Date Night Ideas Around The Country 2025
- Camila Karalyte
- Feb 10
- 13 min read
Crack on and try out these date night ideas across the country.
Dating isn’t the easiest activity.
What to wear? Where to go? To shave or not to shave? Hair gel or wax? Planning is a crucial step in the dating game, and it can often make or break the relationship.
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket by taking your date for a cheeky Nando’s. Come on, you’re better than that. Try things that aren’t normally your type, experience new places together, make memories, and don’t let your date become a meme on TikTok.
The UK is one hell of a bombshell, so wherever you’re located, you’re in for a good time.
You don’t have a clue? Check out these date night ideas around the country — tell your date to thank us. If it falls through, that’s on you. Soz.
With Valentine’s Day coming up, couple up with our Valentine’s Day student discounts and deals to help save your student budget.
P.S.A. Valentine’s Day 2025 also coincides with the Bridget Jones: Mad about the Boy film release date, which is the 14th February. Make low-key plans and head to the cinema for a cosy, quiet evening and use our 20% off Odeon student discount.
In this article:
Date night ideas London
Date night ideas Manchester
Date night ideas Birmingham
Date night ideas Newcastle
Date night ideas Glasgow
Date night ideas Bristol
Date night ideas London
London is the bread and butter of the UK. Swanky, flirty, uber-cool, and a classic, dating in London will never be boring.
If you’re based in the capital, we’ve got some great date night ideas in London.
Food dates
To get to your date’s heart, go through the stomach. You can’t go too wrong with eating out on a date, especially in London where every street is packed full of cuisine from all over the world.
Below are some of the foodie spots we recommend for date night ideas in London.
Bancone — Italian
Locations
Covent Garden: 39 William IV Street, London, WC2N 4DD
Golden Square: 8-10 Lower James Street, London, W1F 9EL
Borough Yards: Arch 213, Stoney Street, London, SE1 9AD
Bancone is known for its delicious, fresh pasta that they handmake everyday. A little bit fancier than well-known Italian chains, but still pretty affordable. Most mains average between £10-£18.
Looking the part will help with your confidence on date nights, so we’ve pulled together date night outfit ideas for every occasion to help you be the best version of yourself.
Hoa Sen — Vietnamese
Location
22 Drury Lane, WC2B 5RH, London
If you and your date are lovers of Asian food, Hoa Sen is the perfect little hidden gem for your date night in London. The restaurant is small but cosy, and the food is authentic and super tasty.
Spitalfields — Market
Location
65 Brushfield St, London, E1 6AA
If you’re looking for more casual date night ideas in London, head to Spitalfields market. The bustling hub is home to some amazing food vendors and the vibes are cool, yet relaxed. Grab a bite to eat from one of the many stalls, including Thai food, Mexican, Italian, Indian and much more. Then walk it off strolling around the market stalls selling trinkets, clothing, and other interesting bits.
Drink dates
Sometimes the best dates are shared over a pint and a packet of crisps, or a few mocktails. Here are some of the best places to go for a drink date in London.
Swift — Cocktails
Locations
Borough: 66 Borough High St, Southwark London, SE1 1XF
Shoreditch: 93 Great Eastern Street, London, EC2A 3HZ
Soho: 12 Old Compton Street, London, W1D 4TQ
A very trendy bar, Swift is the place to be for a good cocktail. Couple up over a classic Bloody Mary or try out their tasty range of mocktails if you want to limit the booze.
Canada Water Cafe — Coffee
Location
40 Surrey Quays Rd, London, SE16 7DX
Canada Water Cafe is a little Italian cafe and restaurant that serves hand-roasted coffee, pastries and cakes (as well as home-made food).
If you want to go on a casual coffee date, Canada Water Cafe has cute, cosy vibes and great coffee. If the date goes well, stay and enjoy authentic Italian dishes for dinner.
The Captain Kidd — Pub
Location
108 Wapping High Street, London, E1W 2NE
The Captain Kidd is a traditional English pub serving up an extensive selection of beers, as well as liqueurs and cocktails if that tickles your fancy. Grab a seat by the river on a sunny evening and you’ll have the ideal setting for your date. Just no skinny dipping, please.
Entertainment dates
Spice things up by straying away from classic dinner dates and do something fun together.
Backyard Comedy Club — Comedy
Location
231 Cambridge Heath Rd, Bethnal Green, E2 0EL
Nothing brings people together quite like laughing. Take your date to the Backyard Comedy Club for a show. The venue has shows on basically every night, so choose one that catches your eye and go for a laugh together. Laughter is the best medicine. They also serve food and drink in case you need to wet your whistle.
