Newbridge and Ratho is a tranquil village with much to offer for a first date, located near the edge of the Carlops Hills in the Scottish Borders. The village is made up of two settlements, the larger ‘Newbridge’ and the smaller ‘Ratho’, and offers a tranquil atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities, good food and a variety of attractions. The village is steeped in history and offers plenty of opportunities for those looking for a truly memorable first date.
1. Places for a walk on a first date
The River Almond flows through Newbridge and Ratho and its picturesque banks are a great place to enjoy a romantic stroll together. There are plenty of beautiful spots to explore such as the woods and meadows along the river, or why not venture further afield to explore the nearby Pentland Hills. For a longer walk, there is the world-famous Union Canal towpath, which runs the length of the river, providing plenty of opportunity for a long stroll. For those looking for a bit of adventure, the Binks Burn Gorge is a nearby nature reserve with plenty of trails and pathways to explore.
2. Places for a coffee date in Newbridge and Ratho
There are plenty of great places to have a coffee date in Newbridge and Ratho. The village is home to some excellent independent cafes and restaurants, including the charming Mabon Cafe and Kilting Coffee House. Alternatively, why not take a trip to the nearby Harburn Estate and visit their beautiful café, which serves some delicious home-made cakes and pastries. For a true taste of Scotland, visit the quaint and homely Olde Schoolhouse Café, which serves a range of traditional Scottish dishes.
3. Galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Newbridge and Ratho has several galleries and museums to explore. The Station Gallery, located in the old railway station, is home to a range of exhibitions from local and international artists. Alternatively, why not explore some local history with a visit to the Newbridge and Ratho Museum and explore some of the village’s history. The museum’s collection includes some interesting artefacts, as well as an interesting exhibition about the area’s industrial history.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Newbridge and Ratho
There is plenty of live music, theatre and entertainment to enjoy in Newbridge and Ratho. The village is home to two theatres, the newly refurbished Border Theatre and the more intimate The Newbridge Playhouse. The Border Theatre regularly hosts live music and comedy events, while The Newbridge Playhouse has a range of productions from local and international playwrights. For those looking for something a bit different, The Union Canal Boat Company offers some unique live music and theatre events on their canal boat.
5. Pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Newbridge and Ratho is home to several great pubs, bars and restaurants for a first date. The village is home to a variety of traditional Scottish pubs, including The Inn on The Green and The White Hart. For something a bit more contemporary, try The Station Bar and Grill, a bar and restaurant overlooking the old railway station. There are also a number of great Italian and Indian restaurants, such as The Corte Italian and The Spice of India.
6. Other date ideas to try in Newbridge and Ratho
Newbridge and Ratho is a great place to explore and there are plenty of other date ideas to try. Why not take a trip to the National Mining Museum, located a short distance away in the nearby Midlothian town of Anchor. Alternatively, take a trip to the nearby Penicuik House and Gardens, a former stately home with plenty of beautiful gardens to explore. You could also take a romantic bike ride along the canal towpath or take a leisurely stroll along the nearby Pentland Hills. Whatever you decide, Newbridge and Ratho is an ideal spot for a truly memorable first date.
