By Andy, founder
A drink in the pub is fine. But you live in a city full of parks, free museums and good places to wander, 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 if the spark isn't there. Here are twelve ideas from around Glasgow.
Out in the open
1. Kelvingrove Park and the West End
Stroll through Kelvingrove Park and up past the University, then find a coffee on Byres Road or Ashton Lane. Easy, free and there's always somewhere to sit down.
2. The Botanic Gardens
At the top of Byres Road, with the glasshouses of the Kibble Palace full of tree ferns and statues. Warm on a cold day, free, and a great place to talk.
3. Pollok Country Park
Woodland paths, the river and the famous Highland cattle, all on the Southside. Combine a walk with a look round the Burrell Collection.
4. A walk along the Clyde
Follow the river from the city centre past the Finnieston Crane to the Riverside Museum and the Tall Ship. Flat, easy and full of things to talk about.
5. Milngavie and Mugdock
The West Highland Way starts in Milngavie. Walk the first stretch into Mugdock Country Park for lochs, woods and views, without having to go all the way to Fort William.
Culture and a bit of shelter
6. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
One of the most-visited museums in the country, and free. Talking about what you're looking at is a natural icebreaker.
7. The Riverside Museum
Glasgow's transport museum, full of old trams, cars and a recreated street. Free, fun and good for a laugh.
8. The Burrell Collection
A remarkable collection of art and objects in the middle of Pollok Country Park. Free, calm and beautifully set in the trees.
9. The Necropolis and the Cathedral
The Victorian cemetery on the hill next to Glasgow Cathedral has some of the best views over the city. A quiet, surprising walk with plenty to talk about.
10. The City Centre Mural Trail
Giant murals are painted on walls all over the city centre. Follow the trail on foot and see who spots the next one first.
Keep it simple
11. Afternoon tea at the Willow
The Willow Tea Rooms on Sauchiehall Street were designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. A stylish setting for a proper chat over tea and cake.
12. A gig
Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music, with everything from the Barrowland Ballroom to small venues and folk sessions. 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
- glasgow
