By Andy, founder
Winter in Derby is dark and chilly, but it has its own charm: frosty mornings in the parks, the city lit up for Christmas and a warm welcome by the fire. If you've been waiting for the right moment to meet someone, the quieter months are a good time to do it. Here are some easy winter dates to try.
Out in the weather
Take a frosty walk in Darley Park
A bright, cold morning by the Derwent in Darley Park or Markeaton Park is one of the best things about a Derby winter. Walking side by side takes the pressure off, and it's easy to extend if it's going well.
Blow away the cobwebs in the Peak District
A walk through Dovedale or round Carsington Water on a clear winter's day is bracing and beautiful. Follow it with a hot drink somewhere warm. Check the weather first and wrap up well.
Wander round Elvaston Castle Country Park
The woods and lake are peaceful in winter, and a crisp walk here is a lovely way to spend an afternoon together.
Warm and cosy
Find a fireside pub
From the Cathedral Quarter to the villages around the city, there are plenty of old pubs with a fire and a quiet corner. For a first date, a weekday afternoon is ideal: calm, unhurried and easy to leave after one drink if you'd like to.
Visit a museum or gallery
Derby Museum and Art Gallery and the Museum of Making are both free. Talking about what you're looking at is a natural icebreaker, and it's warm and dry inside.
Share a proper afternoon tea
A tearoom on a cold afternoon is hard to beat. Add a slice of cake or a Bakewell pudding, and you've got something to talk about straight away.
Festive and seasonal
From late November, the city centre lights up for Christmas, with lights and festive stalls around the Cathedral Quarter. A stroll with a hot chocolate makes a lovely early date. Chatsworth also puts on its Christmas displays, if you fancy a day out further afield (check tickets and dates first).
A few winter tips
- Check opening times. Many places keep shorter hours in winter, so check before you go.
- Plan for the dark. It's dark by four o'clock in December, so a lunchtime date is often easier.
- Check the roads. Peak District roads can be icy or closed in winter, so have a plan B.
- Dress for the weather. Nobody is at their best cold and soaked.
- Stay safe. Meet somewhere public and make your own way there. Our guide to dating safely has more.
Looking for more ideas? Our first date ideas in Derby work all year round.
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- winter
- derby
