The Best Summer Dates for 2021

Dating provides a fantastic opportunity, not only to meet someone special but to have fun and new experiences along the way too. Make the very most of the rest of this season, by trying some of the best summer dates for 2021.

Date ideas 2021

With the nation’s bars, restaurants, attractions and even nightclubs re-opening for business, there’s never been a more exciting time to ‘get out there’. There’s a real buzz across the country as venues burst to life, finally able to launch all the fresh ideas that have been germinating over the past year and a half.

Independent, sustainable dining

Eating out is a classic date idea that can be brought up to date with independent, sustainable dining options. This year is all about supporting independent businesses. By eschewing the big chains in favour of smaller, local restaurants and cafes, you’ll be doing your bit for the community. Choose somewhere that sources ingredients with a low carbon footprint, showcases regional produce and provides plenty of plant-based dishes - this ethical approach may well impress your date.
Look for an organic restaurant near you

Mezcal tasting

The new tequila, this uber on-trend spirit is the fashionable beverage to sip this summer. So if you’re seeking an alternative activity that’ll help spark conversation, search for a tasting session near you. Or find a cool bar and line up a few from the menu, to create your own taster evening.
Top Mezcals to try with your date

Speed dating

Many singles have reported feeling like they’re missing out at the moment. Sure, the world is opening up again. But where do you go and what do you do if you don’t have a significant other or date to go and do it with?
Speed dating provides the answer to dating after the pandemic, on two levels. Firstly, it’s a super, sociable night out - and every event is unique with a different mix of attendees each time (so you’ll never get bored, no matter how often you come along). Secondly, it provides the opportunity for you to find a partner with whom you’ll be able to enjoy the returning freedoms of this year’s latter half.
Find a speed dating event near you

A night at the theatre

Once upon a time, this wouldn’t have been a novelty. Yet having been away from live performance and movie screenings for so long, it’ll be a long time before we’re bored of cinema and theatre outings. And it’s ideal for those inevitable rainy August nights. Get back into a plush red velvet seat, grab some popcorn, sit back and enjoy this timeless date night.
What’s on at theatres across the UK this summer

Outdoor date ideas

Stay safe and make the most of the remaining warmer weather, by taking your date outdoors. If you’ve been doing this for a while you’ll understandably be tired of the ‘walking dates’ that became the standard over the course of 2020 and much of the earlier part of this year. But now we have plenty more options to liven up your alfresco meet and experience a slice of holiday time at home. These are some of the hottest places things to do outdoors this summer...

Free street art walking tours

Perhaps you’ve been financially impacted during recent times and need some freebie inspiration. Days out don’t have to cost anything and you can act as your very own tour guide, by downloading a route. Use apps, or direct downloads and choose from historical, cultural, nature-based and street art-themed trails. Or look out for companies offering free walking tours near you (although be aware that it’s standard practice to tip your guide at the end in lieu of ticket purchase, but the amount you give is entirely up to you).
Download a walking tour using an app

Day festivals

Everything was cancelled last year, but not so in 2021. It’s true that earlier in the summer, many were being rescheduled. But as we head into the second half of the year, there are still plenty of music events happening. See your favourite acts for the first time in ages and get to know your date’s musical taste in a relaxed, low-pressure environment. And if you’re not into live music, consider booking a ticket to a touring food or arts festival instead.
See which festivals are going ahead in 2021

Pop up bars

We can’t get enough of the gorgeous, creative bars we’ve seen popping up all over the country. Choose one with fairy lights, lanterns, fancy flower decorations and bespoke cocktails for a sense of romance and drama. Or opt for a themed venue - if you live in or close to a big city you’ll have a wider variety of choices here. We’ve spotted a beach bar (complete with sand and swings) in Bristol’s Millenium Square, an inflatable pub in Merseyside, a Jurassic Park themed bar in Edinburgh and an outdoor bar with vintage arcade games in London’s Southwark.
Check out the best pop up bars in the UK

Strawberry picking

A cool spring delayed the start of this year’s strawberry harvest, which usually begins in May. As a result, 2021’s crop is said to be juicier and larger than ever. And mid-August to early September is the optimum time to bag these extra special strawberries. So if there was ever a year to pick your own, this is it. Simple activities are well suited to a first date when one on one, face to face chat can be a bit awkward. A fruit farm environment is about as laid back as you’ll get and you’ll have a bounty to show for it. If it goes well, why not arrange a jam-making second date?!
Strawberry picking farms near you

We hope you enjoy trying out the best summer dates for 2021. If you'd like some specific recommendations for your own area,take a look at our blog page. You’ll find guides on cities including Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, Norwich, Newcastle, Brighton, Exeter, Southampton, Guildford, Reading and many more.