Summer is coming, which means it’s time to shine a light on some North East date ideas, depending on where your relationship is at…
Listen up, as a painfully single girl (me) guides you through North East date night ideas based on how serious your relationship is. Because let’s face it, it’s easy to overthink plans, and there are so many great hidden gems in the region that need some extra TLC.
So, if you’ve just matched with a hottie on Tinder or have been going out for ages, you’re bound to find something that tickles your fancy.
North East date ideas based on how serious your relationship is
For talking stages and first dates
If you ask me, the perfect thing to do on a first date is go out for drinks. Why? Obviously, to calm down your nerves. Some of my fave spots for this are Tokyo or Alvinos. It’s never too full of people and the music isn’t too loud either, making it a perfect setting to sip on a cocktail (that he pays for, of course) and chat.
Alternatively, if you don’t feel like drinking, I would suggest having a stroll through either a Tynemouth Market or the Quayside, with a coffee in your hand. It’s not as boring as a walk, and there’s plenty for you two to talk about as you browse some of the region’s lovely independent vendors.
For situationships (and trying to turn them into relationships)
Okay, so you’ve got past the awkward stage – now it’s time to do some sort of activity together. I would suggest mini golf at Golf Fang (formerly known as Ghetto Golf) or opt for a film and dinner (the classic). If you’re after something a little more luxe, I would suggest Everyman Cinema.
For a post-film debrief, head to Victors on the Quayside (a perfect opportunity to snap some photos for Insta, as the place is simply dreamy), or head to my all-time fave – Gino’s. I mean, who could say no to Italian food?
Serious relationship
If you’re both locked in, I think a romantic walk on the beach is where it’s at. Try Bamburgh Beach, Alnmouth Beach or Warkworth Beach. If you ask me, beaches with sand dunes are much more romantic than Tynemouth’s, but to each their own!
For this stage in your relationship, I would also suggest a Sunday lunch at a good pub. While you might have to drive a little, The Woodmans Arms is a lovely place for this. Their Sunday lunch is simply extraordinary, and the interior is so cosy you’ll want to come back time and time again.
Long term relationship
At this point, say goodbye to date nights. You might find yourselves staying in a lot, ordering takeaway, running errands, rewatching the same old shows and sitting in silence (but it’s fine, right?).
However, if you’re lucky enough to have a partner (I usually hate that word but it works here) who understands that date nights don’t just die in the longevity of your relationship, I think it’s the perfect chance to swap daily routine catch-ups for some new experiences together. Try paint & sip events, Battlekart in Gateshead, Flight Simulator Centre, Skate Island and Escape rooms. Honestly, the North East is full of alternative date night ideas – all you have to do is try them.
Dating in the North East
I think dating in the North East can be fun, provided the person you’re with is fun to hang out with in the first place. Once you’ve secured that person, enjoy all stages of dating, as each of them is fun in its own way.
Or ignore all of this and just go for a pint instead!