Speed Dating Events for Singles in London

Singles events are as popular as ever, and if you live in London, you have alternatives every night of the week.

Events can last all evening or as little as 45 minutes, so you might meet dozens of new people in the time it takes to go grocery shopping or watch a movie!

Is it, however, worthwhile? And how do you pick an event that is right for you?

If you’re looking for a fun way to meet new people, singles events might be for you.

You discover that without physical interaction, determining attraction can be difficult (voice, body language and even scent can play a huge role in how you feel about a potential match)
Some people prefer to establish a first impression in person rather than writing or reading profiles.
You want to meet people in real life, but you want to go out of your way to do it (rather than waiting for a chance encounter at the bar, gym, or university).
… or maybe none of that applies, but you’ve never tried it before and want to see what all the fuss is about.

All of these are excellent reasons to try it!

Because everyone is different, no single event will be beneficial to everyone. Here’s a rundown of the most common singles’ events in London, from pub quizzes to exquisite wine tastings, as well as what to expect at each.

1. Classic Speed Dating

A standard speed dating event is a wonderful place to start if odd themes aren’t your thing – or if you’re new to this and want to see if it’s for you.

Speed dating events are usually held at cocktail bars and run 1–2 hours. They usually follow the same format:

• Couples are seated two a table and get about 4 minutes together to chat, ask questions and get to know each other – then everyone rotates. If it’s an event with a mix of genders, normally girls stay seated whilst guys move around the room
• You discreetly write on a card who you’re interested in seeing again and then give the card to the event organiser
• There’s usually time to mingle afterwards, but it’s up to you if you want to stay
• You get your matches by email 24 – 48 hours later

Speed dating events are generally split into age ranges like 18 – 35, 35+, over 50s and so on. The organisers will usually try to achieve a 50/50 split of men and women (unless you’re going to an LGBTQ event).

2. Singles Wine Tasting

Everyone has a different opinion about wine. Some people take it seriously, while others don’t, but you’ll be astonished at how various people’s personalities emerge when they’re asked to review anything.

This is one of the reasons why a wine tasting event is such a great way for singles to meet. Furthermore, you’re acquiring a new talent (kind of), which is ideal for establishing rapport with someone you like.

You’ll walk away with some new information and, hopefully, a couple of matches.

3. Silent Singles Night

On a first date, do you ever get tongue-tied? You won’t have to say anything at a silent singles’ gathering (at least not to begin with). In fact, there is a stringent no-talking policy in place.

So, how does that function in practice?

Typically, you’ll play interactive games and/or partake in some ‘eye gazing’ sessions… If you strike up a conversation with someone after the main event, you are free to do so.

4. Chocolate Master Class Speed Dating

Chocolate is said to be an aphrodisiac, but whether you believe it or not, the delicious fragrances of melting chocolate and the sugar rush that follows should put you in a good mood.

Although the skills gained at these events are typically simple (you won’t learn how to manufacture chocolate from scratch, for example), there’s something romantic, calming, and lighthearted about chocolate tasting that offers the ideal environment for meeting new people.

Original Dating hosts chocolate speed dating events in Hotel Chocolat’s Cocoa Vaults, where you may sip chocolate wine and learn about the various types of chocolate in a softly lighted environment (whilst sampling each one, of course).

Smudged Lipstick’s ‘Death By Chocolate’ events have previously taken place; keep an eye on their events calendar or sign up for their mailing list to find out when they’ll be held again.