IN POST-Lockdown Britain, many people young and old are looking for love after a tough past 18 months.
This often means finding the right place to meet someone new - but the decision of the date destination might make or break the big night.
ALSO READ: Spinners has officially opened in Reading today!
Whether you're best suited to sitting down at a bar or coffee shop, or you're the kind who is looking to enjoy a fun activity on your date, here is a list of places you should check out if you're stuck for date ideas.
1. Spinners Crazy Golf & Bowling
If you're the kind that dreads any awkward silences over a table in a bar, visiting this cool, relaxed site might be the answer for you.
Spinners, based on Queens Walk, Reading, offers its indoor crazy golf, private bowling alley, darts alleys, as well as space to eat their in-hous pizza or settle down with a drink from their bar.
One review said: "Such a fun place! Glad we now don't have to travel to major cities to visit places like this anymore, so thank you Spinners for bringing this concept more local to us.
"Beautiful decor, really good cocktails and the staff were all so friendly. The darts were my fave. Go check it out!"
2. Osaka, Riverside Mall
If you're looking for a classy dining experience without breaking the bank, consider Osaka.
This Japanese-style bar and restaurant has received more than 170 'excellent' ratings on TripAdvisor, with an average price range between £11-£25 to top it off.
One review reads: "It was my first time dining at Osaka and by no means was I disappointed.
"The food was mouth watering and came quickly. The cherry on top of the cake was the waiting staff.
"Particularly Christine, who helped me with all my wants and needs, as well as being kind and attentive.
"So a big thank you to Christine and the rest of the staff!"
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3. Escape Reading
Another activity-oriented date option for you could be Escape Reading, offering a challenging but entertaining alternative to your usual date-night setting.
One review reads: "Did the Vampire Slayers with my other half, we are mid to late 30's and it was absolutely fantastic.
"Matt our host was very good, made it really jumpy in places and it was quite challenging without being too difficult and we finished it with only 3 minutes remaining.
"Would thoroughly recommend it was great fun and we'll definitely be back to do some of their other rooms when we can."
4. The Hexagon
This long-time attraction to Reading has plenty more to do than just enjoy theatre performances (but you can definitely come to watch theatre too) - from comedy gigs to live music shows, to wrestling and lectures and more.
One commenter left this review: "Attended this theatre last night with my wife to see Bjorn Again, the pre-eminent Abba tribute show.
"We had seats right down the front to the extreme left of the stage, with no one occupying the only seats in front of us so a very clear view of the stage and plenty of room to get up and dance without obscuring the view of others behind us!
"Fantastic show, a good bar (in fact, several bars) and easy access from the train station."
5. Shed Reading
And to close off our list, we thought to pay tribute to the humble coffee-shop date.
Shed Reading, on Merchants Place, is a cosy cafe that is perfect for a quick bite and a hot drink, which is sometimes all that a date needs to be.
One review read: "I had a delicious lunch in here, fresh, interesting and different food.
"I've also had hot chocolate and a brownie to die for.
"Lovely atmosphere, chilled and relaxed, Great vegetarian and vegan options."
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