By Andy, founder
A drink in the pub is fine. But Liverpool has a famous waterfront, grand Victorian parks, two cathedrals, free galleries and a coastline on the 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 Liverpool.
Green space and water
1. Sefton Park
A big Victorian park south of the city centre, with a lake, wide paths, a bandstand and the Palm House glasshouse. It's an easy, relaxed walk that's simple to shorten or stretch out. Check opening times if you'd like to visit the Palm House.
2. Calderstones Park
A large, leafy park in Allerton with gardens, open lawns and the ancient Calderstones themselves. Plenty of benches and paths, and usually somewhere nearby for a hot drink. Check what's open before you go.
3. The Albert Dock and the waterfront
Old brick warehouses, cafés, galleries and a stroll along the Mersey towards the Pier Head and the Royal Liver Building. Lively without being overwhelming, and there's always something to look at.
4. Crosby Beach
A long, open beach north of the city where Antony Gormley's cast iron figures look out to sea. A bracing walk and a good talking point. Check the tide times and wrap up well.
History and culture
5. Liverpool Cathedral
The largest cathedral in Britain, with a tower you can climb for views across the city and the river. It's a thoughtful, absorbing place with plenty to talk about. Check opening times and ticket details before you visit.
6. The Walker Art Gallery and the city centre museums
The Walker Art Gallery, the World Museum and the Museum of Liverpool are all close together and free to enter. Talking about what you're seeing is a natural icebreaker. Check opening times before you go.
7. The Bluecoat
An arts centre in a handsome old building just off the main shopping streets, with a quiet courtyard. A calm place for a coffee and a look round. Check what's on and what's open first.
8. The Mersey Ferry
A short trip across the river from the Pier Head, with the skyline at its best from the water. It's quick, scenic and easy to end early. Check the timetable before you go.
A little further out
9. Port Sunlight
A planned model village on the Wirral, with tree lined streets, gardens and the Lady Lever Art Gallery. A gentle, pretty afternoon. Check opening times before you travel.
10. Formby
Pinewoods and sand dunes on the Sefton coast, where you might spot a red squirrel if you're lucky. Wear sensible shoes, and check parking and what's open before you set off.
Keep it simple
11. A coffee on Bold Street or Lark Lane
Bold Street in the city centre and Lark Lane in Aigburth are known for independent cafés, bars and shops. Short, sweet and easy to extend if it's going well.
12. A show
The Everyman, the Playhouse and the Philharmonic Hall mean there's usually something on, from drama to comedy to live music. It gives you something to talk about on the way home. Check what's on and book ahead.
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
- liverpool
