10 Cornish Friend Dates (That Don’t Involve Alcohol OR Coffee!)

Inspired by an infographic on Free People, I thought I’d share my own ‘Cornwall dates’ version!

The original list was ’10 friend dates that don’t involve drinking’, which is why I have named this the way I have, however it’s obviously completely applicable to romantic dates too! I’ve also added on the ‘no coffee’ thing too because I thought I should probably be able to think of things more interesting than grabbing a coffee. Most of my friends don’t even drink coffee, so there’s that!

1. Go for a paddle

Getting on the water is the best thing ever, and of course one of the reasons why we love it here in Cornwall, right? Going for a SUP sesh or kayaking adventure with friends is a great way to get some exercise in whilst soaking up the beautiful Cornish coastline.

2. Have a picnic at the beach

Once the weather is a bit warmer, I’m really looking forward to taking my lunches down to the beach again for a meal with a view. Or even just a picnic of little snacks, or even better… a barbecue! There’s something so fun about eating outside.

3. Try an art class or craft workshop

As a notoriously creative county, Cornwall is full of great arts & crafts classes, courses and workshops to attend either as a one-off or a regular occurrence. Emma and I went to a lovely wreath-making course at Godolphin House before Christmas, so remember to check out your local National Trust locations too!

4. Treat yourselves with a spa day

We’re also super lucky to be surrounded by some beautiful, luxury resorts and spas in Cornwall, thanks to the tourism, so why not make the most of it? Most hotels here offer day/visitor passes to their spas from as little as £7 per person. Relax, bring a book and lounge out by the pool like you’re on holiday!

Try the spa at Gwel an Mor near Portreath, or St. Michael’s Hotel & Spa in Falmouth.

5. Explore the South West Coast path

If you enjoy walking and taking in the sights while having a good old chat, a hike along the South West Coast path is an amazing choice. Olivia and I end up doing this quite regularly; I make her show me the parts I’ve never been to before on the South Coast of Cornwall and some day I’ll get round to showing her more of the North Coast.

6. Wander around the galleries in St. Ives

Check out the local talent and soak up some culture in Cornwall’s artist hub, St. Ives. It’s such a beautiful town to walk around in with its cobbled streets and mini galleries around every corner. And of course there’s the Tate too which is reopening at the end of March with a new exhibition!

7. Go foraging for wild treats

Do some research or grab a basic foraging handbook* and go for a stroll on the cliffs or in the woods, hunting for foraged foods to cook later. You could even get down to the beach and collect some seaweed for cooking too!

8. Go to a yoga or exercise class together

I’ve been joining Olivia at her HIIT class recently and it’s been great to get some exercise whilst also having a few moments each week to catch up. It’s the ultimate productive friend date – even if it involves less talking because you’re ridiculously out of breath and trying to concentrate…

9. Cycle the Great Flat Lode

The Great Flat Lode trail near Carn Brea is beautiful and full of Cornish history & culture. I’m not much of a cycling enthusiast (in fact I’m not sure I can even still ride a bike!) but it’s great for a dog walk there too. If you have a couple of bikes that you could get there, this would make an awesome weekend friend date!

10. Watch an outdoor theatre show

Come Summer, outdoor theatre is a magical way to spend an evening with friends, family and loved ones! Whether it’s at the incredible Minack theatre gazing out at the ocean, or in the wild Tehidy woods with Rogue Theatre, this is definitely a Summer must-do!

What’s your favourite thing to do with friends?

Portrait of me by Olivia Bossert

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