By Andy, founder
A drink in the pub is fine. But Birmingham has canalside walks, big city parks, free museums and hills on its 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 the city.
Out in the open
1. Cannon Hill Park
A big, friendly park with a lake, open lawns and a café, and the arts centre alongside. Easy to find, easy to get to and easy to extend if it's going well.
2. The canals at Gas Street Basin
Right in the middle of the city, with towpaths to wander along and plenty of cafés and bars nearby. It's public, busy and pretty, so it's a comfortable place to meet someone new.
3. Sutton Park
Heathland, woods and lakes in Sutton Coldfield, with plenty of routes to choose from. Pick a short loop and see how the conversation goes.
4. The Lickey Hills
Woodland paths and hilltop views on the southern edge of the city. A walk here gives you plenty to talk about. Wear sensible shoes and check the weather first.
5. Sarehole Mill and Moseley Bog
A historic watermill in Hall Green, linked with the young J.R.R. Tolkien, with a woodland walk at Moseley Bog close by. A lovely first date for anyone who likes a story. Check opening times before you go.
Culture and a bit of shelter
6. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Central and free to look round. Talking about what you're looking at is a natural icebreaker, and it's warm and dry inside.
7. The Jewellery Quarter
Independent shops, workshops and cafés just north west of the centre. A relaxed place to wander, with plenty of spots to sit down and talk.
8. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Glasshouses and gardens in Edgbaston. It's calm and easy to chat in. Check opening times and ticket prices before you set off.
9. The Barber Institute of Fine Arts
A small, well loved art gallery at the University of Birmingham. It's a quiet, unhurried place to spend an hour together. Check opening times first.
10. The Library of Birmingham
Take the escalators up to the terraces and the rooftop garden for a view over the city. A good one for a short, relaxed first meeting. Check opening times before you go.
Keep it simple
11. A coffee in Moseley or Harborne
Both have plenty of independent cafés. Short, low key and easy to extend if it's going well.
12. A show at Symphony Hall or the Hippodrome
From concerts to theatre, comedy and dance, there's usually something on. It gives you 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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