This is a sponsored article on behalf of Match.
Dating in London can be fun, sexy and super cheap — if you know how. Often the biggest hurdle (after matching with someone you actually fancy) is deciding where to go on your first date. According to dating site Match, most people meet up either for after work drinks, or go on a weekend coffee date. Luckily for you, London is full of bars and coffee shops and we've narrowed down our favourite first date spots so all you have to do is sign up to Match and find that special someone to take with you. Plus, if you join today you get a three-day free trial.
Coffee dates
Day dates are great if you want to get to know your potential love interest without the fog of booze clouding your judgement. Steer clear of the samey samey chain stores and head to Fix Coffee on Whitecross Street for delicious coffee accompanied by a banging playlist. If your date has a musical ear check out Lion Coffee and Records — it's a coffee shop, record store and music venue all rolled into one charming Hackney space on Lower Clapton Road. Or check out The Attendant in Fitzrovia, for a quirky pit stop in a former Victorian loo. It might not sound romantic but this intimate cubicle-sized cafe is certainly a talking point. And once you've eyeballed the food menu we're sure you'll want to spend more than just a penny here.
After work drinks
If you're cranking the romance level up a notch, book a table for two on Albion's rooftop terrace in Shoreditch, where you can sip on cocktails surrounded by the scent of citrus trees. Those panoramic views over east London aren't too shabby either. For something a little more low key that'll still have the wow factor, surprise your date with a trip to a 5cc bar. These decadent drinking dens in the basement of the Singer Tavern and the attic of the Exmouth Arms manage to maintain that feeling of seclusion and intimacy without being too far off the beaten track.
Alternative first date ideas
There are plenty of other exciting opportunities for first date-bonding that don't revolve around filling your face or spending a fortune. The V&A is perfect for cultured couples. Its vast, Victorian interiors house everything from fashion and painting to modern photography and ancient textiles — it's the perfect backdrop to find out your date’s artistic preferences. Alternatively, you might want to make the most of the summer weather. Hampstead Heath's pretty pergola is a good spot for hand-holding under the wisteria and London has lots of lovely lidos if you prefer to jump right in with a picnic and a splash around.
Got enough date-inspiration? Now to find your date. Join Match now to begin your three-day free trial. Click here to sign up today and you'll soon be sussing out where all the local singletons are. Match’s handy algorithm means you'll get personalised matches every day, so best bookmark this page — you might need to impress someone sooner than you think.
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