By Andy, founder
A drink in the pub is fine. But Greater Manchester is full of parks, canals, free galleries and moorland on the doorstep, and a first date with something to do takes the pressure off: you're side by side, there's always something to talk about, and it's easy to end early if the spark isn't there. Here are twelve ideas from around the city and beyond.
Out in the open
1. Heaton Park
One of the biggest city parks in Europe, in north Manchester. Walk up to the temple for the view back over the city, or wander round the boating lake. Free, and a great way to see if you get on.
2. Castlefield's canals
Where the Romans built their fort and the Bridgewater Canal arrived. Stroll the towpaths under the old railway viaducts, then find somewhere by the water for a drink.
3. Salford Quays and The Lowry
Walk the waterfront at Salford Quays, then pop into The Lowry to see the paintings. The galleries are free, and there's plenty to talk about.
4. Dunham Massey
A National Trust estate near Altrincham, with a deer park, old trees and a grand house. A gentle walk among the deer is a lovely, relaxed date. Check parking and entry prices before you go.
5. Dovestone Reservoir
Up in Saddleworth, on the edge of the Peak District. The walk round the reservoir is fairly flat, with the moors all around. Wrap up, and take a flask.
Culture and a bit of shelter
6. Manchester Art Gallery
Free, central and full of surprises, from Pre-Raphaelite paintings to modern work. Talking about what you're looking at is a natural icebreaker.
7. The John Rylands Library
A Victorian Gothic library on Deansgate that looks more like a cathedral. Free to visit, quiet and quite magical.
8. Manchester Museum
On Oxford Road, with everything from dinosaurs to ancient Egypt. Free, and there's always something to point at.
9. The Whitworth
A free gallery set in Whitworth Park, with a glass-walled café looking out over the trees. Art first, then a coffee.
10. A wander round the Northern Quarter
Independent shops, record stores, street art and more cafés than you can count. A relaxed place to wander, with plenty of spots to sit down and talk.
Keep it simple
11. A brew in Chorlton or Didsbury
Meet for a coffee in one of the independent cafés. Short, low-key and easy to extend if it's going well.
12. A gig
From the Albert Hall to Band on the Wall and the Bridgewater Hall, there's always something on in Manchester. Something to talk about on the way home.
A few tips before you go
- Choose somewhere public for the first meeting, and make your own way there.
- Let a friend know where you're going and when you expect to be back.
- Check the weather and opening times before you set off.
- Keep the first date short. If it goes well, you'll have a reason for a second.
For more on meeting safely, read our guide to dating safely. And if you haven't met anyone to take on these dates yet, see who's near you.
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