You’ve been chatting on the app, and have exchanged numbers: and now it’s finally time to meet. While finding the right romantic match is not an easy task even on a good day, it doesn’t have to feel like a repetitive chore just because we want to find someone compatible. Instead, it can become a fun journey of meeting new people and having memorable new experiences. So, we’ve put together a list of first date ideas in Edinburgh that will boost serotonin levels and won’t seem as repetitive. And not to mention, it’s just in time for Valentine’s day!
1. Have a laugh at a stand-up comedy show
Edinburgh has an abundance of comedy performances that won’t break the bank. For example, The Stand Comedy Club hosts Red Raw every Monday, an open-mic night where ten acts face the audience with their brand new sets. It’s sometimes the first time on stage for some of the acts, as well as more seasoned performers trying out new material.
The event is officially the best open-mic night in the UK, so you will have a great time no matter what: even if a couple of acts don’t hit the spot. The entry is also only £5, so it’s a great wee spot if you’re looking to treat someone to a night filled with belly laughs. Plus, you can just come early to have a drink and a chat beforehand as there’s a bar.
2. Try your luck at an escape room
While this one can bring out some questionable traits in all of us, it can also be a great laugh if you’re dealing with someone who doesn’t take themselves too seriously. While you can’t be sure which side of someone you’re gonna get in any given situation, going to an escape room is definitely one of the more unique first date ideas.
If you’re not afraid of being locked in a room with someone for an hour (there’s usually an actor helping solve the mysteries in the too, by the way), you can show off your intellectual skills at the Department Of Magic. You will be solving enchanting mysteries, figuring out endearing combinations and making potions and lotions to unlocking the secrets forgotten by many.
3. Play retro games at an arcade games bar
The first thought that came to mind after visiting NQ64 was that this is such a good date spot. You can play Mario Kart, Guitar Hero or Virtua Tennis all while sipping on some creative cocktails. What is more, the venue is decked in neon décor and plays some proper throwback tunes. It is walk-ins only, so just show up and have the best time by letting that inner child roam free accompanied by some mischevous competitiveness.
4. Check out an art gallery
One thing is clear: Edinburgh is not short of museums and art galleries. The sophisticated splendour that and art gallery offers makes for an endearing first date idea. You can admire art, talk about ideas, look at art you can’t afford, and meander through the energy-filled rooms, followed by a coffee stop. Check out the available exhibitions The Fine Art Society, where no appointments are needed to be booked in advance. Scottish National Portrait Gallery is also a great idea, even if it’s an obvious choice. It’s always a pleasure to explore the remarkable buildings and the history of Scotland and its people.
5. Play beer pong, go bowling, sing karaoke or have a go at curling at Roxy Lanes
Roxy Lanes offers bowling, batting cages, beer pong, ice-free curling and karaoke booths, to name a few, so be prepared for a date like no other. There are plenty of activities to choose from, and your love interest is surely not gonna get bored with all these first-date ideas on offer.
On top of a bowling alley with ten-pin and duck-pin bowling, guests can also enjoy batting cages, karaoke rooms, or ice-free curling. Plus, American pool, shuffleboard, basketball and beer pong are also welcome additions for the competitive ones out there.
6. Channel your inner artists together at Neon Brush
Get to know your date by taking them to one of Neon Brush’s luminous sip and paint sessions in Edinburgh. In a dimly-lit setting, you and your partner will unlock your creativity using bright neon paints that glow up under UV lights. You’ll be free to sip on a refreshing drink in the process, and a professional artist will also be on hand in case either of you are stuck for some inspo.
7. Check out Scotland’s first funfair games experience for adults with some cocktails
The suggestively named Fayre Play is a pop-up funfair games experience for adults venue in our fair city. With a “nostalgia-packed adventure” of funfair games and enough cocktails for a small village, it’s an excellent reminder that you should never skip Fayre Play. After you’re done with playing around, you can adjourn downstairs where you’ll find a wee bar and a beer garden with board games. Whether you’re after a gourmet burger or going all out with some delish cocktails, it’s a sure-fire success when it comes to first-date ideas.
8. Go to a boozy brunch at this central steakhouse
A boozy brunch with lots meat? Count us in! Enjoy two hours of fun at Bar + Block Edinburgh on Princes Street, indulging in gourmet burgers, beverages and a good chat. Thankfully, you won’t get too buzzed to make a fool of yourself on the brunch, as it includes two drinks per person and two courses of your choice for £28. The general offer includes either prosecco or Pravha, yet those keen on cocktails can upgrade for an extra £10.
9. Dive into a huge ball pit
For a first date, try something different and let your inner child out to play at Ballie Ballerson’s ball pit for adults. Ballie Ballerson is situated on Forrest Road, where the venue spans over two floors and is ready to welcome 300 visitors. However, please don’t go too hard on the cocktails beforehand, as you have to be sober enough to drive to be able to enter the ball pit, and let’s face it: it’s probably not the best idea to get too smashed on a first date. Plus, there’s a huge slide you can go down on after you’re done throwing balls into your pal’s head and nearly drowning in said balls, especially if you’re short like me.
10. Enjoy a not so light-hearted Candlelight concert
Is it going to be a barrel of laughs? Not likely, unless you’re the kind of people who burst into laughter in somewhat serious settings. Nonetheless, it wouldn’t be a list of first date spots without a live gig. So, a Candlelight concert is a relaxed experience featuring skilled musicians performing renditions of iconic music.
What’s more, taking place at incredible venues, Candlelight is a lively event combining unique places with one-of-a-kind songs for a romantic yet easygoing atmosphere.