When it comes to dating, working around a budget can be tricky – how do you find something to do together that is fun and affordable at the same time? Luckily, Glasgow has plenty of fantastic options for couples who don’t want to spend an arm and a leg on a day out. Here are 10 cheap date ideas in Glasgow to keep the romance alive without sacrificing your rent.
1. Have a picnic at Glasgow Green
Address: Greendyke Street, Saltmarket, Glasgow, G1 5DB
Nice weather in Glasgow is rare – celebrate it with a free trip to Glasgow Green, the oldest park in the city. It sits on 136 acres of land, meaning it is the perfect place to have a picnic or go on a romantic stroll. The park is also home to its own array of attractions, such as the 44 meter tall Nelson monument, the scenic Doulton fountain and the People’s Palace, so there is plenty for the two of you to explore.
2. See a movie at the Grosvenor Cinema
Address: 24 Ashton Lane, Hillhead, Glasgow, G12 8SJ
Do movie night with a twist at The Grosvenor; situated right in the heart of the West End’s famous Ashton Lane, this small two-screen cinema shows everything from blockbuster hits and old cult classics to live screenings of ballets and plays, offering tickets for under £10. The comfy couches, bustling bar and casual atmosphere, create a perfect intimate cinema experience you just don’t get at a multiplex.
3. Admire some art together at the GoMA
Address: 111 Queen Street, Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, G1 3AH
The Gallery of Modern Art, also known as the GoMA, is a great way to do something different that is both free and fun. The gallery showcases amazing contemporary artwork from all over the world and exhibits change frequently, so you can have a unique and exciting experience every time you visit. There is also a lovely café for tea breaks, and a library if you fancy a browse.
4. Laugh together at the Rotunda Comedy Club
Address: 28 Tunnel Street, Glasgow, G3 8HL
They say couples who laugh together stay together – so why not make your next date night a funny one at one of the city’s comedy clubs? The Rotunda Club is one of the best places for laughs in Glasgow, with some great headline acts and tickets from as little as £3 for students. Drop-in any Thursday, Friday or Saturday night for a cocktail and a giggle, and you’re sure to have a stand-up evening!
5. Rent a city bicycle
Source: People Make Glasgow
Take advantage of some rare Scottish sunshine and go for a little bike ride through Glasgow. Nextbike offers cheap bike rentals of 700 bikes in 70 different locations throughout the city, starting at just £1 for the first half an hour. There are more than 300km of cycleways in Glasgow, and plenty of attractions to pass, like Kelvingrove and the Botanic Gardens – it’s a great way to get some fresh air and explore the city together on two wheels.
6. Visit the Glasgow Cathedral
Address: Castle Street, Glasgow, G4 0QZ
If you’re planning a trip to Glasgow, the St Mungo’s Cathedral is a must-see. The Cathedral is the oldest building in Glasgow, and the oldest cathedral in the whole of mainland Scotland – every brick and stained glass windowpane is rich with history and significance. It is free to enter, and there are plenty of tombs and shrines to explore and spaces for prayer or reflection. And the Glasgow Northern Necropolis is just a five-minute walk away, with over 3,500 monuments and a maze of walkways to get lost in.
7. Have a drink at Nice n Sleazy’s
Address: 421 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G3 3LG
Glasgow is packed full of amazing bars, but Nice n Sleazy’s does the boozy night out in style, with its poster-covered walls, cosy booths and cocktails starting at just £3.50. Sleazy’s has so much to offer, from their free Big Sleazy Quiz every Tuesday to Sleazyoke, their monthly karaoke nights. It also becomes a cracking music venue on selected nights, with obscure bands coming from all over for the chance to play there. Once you go, Sleazy, you don’t go back!
8. Visit the Christmas Markets
When winter rolls around, a visit to the Glasgow Christmas Markets at St Enoch Square and George Square is the best way to get into the festive spirit. The many stalls offer plenty of hot food and mulled wine for a cold December night, and it’s a great place to do some joint Christmas shopping or get some cute photos together. And a ride on the iconic pop-up Ferris wheel is an absolute must.
9. Have a day out at the Science Centre
Address: 50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow, G51 1EA
The Science Centre is more than just a family destination; it can also be a fun trip for couples who fancy doing something a bit different. For as little as £8.60 for students, you can explore the hundreds of interactive exhibits on display, and you can add on a trip to the in-house IMAX, home to the biggest screen in Scotland. The real gem, however, is the planetarium – because what’s more romantic than watching the stars with your significant other?
10. Unleash your inner child at Laser Quest
Source: TripAdvisor
Address: 124 Portman Street, Kinning Park, Glasgow, G41 1EJ
You’re never too old to get your battle gear on and challenge your significant other to a game of laser tag. Laser Quest is everything you’d hope it would be, from the billowing smoke to the flashing lights to the sci-fi style battleground, and it’s cheap to play, starting at only £5 per person. Test your teamwork by fighting together, or get competitive and fight each other!
