The ‘Dry Dating’ trend – what is it and where can you do it in the North East?

Mini Golf

Activity dates are always a good idea for limiting awkward silences and providing a talking point, and mini golf is the activity du jour.

It’s not only good fun, but also a timed activity. If you’re not feeling the love after the game is over, you’ve got a great excuse to call it a night and head home without any awkwardness.

There are plenty of options for mini golf throughout the North East, each offering a different vibe.

Try Golf Fang in Newcastle, where you’ll be surrounded by quirky art, and your game will be accompanied by a DJ and some delicious mocktails.

Treetop Golf at Metrocentre, Gateshead, is a great date night option. Enjoy a fun, rainforest-themed game – and if you click, there’s a free photo booth at the end of the course where you can make some first date memories.

For something that feels nostalgic and futuristic all at once, head to Galaxy Quest in Sunderland.

If you’re more of an outdoorsy type, treat your inner-child to a game at Forgotten Garden Adventure Golf in Alnwick, and maybe go for a coffee and a wander around the gardens after.

Beach Walks

Spring is trying its best to… spring, and here in the North East we have some incredible coastline worth exploring. A stroll on the beach can make for a great sober date this time of year.

You can do it at any time of the day, so you don’t have to give up your precious Saturday night to someone you don’t even know yet, and it’s basically free – aside from parking costs, and stops for coffee and/or ice cream, of course.

If you’re planning a beach walk for a first date, then it might be a good idea to pre-plan your route, so you don’t get lost and you have an easy-to-find meeting point. Plus, a shorter walk means that there’s less pressure.

The walk from Craster to Dunstanburgh castle in Northumberland is about 30 minutes each way and boasts some gorgeous views which will make great talking points.

Circular walks are a great idea too, like the Seaham Heritage Trail. Park for free at Seaham Hall Beach car park and take the three mile trail, ending with beautiful coastal views.

Art Galleries

Art galleries are an obvious choice for sober dating. They’re a creative space where you’ve got the focal point of the art to talk about, and it’ll give you a good idea of what your date likes and dislikes.

The Baltic in Gateshead is an impressive, Insta-worthy building with ever-changing and diverse exhibitions. Free to get into, wander around all 6 of the floors, and take in the views of the Tyne Bridge. If it goes well, maybe head to the Quayside for a coffee or a lime and soda after?

Gallerina in Darlington is a super cool space, aiming to house the best and largest collection of contemporary art in the North of England. Head there with your dry date for something a little bit different.

Markets

Markets are a great idea for a sober date. Plenty of food and drink options, often without the temptation of alcohol, and lots of quirky stalls to look at and talk about.

Why not head to a market with your sober date, and try lots of different things together? Perhaps challenge them to go and pick a dish for you, and vice versa. There are plenty of opportunities to get to know each other.

Tynemouth Market takes place every Saturday and could make for a great date day when combined with a beach walk.

Or, head to Darlington Indoor Market for a tasty street food experience. You’ll be able to know if your date is for you or not depending on their choice of pizza topping. (Pineapple FTW)

Durham’s Saturday Outdoor Market is great for a mooch too. Grab your date, and a coffee and support some local, independent businesses.