By Andy, founder
A drink in the pub is fine. But Leeds has big city parks, a canal through the middle of town, a ruined abbey, free galleries and the Dales 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 or stretch out if it's going well. Here are twelve ideas in and around Leeds.
Green space and water
1. Roundhay Park
A huge park in north east Leeds, with two lakes, formal gardens and woodland paths. It's an easy, relaxed walk that's simple to shorten or stretch out, and there's usually somewhere for a hot drink. Check opening times if you'd like to visit Tropical World.
2. Golden Acre Park
A leafy park at Adel with a lake, gardens and wooded walks. Plenty of benches and paths, and a good place for an unhurried chat. Check what's open before you go.
3. The canal and Granary Wharf
The Leeds and Liverpool Canal runs through the city, with a towpath to stroll along and the lively waterside at Granary Wharf. Easy to dip in and out of, with somewhere to sit and a drink nearby.
4. Temple Newsam
A grand house with parkland on the eastern edge of the city. Wide open spaces, long paths and plenty of room to wander. Check opening times and what's on before you travel.
History and culture
5. Kirkstall Abbey
The ruins of a twelfth century abbey beside the River Aire, close to the city centre. It's a thoughtful, atmospheric place with plenty to talk about. Check opening times before you visit.
6. Leeds Art Gallery and the Henry Moore Institute
Two galleries side by side in the city centre. Talking about what you're looking at is a natural icebreaker, and it's easy to leave when you've had enough. Check opening times before you go.
7. Leeds City Museum or the Royal Armouries
Two big, varied museums, one in the heart of the city and one beside the water at Leeds Dock. They're good for a rainy day, with lots to look at and talk about. Check opening times and any entry charges before you go.
8. The Corn Exchange and Kirkgate Market
A domed Victorian building full of independent shops and cafés, and a historic covered market nearby. Browse, chat and pick up a coffee along the way. Check opening days before you go.
A little further out
9. Harewood House
A grand house north of the city with gardens and parkland to explore. A gentle, pretty afternoon. Check opening times and tickets before you travel.
10. Harrogate
A smart spa town north of Leeds, with the Valley Gardens for a stroll and plenty of tea rooms to sit in afterwards. Check the train times and what's open before you set off.
Keep it simple
11. A coffee in Chapel Allerton or Headingley
Both are known for independent cafés, bars and shops. Short, sweet and easy to extend if it's going well.
12. A show
The Playhouse, the Grand Theatre and City Varieties mean there's usually something on, from drama to comedy to live music. It gives you something to talk about on the way home. Check what's on and book ahead.
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.
- first-dates
- date-ideas
- leeds
