Bicester is a historic market town located in Oxfordshire, in the South East of England. It has a vibrant community and a rich history, dating back to the Saxon period. It has a thriving shopping area, with a variety of independent stores, as well as two shopping malls, the Bicester Village and the Cherwell Valley Shopping Village. Bicester is home to a variety of landmarks, including the magnificent Castle Quay and the charming Alchester Roman Town. It is a bustling town with a great range of activities and attractions for people of all ages and interests.
1. Bicester parks and places for a walk on a first date
If you’re looking for a romantic and relaxed first date, why not visit one of Bicester’s many parks and outdoor spaces? Pack a picnic, bring a blanket and enjoy a leisurely stroll with your date. The Kingsfield Sculpture Park is a great spot for a date, with its tranquil lake and meadows, and its thought-provoking sculptures. Other parks and outdoor spaces in Bicester include the Bicester Millennium Wood, the Bicester Town Meadow, Kingsmere Pond, and The Grange.
2. Places for a coffee date in Bicester
Bicester has a number of coffee shops and cafes where you can meet for a casual date. Proudly Brew Coffee is an independent coffee house that serves speciality coffee and handmade cakes. The Pantry at Bicester Village is a great place to enjoy a coffee and cake, and if you’re after a delicious brunch, The Barn on the Green is the place to be. For something a bit different, why not take your date to The Roastery, a unique coffee experience where you can sample a variety of different coffees.
3. Bicester galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Bicester is home to a number of galleries, museums and exhibitions, so why not take your date to explore one of these unique venues? The Bicester Heritage Centre is an open-air museum located in the grounds of the former RAF Bicester. Here you can explore a large collection of classic cars and vehicles as well as military aircrafts. The Bicester Village Shopping Outlet is also home to a small museum, with a collection of objects and artefacts from Bicester’s past. For a romantic date night, visit the Bicester Sculpture Garden, located in the heart of the town. Through the garden’s installations, you can explore Bicester’s history, with sculptures and exhibits that tell the stories of the town’s past.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Bicester
If you’re after a lively and entertaining first date, there are plenty of live music events and shows to enjoy in Bicester. The Barn Theatre is home to a variety of shows, including musicals, plays and pantomimes, so why not take your date to enjoy a show together? The Barn also hosts regular music nights, featuring a range of genres, from acoustic to folk and jazz. For a unique musical experience, why not take your date to the Bicester Village Music and Arts Festival, held every summer.
5. Bicester pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
For a more traditional first date experience, Bicester has a wide selection of pubs, bars and restaurants. The Red Lion pub offers a traditional British pub experience, where you can enjoy a pint and some classic pub grub. The Three Pigeons is an independent and quirky pub, with a menu designed around locally sourced produce. For something a bit more intimate and romantic, head to The Marquess of Exeter and enjoy their delicious cocktails in their candlelit garden. Or for a delicious and authentic Italian meal, visit Ristorante Gondola.
6. Other date ideas to try in Bicester
If you’re after something a bit different, why not take your date to one of Bicester’s escape rooms? Crack the Code Escape Rooms offer a selection of immersive and challenging puzzles and games, perfect for a unique and exciting first date experience. Bicester is also home to a number of nature reserves, so why not take a stroll around the Blackthorn Nature Reserve or the Oxfordshire Way? If you’re looking for something a bit more active, you could book a kayaking experience on the River Cherwell. Or for a creative date, why not visit The Art Studio and make a piece of art together.
