Written by Charlotte Moore
(Pumpkin-)Spice up your autumn with these cosy and cute dates. You can thank us later.
After far too many heatwaves, sunburn and ‘how is there still sand in there!’, it’s official: Autumn is the most romantic time to date. From crisp, cosy walks in the park to spooky ideas that force you to snuggle up, there are so many ways to make this Autumn your most romantic season ever. Hey, it isn’t called cuffing season for nothing.
From outdoorsy ideas that create the perfect distraction for first-date nerves to cosy conversation starters, to unforgettable nights that you’ll laugh about in years to come, we’ve got options for everyone. Whether it’s your first date or your tenth, Autumn is the perfect time to lean into your inner romantic. So, grab yourself a fluffy jumper, dig out your favourite coat and get ready to *fall* in love with autumn.
1. Walk and talk
Looking for something cost-effective and romantic? Then head to your local park. Not only is a stroll through autumnal leaves perfect for setting the mood, but you might also find that a stroll can shake off any second-date nerves. It’s been proven we make more dopamine and serotonin when we’re on the move, which can improve our mood and ease us into a conversation.
2. Pumpkin picking
Pumpkin patches are the perfect place for a date with a difference. Most patches offer an array of fruit and vegetable picking, some even have petting zoos. And, when you’re done, you’ve got the perfect reason to see them again - did someone say pumpkin soup?
3. Pottery painting
Your local pottery-painting shop is actually the perfect place for a date. Most allow you to bring your own drinks and snacks, so pick up a bottle, ditch the rain and channel the romantic mood into art. Bonus: If your Autumn date goes well, you’ll have the most adorable souvenir to keep forever.
4. Ghost walk
Looking for a scary idea that’ll have you reaching for their hand? Then look no further than a local ghost walk. Throughout October, most towns offer tours of haunted streets and buildings. And you’ll have someone to snuggle up to if it gets a bit *too* spooky.
5. Beer festival
October is the best time of year for beer lovers. From Oktoberfest to local pop-ups, there’s something for every lager lover or IPA expert. Even if you’re not a brewing master, you can sample some brand-new flavours and even find your new go-to drink. All while feeling that romantic, autumnal mood.
6. Axe throwing
Show off your aim (or lack of, we’re not judging) with axe throwing. It’s a truly unforgettable and unique date night idea, plus you get to learn something new together. Afterwards, we recommend debriefing in a coffee shop so that you can plan your rematch.
7. Cook up a storm
There’s something about the smell of homemade pasta that just evokes that cosy, autumnal feeling. Release your inner foodie with a cookery class and create something extraordinary together. Bonus: You’ve also got a ready-to-go romantic dinner for afterwards.
8. Pub quiz
Want to show off your competitive edge? Then a trip to your local pub for a quiz is ideal. Snuggle up next to a cosy fire and get your thinking cap on. Discover something brand new about your date with general knowledge rounds and show off your own specialist subject. Win or lose, it’ll be a fun night for both of you.
9. Open mic night
Discover some local talent at an open-mic night. Watch up-and-coming performers sing and perform their hearts out. Most open-mics are musical, but if you’re feeling particularly adventurous you can head to a comedy or poetry set for a night with a difference.
10. Escape room
Forget dinner and drinks at your local pub, try an escape room. Giving you the chance to solve a mystery together and have a laugh, you can choose from a range of rooms to fit the mood. Bonus: either way, you’ve made it out and you’ll have something to celebrate afterwards.
