Nine Romantic October Dates In The Countryside

What does October mean to you? The scent of autumnal leaves as they gently fall from the trees? Excitement at the thought of Halloween? Dread because Christmas is coming? Well, for us, October offers a wonderful time to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air with your country loving date. So, with our ten years of experience of online dating in the countryside, we’ve pulled together nine beautiful ideas for outdoors dating, perfect for all you rural singles out there looking for love in the countryside with Muddy Matches.

1. Apple picking

The English countryside is a haven of apple and pear orchards; some of you country dwellers might even have some trees in your own garden. Over the past few years, ‘apple days’ have grown in popularity and wherever you are based you’re sure to find a local site where you and your country date can pick to your heart’s content and learn all about heritage varieties. And, of course, you can take them home to bake up an apple crumble or pie.

2. Hiking in the forest

No matter where you live in England there’s likely to be a forest in easy reach where you can ramble amongst the falling leaves with your muddy date. Head out early to catch the night dew on the leaves, hopefully twinkling in the sunshine, and work up an appetite for a picnic lunch. Remember to pop in a carrier bag to collect blackberries, sloes and other autumn treats. You’ll also get in some exercise as you breathe in the fresh air. Win win for country lovers!

3. Pumpkin picking

Pumpkin picking is a surprisingly fun and active date for those of you on the hunt for love in the country. Head to a pumpkin farm or an estate with a massive pumpkin patch such as Doddington Hall, and ramble the pumpkins for the ultimate specimen. Head home and you and your date can get creative by scooping out the flesh for a hearty and delicious soup or risotto, then get carving to create your spooky pumpkin.

4. Ghost tours

Sounds scary, but actually a great way to get cosy with your date. Cities including York, Lincoln, Bath, Edinburgh and Llandaff host special after-dark ghost tours. So, get the fright of your life in an immersive tour then warm up after in a cosy pub.

5. Deer spotting

As we are all about outdoors dating, we have to name one of our favourite Autumnal activities for a lovely October date. You can combine exercise and fresh air with this one too. There are so many parks and estates with herds of deer, including Richmond Park, Clumber Park and Woburn Abbey Deer Park). Pack your hiking boots or running shoes, grab your camera and get spotting!

6. Bonfire and marshmallows

Once you know your date pretty well why not invite them over for a garden bonfire? Work up a sweat clearing out dead leaves and undergrowth (the perfect task in Autumn), then light a bonfire and cuddle up as night falls. Don’t forget the marshmallows!

7. Swimming in an outdoor heated pool

Outdoor swimming isn’t only for summertime. We love the idea of braving the elements before plunging in to the glorious warmth of an outdoor pool – search online for your nearest or, if you’re brave (and own a wetsuit) then wild swimming is also a breath-taking way to spend time with your date.

8. Rowing on a lake

Who says you can’t get out on the water in October? Pick a crisp, clear day then fire up your upper body muscles to pootle about the lake – we love the views from Coniston. If you’re not in the Lakes, there are plenty of places in England’s beautiful National Parks to discover.

9. Hire a Canalboat

The ULTIMATE romantic day out. You don’t need any experience to hire a barge for the day. We suggest packing up some refreshments, collecting your date then spending a day on the water. what can be more romantic than watching the British countryside drift by as you float lazily along the canal, complete with fantastic company and a decadent picnic? Bliss.