Dating doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. With a bit of creativity and planning, you can enjoy quality time with your partner without spending loads of money.
You can create memorable date experiences for under £20 with ideas like cooking a special meal together, having a picnic in the park, or attending free local events.
Looking for inspiration? We’ve gathered a ton of affordable date ideas that are perfect for couples wanting to connect without spending a lot.
From trying new food trucks to holding a book club session for two, these activities focus on creating shared experiences rather than expensive outings.
For homebodies, there are plenty of cheap date night options that don’t require leaving your flat.
Consider eating takeaway by candlelight, having an indoor picnic on the floor, or making decorations from items found around your home or garden.
Best Cheap Date Ideas For Couples On A Budget
Finding fun ways to spend time together without spending too much money can actually bring couples closer. These affordable options can spark creativity and remind us why we fell in love in the first place.
Cute Cheap Date Ideas That Won’t Break The Bank
Take a stroll through a local bookshop and pick out books for each other to read. It’s cosy, quiet, and gives you both a chance to share your interests. Many shops won’t mind if you sit and read together for a while.
Have a picnic in the park or your back garden with simple sandwiches and treats. All you need is a blanket and some nice weather to create a romantic afternoon that costs very little.
Try browsing a bookstore together – it’s warm, intimate and you can enjoy finding new reads while sharing your favourite genres.
Plan a home cinema night with films you already own or free streaming services. Pop some popcorn, make homemade pizza, and snuggle under a blanket for a perfect night in.
Affordable Date Night Ideas For Every Couple
Go bowling during off-peak hours when lanes are discounted. Many alleys offer weekday specials that can make for a fun, competitive evening without the weekend crowds.
Try breakfast or brunch instead of dinner. Restaurants often charge less for morning meals, and you’ll both start your day on a happy note. Plus, you’ll have more time together afterwards!
Host a couples’ game night with friends where everyone brings a snack to share. Board games, card games, or video games can provide hours of laughter and friendly competition.
Explore free local events like art gallery openings, community festivals, or outdoor concerts. Check your city’s website or social media pages to find upcoming events that won’t cost a penny.
Cheap Date Ideas In London For An Exciting City Experience
London offers countless romantic opportunities. From cultural experiences to quirky adventures, the city has something for every couple looking to enjoy quality time together without spending a fortune.
Best Cheap Date Ideas In London For Couples
The capital is brimming with affordable date options that still deliver on excitement and romance. Chapter 72 in Bermondsey offers a cosy spot for cocktails and intimate conversation. It’s perfect for couples wanting that upscale feel without the hefty price tag.
For something more active, why not try climbing the 311 steps at Monument? At just £5.80 per person, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views across London – a perfect backdrop for romantic photos.
The Barbican Conservatory is another gem, offering a tropical oasis in the heart of the city. Open on select Sundays and bank holidays, this hidden jungle is completely free to visit and provides a unique setting for couples.
Food lovers can enjoy cocktails and tacos at Isla Ray, a charming spot that won’t empty your pockets but will fill your evening with flavour and fun.
Free Date Ideas In London For A No-Spend Night Out
London’s wealth of free attractions makes it possible to have a romantic day out without spending a penny. The city’s many museums and galleries offer free entry, including world-famous institutions like the Tate Modern, Natural History Museum, and V&A.
London’s quirky museums provide unusual date settings that cost nothing but create lasting memories. These lesser-known spots often have fascinating exhibitions that spark interesting conversations.
For outdoor lovers, a walk along the South Bank offers stunning views of iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament. Pack a homemade picnic and find a spot by the Thames for a romantic lunch or dinner with a view.
The Thames path offers beautiful settings for couples looking to connect while enjoying London’s scenery. From Richmond to Greenwich, there are miles of riverside walks to explore, with plenty of benches and green spaces perfect for taking a break and enjoying each other’s company.
Fun At-Home Date Night Ideas On A Budget
Staying in doesn’t mean missing out on quality time with your partner. We’ve gathered some brilliant at-home date night ideas that are both fun and wallet-friendly.
DIY Movie Nights & Themed Dinners
Transform your living room into a cosy cinema experience with minimal expense. Choose films you both love or pick a genre you’ve never explored together. Add some homemade popcorn with different seasonings (sweet, salty, cheesy) served in paper bags for that authentic cinema feel.
