Castleton is a small hamlet in the heart of the Dorset countryside, just a few miles from Sherborne. This picturesque country village is surrounded by lush green fields, rolling hills and ancient woodland that’s home to a wide variety of wildlife. This idyllic setting is the perfect place for a romantic walk, picnic or cycle ride.
1. Castleton parks and places for a walk on a first date
There are plenty of lovely routes to explore in and around Castleton. The town is surrounded by some beautiful walks in the countryside, including along the River Isle or on the North Dorset Trailway. If you’d like to explore further afield, you could take a romantic stroll around the nearby Golden Cap, a National Trust site offering fantastic coastal views. Or for something a bit closer to home, take a walk around the Castleton Nature Reserve, which is home to a variety of birds and wildlife, as well as some stunning views.
2. Places for a coffee date in Castleton
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a coffee and chat on a first date, Castleton has some great options. The Castleton Tea Rooms is a perfect spot for some delicious homemade cakes and a cup of coffee, or if you’d like something a little more relaxed, The Bull Inn is a traditional pub with a wonderful garden where you can have a nice cup of tea or coffee in the sunshine. Another option is the recently opened Castleton Cafe, which is an all-day cafe serving coffee and light snacks.
3. Castleton galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
If you’d like to visit an art gallery or museum on your date, there are some excellent options in Castleton. The local area is home to several art galleries and museums, including the Sherborne Museum, which houses a variety of interesting artefacts and exhibitions, as well as hosting a range of events throughout the year. The nearby Hugh Aston Museum is also a great venue to visit, showcasing local history, art and culture.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Castleton
In Castleton you can enjoy a variety of live performances, including gigs at the local village hall, which often hosts a range of different bands and musicians, as well as occasional theatre productions. The nearby Sherborne Abbey also hosts some amazing concerts, including classical and choral music. Or why not take your date to a comedy night? The local pub, The Bull Inn, hosts regular comedy nights, where you can sit back, relax and have a good laugh.
5. Castleton pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
For a meal or drink on your first date, there are plenty of great options in Castleton. The Bull Inn is a charming pub offering a range of delicious pub food and real ales, and The White Horse is a great spot for a pint and a bite to eat. For something a bit more intimate, The Boot is a small and cosy restaurant serving up a selection of excellent cooked meals. Or if you’d prefer something less formal, there’s The Hayloft Tearoom, which serves delicious homemade cakes and light lunches.
6. Other date ideas to try in Castleton
If you’re looking for a unique first date idea, why not take your date on a tour of the local area? The Castleton Countryside Tour is a great way to explore the surrounding countryside, as well as visiting some of the area’s most famous landmarks. Alternatively, you could take part in a cookery course at the local Castleton Cookery School, where you can enjoy cooking up a delicious meal together. Or for something a bit more active, why not go for a relaxing bike ride around some of the local trails and enjoy the scenery.
