I moved to Nottingham a couple of years back and even now still find it hard to find my way around. It’s a pretty big place and there are loads of hidden gems. I think that’s the key, isn’t it? When you live somewhere, it’s about knowing those local hidden gems that are perfect for evenings out. Whether that’s with friends, family or a first date. But where do you even start! It’s so hard to explore when you don’t have a starting point. I’ve been trying to find cute date spots to go with my other half that are purse-friendly. I mean, imagine, you’ve found someone to date (Woop!) but the hardest part is actually knowing where to take that person! Especially if you’re on a budget! Well, if you’re in Nottinghamshire, here are my top 3 budget-friendly date ideas.

Wollaton Park

Wollaton Hall and deer park are based in Nottingham and really is a beautiful place to go at any time of year. From wild deer just hanging around to stunning gardens, the hall to explore and more. It’s a great place for a date. It’s usually full of people too, (better to be in a public place if it’s the first date) and generally well known by locals. If you’re still on the lookout for an actual date to take to somewhere as beautiful as this, you might be better off using a paid local dating site. Being able to find more serious people, who are willing to pay to find a great match and who are looking for Nottinghamshire dating, might actually save you money on dating in the long run.

New Art Exchange

So let’s be honest, being outside in the cold in winter might not be your idea of a great date. So somewhere like the New Art Exchange is a fab little place!  It’s the largest art centre in the UK dedicated to culturally diverse arts. Plus, what’s even better is that entry to exhibitions and events is FREE. That’ right! Free! so you can have a warm date, with some great talking points and it’s free. Winning all around on this one.

New Art Exchange is located in Hyson Green, right next to The Forest tram stop, less than ten minutes from the city centre. so it’s really easy to get too and is quite a popular area. It’s hard enough trying to find your way around a new city with your family let alone being a member of the unofficial Nottinghamshire singles club! So this is a great start to getting used to dating locally again, plus, it makes you look kinda cool too! The ever-changing series of exhibitions means you don’t just have to go once. If your date goes well, you can head back there for another evening of free fun!

Sherwood Pines

If you’re up for being a bit active on your date, Sherwood Pines is a fab option. Located to the north of Nottinghamshire, it’s one of the largest forests in the midlands. It’s open to exploring and really is stunning. You can just walk around and check out the views but it’s great for bikers. Even if you don’t have one, you can hire one. Biking on a date can be so much fun. (You might want to read up on a few beginners tips though). It’s perfect for keeping things relaxed and you can stop off for a hot chocolate along with one of the cafes during your ride. It’s a bit different, but it’s much more affordable than a 3-course dinner, and actually, you’ll probably have more fun,  isn’t that what dating is about!