By Andy, founder
A drink in the pub is fine. But Bristol has clifftop views, a working harbour, free museums and big green spaces on its doorstep, 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. Clifton Down and the Suspension Bridge
Walk across the Downs to the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Observatory, with the Avon Gorge below you. It's public, easy to find and there's always something to look at. Check the weather first.
2. Brandon Hill and Cabot Tower
A small hill park close to the centre, with a tower you can climb for a view over the city. Short, simple and easy to extend with a coffee afterwards. Check the tower's opening times before you go.
3. Ashton Court Estate
Open parkland, woodland and views back over the city, just across the river from the centre. Plenty of routes to choose from, so pick a short loop and see how the conversation goes.
4. Leigh Woods
Woodland on the far side of the Avon Gorge, reached by walking across the Suspension Bridge. A walk here gives you plenty to talk about. Wear sensible shoes and check the weather first.
5. Blaise Castle Estate
Woodland, lawns and a little castle folly in Henbury, on the north west edge of the city. A lovely first date for anyone who likes a wander and a good view.
Culture and a bit of shelter
6. Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
Central, on Queen's Road, and warm and dry inside. Talking about what you're looking at is a natural icebreaker. Check opening times before you go.
7. M Shed
A museum about the city's own story, right on the harbourside. It's a good conversation starter, and there's plenty of waterfront to walk afterwards. Check opening times first.
8. Arnolfini or Watershed
Two well loved places on the harbourside: Arnolfini for contemporary art and Watershed for cinema, with a café and bar. A relaxed way to spend an hour or two together.
9. St Nicholas Market
A covered market in the Old City, with plenty of stalls and places to grab something to eat. It's busy, easy to wander round and there's always something to talk about. Check opening days before you go.
10. The SS Great Britain
Brunel's ship, now a museum at the Great Western Dockyard. It makes a good, unhurried afternoon out. Check opening times and ticket prices before you set off.
Keep it simple
11. A coffee on Gloucester Road, Park Street or in Clifton Village
All three have plenty of independent cafés and places to sit. Short, low key and easy to extend if it's going well.
12. A show at the Bristol Old Vic or the Bristol Beacon
From theatre to concerts, comedy and dance, 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.
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