Make your movie night special with a themed dinner that matches your film. Watching an Italian film? Try making homemade pizza together. For French cinema, prepare simple cheese and crackers with grapes. The joy comes from the creativity, not the cost.
For a fun twist, try a fondue night where you can melt chocolate or cheese and dip fruits, bread, or marshmallows. This interactive dining experience creates conversation and connection without expensive restaurant prices.
Creative & Romantic Indoor Date Ideas
Board game night can spark healthy competition and loads of laughter. Dust off old favourites or try card games with simple household items as prizes. This brings playfulness to your relationship without spending much.
Create a “Dream Date” where you both discuss your perfect holiday or future plans. Take turns sharing your visions and create a joint bucket list of experiences you’d like to share. This costs nothing but builds connection and gives you goals to work toward together.
Music lovers can enjoy making playlists for each other with songs that remind you of special moments. Dance in your living room or simply listen together while sharing memories. You might even learn a dance routine using free online tutorials.
Indoor picnics work brilliantly year-round. Lay a blanket on the floor, prepare simple finger foods, and add candles for ambiance. This change of scenery within your own home can feel special without the restaurant bill.
Budget-Friendly Outdoor Date Ideas
Getting outside with your special someone doesn’t have to cost much. Fresh air provides the perfect backdrop for romance and fun, with plenty of options that won’t strain your wallet.
Best Outdoor Date Ideas That Are Fun & Affordable
Taking a bike ride together is perfect for couples looking to combine exercise with quality time. Pack water bottles and snacks, then explore local parks or scenic routes in your area. The conversation flows naturally when you’re pedalling side by side.
Visiting a local farmers’ market makes for a lovely morning or afternoon out. Set a small budget (£10-15) and challenge each other to find the most interesting items to try. It’s fun to walk around and look at everything even if you don’t buy anything.
Miniature golf offers competitive fun in charming settings. Many courses charge under £10 per person, and you’ll bask in scenic landscapes while playing. The playful competition adds a spark to your time together.
Beach or park clean-ups combine doing good with togetherness. Bring gloves and bags, then reward yourselves with a coffee afterwards.
How To Plan A Romantic Picnic On A Budget
Start by choosing a beautiful, free location – local parks, lakesides, or quiet woodland areas are perfect. Rather than buying a fancy basket, use bags or containers you already own.
For food, we recommend simple but thoughtful choices. Cheese, bread, fruit and chocolate feel special without costing much. Make sandwiches with interesting fillings rather than buying pre-made ones. Add a homemade treat to show you’ve made an effort.
Atmosphere matters more than expensive items. Bring:
- A comfortable blanket
- A small portable speaker for music
- Reusable plates and cups
- A small bunch of wildflowers or garden blooms
Consider the timing – early evening often provides beautiful lighting for photos and a romantic atmosphere. Pack candles for ambiance if you’ll be there as the sun sets.
Don’t forget practical items like hand sanitiser, napkins, and a bin bag for clearing up afterwards.
Save Even More On Date Night With Savzz.co.uk
Looking for ways to cut costs on your romantic outings? Savzz.co.uk offers fantastic money-saving opportunities for couples wanting quality time together without spending a lot.
Discount Codes For Restaurants & Takeaways
Finding deals for dining experiences is easy with Savzz.co.uk. We’ve gathered the best discount codes for popular restaurants across the UK, helping you enjoy delicious meals at lower prices.
Many codes offer 2-for-1 main courses, while others provide percentage discounts off your total bill. Some of our most popular deals include:
| Restaurant Type | Typical Discount |
|---|---|
| Italian chains | 25-40% off food |
| Pub meals | 2-for-1 mains |
| Asian cuisine | Free starter with 2 mains |
Don’t fancy going out? Takeaway discount codes are regularly updated on Savzz.co.uk, with special offers for weeknight deliveries when prices are often lower.
Pro tip: Check the site before booking to see if specific restaurants have birthday offers – many provide free desserts or drinks for the birthday person!
Affordable At-Home Date Essentials
Creating the perfect at-home date night becomes more affordable with Savzz.co.uk’s dedicated home section. We list deals on everything from scented candles to premium food ingredients.
