Dating in the UK

Online dating apps in the UK

According to data by Statista, people turn to online dating apps mainly to find people who share the same interests as them and to find a long-term partner. Over 1,400 location-based and profile-based online dating sites in the UK, and one-fifth of the UK use dating apps. According to a Glamour magazine article, 31% of individuals in the UK are acquainted with a success story of a couple who met online, and more than one-third of Britons express confidence in the ongoing surge in the popularity of online dating. However, British people are still concerned about safety when using dating apps, and users admit that careful background checks would encourage them to use dating apps more frequently. In addition, some users feel that dating apps don't offer much choice in their area or don't create personalized matches.

Good to know:

Check out Expat.com's article about how to meet people in the UK for ideas on how to increase your chances of finding love in the UK. If you are in London, we have a dedicated article on expanding your social network in London.

Useful links:

• Eharmony: for serious relationships;
• Match.com: make a start on dating and have safe video dates;
• Hinge: for young professionals;
• Tinder: for casual dating;
• OkCupid: for every single person, the app was the first to introduce 22 genders and 13 sexual orientation options;
• Happn: connect with users you cross paths with in the street;
• Telegraph Dating: for mature dating;
• Grindr: mostly known for the LGBTQ community.

Dating scams in the UK

Online dating is risky, and dating scams cost victims tens of millions of pounds each year – with an average of £11,000 per victim, according to 2023 figures. Dating scams aren't unavoidable, but you must always be cautious and aware. For example, if you come across a suspicious online profile, report it to the dating app. Also, don't blindly trust people with the information they give you, but do your research about them on Google and other social media to verify that what they have told you about themselves (e.g., profession, location, marital status, etc.) is accurate. Usually, people shouldn't ask you for money unless you have built a trustworthy relationship through time and they have a genuine reason to need your financial contribution. Overall, you should never give out too much personal information (e.g., home address, phone number, email, bank account details, etc.) to people you have met on the internet and haven't had the chance to know that well. Consider creating a new email address for online dating only, and if you want to give a mobile number, consider having a spare device with a pay-as-you-go SIM card.

Tip:

Read Expat.com's article about making phone calls in the UK to decide the best option for you regarding communicating via the phone with people you meet on dating apps.

Meeting new people beyond the internet in the UK

Dating apps are on the rise, not necessarily meaning that the traditional ways of meeting people have disappeared. People continue to meet their partners through friends, at social events, at work, in the pub, or at the local cafe. It's very likely to meet the love of your life on a spontaneous night out with your friends, and people should not feel pressured to download dating apps. Expat.com organizes local events where you can meet new people and connect with other expats. You can also go to Expat.com's UK forum to engage with other expats in a safe and interactive environment.

Tip:

See who's in the England expat community by nationality, age, status, and gender.

Making the date fun in the UK

The first date with someone you don't know well is a pleasantly uncomfortable situation, almost like a game. It's advisable to be yourself, but at the same time, try to be your best self. British people are adventurous when it comes to dating, and they like trying out new things or going to new places when dating. Traditional pubs are also acceptable for a first date, especially if you are going out with a Brit.

Good to know:

Our article about things to do in the UK can give you excellent ideas for the first, second, and third dates.

Dating etiquette in the UK

As per tradition in the UK, a man is expected to ask a woman out on a date and organize where they will go and how they will spend their time together (e.g., dining first, followed by drinks or the theatre). When you meet your date for the first time, a handshake should be enough. In the UK, a kiss on the cheek means that you already know the other person quite well. British people's body language is relatively reserved, and physical contact is kept mainly for private interactions out of the public eye. Similarly, emotions aren't expressed publicly. Chivalry is still very much alive in the UK. So being a gentleman is welcomed, or expecting courteous behavior (e.g., opening the door for your date, paying the bill, etc.) from a man on your date is usual. However, at the same time, gender equality is strong in the UK, and many women take the first step.

Gay dating in the UK is also becoming much easier, especially with specific gay bars and gay events every week in cities. Some gay-friendly cities in the UK include London, Manchester and Brighton. If you are looking into having your first date in an LGBT inclusive environment, Soho and Vauxhall are ideal places to consider. They both offer several activities to choose from for a first date. You can choose between watching a show at the West End District Theater or drag shows and trying out fancy cocktail bars.

Tip:

If you are in London, watch out for the Pride Parade in London, which usually takes place during summer. This iconic event can be a great way to meet people from the LGBT community.

Good to know:

The dating dress code in the UK is smart-casual, and going on a date straight after work is acceptable.