Crawley is a historic town located in West Sussex, near London and Gatwick Airport. It boasts a long history, evidence of which can still be seen today in its ancient architecture. It is also home to beautiful parks, gardens and nature reserves, offering numerous opportunities for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities. There are a variety of shopping and eating options, along with a lively nightlife, so no matter what your interests, you're sure to find something exciting and enjoyable.
1. Crawley Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
A great way to start off a first date is by choosing a scenic location for a leisurely walk. Crawley has a number of parks and green areas perfect for an afternoon stroll. Tilgate Park is a popular choice; it offers plenty of activities such as lakeside walks, an animal park, nature trails and a golf course. If you’re looking for something a bit different, why not try The Hawth, a former Iron Age hill fort and a site of special scientific interest (SSSI). The area is a great spot for birdwatching and offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Other parks to check out include Goffs Park, Crawley Park, Southgate Park and Maidenbower Park, all of which offer a great chance to get to know your date better in a relaxed environment.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Crawley
Coffee dates are a great way to get to know someone without the pressure of having to arrange a full meal. Crawley has plenty of great places to choose from if you’re looking for a more relaxed way to spend time with your date; here are a few of our suggestions. The POD café, located at the Tilgate Park Nature Centre, has a great selection of hot and cold drinks, as well as a range of snacks to choose from. Why not browse the Nature Centre’s animal displays afterwards? Have a heartier meal at the award-winning Pie and Ale Café, or enjoy some afternoon tea at the Tea and Niceties Café. For something a bit different, the Oddfellows Arms has a great selection of drinks and snacks, and is a great place to sit back and catch up with your date.
3. Crawley Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
For a more cultural date, Crawley offers a range of galleries, museums and exhibitions to choose from. The town’s Museum of Crawley showcases the fascinating history of the area, with displays going back to Roman times. If you’re interested in art, take your date to the St John’s Gallery, located near Crawley Library. This small but charming gallery features artwork from both local and international artists. The popular Crawley Arts Trail is a great way to explore the local area, as it takes you on a tour of the town’s best art and craft sites. The County Mall shopping centre also hosts regular art and craft exhibitions to enjoy.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Crawley
Crawley has a thriving music and entertainment scene, with lots of options for a live music date. Check out what’s on at the Crawley Town Hall, the Hawth Theatre or the Chequer Mead Theatre. There are also local pubs and bars that offer regular live music, such as The Brewers Arms, which hosts blues and rock nights, and the popular Bar Red, where you can listen to jazz, soul and funk. For something a bit different, why not invite your date to a stand-up comedy night at the Crawley Comedy Club, located in the County Mall shopping centre?
5. Crawley Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
A classic first date option is to find a good pub or restaurant, so if you’re looking for somewhere to go for a bite to eat or a drink, there are plenty of places to choose from in Crawley. The Red Cross pub serves up classic British dishes, with a selection of ales, wines and spirits. The Poacher & Partridge offers a more contemporary menu, with a range of international favourites to choose from. For a unique dining experience, try the award-winning seafood restaurant The Oyster Catcher, or head to one of the local Mediterranean restaurants, such as La Mer or Parma.
