Nine Outdoorsy Summer Date Ideas

Summer is here! And if you’re lucky enough to have some time to get out dating then it would be a shame to waste the warmer, lighter evenings. Today’s Muddy Matches blog lists our very favourite ideas for summertime dating to get you away from the usual drinks and dinner rhythm. Remember; if you’re on a first date we always recommend meeting in a safe and well-populated place, so save these dates for when you and your date know each other a little better.

1. Bike ride + picnic

Indulge in the beauty of our countryside with an active date in the great outdoors. Whether you want a leisurely pedal or a more challenging, cross-country route, the UK has so many options. Take to one of Britain’s many canal and river-side paths for a smooth, easy ride or head to the Peaks or the Lakes for a more adrenaline-boosting ride. Don’t forget to pack a hearty picnic, plenty of water and a camera to capture those memories for posterity.

2. Farm shop + meal

Farm to fork, on a date? Get back to the basics of nature and combine a trip to your local farm shop with a feast of your spoils. You and your date can take your time choosing from the magnificent fresh produce and deli goods that are on offer then head to a picturesque park or beauty spot to enjoy your haul. Farming UK have a great list of farm shops here.

3. Outdoor Cinema

Outdoor Cinema gives you and your date the opportunity to experience amazing films in incredible locations. Plan your date with The Telegraph’s guide here.

4. Stand up Paddleboarding and breakfast

Get active, get out of your comfort zone and do something totally different with a sunrise SUP adventure.Totally romantic, the waters are calm, the sun is rising and the mood is perfect for love. Check out Psyched Paddleboarding in Wales, The Canoe Man in Norfolk and Ebb & Flo in Lincolnshire. Warm up post-ride with brunch and coffee at a local cafe.

5. Pick your own fruit

June is the best season for soft fruits, so why not plan a date at your local Pick Your Own? As well as relaxing in the (we hope) sunshine, you’ll get oodles of strawberries and raspberries which you can then take home to make your own seasonal dishes. Pavlova, anyone?

6. Beach walk + sunset drinks

Could you get anymore romantic? Add an aim to your beach walk – searching for shells or having a quick fifteen minute stop for yoga and sun salutations, for example – then relax afterwards with a beach-side cocktail. Bliss.

7. See an outdoor concert

You don’t have to have tickets for Glastonbury to enjoy this date. Around the country, parks and gardens are transformed for outdoor concerts throughout the summer. What could be better than live music in the balmy summer evenings? Be inspired at Visit England.

8. Chase the sunset

Whereever you live, sunsets can be spectacular. Make a date and watch the sun sink gently together. All the feels, guaranteed.

9. Hiking and walking

Meandering gently through the countryside makes for a beautiful few hours with your date. Plan your date in advance with one of these top 100 walks in the UK from Ordnance Survey, or grab a map and plan as you go, being sure you keep safe and have a pub in sight for lunch.