Monopoly Lifesized — Immersive experience
Location
213-215, Tottenham Court Road, W1T 7PS
Take your love of board games to the extreme and get competitive on your date night with Monopoly Lifesized. The immersive gaming experience brings Monopoly to life — play on lifesized boards and bring your character out into the real world. This would make a great date night idea for double dates, too!
Social Pottery — Pottery painting
Locations
Studio 136 (painting experience): 136-138 Kentish Town Road, London, NW1 9QB
Studio 43 (making experience): 43 Carol St, London, NW1 0HT
Studio 221 (making experience): 221-223 Royal College Street, London, NW1 9LT
Embrace your creative side and show off your skills with pottery painting (or making). You can find a slot that allows you to bring booze and some snacks, making it a fun-filled date. Getting to know each other over some peaceful painting? Perfection.
London is not easy on the wallet. Don’t worry though, we’ve got the best cheap date ideas in London that won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
Date night ideas Manchester
Manchester is one of the coolest cities in the UK, making dating that bit more fun. Here are some of the top spots for date night ideas in Manchester.
Food dates
El Gato Negro — Tapas
Location
52 King Street, Manchester, M2 4LY
El Gato Negro serves award-winning Spanish tapas with locally-sourced ingredients. Modern but chill, the vibes are ideal for a date in the city. The gorgeous three-storey townhouse sits in the heart of the city, so you’ve got plenty of options for bar-hopping after your meal.
Tattu — Chinese (not the Russian pop duo)
Location
3 Hardman Square, Gartside Street, Manchester M3 3EB
Promising a sensory journey from East to West, Tattu is a harmonious combination of great Chinese food and a sophisticated atmosphere. The menu is on the pricier side but it’s 100% worth it for the food and ambience. Your date is a lucky person.
Drink dates
Speak In Code — Cocktail bar
Location
7 Jackson’s Row, Manchester, M2 5ND
A self-confessed ‘cosy drinking den, off the beaten track’, Speak in Code has the best date vibes with its sultry, dim setting and expertly-crafted cocktails. They also offer a range of alcohol-free cocktails and drinks, so if you’re looking for sober bars, Speak in Code is up there.
Classy vibes for a classy date.
The Fitzgerald — Speakeasy-style bar
Location
11 Stevenson Square, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M1 1DB
If you’re after somewhere a little more quirky and interesting for your date night, head to The Fitzgerald in Manchester. You can go for a quiet drink, surrounded by vintage interior and a sultry atmosphere, or time it right and see one of the events they host (including live music every Friday and Saturday).
The Firehouse — Casual
Location
40 Swan Street, Manchester, M4 5JG
The Firehouse is a little gem near the centre of the city, serving a vibrant range of cocktails and spirits, plus a menu with delicious snacks and picky-bits. The vibes are fresh and modern, and it just oozes with coolness.
Entertainment dates
Roxy Ball Room — Booze & ball games
Locations
Deansgate: 76-78 Deansgate, Manchester M3 2FN
Arndale: Unit R3, Withy Grove, Manchester M4 3AQ
Roxy Ball Rooms in Manchester is the place to be if you’re after a fun date night idea.
Choose from games like American pool, beer pong, ice-free curling, and shuffleboard, just to name a few. Bustling with competitiveness, take your date for a night to remember and let them meet their match.
Whistle Punks — Axe throwing
Location
Great Northern Warehouse, Unit 20, Atrium level, 235 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4EN
Live life on the edge and seek some thrills with your date by taking them to Whistle Punks Urban axe throwing. It’s a great laugh and certainly something a little different for your date night in Manchester.
Date night ideas Birmingham
Famous for being the hub of Industrial Revolution, Birmingham is full of great date night ideas to choose from. And we’re not talking about Cadbury’s World…
Food dates
Chakan — Peruvian
Location
140 Alcester Rd, Moseley, Birmingham, B13 8HT
Try something different on your date night and head to Chakan, a Peruvian restaurant. With a Michelin-starred chef bringing the restaurant to life, you’re in for a trip to flavourtown. The restaurant also caters to vegetarians and pescatrians with their varied and exciting menu.
Tiger Bites Pig — Taiwanese
Location
30 Church street, Birmingham, B3 2NP
Tiger Bites Pig is a laidback restaurant with Taiwanese inspired food. Their bao buns and rice bowls are simple, yet super tasty. It’s the ideal option for a date night that’s more casual and care-free.
