By Andy, founder
A drink in the pub is fine. But Belfast has a hill with a castle on it, a river towpath, botanic gardens, a big Victorian market and a waterfront, 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. The Botanic Gardens and the Palm House
A public park in south Belfast, with the Victorian Palm House and the Ulster Museum next door. It's easy to find, simple to walk round and there's always something to look at. Check the weather first.
2. Cave Hill and Belfast Castle
A walk up Cave Hill gives you a view over the city and Belfast Lough, and the castle sits on the slopes below. Pick a short route to start with and see how the conversation goes. Wear sensible shoes.
3. The Lagan towpath
The towpath follows the river out of the city from Stranmillis. It's flat, pretty and easy to turn back from whenever you like, which suits a first date.
4. Ormeau Park
Open parkland on the edge of the city centre, with plenty of paths and benches. A simple walk followed by a coffee close by is hard to beat.
5. Crawfordsburn Country Park
Woodland and a beach on the North Down coast, a short trip from the city. A lovely first date for anyone who likes a wander and the sea air. Check the weather and how you'll get there before you set off.
Culture and a bit of shelter
6. The Ulster Museum
In the Botanic Gardens, and warm and dry inside. Talking about what you're looking at is a natural icebreaker. Check opening times before you go.
7. St George's Market
A covered Victorian market in the city centre, with food, crafts and music at weekends. It's busy, easy to wander round and there's always something to talk about. Check opening days before you go.
8. The Titanic Quarter
Titanic Belfast sits on the waterfront where the ship was built, and there's plenty of quayside to walk afterwards. It makes a good, unhurried afternoon out. Check opening times and ticket prices before you set off.
9. The Cathedral Quarter and the MAC
The streets around St Anne's Cathedral have street art, cafés and bars, and the MAC arts centre is close by. Wander, look at the murals and see where the afternoon takes you.
10. Carrickfergus Castle and harbour
A short trip out of the city, with a Norman castle beside the harbour. It makes a nice half day and gives you a reason to get out of town together. Check opening times and travel first.
Keep it simple
11. A coffee on the Lisburn Road, the Ormeau Road or in Ballyhackamore
All three have plenty of places to sit and a good mix of cafés. Short, low key and easy to extend if it's going well.
12. A show at the Grand Opera House or the Lyric Theatre
From theatre to music and comedy, 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.
- first-dates
- date-ideas
- belfast
