Team HLN’s recommendations for solo dates in the North East
Studies have shown that taking time for yourself can improve self-confidence, increase the feeling of self-sufficiency, as well as giving a sense of fulfilment. They're good enough reasons for us!
Get lost in a bookstore
Newcastle City Centre is home to one of the most exquisite secret libraries’ in the region, which is free for anyone to explore. Nearly 200 years old, The Lit and Phil Library has gained a giant collection of over 170,000 books dating from the 16th century. Spend time browsing the shelves and getting lost in the literature which covers fine art, creative writing and even musical pieces. The Lit and Phil is the perfect sanctuary for book lovers and a fantastic way to spend your solo time.
Treat yourself to a spa day
There are several fantastic spas across the North East, and team HLN thinks the ‘Make My Day’ package offered at Ramside Hall is ideal for a solo pamper session. The offer includes a choice of a 60-minute treatment, either a two-course brunch, lunch or afternoon tea and full use of the spa facilities. For £140, relax in the beautiful grounds which overlook Durham’s countryside and leave feeling revitalised, refreshed and recharged.
Learn a new skill
If you find it hard to warrant time dedicated to yourself, picking up a new skill or hobby is the perfect solution. Newcastle’s very own school of chocolate, La Chocolatrice, has caught the eyes of HLN contributors with its indulgent workshops and bespoke chocolate making events. Learn some exciting recipes from around the world and get taught some top tips and tricks from their resident chocolatier.
Experience the joy of dinner for one
Whoever said that you need a partner to enjoy a home-cooked meal and a bottle of wine was wrong. The team at HLN love the idea of picking up some luxurious goods from the likes of Fenwick Food Hall, Corbridge Larder or Blagdon Farm Shop and cooking up a tasty meal for one. Have a feast all to yourself with the region’s finest produce accompanied by a beautiful bottle of wine which you don’t have to share, win-win.
Visit a museum and soak up the culture
There are plenty of museums and historical attractions across the region to help you step back in time and relive the history of our region. One of our favourite locations is Beamish Museum. Explore the lives of those that lived through the years leading up to the First World War, the Home Front during the Second World War and the famous railway stations that would have existed in Edwardian times. With so much culture and history to take in, your day will be packed full of fun.
Take yourself on a movie date
Imagine going to the cinema without having to share a drinks holder with the person you went with, or hearing them munch on their popcorn while you are trying to listen to the film? Well, make this a reality by taking yourself on a movie date at Whitley Bay’s independent cinema, Jam Jar. This affordable, inclusive and diverse cinema concentrates on the movie experience with comfy seats and intimate screenings. Tickets are super cheap, starting from just £4.50 during off-peak hours, meaning you could watch multiple films in one go!
Splurge on a new outfit
We all know the feeling of picking up a fabulous outfit for whatever the occasion and knowing we look and feel good. A great way to spend time with yourself is to splurge on a new outfit. The North East has some fantastic personal shoppers to help us out if we aren’t sure about what colours and styles fit our body shape. The likes of Helenlee (Style Code) and Nicola English specialise in personal styling and confidence coaching through the art of clothes, hair and makeup. If you fancy something a little less in-depth, there is always the individual shopping teams in our department stores (our favs are John Lewis and Fenwick) that offer fantastic advice.
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