Winter Date Ideas

You've been to a speed dating event and matched. Congratulations! Now you need to meet up one-on-one. This season provides plenty of romantic opportunities to get together; why not try some of these winter date ideas...

Winter date ideas for 2021 and 2022

Every year sees different trends in going out, dining and drinking. And winter 2021 into winter 2022 is no different. So what’s hot for couples to do this season, during the coldest time of the year?

Dine in a pod

Igloo style dining is all the rage right now and it’s a wonderfully romantic way to spend an evening getting to know your date. Pods are especially popular in 2021 due to ongoing concerns about the spread of COVID; they’re ingenious, as they enable you to dine in your own space, while still being surrounded by others. So it has a private, yet sociable feel. And not only is that safer as far as the spread of germs, it’s perfect for getting to know a stranger away from others but in a public, safe place. The pods are usually clear and circular shaped, very much like the kinds of eco-pods used in Scandinavia to view the northern lights. Others are mini-greenhouses. And they’re all either pop up venues or seasonal add-ons to existing venues, frequently found beside water, on rooftops and in gardens. So keep an eye out for some near you.

Go to a candlelight concert

Another ‘big thing’ this year is the candlelight concert. But the latest incarnation of these is geared to a younger audience than previously, as orchestras play the music from contemporary bands or movies. A sensorial experience, the concerts are held in beautiful churches, ornate venues and theatres, so look out for one in your area if you enjoy live instrumental music.

Drink in a ski hutte

Similar to the dining pod idea, the ski hutte is usually a pop-up set-up. Designed to ape ‘apres’ culture and provide an Alpine vibe to towns and cities across the UK, they are often found at festive markets, shopping centres and attached to pubs with outdoor spaces. Unlike pods, they’re usually more about drinking than dining, whether it be a hot toddy or a hot chocolate.

Outdoor winter date ideas

Wrap up warm and take your date outside, for some of these crisp and cosy activities that’ll create special memories.

Go to a light night

When the nights draw in, the lights go on. And year on year the light displays become more and more spectacular. You could simply take a walk around your neighbourhood to see the decorations, or book tickets to one of the organised events around the country, featuring flamboyant and often breathtaking installations, commonly hosted in forests, zoos, parkland and at Botanic Gardens.

Follow an app-based city tour

If you want to get out and about with an activity that’ll keep you occupied and give you something to talk about, try a self-guided tour of the nearest city. Some are free, with more involved apps charging a small fee (which will still be less than the average night out). Once you’re done you can decide whether to continue the date and go on to a bar or restaurant.

Sledging

No, it's not just for kids. We're seeing regular snowfall across the UK each year. So take the opportunity when it comes, grab a sledge and hit some slopes near you. They don't have to be steep, just a small hill will do. And with thrills and spills guaranteed, it's bound to get you laughing together and embracing your playful side.

Where should I go on a first date in the winter?

Let’s take a look at some more options to make the most of the season with your new squeeze.

Meet in a speakeasy

Not a new trend, but an enduring one, the speakseasy is here to stay. And while few of us want to huddle in a secret basement bar on a glorious summer evening, come December and January it’s a total treat. You may have to do some research to find one near you (and work out how to get in), but rest assured, if you live in a big town or city, there’s likely to be several, all with inventive cocktail menus. Most have an intimate atmosphere befitting a first date and aren’t too rowdy, ensuring you can hear each other speak, even on a Saturday night.

Attend a Burns Supper

The winter festivities don't end after New Year. January also has its share of high days and holidays, including the annual celebration of the Scottish Bard, Rabbie Burns. These events happen across the country on the 25th and the weekends before and after. Tuck into some haggis, neeps and tatties and enjoy a wee dram and possibly some ceilidh dancing together.

Hit the charity shops

Post-Christmas, the charity shops become veritable treasure troves. As people donate their unwanted gifts in large quantities, it's rich pickings for those who love to hunt through the bric a brac. This won't suit those who prefer a more ordered and predictable style of shopping. But if you both enjoy some pre-loved bounty, take an afternoon out rifling through the shelves together. Not only does it make for an unusual date idea, but it is also an eco-friendly one. And if you spend some money, it'll help charitable organisations to raise much-needed funds.

If you’re yearning for a date, but are struggling to meet the right person, why not consider coming to a speed dating event this winter? Or, if you’ve been before, come along again. It’s a completely different mix of people each time, making every night entirely unique. And you never know, you might find love in time for Christmas.

Related Questions

What is a romantic date idea?

What constitutes romance is quite subjective, especially now. Traditionally, flowers, wine, candlelit dinners and strolls at sunset were considered to be particularly amorous. But they’re not to everyone’s taste. If you’re unsure what your date might find romantic, ask them. And you can check out our blog for specific date ideas in the UK’s major towns and cities.

How can I have fun in the winter?

The short days and dark nights of winter can leave many of us feeling blue in January. So planning in plenty of fun things to do, especially those that get you outside to soak up as much vitamin D as possible, is important. Try some of our date ideas (they can be enjoyed with your mates too) and you’re sure to brighten up these months.