So you finally got a chance with that guy/girl/them you like, or, maybe your long-term relationship needs a bit of romantic impetus. But… you have no idea where to go, and you can’t face the embarrassment that comes with picking a date that’s all wrong. Or worse still, doing something painfully unoriginal. Luckily, whether you are just hoping to make a good impression on a first date, or wanting to create a special memory with your partner, this article will take you through the most romantic, heartfelt, and memorable date ideas around Brighton.
And do not fear, you won’t find cop-outs. Something as simple as a fancy restaurant, or a sunset i360 viewing. We all know about the Pier and the Arcade. As great as a date it can be, I’m sure you don’t need me to tell you about it. These ideas are all freshly baked, found nowhere else, created with nothing but you and your date’s enjoyment in mind.
The Lookout
The Lookout is a lesser-known spot that is a bit of a trek to get to. But, should you brave the uphill walk and find yourself at The Lookout, you’ll find the best view in Brighton. They’ll often be one or two other couples or small groups, but there are plenty of times you can find it completely yours. T
his spot may seem like another classic sunset-watching date, and whilst that is strikingly beautiful, I think what comes after is better. A glimpse into eternity. The majesty of a starry night. It has to be the best spot for stargazing I have ever seen with a magisterial accompanying view of Brighton. It’s a no-brainer, if romance and sensitivity is your goal, you won’t find anywhere near as heartfelt a date idea in Brighton
It’s a secret window to see all of Brighton, the Sea, the horizon and the humbling maw of Space. I couldn’t recommend it more as a date spot. Take a late-night picnic, with Champagne (or a cheaper Sparkling Wine) and soak in Brighton. It’s like the Hollywood Sign in LA, but without the littering, Smog, Light Pollution or Car Horns. Should your date be unimpressed, then you either need to work on your conversation skills, or your date expects more than the universe can offer.
Address: Whitehawk Allotment, 17 Madehurst Cl, Brighton BN2 0YR
Co-ordinates: 50.82373037716034, -0.11511921223530422
The Undercliff Walk
Maybe you don’t want something too intimate, you need something nice and romantic, but without any implied sensuality. Well, The Undercliff walk is a great way to get to know someone better, in a less intimidating scenario. The long, meandering beachfront walk spans across the southern coastline, stretching for miles, with some beautiful scenery peppered throughout.
There are plenty of beaches, cafes and gorgeous picnic spots. With nature’s finest ASMR: The sea spray, coastal wind, and the waves lapping at the beach, it’s a glorious way to show a sense of your romantic side, without coming across as a wannabe Casanova. Best of all is the option to walk back atop the cliff and experience two walks for the price of one. The way back transforms this walk from a cute and thoughtful outing to a scenic and memorable date. The views from atop the cliff are fantastic, especially if you walk back as the sun first starts to set. It’s awe-strikingly pretty, just like your date.
There are a lot of ways to do this walk, but I would recommend going from Roedean café or the car park for walkers and heading down to the Undercliff. Avoid walking through the mood killer that is the ASDA car park. The first place to stop and turn back to enjoy the second leg of the walk would be Ovingdean, where there are steps to take you up to the top of the cliff, and you can walk back to Brighton, along the grassy trail.
There’s usually a fair amount of flowers in Spring or Summer along the cliffside walkback. If you are taken by the seaside walk and want to keep going further, you can walk another hour to Rottingdean where there is a lovely beach and village. Or, go further still and check out Saltdean and its beach. Follow the green trail here.
The Verdict Jazz Club
The last two suggestions have been cost-free and whilst romantic and memorable, not particularly fancy or luxurious. If you want an atmosphere that’s defined by more than just you and your dates’ chemistry, then for decades Jazz clubs have been a worthy date choice. Show some class and enjoy a fancier evening whilst listening to some live jazz. It’s the perfect place to take a music lover on a first date, as there is a constant stream of things to talk about and a rich atmosphere that will put you at ease and help you forget about your dry mouth and flippant stomach.
It also makes for a great night with a long-term partner. Something with class and an air of romance to get the feelings going. A place where you’ll find fresh conversation even if you know the other person better than you know yourself. The Verdict is the best Jazz Club in Brighton, one of the top ten Jazz clubs in Europe according to the Guardian, and will ignite a flame, or rekindle a dwindling one with ease.
Address: 159 Edward St, Kemptown, Brighton BN2 0JB
Website: www.verdictjazz.com
Diner Cinema Combo
You want something really casual. Classic, but still original. Fun but definitely a date; you don’t want your would-be sweetheart to confuse your date as something platonic. The Diner-Cinema combo is still the perfect first date for those younger and a bit nervous. Or those in a long-term relationship wanting a fun throwback to those early days. It even works perfectly as an ironic date.
It’s one of the most versatile and well-loved date ideas out there. Yet it’s criminally under-used as it’s been 70 years since the 50’s and this is Britain. But, JB’s American Diner on the Seafront is a great place to get a taste of the 50’s. Have a milkshake and some fries, as many high school flames have before you.
To follow it up, perfect for those feeling particularly nervous, or the less talkative, a trip to the Cinema. Not just any Cinema though. This isn’t an Odeon or Cineworld. This is a Picture House Cinema. Duke’s Picture House Cinema. A far more charming Cinema, with two Brighton locations, showing both Blockbusters and Independent films.
It’s far less tacky and most importantly, sticky than your usual Cinemas. With comfier seats, a proper bar, carbon-neutral snacks and far less shouting kids. It’s a great closer to your 50’s throwback or ironic American Date. Though not a date idea exclusive to Brighton, you won’t find a better Diner and Cinema anywhere else.
JB’s American Diner: 31 Kings Rd, Brighton BN1 1NR Website: jbsdiner.co.uk
Duke’s Picturehouse: Preston Rd, Brighton BN1 4NA Website: Duke of York Picturehouse
Duke’s @ Komedia: Gardner House, 44-47 Gardner St, Brighton BN1 1UN Website: Duke’s @Komedia
So that’s my four original Brighton-based date ideas for anyone looking to make someone feel special. If you’re looking for something more classic or perhaps just want to know some more typical Brighton attractions, then why not check out our article on what to do during your day trip to Brighton. Or if you are stuck trying to choose a restaurant in Brighton to take your date to, we have many lists of our favourite restaurants, such as this one here on our ‘Top Vegan Restaurants’ or this article on ‘The Best New Restaurants in Brighton‘.
