5 friend first dates

  1. It sounds obvious but, COFFEE.

Coffee dates are chill, easy, and such a part of regular life (we meet lots of people for coffee after all whether its work meetings or existing friends) Choosing somewhere that’s quite big and vibey can help things feel a little less intimate and pressured, and can make things feel more open and fun. We’ve got a list of coffee shops for your first friend dates here. 

You’re on the hunt for a new bestie / girl group and you’ve 

Platonic friendships are a lot more like romantic relationships than people might think - ultimately, it’s all about chemistry!

With some people you feel it, with others you might really like them but the friendship chemistry is not quite there. And that’s okay! Here’s some ideas of what 

2. Food Markets.

We love food markets here at New Circle Society! Because quite simply, we love food, and we love options! London has so many great markets to choose from, they’re often very interactive spaces and if you’re a little on the shy side it gives you lots to talk about. Borough market is a great one due to its location. Mercato Metropoliano is another firm fan favourite. Their Mayfair location is in an old church and offers a roof terrace - it’s know for being the more upmarket one. If you’re south of the river, the Mercato at Elephant is sprawling, busy (in a good way!) and has a beer garden area which gets vibey at the weekend - think a DJ, and dancing until close. If that’s not your thing, there’s plenty of space to eat and drink without the dancing!

3. Museum Dates

Love museums but hate going when they’re crowded and full of families? Museum lates are perfect for a cultured first friend date. The Science museum does themed ones - you can check out the details of upcoming lates here https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/see-and-do/lates and the V&A hosts them every Friday for free (apart from January, May, and December)

4. Fitness classes

There’s been such a shift away from drinking and more into a fitness space in the past few years. Classes can be a great way to hang out without there being too much initial pressure for conversation. It’s also nice to have someone to try something new with especially if you’re nervous! I hate going to new fitness classes alone, and I know others do too, so I made some new friends by inviting people to join me at specific Kobox classes. Spend some time after grabbing a smoothie, coffee, or mimosa - we won’t judge! Pilates, reformer, and spin are all good options!

5. Boozy brunch

For those who love to bond over something a little stronger, I got you! Treat yourself to a bottomless brunch - we’d recommend picking somewhere cool or stylish - or both. Cannova hall in brixton is super popular. The Botanist in Chelsea gives you the option to choose espresso martinis and other cocktails as opposed to just Prosecco (also has the upgrade option for champagne!) Restaurant Ours does a Whispering Angel bottomless brunch. 

6. for the dog lovers

I know we said 5, but this 6 is for dog owners. A cute little dog walk is always a good ice breaker friend date! Unless the person doesn’t like dogs - in which case, red flag!!!