6 First Date Ideas in Brighton
So you’re ready to open the first page of a new chapter in your love life? What better place to do it than this charming seaside setting? Here are our top six first-date ideas in Brighton, to get your romance off to a great start.
The best first dates in Brighton
Whether you're seeking something adventurous, silly, memorable, or simply a chilled-out chance to connect, Brighton's eclectic blend of attractions and activities has something for everyone. In this article, we'll uncover a selection of captivating first date ideas that allow you to get to know each other while having a grand day (or night) out.
1 Play Toad in the Hole
We’re not talking the classic British dish of sausages and Yorkshire pud, but the old-school coin-tossing game that’s taking East Sussex by storm. In a nutshell, players throw four brass coins (toads) from a distance away, to a square toad table, made of wooden legs, with a lead surface and a hole. Get your toad on the table and you score one. Get it in and you score two. It’s dead easy to play, will make you both laugh and get surprisingly addictive! Venues you can play Toad in the Hole locally, include The Caxton Arms, The Hole In The Wall, The Round Georges, The Watchmakers Arms, The Independent, The Windmill, Presuming Ed and The Bevy.
2 Challenge them to a round of golf at Globalls
A themed indoor mini-golf course, Globalls offers a fun and colourful environment for players of all ages. It's designed with vibrant neon and ultraviolet lighting, creating a visually striking and immersive vibe. The quirky course features creative and imaginative designs, with glow-in-the-dark elements that add an otherworldly element to the game. Globalls is a great place for a unique and enjoyable date with just a hint of competitiveness thrown in for good measure. And as this will be your first time meeting, having an activity to occupy you from the off, will remove any awkward first date silences.
3 Catch a show at Arcobaleno
This bar’s name means “rainbow”, reflecting its diverse and welcoming approach to clientele. It was the venue for our first-ever LGBTQ+ singles party and has an ethos that everyone should feel safe and seen. Staff are trained to help customers should they feel intimidated or uncomfortable, so it’s a great choice if you’re feeling a little nervous about meeting a stranger and want that sense of backup should you need it. Come to Arcobaleno for some live music, or to see a drag act. Or just pop in for a drink, a plate of Maltese-inspired food, or a Sunday roast.
4 Take a bike tour
If you're both into cycling, consider renting bikes and exploring the town’s cycle lanes and seafront promenade together. Or book a guided bike tour. With electric bikes also available at hire shops across town, you won’t have to worry about getting out of breath pedalling and holding a conversation for you — the e-powered bicycle will do most of the work for you. Best of all, if you have your own wheels already, this date idea needn’t cost you anything at all. Although you could make a pitstop for a coffee en route, which brings us onto…
5 Have a cuppa and a cake at Blossom Cafe Bar
This new addition to Brighton’s cafe scene is found on Fenchurch Walk. The family-run establishment opened in June 2023, with a menu of burgers, homemade cakes, all-day breakfast and cocktails — including gluten-free and vegan options. With a flower wall and wings made of flowers (brought across from Poland) it has a romantic backdrop that’s perfect if you want to take some selfies together. But the casual vibe and mix of clientele ensures your date will feel relaxed and low pressure. There’s also outdoor seating to catch some rays and the venue is dog friendly, so you can bring your furry wingman or wing woman along to meet your prospective lover (dogs are a great judge of character!).
6 Go for a drink in a rooftop bar
The sunny climate and sea air of Brighton make it conducive to rooftop drinking. Opt for an alfresco date on one of the many terraces around here. Some examples of bars and clubs with elevated outdoor seating include Patterns, with its south-facing wood-decked terrace; The Walrus, a pub which has been around for two centuries; and The Setting Sun, a magical spot for a romantic Golden Hour beverage.
Haven’t got anyone to enjoy these fun date ideas in Brighton with? Well, that can change in one evening. We have you covered with our super inclusive speed dating events in East Sussex, where you can meet and match a range of eligible south coast singles and take your dating life to the next level.
Related Questions
How many hours should a first date be?
Overall, a first date will usually be between one and two hours. However, you should factor in these three factors: the personalities of the individuals involved (some people tire more easily than others when it comes to small talk and new encounters), the activities planned and the chemistry between you.
When should you end a first date?
Try to end on a high — if you feel yourselves starting to run out of conversation, this may be enough for day one. It can be easier to set expectations ahead of time or plan an activity with an endpoint. This way it’s obvious when you’re done and you’re not left wrangling with when and how to call it.
What should I text after a first date?
Always begin with a thank you to them for going along. Then express how you felt about the date (be gentle and kind if this is the point at which you want to let them know there won’t be a repeat). If you’re keen, let them know you’d like to do it again and end your message with an open-ended question to encourage a response. For example, "How did the rest of your day go?" or "Do you fancy catching that new film we talked about?".