By Andy, founder
Winter in Leicester is grey, damp and dark early, but it has its own charm: frosty mornings in the park, a warm welcome in a cosy pub and a city that comes alive with lights. If you've been waiting for the right moment to meet someone, the quieter months are a good time to start.
Out in the weather
Take a frosty walk in the park
A short walk in Abbey Park or at Bradgate Park on a crisp morning is beautiful. Stick to the paths, check the forecast and be back before the light goes. It gets dark early and the weather can turn quickly.
Stroll along New Walk
A tree-lined promenade running out from the city centre. A wander along it on a clear winter's day, followed by a hot drink somewhere warm, is a lovely start. Wrap up well, and take care on wet or icy paths.
Warm and cosy
Find a cosy pub
From the Lanes to the pubs around the city centre, there are plenty with a quiet corner. For a first date, a weekday afternoon is ideal: calm, unhurried and easy to leave after one drink if you'd like to.
Visit a museum
The New Walk Museum and Art Gallery and the National Space Centre are good places to spend a cold afternoon. Talking about what you're looking at is a natural icebreaker, and it's warm and dry inside. Check opening times and entry details before you go.
Step inside the cathedral
Leicester Cathedral is a calm, warm place to spend an hour, and the story of Richard III gives you plenty to talk about. Check opening times before you visit.
Festive and seasonal
Each autumn, the Diwali lights go up along Belgrave Road, known as the Golden Mile, and in the city centre, and it's one of the largest Diwali celebrations outside India. The city centre also lights up for Christmas. Check this year's listings before you plan around anything, because the crowds can be big. A stroll with a hot drink makes a lovely early date.
A few winter tips
- Check opening times. Many places keep shorter hours in winter, so check before you go.
- Plan for the dark. It's dark by four o'clock in December, so a lunchtime date is often easier.
- Check the travel. Icy weather can disrupt trains and buses, so have a plan B.
- Dress for the weather. Nobody is at their best cold and soaked.
- Stay safe. Meet somewhere public and make your own way there. Our guide to dating safely has more.
Looking for more ideas? Our first date ideas in Leicester work all year round.
- date-ideas
- winter
- leicester
