By Andy, founder
If I had to pick a favourite season for a first date, it would be autumn. The light is soft, the air is fresh, and a hot drink suddenly feels like a proper plan. It's also not too late to get out and about before the dark evenings set in. Here are a few easy ideas in and around Leicester.
Walks with a bit of colour
Abbey Park
A big park close to the city centre, with the River Soar running through it, a boating lake and plenty of trees. The paths are wide and there are benches along the way, so it's easy to stroll for twenty minutes or stretch it out if the conversation is flowing.
Bradgate Park
Open heathland, rocky outcrops and deer, just outside the city. It's a beautiful place for a longer walk when you already feel comfortable with each other. Wear sensible shoes, and check parking and opening arrangements before you set off.
Watermead and Brocks Hill
Watermead Country Park, near Birstall, has flat paths round a chain of lakes. Brocks Hill Country Park, in Oadby, is another green space worth a look if you live south of the city. Both are gentle options if you'd rather not go too far.
Warming up afterwards
The best part of an autumn walk is what comes next. A coffee in the Lanes, with its small independent cafés and shops, is a lovely way to end things on a high. If the weather turns, the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery is warm and dry, and talking about what you're looking at is a natural icebreaker. Check opening times before you go.
The Diwali lights
Each autumn, the Diwali lights go up along Belgrave Road, known as the Golden Mile, and across the city centre. It's one of the best known events in Leicester's year. Check this year's dates and listings before you plan anything, because it gets very busy. For a first date, an early evening wander with a hot drink is plenty, and if the crowds feel too much, there's no shame in heading home early.
A few autumn tips
- Bring a layer. A bright morning can turn chilly or wet quickly.
- Mind the clocks. The evenings draw in fast once the clocks go back, so a daytime date is often easier.
- Pick a plan B. Know where you'd go for a coffee or a museum if the rain arrives.
- Keep it short. An hour or two is plenty for a first meeting. If it goes well, you'll have a reason for another.
- Stay safe. Meet somewhere public, make your own way there and tell a friend. Our guide to dating safely has more.
Don't wait for the perfect moment
There's never a perfect time to start, and autumn is as good as any. If you haven't met someone yet, see who's near you on Go Leicester Dating, then have a look at our first date ideas in Leicester for more places to try. And when the weather turns properly cold, we have some cosy winter date ideas too.
- date ideas
- autumn
- leicester
