Innerleithen is a small town in the Scottish Borders, located at the junction of the Tweed and Leithen Water rivers. It has an interesting and diverse history, with evidence of human settlement on the site dating back to the Iron Age. It was settled by the Romans and then by the Saxons, and later became the home of the powerful Clan Tweedie. The area was also important in the industrial revolution, being the ‘Cradle of the Scottish Textile Industry’. Today, Innerleithen is a small but vibrant town, with plenty of attractions for a first date.
1. Innerleithen parks and places for a walk on a first date
One of the best ways to get to know your date is to go for a walk. Innerleithen has plenty of green spaces, with riverside walks and areas of natural beauty nearby. Head to the Ancrum Woods, where you can stroll through the ancient woodland and enjoy the wild flowers, birds and butterflies. Or take a romantic stroll along the banks of the Tweed, taking in views of the nearby hills and even start a game of ‘I Spy’. If you want to take a longer walk, you can follow the river up towards Innerleithen Woods where you can admire the views of the Tweed Valley and climb up to the top of the Megget Stane.
2. Places for a coffee date in Innerleithen
For a more relaxed first date, a coffee date is a great way to get to know your date. Head to The Basket Maker’s Café, where you can get a coffee and cake while catching up on your day. Or visit The Wildebeest Café, which has a great selection of coffee, tea and light snacks, as well as an outdoor seating area and stunning views of the nearby hills.
3. Innerleithen galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Innerleithen has plenty of cultural attractions to explore on a date. Visit the Innerleithen Art Gallery, which features a range of local art, from oil paintings to sculptures. Or follow the Tweed Heritage Trail and discover the history of the area, including statues, monuments and even a restored waterwheel. And for something truly unique, the Tweeddale Museum and Gallery hosts a range of interesting exhibitions and shows, including a model of the historic Innerleithen Cross.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Innerleithen
From live music to theatre acts, there is plenty of live entertainment in Innerleithen. Visit The Green Frog Café and catch a gig or two, with local bands performing every weekend. Or indulge in some live theatre at the Victoria Hall, which hosts a range of shows throughout the year, including drama, comedy and music.
5. Innerleithen pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
If you’re looking for a more traditional first date, head to one of Innerleithen’s excellent pubs or restaurants. The St. Ronan’s Inn is a great place for a drink, with a cosy atmosphere and a great selection of local ales. Or head to one of the town’s restaurants, such as The Leithenside or The Border Inn, for a romantic meal for two.
6. Other date ideas to try in Innerleithen
If you’re looking for something a bit different, there are plenty of other activities to try in Innerleithen. Challenge each other to a game of bowling at The Tweed Lanes Bowling Centre or take a guided tour of the local distillery and taste some of the best whisky in Scotland. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, go for a bike ride along the nearby Glentress Trails or take a trip on the Innerleithen Steam Railway.
