When it comes to dating, the classic dinner and a movie combo has been done to death. If you’re in the South East — especially Kent — you’re in luck. The region is brimming with quirky, romantic, and adventurous activities that make ordinary dates feel extraordinary. Whether you’re planning your first outing together or looking to rekindle the spark in a long-term relationship, these fun things for couples to do will help you step away from routine and into something more memorable.
1. Try a Quiz Trail in a Historic Town
If you’re searching for outdoor date ideas that mix exploration with fun, look no further than Quiz Trails. These self-guided puzzle trails lead you through charming towns and villages, from the cobbled lanes of Canterbury to the seaside charm of Whitstable.
Armed with a trail booklet, you and your partner will solve riddles, crack clues, and uncover hidden gems in the streets you might otherwise stroll past. It’s the perfect mix of light-hearted challenge and romantic wandering.
💡 Why it’s perfect for couples:
- You’ll work as a team, which naturally encourages conversation.
- The relaxed pace means there’s plenty of time to stop for a drink or a photo.
- It’s affordable, flexible, and available instantly online.
👉 Quiz Trails are a fun and affordable way to explore a new town together while solving puzzles. Start your adventure today: Order yours here
2. Picnic With a Twist at Leeds Castle
Forget the typical picnic blanket in the park. Leeds Castle — often dubbed “the loveliest castle in the world” — offers sprawling grounds, a beautiful lake, and even boat rides. Pack your favourite treats (or upgrade with a luxury hamper from a local deli) and spend the day exploring.
Add in a playful game of hide-and-seek in the maze, and you’ve turned a simple afternoon into one of the most unique date ideas UK couples are likely to remember. Check the entrance fee before you set off.
3. Stargazing on Dungeness Beach
Dungeness is famous for its otherworldly landscape, with a shingle beach, quirky houses, and wide-open skies. Far from the light pollution of bigger towns, it’s an amazing spot for stargazing.
Bundle up in blankets, bring a thermos of hot chocolate, and let the night sky do the talking. If you’re looking for fun things for couples to do that cost nothing but feel magical, this ticks all the boxes.
4. Cycle the Crab & Winkle Way
Active couples will love the Crab & Winkle Way, a 7.5-mile cycle route connecting Canterbury and Whitstable. Ride through leafy countryside, pause for a pub stop, and finish with fish and chips by the harbour.
It’s one of the best outdoor date ideas in Kent, offering a shared adventure that leaves plenty of space for laughter (and maybe a little friendly competition). If you’re cycling fans and if you’re in or near Kent we recommend our two cycle route Quiz Trails … Kent Coalfield Quiz Trail and the Isle of Sheppey & Swale Quiz Trail.
5. Explore the Secret Gardens of Sandwich
For a slower-paced date, head to Sandwich, one of England’s best-preserved medieval towns. The Secret Gardens of Sandwich offer a romantic backdrop of landscaped grounds, water features, and colourful borders.
Strolling hand-in-hand through this hidden gem is an elegant alternative to the standard park walk. Pair it with a Quiz Trail in Sandwich, and your date becomes a story worth retelling.
6. Wine Tasting in Kent’s Vineyards
Known as the “Wine Garden of England,” Kent is dotted with award-winning vineyards like Chapel Down and Gusbourne. Book a vineyard tour and tasting, and you’ll enjoy crisp English sparkling wines paired with panoramic countryside views.
Wine tasting is both romantic and informative — and unlike a standard dinner, it’s interactive and sophisticated.
7. Paddleboarding in Whitstable
If you’re up for a laugh, rent paddleboards in Whitstable. Balancing on the water is equal parts challenge and comedy, making it an ideal bonding activity. Afterwards, grab oysters and a glass of bubbly while watching the sunset.
This is one of those fun things for couples to do that combines physical activity, seaside charm, and relaxation in one go.
8. Ghost Tour in Canterbury
Looking for something quirky and a little spooky? Join a Canterbury ghost tour after dark. With centuries of history, this cathedral city has its fair share of legends and eerie tales.
It’s the perfect excuse to huddle close as you wander candle-lit alleys, learning about the city’s haunted past.
9. Explore Margate’s Creative Scene
Margate is no longer just a seaside town; it’s a cultural hub with galleries, retro shops, and street art. Spend a date afternoon browsing the Turner Contemporary, vintage record stores, and quirky cafés. The Underground Shell Grotto is well worth visiting together!
Top it off with a ride on Dreamland’s vintage rollercoasters — guaranteed to bring out your inner child.
quiz
10. Combine Adventure with a Quiz Trail
Sometimes the most romantic dates are the ones that feel effortless yet engaging. That’s where Quiz Trails shine. Imagine exploring a charming town like Rye, Faversham, or Canterbury, piecing together clues as you go, and discovering stories hidden in plain sight.
Instead of sitting silently in a cinema, you’ll be laughing, puzzling, and making memories together. It’s an experience that mixes exploration with intimacy — and it works just as well for new couples as it does for long-term partners.
👉 Make your next date unforgettable — order your Quiz Trail now.
Why We ALL Love Unique Date Ideas
Choosing something different for your date isn’t just about novelty — it’s about connection. Studies show that couples who share new experiences together report stronger bonds and higher satisfaction.
By stepping away from the usual dinner and a movie, you’re giving yourselves the chance to:
- Spark fresh conversations.
- Build teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Create stories you’ll look back on for years.
But if you’re looking for something that’s affordable, flexible, and guaranteed to create laughter, Quiz Trails are hard to beat. They combine the joy of a walk with the thrill of a puzzle — and best of all, you can start your adventure whenever you want.
👉 Make your next date unforgettable — order your Quiz Trail now.
