Dating advice
First date tips: relax, have fun, stay safe
First dates are meant to be fun, not an interview. A bit of planning takes the pressure off so you can actually enjoy it.
Keep it low-key
A coffee, a drink or a walk beats a big fancy dinner for a first meet — it's relaxed, cheap, and easy to leave if the spark isn't there. Hull Dating even suggests local date spots to make it easy.
Have a couple of openers ready
You don't need a script, but a few things to ask about — their interests, their weekend, where they're from — keeps things flowing if nerves kick in.
Listen more than you talk
The best dates feel like a proper conversation. Ask follow-up questions and actually listen — it's more attractive than any chat-up line.
Stay safe
- Meet somewhere public — and make your own way there and back.
- Tell a friend — where you're going and who with.
- Use the Date Check-In — so someone knows you're okay.
- Trust your gut — it's fine to leave any time.
Put it into practice
Join Hull & East Yorkshire's own dating app — real, verified locals. Free to match & chat.
Create your free profileFAQs
What should I do on a first date?
Keep it low-key — a coffee, drink or walk — somewhere public, and focus on a relaxed conversation. Have a few things ready to ask about.
Where should I go for a first date?
Somewhere public and easy: a café, a pub, or a walk. Hull Dating suggests great local spots across Hull & East Yorkshire.
How do I stay safe on a first date?
Meet in public, tell a friend, make your own way there and back, and use the in-app Date Check-In. Trust your instincts.