By Andy, founder
There's something special about an Edinburgh autumn. The trees along the Water of Leith turn gold, the air is crisp and the light over the Forth is softer than in summer. The clocks went back this morning, so the evenings are drawing in, but the days are perfect for a walk. And a walk makes a brilliant first date. You're side by side rather than face to face across a table, there's always something to look at, and it's easy to stop for a coffee if it's going well. Here are some of my favourite autumn walks around the city, with a few tips to make the day go smoothly.
Why a walk works so well for a first date
I often say the best first dates are the simple ones. A walk takes the pressure off. Silences feel natural rather than awkward, you can talk about the view when you can't think what to say, and you'll learn a lot about someone from how they chat on the way up a hill. It also keeps things short and sweet, which is exactly what you want the first time you meet.
Five autumn walks around Edinburgh
The Water of Leith to Dean Village
This is my pick for an autumn first date. The path from Stockbridge to Dean Village follows the river under the trees, past old mill buildings and stone bridges, and in October the leaves are at their best. It's mostly flat, easy to talk on and close to plenty of cafés at either end.
Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat
You don't have to go all the way to the summit. The gentler path round St Margaret's Loch, or a stroll below Salisbury Crags, gives you the views without the puffing. If you're both keen walkers, the top can wait for date number two.
Cramond shore
A peaceful walk by the Firth of Forth at the mouth of the River Almond, and the autumn sunsets here can be lovely. If you fancy the causeway to Cramond Island, check the tide times carefully first and leave plenty of time to get back.
Portobello promenade
The prom is quieter once the summer crowds have gone, and a breezy walk by the sea followed by a warm drink is hard to beat. It's flat, easy to reach by bus and good in most weathers.
The Pentland Hills
For a pair of outdoorsy types, the Pentlands are right on the city's doorstep. Pick a short, popular route near the edge of the hills and keep it modest for a first meeting. A longer hike can wait until you know each other better.
Plan it so you can both relax
- Keep it short. An hour or so is plenty. If it's going well, add a coffee...then save the next walk for another day.
- Pick an easy meeting point. A café or a well known spot at the start of the path, somewhere busy where you'll find each other easily.
- Agree on the pace. Ask how far they fancy walking. Not everyone wants a hill, and that's absolutely fine.
- Make your own way there. It means you can head home whenever you like.
Autumn weather and shorter days
Edinburgh weather can change by the hour, especially at this time of year. A few simple things help:
- Check the forecast and dress in layers. Good shoes matter more than a smart outfit.
- Sunset comes earlier now the clocks have gone back, so a late morning or early afternoon walk is best.
- Wet leaves can be slippy on paths and steps, so take it gently.
- Have a rainy day plan, like a museum or a cosy café, in case the weather turns.
Stay safe on the day
Choose a busy, popular path rather than somewhere remote, and save the quiet hilltops for when you know each other. Tell a friend where you're going and when you expect to be back, and keep your phone charged. Before you meet, keep chatting on Go Edinburgh Dating and look out for the verified badge. Our guide to dating safely has more simple tips.
Not quite ready for a walk? Our first date ideas in Edinburgh have plenty of other options. And if you haven't found someone to walk with yet, see who's near you. There's no better time than a crisp autumn day to say hello.
- walks
- autumn
- edinburgh
