a ticket and laugh your way to love.

7. Taste biodynamic wines

Organic grapes and eco-friendly vineyards are the future. Bring them into your present by booking a tasting at a bar or winery.

8. Swim outdoors

It's free and its fun, but do be sure to find a safe, shallow spot, where you'll be in the company of other bathers. Or you can go to a lido.

9. Take a yin yoga class

The pace of 2022 has been pretty intense after the limited activity of the previous two years. Find your zen and work on your wellbeing by taking a chilled out yoga class together.

10. Book a speed dating event

An evergreen solution to your online dating woes, speed dating gives you the opportunity to meet in a face to face dating environment. So if you're currently lacking someone to try out the 21 other dates on this list with, sign up and find your match.

11. Shoot some reels

Reels are taking over Instagram, so if you love making content, why not get creative together? They'll provide some cute memories of your first dates together too.

12. Tour street art

Those close to urban areas are never far from murals and street art works these days. You may find you can download a route map or join a walking tour. It'll cost little or nothing and provide a talking point.

13. Jump on a vintage bus

The classic routemasters are making a comeback in the form of bistro buses, interactive ghost tours and gin bars. Find one near you and get to know your date on the move.

14. Hire e-bikes

Take the effort out of a cycle ride, so you can focus on your chat and enjoy the scenery on a nearby trail.

15. Try bottled cocktails

A rise in bottled cocktails means it's easier to enjoy some fancy bevvies al fresco — buy some artisan labels and head to the beach or park together to soak up the sun.

16. Take a coach trip

Travelling by air and rail is proving significantly challenging this year. Instead, try a day trip to a different town on board a coach.

17. Upcycle furniture

Websites and social media pages are full of people giving away unwanted items for free. Why not experiment with an upcycling project together? You never know, you might make a bit of cash in the process.

18. Get served by a robot

2021 saw the opening of the UK's first restaurant with robot waiters, and a year on other brands are following its lead. Look out for one in your area.

19. Share your favourite TikToks

Can't meet in person yet? Have an online video date where you take turns sharing your favourite funny TikToks with one another.

20. Sign up for a class together

With a skills deficit in the UK, learning something like coding could really benefit your future. If you're short on time, combining it with your date nights could be really productive for you both.

21. Go to a 1920s party night or themed venue

Celebrate the 2020s by returning to the roaring 1920s, for one night only.

22. See a live projection show

Video mapping creates a mesmerising spectacle, with projection possible on buildings and landscapes. Look out for them as part of festivals and exhibitions around the UK.

Dating is a super way to try new activites. So if all you need is a partner to do them with, book onto a speed dating event and take the next step in meeting your love life goals for 2022.