Come and Date With Me – Ten Unique, Enjoyable Ideas That Aren’t Just a Meal

Over the past year and a half of being together, my boyfriend and I have done a variety of different activities and been on some really unique dates. Although we both enjoy going out for a meal or getting cocktails, sometimes it's nice to spice this up a bit and do something creative that you wouldn't otherwise think of, whilst also creating some amazing memories and hilarious moments. I thought I'd share ten of my favourite date ideas that we've done, whether you're looking for inspiration or just a sneak peek into what we get up to!

Do an escape room
Although it may sound quite intimidating being trapped in a room with someone for an hour straight with the intense pressure of trying to break free, doing an escape room is actually a really fun date idea. Aiden and I did one on our first date and it definitely helped to break the ice a bit and eliminate any shyness, as we were forced into working together. We've done a couple more since and both really enjoy it, as our inner competitive sides come out full force. I'd definitely recommend it for anyone who has a logical mind or enjoys a challenge, but if you're argumentative or get quite aggravated under pressure, maybe this isn't the best idea for you!

Rent some bikes and explore
Aiden and I decided to do this last year at the Albert Dock in Liverpool, and to this day it was perhaps one of my favourite dates we've been on. With the sun setting behind you whilst whizzing around on bikes, it actually feels quite romantic, especially if you choose to stop off at some picture-perfect locations. Or you could unleash your competitive side and race one another, and the sky is the limit with how far you want to go.

Attend a gig or a show
If you have a mutual interest, it may be worth getting tickets for a concert or show that you can watch together. It feels a lot more special than just going to the cinema as it's something that you're both passionate about or interested in, and will make for great memories. Aiden and I went to watch Thriller Live in London last summer and it such a great evening, and we've also attended a couple gigs together (including Bastille, my all-time fave) which we've both agreed are some of our favourite memories together, and we have another one booked for next month!

Go to a theme park
If you're a thrill-seeker, a theme park can be a really enjoyable day out! Although there's quite a bit of waiting in queues, this is the perfect time to just chat and chill out together, and then the thrill of the rides is unbeatable. Aiden and I went on a double date to Alton Towers a couple months ago and it was a really nice day filled with constant excitement and laughter, but if you're afraid of rides then I'd definitely avoid this one!

Play some mini-golf
This is quite a standard date idea, in my opinion, but it's still a really good one. It's the perfect way to have a laugh and not take yourself too seriously, and you seriously can't beat the feeling when you get a lucky hole-in-one! Whether you opt for an outside course on a gorgeous summers day or the fluorescent edginess of somewhere like Junkyard, I can guarantee it'll be a fun way to spend a few hours!

Go bowling
This is another fairly standard one, but people often underestimate the enjoyment of bowling. It's not just an activity for kids, you can have a really fun date doing this together, whether you're cheering each other on or competing to win. If you do think that it's a bit childish, there are places like Dogbowl in Manchester which is a bar with a bowling alley inside it, which is a very cool and unique concept that definitely spices up a regular game of bowling.

Have a shopping spree
Although it doesn't really sound like a standard date, I actually think it's quite enjoyable to go shopping together. Not only can you have a browse in the shops and scout out some nice items, but why not have a go at styling each other and selecting them an outfit, whether it's serious or funny? It's also nice to have some time just walking around with no real intent, and instead just chat with each other and catch up on what's going on lately.

Try something physical
For some reason, we always tend to gravitate towards somewhat physical dates and activities, and we've tried some mad things like axe throwing and canoeing. Although these didn't really sound up my street at first, it was actually really fun trying out something that I wouldn't typically do. The lesson learnt here is that it's okay to be bad, and it's actually way funnier that way, plus you'll get to try something you never considered before.

Explore somewhere new
If you're getting bored of your hometown and feel like you're running out of things to do, why not hop on the train and explore somewhere for the day? You don't have to go far, and even if you only spend a few pounds you can discover some cute and quaint towns or travel to a nearby city for lots more to do. Whether you want to take in the sights or discover the heritage in museums, there are no limits to where you can explore!

Have a cosy evening in
As much as I enjoy going out on dates, sometimes you simply can't beat a chilled out evening with your feet up. My idea of a perfect evening together is ordering a Chinese, watching a film that I know we'll both love and just getting cosy on the couch. It's also fun to play some board games, do some baking or even go for an evening walk around your local area, whatever you fancy!

Hopefully this will give you some inspiration for date ideas, and I'd love to know any more suggestions down in the comments!