By Andy, founder
A drink in the pub is fine. But you live between a golden beach and Royal Deeside, 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 the city and the shire.
Out in the open
1. Aberdeen beach and Fittie
Walk the beach esplanade down to Footdee, the old fishing village of tiny cottages at the harbour mouth. Easy, free and there's always a café nearby.
2. Dolphin spotting at Torry Battery
Bottlenose dolphins are often seen at the harbour entrance. Bring a flask, look out for fins and see who spots one first.
3. Up Bennachie
The Mither Tap near Inverurie is the North East's favourite hill. It's a proper walk but not an epic, and the view from the top is worth every step.
4. Dunnottar Castle from Stonehaven
The clifftop path from Stonehaven harbour to the ruins of Dunnottar is one of the most dramatic short walks in Scotland. Finish with a fish supper back on the harbour.
5. Balmedie beach
Miles of sand and big dunes just north of the city. Perfect for a long walk and a chat, whatever the weather.
Culture and a bit of shelter
6. Duthie Park and the Winter Gardens
A lovely park by the Dee, with the David Welch Winter Gardens full of cacti and tropical plants. Warm, free and a great place to talk.
7. Aberdeen Art Gallery
The city's art gallery is free, with a rooftop view over the granite. Talking about what you're looking at is a natural icebreaker.
8. Old Aberdeen
Cobbled streets, King's College and St Machar's Cathedral. It feels like a village inside the city, and it's lovely for a slow wander.
9. The Maritime Museum
On Shiprow, overlooking the harbour, with the stories of fishing, shipbuilding and the North Sea. Free, and under cover if the weather turns.
10. Crathes Castle on Deeside
A fairytale tower house with beautiful gardens and woodland walks, just outside Banchory. A lovely day out, with a café for a proper chat.
Keep it simple
11. Butteries and a coffee
Nothing says North East like a buttery. Meet for breakfast somewhere local and see how they take theirs.
12. A show at His Majesty's Theatre
The grand old theatre on Rosemount Viaduct puts on everything from musicals to comedy. 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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