Online Dating in County Antrim

Immediately north from Belfast is the small town of Newtownabbey. In this case small doesn’t mean there aren’t an abundance of options for your first date here. Situated close to the Glens of Antrim, the bright lights of Belfast and the shores of Belfast Loch, Newtownabbey is perfectly placed for a spot of outdoorsy exploration, some city slicking or some romantic walks on your first date.

Newtownabbey Way Stroll

If you’re looking for a romantic walk or cycle route for an outdoorsy date, then the newly completed Newtonabbey Way is perfect. Linking Corr’s Corner to Belfast Loch this rural walk takes in some of the beautiful landscape and offers opportunities to spot some stunning wildlife too. If you’re enjoying the walk, why not continue along the Lough shore coastal path which passes The White House, home to the Abbey Historical Society, where you can find out about the history and culture of your surrounds. Image via markgn on Flickr.

The Mill Exhibit

Art enthusiasts will love the Mosley Mill, an old flax spinning mill that dates back to the 1800s. Now a days it’s a purpose-built space for art exhibitions from new to well-established artists, many of whom are local to the area. Mosley Mill is also home to the Theatre at the Mill, a state of the art 400 seat theatre space offering a wide range of dance, musicals, comedy, music and drama. Why not book a performance for your first date and afterwards dine in style in the Mill’s lovely restaurant, the Yarns Bistro. This Mill really seems to have it all, and as well as a theatre space and restaurant there is also a museum to explore – at this rate you could end up spending all day in this fascinating building.

Glengormly Sportsbowl Adventure

If you want a bit of exhilaration on your first date then the bowling, go-carting and games area at the Glengormly Sportsbowl fits the bill. This fun zone has 16 lanes for bowling and all the simulators and game stations you could wish for.

Belfast Zoo

So not technically in Newtownabbey, more on the outskirts of Belfast, but as it’s so close and so memorable it’s worth mentioning the Belfast Zoo – a great idea for a first date location. The zoo has a new addition this month too – Bruno the red titi monkey can be cooed over in the monkey house. The zoo covers 55 acres including some impressive walks through the aviary and giraffe enclosures. Image via gerryhaughey on Flickr.

Bureau by the Loch

If you’re looking for somewhere special to take a date for a bite to eat, somewhere with stunning views and acclaimed food then you can’t really do better than the Bureau by the Loch. As a Taste of Ulster member this foodie haven uses lots of fresh, local ingredients and creates dishes that wow in front of views that will take your date’s breath away. There is the option to enjoy a drink on the outdoor terrace before sitting down in either the Seafood and Grill restaurant or the Bistro and we urge you to take the opportunity to stare out across the loch and in to one another’s eyes.
Newtownabbey may be small but it’s a mighty place to take a first date. Image via donalmclaughlin on Flickr.