Drink dates
The Sun On The Hill — Classic pub
Location
23 Bennetts Hill, Birmingham, B2 5QP
A good ol’ classic pub, you really can’t go wrong with it for a date. The Sun on the Hill prides itself on being your independent city centre local; consider it a landmark of Birmingham if you will. It has a laidback setting, great pints, and a modern and delicious menu if you’re peckish.
To help get your grafting on, use our Boots student discount to make sure you’re date-ready and their type on paper.
Pause Coffee shop — Coffee & bakery
Location
Unit 2, 92 High St, King’s Heath, Birmingham, B14 7JZ
Coffee dates are great because they’re easy, breezy, less pressured than dinner dates, and you have the option to take it into the night or call it quits after one cup. Pause Coffee and bakery is a cute little spot for a date with incredible coffee and even tastier baked goods. Crumbs everywhere.
Fox and Chance — Cocktail bar
Location
45 Pinfold St, Birmingham, B2 4AY
An award-winning independent cocktail bar in the centre of Birmingham, make Fox and Chance your date night spot. If Whiskey is your tipple of choice, the bar offers a Whiskey tasting experience which makes for a fun date. Or you can grab a cocktail from their inventive list and chat the night away. Non-alcoholic options also available.
Entertainment dates
Chance and Counters — Board games
Location
Courtyard Unit 8, The Custard Factory, B9 4BG
Board games might end many relationships, but it could also start up new ones. Get to know your date and their fighting talk over 600+ board games and either craft beers and ciders, or proper coffee and tea. Dog-friendly, too, so bring your furry pals for the ultimate ice-breaker.
Roller Jam — Roller disco
Location
68 Glover St, Birmingham, B9 4EL
Roller Jam is Birmingham’s first designated roller disco, with sessions for beginners as well as high-level skaters. The venue is multi-zoned, housing a bar, food, skating rink, and private booths, too. Stroll arm-in-arm and try not to fall on top of your date.
Date night ideas Newcastle
Newcastle is vibrant and exciting, packed with fun date night options. Whether you’re looking for a classy dinner, unique drinks, or some competition, Newcastle has it all.
Food Dates
House of Tides — Fine dining
Location
28-30 The Close, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3RF
If you’re looking to impress, House of Tides is the place to go. A Michelin-starred restaurant, set in a beautifully restored 16th-century townhouse, House of Tides offers a spectacular tasting menu that’s worth every penny. Think locally-sourced ingredients, exceptional service, and an intimate setting perfect for a special date night.
Kaltur — Spanish tapas
Locations
High Bridge: 8 High Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1EN
Dean Street: 19 Dean Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 1PQ
If sharing plates and sipping Spanish wine sounds like your kind of date, Kaltur is a must. This cosy and authentic Spanish restaurant serves up some of the best tapas in Newcastle, with a fantastic selection of wines to complement your food. A very romantic evening.
Drink Dates
Mother Mercy — Cocktail bar
Location
The Old George Yard, 44 Cloth Market, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1EE
A hidden gem with an intimate and stylish interior, Mother Mercy is one of the best cocktail bars in the city. With an extensive menu featuring expertly crafted drinks, this place oozes date night vibes. They also offer low and no-alcohol options, so there’s something for everyone.
If you need outfit inspiration, have a look at our best going out outfits for nights out and use Student Beans’ fashion student discounts to help add to your wardrobe.
WC Newcastle — Wine & cocktails
Location
Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1UW
Set in a converted Edwardian toilet (yes, really), WC Newcastle is an ultra-cool underground bar with a fantastic selection of wines and cocktails. The candlelit ambience and unique setting make it a quirky but romantic date night destination.
Entertainment Dates
Point Blank Shooting — Virtual shooting range
Location
117 Newgate St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5RZ
If you want something fun and interactive, head to Point Blank Shooting. This virtual shooting range offers a variety of games alongside a fantastic cocktail and food menu. It’s a playful and unique way to break the ice or add a competitive edge to your date night.
Lane7 — Bowling & games
Location
80-90 St James’ Blvd, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4BN
Lane7 is the ultimate date night spot for those who love a bit of friendly competition. With boutique bowling, beer pong, ping pong, and even karaoke, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Plus, the stylish setting and bar make it feel effortlessly cool.
The Stand Comedy Club — Laughs
Location
31 High Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1EW
If you’re after a laid-back but fun evening, head to The Stand Comedy Club. With an ever-changing lineup of comedians, it’s a great place to share some laughs and good vibes with your date. Enjoy food and drinks while soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Date night ideas Glasgow
Glasgow is a city that thrives on culture, creativity, and good times, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable date night.
