How to Have Fun and Meet Single People in Edinburgh

Are you struggling to find dates — at least in a manner you find enjoyable — in Scotland’s capital? There may be lots of opportunities you’re missing; so in this article, we share our top tips on how to have fun and meet single people in Edinburgh.

Things to do in Edinburgh for singles

All cities tend toward transience within their communities. And as Edinburgh has more than its fair share of cultural, educational and tourism-based establishments, it frequently welcomes those working or studying here for a finite period of time, before they move on to other roles. And many make the permanent move to Edinburgh from elsewhere, attracted by its vast range of opportunities and the high quality of life that’s so consistently (and accurately) documented in the media. It’s undoubtedly a fantastic place to be. But if you’re new to Edinburgh, you may find it daunting to meet people or be unsure where to start. Similarly, those who’ve lived here all their lives may find, as social circles evolve, that things have changed, and it’s time to bring some fresh faces into the mix.

How do I meet people in Edinburgh?

So you’re ready to explore what’s possible in your neighbourhood and meet single people in Edinburgh? Here are a few of the ways you can do it in person and face to face, as opposed to making virtual connections. And it’s not just all about the end result of falling in love, because we’re sure you’ll find a whole lot of fun to be had along the way too. Take a voyage of discovery, get to know your home turf better and level up your dating game with some of these ideas…

Edinburgh professional singles meetup

Edinburgh is seeing a huge surge in its tech sector, drawing lots of software developers and entrepreneurs from near and far. Add to this, a strong existing reputation for finance (with many international institutions having their headquarters here) and the Scottish Parliament having its home in the Old Town, and you have a city full of professional people. As such, you’ll find an abundance of events geared toward professional networking. While these may not be set up with the intention of romantic introductions, they are a great way to extend your circles and make connections (for your career or otherwise). Speak to your workplace, read forums and check out listings on sites like Eventbrite, to seek out suitable events happening near you.

Speed dating in Edinburgh

We know that online dating and apps can be hard going at times. This is why we work so hard to ensure our events are fun so that whatever happens, you’ll have a good night and meet some interesting new people. Finding “the one” can often be a numbers game, so you need to get out there and mingle as much as possible. And there’s no faster, more targeted way to achieve that, than speed dating in Edinburgh. We hold regular events in the centre; you can check out our upcoming events for one that fits your schedule.

Singles bars in Edinburgh

Some venues are better suited to socialising with strangers than others. The Swedish inspired bar, Victoria, on Leith Walk, is a super friendly spot that’s conducive to getting chatting with new faces — especially during the after work period. Those who like getting glammed up can harness the late-night vibe at the upmarket Lulu and Shanghai clubs. Or for a more bohemian atmosphere, head to Paradise Palms and The Bongo Club, both of whom put on plenty of sociable and quirky events, such as rock and roll ping pong and musical bingo. And you’ll find the hub of the LGBTQ+ scene around the likes of CC Blooms and The Street, at the east end of town and Broughton Street.

Volunteering in Edinburgh

Shared hobbies and causes provide a fantastic springboard for falling in love. And whatever it is that piques your interest or ignites your passion, you’re sure to find it in Edinburgh. Volunteering provides a platform to engage with your fellow citizens, do something good and adopt a network. Working in a soup kitchen, at an animal shelter, in a community garden like the veg patch at The Meadows and helping out at some of the city’s arts festivals such as Hidden Door, are just a handful of the ways you can get involved. Volunteer Edinburgh has lots of useful information and pointers to get you started.

Which of these ways to have fun and meet single people in Edinburgh will you be trying? Don’t forget, if you need any help finding love anywhere in the UK, Slow Dating is always here to help.

Related Questions

Is Edinburgh good for singles?

Yes! As a vibrant, international, multicultural city with loads going on, Edinburgh is a fantastic place to live with, or without, a partner. It’s small enough to be manageable and build a sense of community, but big enough to provide plenty of dating potential.

At what age do you stop meeting new people?

While it’s easier for most of us to meet new people up until our thirties, it really does depend on your lifestyle and circumstances. Whatever your age and stage there are things you can get involved in, groups to join and circles to connect with. It’s just about finding a niche.

Is Edinburgh a romantic city?

Absolutely. The UNESCO-listed Old Town is an internationally renowned destination with a castle, cobbled streets, lanterns and medieval architecture making Edinburgh the perfect place to fall in love. Its parks, hilltops and dormant volcano (which you can climb) offer stunning views in settings that are ideal for hand in hand walks.