While you are thoroughly enjoying the banter being exchanged with the new match in your life online, it can be easy to forget that ultimately you will need to put a real face to the profile and meet in the ‘real world’. You are not looking for a penpal so we always encourage people to take their relationship offline as soon as they feel comfortable doing so.
And while it might seem delightfully aloof and somewhat pressure-free to pick a local coffee shop to host your first face to face meeting, going for a cuppa can seem a little like you are making little or no effort to have a meaningful date. You have met online and this is your first date. If the relationship blossoms then this is the date you will look back on as the first time you clapped eyes on eachother so why not make it count.
If you are dating in the South then Limerick city and County is packed full of great dating opportunities. Limerick is not only steeped in history which is evident in its streets and structures, it boasts a robust calendar of festivals, events and activities happening throughout the year.
Here are our top 8 picks for ways to while away your first date in Limerick:
Things to do when dating in limerick
King John’s Castle: History buffs cannot visit Limerick without taking in the splendour of King John’s Castle. Situated in the heart of Medieval Limerick and with a brand new visitor centre you and your date can soak in 800 years of dramatic history through state of the art interpretive activities and exhibitions and relax afterwards in the castle café.
Love the Earth: For the ethically-minded dater visit the UL Farmers Market. Hosted weekly and featuring locally produced foods, this farmers market is a part of a broader movement to encourage sustainable development within the University. Consume conscience-friendly breads and pastries, freshly pressed juices, organic fruit, vegetables, lamb, beef, jams and chutneys. Not in that order.
Got the moves? Get rid of those inhibitions in one fell swoop and take your first date to a salsa class. Salsa in Limerick at Ballysimon teaches latin dance in a fun and friendly environment so if you’re game for a laugh, get those dancing shoes on and go salsa!
Giddy up: Enjoy a leisurely jaunt around the Limerick countryside from the lofty vantage point of horseback. Clarina equestrian centre which is just 10 minutes from the city, offer pony trekking visiting historical sites such as Carrigogunnel Castle ruins with breathtaking views of the Shannon estuary.
Art Attack: If you and your match share a love of art and culture then a visit to the Hunt Museum will not disappoint. With exhibitions throughout the year, the gallery features a treasure trove of antiquities and artworks including pieces by Renoir, Picasso and Yeats. Art lovers will happily spend hours appreciating the wonders on display.
Indulgent date: Indulging in a sumptuous afternoon tea in the newly refurbished drawing room of the five star Adare Manor Hotel is a romantic experience to remember. With perfectly cut-sandwiches, a choice of the World’s best teas and coffees served up with delectable desserts, all the while drinking in the views of the perfectly manicured gardens. Perfect.
Horsedrawn Carriage Tour: Step aboard a luxurious carriage and enjoy a guided evening sightseeing tour of Medieval and Georgian Limerick City. You will be shown the many and varied historical sites and amazing scenery of the proud, majestic city. Tip away at some wine in the comfort of your carriage and snuggle up under a warm blanket for an evening of romance amidst the splendours of Limerick city.
Float my boat: If all things air and ocean float your boat then you cannot miss Foynes flying boat and maritime museum. Portraying the rich history and personality of the River Shannon from Loop head to Limerick City, the museum also tells the story of how Foynes played a pivotal role in the 1930’s and 40’s establishment of passenger flights across the Atlantic-hence the ‘Flying boats’.