Food Dates
Ox and Finch — Contemporary dining
Location
920 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G3 7TF
For a trendy and intimate dining experience, Ox and Finch is a must-visit. This Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant serves up creative small plates with bold flavors. The relaxed yet stylish atmosphere makes it the perfect setting for a memorable date night.
Paesano Pizza — Authentic Neapolitan pizza
Locations
City Centre: 94 Miller Street, Glasgow, G1 1DT
West End: 471 Great Western Rd, Glasgow, G12 8HL
If you and your date are pizza lovers, Paesano is the place to go for a food date. Known for serving some of the best Neapolitan pizza in Scotland, this spot offers a laid-back vibe with incredible food. It’s casual, fun, and always a hit. You really can’t go wrong with pizza.
Drink Dates
The Finnieston — Gin & seafood bar
Location
1125 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8ND
A stylish gin bar with an impressive selection of spirits and cocktails, The Finnieston is ideal for a romantic night out. The dim lighting, exposed brickwork, and cosy booths make it a great setting for intimate conversations over drinks.
The Pot Still — Whisky bar
Location
154 Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 2TH
For whisky lovers, The Pot Still is the ideal date night venue. This legendary bar boasts an incredible selection of over 700 whiskies, as well as knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect dram. It’s a warm and welcoming spot for a relaxed and memorable date.
Entertainment Dates
R-CADE — Retro gaming café
Location
121 Saltmarket, Glasgow, G1 5LF
For a fun and nostalgic date night, R-CADE is the place to be. With a collection of retro video games and consoles, this quirky spot offers a relaxed and playful atmosphere that’s perfect for breaking the ice or adding a little competition to your night.
Escape Glasgow — Escape room
Location
62 Renfield St, Glasgow G2 1NF
For an adventurous and immersive date night, try Escape Glasgow. Work together to solve puzzles and break out of a themed escape room within a set time limit. It’s a great way to test your teamwork skills while having plenty of fun and laughter.
Date night ideas Bristol
Full of character, creativity, and charm, Bristol is an eclectic destination for date nights.
From intimate restaurants to lively entertainment spots, here are some of the best places for a memorable date in Bristol.
Food Dates
Paco Tapas — Authentic Spanish dining
Location
3 The General, Lower Guinea Street, Bristol, BS1 6FU
Paco Tapas offers a fantastic selection of traditional Spanish dishes made with top-quality ingredients for a date full of flavour. The Michelin-starred restaurant creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, ideal for a romantic evening with your date. A little bit spennier but worth it.
If you’re after some more affordable ideas, check out our cheap and free date ideas.
Flour & Ash — Wood-Fired pizza
Location
50 Whiteladies Rd, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2NH
Flour & Ash serves some of the best wood-fired sourdough pizzas in Bristol. The laid-back vibe, friendly staff, and mouth-watering menu make it a top choice for a casual yet fun date.
Drink Dates
The Milk Thistle — Hidden cocktail bar
Location
Quay Head House, Colston Avenue, Bristol, BS1 1EB
A secret speakeasy-style bar, The Milk Thistle offers expertly-crafted cocktails in a stunning vintage setting. If you’re looking for a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere to impress your date, this is the perfect spot.
The Apple — Cider lovers’ haven
Location
Welsh Back, Bristol, BS1 4SB
If you and your date love cider, The Apple should be high on your list. Set on a converted barge, this unique bar serves a vast selection of local and craft ciders. Enjoy a relaxed drink by the water with a chilled-out, romantic ambience.
Entertainment Dates
Bristol Improv Theatre — comedy
Location
50 St Paul’s Road, Bristol, BS8 1LP
If laughter is the way to your date’s heart, the Bristol Improv Theatre should have them rolling on the floor. Enjoy live comedy performances in an intimate setting, perfect for breaking the ice and having a fun-filled evening.
Wake The Tiger — immersive art experience
Location
127 Albert Road, Bristol, BS2 0YA
For something completely unique, visit Wake The Tiger, an immersive art installation that blends fantasy, storytelling, and interactive experiences. If your date enjoys creativity and adventure, this will be a night to remember.
Whether you’re dating casually or not, your sexual aftercare and health should be top priority. Make sure you’re regularly testing for STIs and keeping communication open and honest with your partner/s. Find out how to get a free STI test kit to keep you safe.