Look for our movie night bundles that combine discounts on streaming services with offers on popcorn and treats. These packages can cut your costs by up to 30%.
For those that enjoy cooking, we highlight special offers on meal kit deliveries that provide pre-measured ingredients and recipes. Many first-time customer codes give up to 50% off your first box.
Wine and drinks deals feature prominently too, with codes for online wine merchants that can save you £10-15 on quality bottles perfect for your romantic evening.
Remember to check our home décor section for fairy lights, cushions and other items to create a cosy atmosphere at a fraction of regular prices.
Outdoor Fun For Less – Picnics, Games & More
Outdoor dates offer excellent value, and Savzz.co.uk helps make them even more affordable. We feature seasonal deals on picnic essentials like blankets, cool bags and portable speakers.
During summer months, look for our discounted outdoor game sets:
- Badminton sets – typically 15-25% off
- Portable mini golf – often with buy-one-get-one-free offers
- Giant garden games – with substantial seasonal reductions
For adventures further afield, we list deals on experience days with discounts on activities like kayaking, hiking tours and outdoor cinemas. Many of these experiences offer midweek discounts of up to 40%.
Weather not cooperating? Our rainy day section highlights indoor alternatives like museum passes and art gallery tickets with 2-for-1 entry codes.
Bookmark Savzz.co.uk’s seasonal guides that highlight the best free outdoor events across the UK – perfect for couples watching their spending but still wanting memorable experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Looking for budget-friendly date ideas can be a bit tricky. We’ve compiled answers to common questions about affordable dating options that won’t drain your wallet but will create meaningful moments together.
What are some cost-effective date activities for couples?
There are plenty of affordable activities couples can enjoy together. Going on a scavenger hunt around a park or downtown area can be a fun adventure that costs almost nothing but creates lasting memories.
Stargazing is another wonderful option. Find a spot away from city lights, bring a blanket, and enjoy the night sky together. It’s romantic and completely free!
You might also consider building something together, like a LEGO set or a birdhouse. These activities foster teamwork and give you both something to remember the date by.
Can you suggest some inexpensive romantic gestures for her?
A homemade gift can be much more meaningful than something shop-bought. Consider creating a photo album of your favourite memories or writing a heartfelt letter about what she means to you.
Cook her favourite meal at home and serve it by candlelight for a simple yet romantic dinner date. The effort you put into preparing the meal will show how much you care.
Surprise her with breakfast in bed on a random morning. It doesn’t need to be fancy – even toast and tea served with love can start her day wonderfully.
What are the best low-cost date spots in a local area?
Local parks and public gardens are perfect for casual strolls and picnics. Many towns have lovely green spaces that provide a peaceful setting for conversation.
Community events often offer free or cheap entertainment. Check your local council website for upcoming festivals, outdoor cinema screenings, or farmers’ markets.
Museums and art galleries frequently have free admission days or discounted evening openings. These venues provide culture and conversation starters without the hefty price tag.
How can we arrange a date night at home without spending much?
Having a picnic on the floor of your living room can transform an ordinary meal into something special. Spread out a blanket, use nice plates, and turn off the telly for a change of atmosphere.
Game nights are brilliant for laughs and bonding. Dust off those board games from the cupboard or play card games with a standard deck.
Try a DIY spa night with homemade face masks and massages. You can find recipes online using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Hot chocolate tasting can be a cosy winter date. Buy a few different types or make various recipes and rate them together while snuggled under blankets.
Visit Christmas markets and light displays without spending money. Many towns put up beautiful decorations that are free to walk around and admire.
Indoor picnics by the fireplace (or even just a few candles) create a warm, romantic setting when it’s too cold to be outside. Make simple sandwiches and bring pillows for comfort.
When money is tight, where can you go for a date?
Libraries offer a quiet, comfortable space to spend time together browsing books or even attending free events. Some have lovely architecture or reading nooks perfect for quiet conversation.
Going for a cycle together is both healthy and free if you already own bikes. Explore new areas of your town or find a scenic route nearby.
Window shopping in your local high street or a nice part of town can be entertaining. Challenge each other to find the most interesting or unusual item in each shop without buying anything.
