Quirky Date Ideas In Edinburgh

Sure, fancy candlelit dinners may have their appeal, but to really get to know someone? We reckon it's best to get a little bit weird. Whether you're keen to take on an adrenaline-pumping escape room, shake things up with a boozy cocktail-making session or head underground for a romantic night of jazz, these quirky Edinburgh date ideas will have you swooning for days.

Last edited by Lauren Cole

Last updated on 19th June 2025




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GOOD EGG COMEDY | EDINBURGH

Looking for the best value in Edinburgh comedy? Head to Dragonfly for Good Egg Comedy, where for just £5, you get access to Edinburgh's most intimate new material night.

The bar, known for its world-class cocktails, sets the stage for professional comedians to work out the kinks in their material for upcoming Fringe shows and international tours. With just 42 seats, tickets sell fast - so don't miss out on your chance to see big names in the making.

Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches

If you're looking for a boozy date idea, then check out Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches. This Old Town venue offers a unique perspective on all things gin, and there are a number of fun activities to try with your partner.

From a romantic gin and chocolate tasting to more hands-on cocktail masterclasses, there's something for everyone here. You can also take a tour of the distillery, sampling plenty of delicious drinks along the way.

The Alchemist Edinburgh St James Quarter

Perfect for a first date in Edinburgh, The Alchemist brings some of the most innovative sips in the city to your date night agenda. Ready yourself for fizz, pops and bangs aplenty at this dreamy St James Quarter (or George Street) spot, where you can also chomp on internationally inspired plates.

Their Sunday Feast sharing menu is ideal for splitting between two, costing just £20 per person. This includes everything from BBQ baby back rubs to pork belly bites and macaroni cheese.

Porty Vault

A cosy nook nestled in Portobello, Porty Vault is a cool and casual first date idea in Edinburgh. Grab yourself one of the warmly illuminated tables and get to know each other over American-style BBQ bites paired with tasty craft beers.

Scavenger Hunt Bank Heist - Edinburgh

@ I'm Puzzled on Various dates from Friday 20th June 2025

Whether you're getting to know the city or you've been here for years, there's always something new to discover, and I'm Puzzled's Scavenger Hunt Bank Heist helps you to do that. This quirky, interactive experience allows you to plan a bank heist with your other half, all self-guided through their cutting-edge app.

Working with your partner, or as a larger group for double dates, you'll scout out locations and crack codes to help pull off the perfect crime. You can begin at any time you like, with prices starting from only £19.99 for the whole group.

Dough-it Yourself Pizza Masterclass

@ Pizza Pilgrims Edinburgh on Wednesday 9th July 2025 and 3 other Wednesdays

Forget dinner and a movie - impress your date with something totally unique at Pizza Pilgrims' Dough It Yourself Masterclass in Edinburgh. This charming and interactive evening begins with Italian street food, fizz, and the story behind one of the UK's favourite pizza joints. Then, it's aprons on as you both learn to shape, top, and bake your own perfect Neapolitan pizza under the guidance of skilled pizzaiolos.

It's the kind of date that breaks the ice and builds connection, offering plenty of opportunities for laughter, teamwork, and of course, pizza appreciation. Finish the evening with a shared Nutella Ring and you've got yourself a deliciously romantic, out-of-the-box night out.

Edinburgh: Old Town Guided Walking Tour

@ Edinburgh Castle Esplanade on Saturday 21st June 2025 and 6 other Saturdays

Want to get outside on your next date? Then check out Heritage Guides, who are guiding walking tours through the Old Town on a regular basis. This is a great way to learn more about the city from a local guide, who is well-versed in Edinburgh's history. Tickets cost £22.50 per person, and you'll get to see iconic sights like the Royal Mile and the Kirk of Greyfriars.

The Roze Garden

Date night with a twist in Edinburgh? At Chrome Productions, expect the unexpected. Whether it's an evening of dazzling cabaret, a high-octane dance party, or a stunning immersive experience, it offers something for everyone looking for a night to remember.

Known for their creative flair and attention to detail, every event is an opportunity to be swept up in thrilling performances, incredible soundscapes, and vibrant atmospheres. It's more than just a night out; it's an experience that will leave you wanting more.

Joke Thieves - Edinburgh Fringe 2025

@ The Three Sisters on Various dates from Thursday 31st July 2025

If you fancy a laugh with your other half, then check out Joke Thieves at the Edinburgh Fringe. This hilarious show is taking place in the Old Town, hosted by Will Mars and Beatbox World Champion Bass6. Having won many awards, this side-splitting performance features four different comedians each time, telling their own jokes before having a go at each other's.

NQ64 Edinburgh

If you and your partner fancy trying something new, then head to NQ64 on Lothian Road. This Instagram-worthy spot is filled with neon graffiti and dark interiors, as well as 27 retro arcade machines and video games consoles to compete against your other half on - think everything from Guitar Hero to Time Crisis 3. You can sip on quirky themed cocktails like a Lemmingade or the Kong Island iced tea while you're at it, with tasty slices available from Pizza Geeks as well.

Pickering's Gin at Summerhall Distillery

For a quirky and memorable date night, look no further than Pickering's Gin at Summerhall Distillery. Nestled in the old veterinary college, the brand is the first gin-exclusive distillery to open in Edinburgh in 150 years, offering a unique setting for couples to unwind and enjoy a bespoke cocktail making class or a supper club that showcases the very best of local produce - with events starting from just £35 per person.

Stroll through the artsy Summerhall venue, sip on expertly crafted cocktails, and discover the art of small-batch gin production together. With its historical charm and intimate atmosphere, it's the perfect place to impress your date with something a little different and completely unforgettable.