Leicester is full of hidden gems and fun spots that can make for some memorable dates. Whether you’re planning that first outing, or another special date night, the city has something to offer for every vibe. For instance, you can enjoy relaxed walks, tasty food, and exciting activities.
Outdoor date ideas in Leicester
This is a personal favourite as a Peak District lover! Some of the best dates can be those that are as simple as spending time somewhere nice, especially if you’re into the outdoors. Leicester has a few of these sorts of spots:
- Bradgate Park – A little ways further from central Leicester but totally worth the journey! Perfect for a full day out but make sure to bring a picnic and your walking shoes. Really one for the nature lovers, what with all the deer and picturesque hiking routes. It really makes for a relaxing date.
- River Soar – another personal favourite for dates in Leicester. Just a simple walk along the River Soar takes you past some of the best spots in the city, particularly at night. My favourite spot is right by the DMU Campus (don’t tell my uni!), where the river sits beneath the beautifully lit campus with swans milling around. It’s a nice romantic spot if you’re looking for some peace and quiet.
- Abbey Park – Abbey Park is one of Leicester’s most iconic parks. It also makes for a great date spot that’s relaxed but still feels special. With its mix of open lawns, flower gardens and riverside paths, there’s plenty to explore for a lovely date. In the warmer months, you can also even hire a rowing boat together – fun, playful and makes for some great memories. The best thing about Abbey Park is that it’s flexible for any type of date – you can keep it casual, make it romantic or even adventurous.
Food & drinks
Good food is a classic for a reason. For dates, it doesn’t have to be somewhere fancy – just somewhere you can enjoy the food and chat. Leicester has so many great food places, fancy or casual. That is why I would highly recommend them. Especially if you’re a foodie like me!
- The Knight and Garter – if you want a date night that feels special, the Knight and Garter on Hotel Street is one of Leicester’s best bets. It’s a beautifully designed city-centre pub that works whether you’re just grabbing drinks or wanting a full dinner. It is well known for its cozy atmosphere, quality food and great drinks. What makes it stand out though, is its hidden door disguised as a bookcase in the bar. Tucked away and easy to miss if you don’t know about it, the secret space gives the whole space a speakeasy-style edge.
- Emre Smokehouse & Grill – as a steakhouse set in a beautifully converted old church, this is one of the most unique places to go in Leicester. A great choice for a date night with atmosphere and style. The steaks and other grilled dishes here are often praised for flavour and quality, but the menu also has much more to offer than just food from the grill. It’s the kind of place where the setting makes the evening feel that much more special than a normal night out, perfect for a more elevated date night.
Activity dates in Leicester
Honestly, one of my favourite ways to do a date night in Leicester is getting out and doing something a bit different. This is especially true if there are a few drinks involved. Going out for dinner can be nice. However, doing something interactive just makes the evening way more fun in my opinion. It gives you something to laugh about, bond over or even compete on a little.
- Escape Leicester – my personal favourite! If you’ve never done an escape room, this one’s brilliant. It’s immersive and thrilling, and honestly, a great way to see how your partner thinks under pressure. Even if you get stuck, the shared panic and the tiny wins along the way give you plenty to laugh about afterwards. Plus, it’s a good excuse to grab a drink before or after and talk through all the chaos.
- Roxy Ballroom – if you want to add a bit of energy to your date, Roxy Ballroom is perfect. It’s a bar with a huge range of games – 10 pin bowling, shuffleboard, American pool, batting cages, beer pong, tech darts and even karaoke. The atmosphere is fun and lively rather than quiet or intimate, with music, drinks and sharers like pizzas and hot-dogs keeping things casual and sociable.
Leicester might not always get the credit it deserves for date nights. But honestly, there’s so much you can do if you know where to look. From restaurants with atmosphere to interactive activities that make date nights lively, there’s something for every kind of date.
Whether you’re planning a cosy dinner, a few drinks or something completely different, the city has spots that make evenings memorable. These places allow you to relax without trying too hard. The key is just finding somewhere that fits your vibe and enjoying it together. In fact, that’s what makes any date a winner.
I’m currently in the final year of my Law degree, but when I’m not buried under case law, you’ll usually find me on a hike in the Peak District or curled up with a book. I love spending quality time with friends and family and am always looking for my next adventure!
