Date Ideas in Devon

Perhaps you’re based in a rural part of the country, by the coast, or in one of the south west’s biggest cities and towns. If you live in Devon, you’re never far from either Torquay, Plymouth or Exeter - all of which are packed with great things to do and eligible singles. Make your way to the nearest metropolis to meet others and try out some of these date ideas in Devon.

Torquay date ideas

First on our list, is the pretty seaside town of Torquay, birthplace of Agatha Christie. Date ideas here, include romantic dinner settings, a model village and underground tours.

Babbacombe Model Village

If you’re planning a first, or blind date, you might not want it to be too cosy. Something laid back, silly, outdoorsy and daytime is often the solution. At Babbacombe model village, there are plenty of fun Instagram opportunities, as you pose with tiny scale versions of the UK’s famous sights. Taking visitors through the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, it’s a nostalgic experience that provides the chance for shared reminiscence. And the surrounding four acres of award-winning gardens are a delight.
Tickets for Babbacombe Model Village.

Saltwater Fish and Chips

It’s a British seaside tradition and while Torquay has a number of chippies, this one has a stylish contemporary twist. Eat in or take your suppers and sit down by the water together and tuck in as the sun sets.
View Saltwater's menu.

Kents Cavern

A Trip Advisor Travellers’ Choice of 2021, this is one of the UK’s oldest known homes. Once inhabited by Neanderthals, the caves have a long and interesting history, as told by your guide. Do check that your date isn’t claustrophobic before booking though, as you’ll journey through a series of underground passages.
Explore Kents Cavern.

The Elephant

Located overlooking Torquay’s picturesque harbour, The Elephant has three AA Rosettes and features in The Michelin Guide. While it’s a fine dining establishment, it’s relatively relaxed, so not too stuffy for a first meeting. Meals are prepared using produce from the restaurant’s very own Devonshire farm. The Elephant is also very good value for Michelin starred cuisine.
Learn more about The Elephant restaurant.

Date night restaurants in Plymouth

The biggest city in Devon has a wealth of choices for couples planning days out. But it also has some of the best eateries in the region including more than its fair share of Michelin stars. Here are some of the top places to book for dinner with your new squeeze.

Artillery Tower

This historic building dates back to the 16th century. Looking out across Plymouth Sound, the restaurant is family-run and Michelin rated. A wood-burning stove and stone walls make it cosy inside, and its exposure to the elements outside give it a wild, romantic edge (ask for a table with a view). It’s one for the carnivores with two and three-course menus revolving around fish and red meat.
Read the menus at Artillery Tower.

KUKU

Sharing food is super cute while not too intimate for those not so well acquainted. Make reservations at this fusion restaurant, take a seat at the handmade maple sushi bar and order a platter of sashimi between you. There’s also a robata grill, tasting menus and delicious cocktails to be sampled. Gluten-free diners are well catered for at KUKU.
Make a booking at KUKU.

Cosmic Kitchen

Would you prefer something funky and quirky with nutritious dishes? Cosmic Kitchen serves affordable, hearty Middle Eastern Cuisine packed with healthy ingredients. It’s also a good venue for live music, meaning you can turn your dinner into a late evening date.
More details for Cosmic Kitchen.

Date ideas in Exeter

The city’s student population ensures there’s a buzzy atmosphere with plenty of nightlife and lively date ideas. Exeter is also a peaceful and beautiful setting for your first date. Lovely walks, charming cafes and quality eateries provide plenty of memorable spots to meet.

Clip n’ Climb

Test your date’s mettle with an exciting activity. This vertical playground is open to all ages. We recommend the Leap of Faith trapeze if you want to get the adrenaline pumping and see if they’re a risk-taker or someone who plays it safe.
See Clip n' Climb's challenges.

The Lin Den

Meeting up for a coffee is a traditional first date, yet it doesn’t have to be boring. This little gem is an artisan patisserie serving vegan sweet treats and great fresh coffee. It’s dog friendly too - perfect if you’re both pet owners - and you can take-away, if you’d rather pair your beverage with a stroll.
See the menu at The Lin Den.

14th century underground passages

Like Torquay, the city has a series of underground passages, that can be toured. These, however are a little more recent, dating back to the 14th century. The vaulted medieval passages are fascinating and will particularly appeal to history buffs.
Find out more about Exeter's underground passages.

We’ve covered date ideas in Exeter in more detail in an article covering our nine favourite spots for first meetings. So if this is your local area and you want some inspiration, do check it out.

Speed dating in Devon

Looking for a date idea in Devon that doesn’t require you to have someone lined up? We arrange speed dating in Torquay, as well as events for singles in Plymouth and speed dating nights in Exeter. All are held in popular, central venues and are run by our experienced hosts. You only need turn up, relax, have a chat and see who takes your fancy. If you’ve been before, you might like to try a different location - as the two cities and town are all within a reasonable commute, a change of scenery might proffer some fresh opportunities.

We hope you enjoy these date ideas in and around the English Riviera. If you don’t yet have a significant other, why not attend an online speed dating event in the southwest? Once you’ve made a match, you can get out and about together in person.