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- 2nd Jul 2025
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12 fun and unique date ideas in Darlington
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Looking to plan a memorable date in Darlington? We’ve got you covered.
Whether it’s a first date, a monthly date night out or an anniversary worth celebrating, Darlo has more up its sleeve than you might think when it comes to dating destinations.
From pasta-making to pottery painting and everything in between, here are 12 quirky date ideas to try with your favourite human.
Get steamy at Rockliffe Hall Spa
Nothing says romance like a spa day filled with fizz, food and relaxation. Rockliffe Hall is one of our favourite spas in the North East and it’s just outside Darlington.
Think steam rooms, an outdoor infinity pool, thermal suites and couples’ massages. It’s the ultimate peaceful countryside, perfect for switching off and spending some quality time together.
Break out at Cluedini Escape Rooms
If you fancy a date night with a difference that’ll truly test your relationship, look no further than Cluedini.
Located right in the Darlington town centre, these escape rooms are great for double dates or adventurous couples who love a puzzle. Beat the clock, solve the clues and hopefully, avoid relationship-ending arguments over the final lock.
Paint pottery for each other at Create & Paint
This is the date where you get creative, laugh a lot and maybe even discover your secret talent of painting mugs.
From mugs to figurines and trinket boxes, you pick your piece, paint it and leave it to be glazed and fired. P.S. If you go for the foam clay and decopatch options, you can take your creation home the same day.
Make pasta like an Italian chef at The Pasta Shop Darlington
This one’s for the foodies. Learn to make pasta from scratch, think dough rolling to shaping and stuffing at Darlington’s very own Pasta Shop.
You can take your pasta home to cook or stay for their Cook & Eat experience, where your hard work is rewarded with a delicious sit-down meal.
Sip and sample at The Cheese & Wine Shop’s Stand & Sip events
Ever paired a bold blue cheese with a sweet white wine? You will now. These themed tasting nights are relaxed, sociable and full of surprising flavour combos.
Mingle with other food lovers or just gaze into each other’s eyes over a chunk of brie. Every month has a different theme, so it’s worth making it a regular date night.
Watch a show at the Darlington Hippodrome
From West End musicals to comedy acts and plays, the Darlington Hippodrome is a gorgeous spot for a cultured night out. Grab dinner before, drinks after and soak in some stage magic.
Don’t miss out on Strictly Come Dancing’s Dianne & Vito: Red Hot and Ready show, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac tribute act and Rhythm of Dance returns to Darlo.
Explore art together at Gallerina Darlington
Fancy something more low-key and cultured? Pop into Gallerina and explore a curated collection of contemporary art.
It’s small, stylish and a great way to spark conversations. Plus, you might find the next piece to add to your wall at home.
Fine dining without the fuss at The Bay Horse, Hurworth
Looking to impress? Head to The Bay Horse in Hurworth – a Michelin Guide favourite serving some of the finest food without any of the pretension.
Think cosy country pub vibes with beautifully plated dishes. It’s refined, romantic and an excellent anniversary choice.
Tuck into street food at Salt Darlington
Craving comfort food with a twist? Salt on Grange Road is the place to be. Their menu is always changing, but think loaded fries, bao buns and dirty burgers.
Street food style in a chilled, modern setting – it’s fun, flavourful and perfect for a casual date night out.
Share plates and cocktails at The Juniper Tree
Sharing is caring – especially when it comes to charcuterie boards, seasonal small plates and cocktails.
The Juniper Tree has just launched a new sharing menu and it’s perfect for intimate dining. Whether you’re all about the cheese, the wine or the espresso martinis, this is a must-book.
Bottomless brunch and small plates at Cherry Tree
Brunch is always a good idea, right? Especially when it’s bottomless. Cherry Tree in Darlington offers delicious small plates and an impressive cocktail list.
It’s lively, stylish and an excellent excuse to dress up in your best outfit for date night.
Craft beers and chill at Crafty’s
Crafty’s Ale, Wine & Whisky House is your go-to for a relaxed, post-dinner drink.
With an extensive selection of craft beers, real ales and boutique spirits, it’s the kind of place where conversations last hours. It’s low-lit, cosy and cool without trying too hard.
So next time you’re planning a date night, why not branch out of Newcastle? Relax at Rockliffe Hall, be entertained at Darlington Hippodrome or tuck into delicious street food at Salt Darlington – Darlo has got plenty of unique romantic date ideas to choose from.
Rachael Ellis
Creative Solutions Manager
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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