At the ripe old age of 24, single life and dating as an adult hit me square in the face unexpectedly when my boyfriend of almost 7 years – the only guy I had ever been with – decided to break up with me out of the blue.

Needless to say, I had some making up to do for lost time in the dating-sphere, and not just at home.

And so, on my quest to find a love interest, I have been on a variety of fun and entertaining dates that are sure to impress a date, whether you've met them at home, on a Kent dating site, or maybe even further afield overseas. And I've compiled a few of them for you to try for yourself. One for every letter of the alphabet, in fact...

A - Axe Throwing. Channel your inner warrior and take your date axe throwing... no accidents though, please!
B - Bicycle rides. Take to wheels and enjoy a breezy bicycle ride in lush surrounding with your lover.
C - Cook together. Work together with your date to whip up a tasty dish.
D - Dance the night away. Whether in a nightclub, at a class, or in the comfort of your own home, a dance date is sure to bring a smile to your face.
E - Escape Room. Sixty minutes locked in a room with your date...
F - Fruit picking. Catch a day with nice weather and grab your basket for an afternoon of fruit picking. Strawberries are my favourite!
G - Games night. Get two controllers ready and stay home for a night of gaming. The only question is: co-op or head-to-head?
H - Hiking. Get your blood pumping on a hiking date with your love interest. Endorphins, a chance to chat, and beautiful surroundings - what's not to love?
I - IKEA. C'mon. Who doesn't love a trip around IKEA?
J - Jigsaw puzzles. Spend a cosy night in together puzzling!
K - Kayaking. If you're lucky enough to live near a coastline, then water sports will always make for a fun date!
L - Live music. Seeing live music will always be one of my favourite things to do, whether it's an intimate gig at a pub, or a huge concert.
M - Mini golf. Get competitive with your date and fight for the most hole-in-ones!
N - Netflix and chill. And yes. I do mean that Netflix and chill.
O - Origami date. Find some guides online a try your hand at origami together... who can make the best swan?!
P - Pub. Whether Kent dating or Yorkshire dating, a good ol' fashioned pub date never fails. Get to know each other over a nice cold pint... and maybe even a cheeky jagerbomb.
Q - Quilt day. AKA a duvet day. Do nothing but spend the day in bed with snacks and films.
R - Rock climbing. A fun way to be active with your date.
S - Stargazing. Find a nice open spot and simply cuddle and star gaze. How romantic?
T - Travel together. Wherever you fancy - down the road, another city, a totally different country - just travel!
U - Urban art hunting. Go for a walk together and see what cool street art you can find!
V - Vintage shops. Visit the vintage and charity shops in your area and see what gems you can stumble across together.
W - Wine tasting. Go wine tasting and get tipsy together.
X - Xscape. If you're close to an Xscape centre, it's perfect for an activity filled day - snowboarding, cinemas, trampoline parks and more!
Y - Yes day. Spend a day saying yes to anything and everything. Trust me... this one will get interesting!
Z - Zoo. Get in touch with your wild side!

This is a sponsored post, but all words are my own!

Living in Yorkshire (a wonderful place, might I say!) means that I'm also lucky enough to have beautiful Lincolnshire on my doorstep. And it makes a great spot for dating! Whether I'm venturing there with someone I've met here at home in Hull, or I'm deciding to branch out and try a Lincolnshire Dating Site, I'm spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a date idea!

So, if you're also planning a love-fuelled Lincoln adventure, here are 5 date ideas that are sure to woo your date and provide good times all round...

Meander around the cobbled streets of Lincoln

Lincoln is a historic city full of little hidden gems and things to see. You and your date can wind your way around the cobbled streets, window shopping at independent boutiques and stopping for a drink in the timber-fronted tea rooms. Make sure to save some time for gawping at the incredible architecture of the Lincoln Cathedral!

Coo over the animals at Natureland Seal Sanctuary

If you and your date ate both animal lovers, then Skegness holds the perfect place for you to visit. Natureland rescues and rehabilitates orphaned and injured seal pups, and visitors are able to learn about every step of the process, and even join in feeding time! As if that isn't enough, Natureland has more to see than just adorable seals... you can also discover penguins, tropical butterflies, meerkats and more!

Enjoy a movie at the Kinema in the Woods

A date at the cinema is an old classic that never fails to work a treat. But if you're delving into the world of Lincolnshire dating, why not try upping the experience a little by heading to the Kinema? This cinema is nestled in the woods, providing a cosy setting to sit back and enjoy the big screen. If you're lucky, you may even have live organ music playing you out after the movie!

Stroll along the sandy Lincolnshire coast

The Lincolnshire coast runs for more than 50 miles, so if you and your date like to spend time on the sand, then you won't have to try too hard to find a nice spot. Top up your sun cream, grab your sunglasses, and make sure to have some spare money for an ice cream! Let's just hope you manage to catch some good weather...

Get competitive with outdoor activities at Ancaster Leisure

For those of you who love an adrenaline rush and bringing a touch of competitiveness to your dates, Ancaster Leisure is a place not to be missed! With a range of activities such as paintballing, go-karting, archery and quad biking, a date here would be sure to get your heart-racing... let's just hope your potential date gets your heart racing, too!

Nerves before a first date are a common occurrence, and it's totally normal to face anxieties as you prepare to get date-ready. We've all heard disastrous date stories, and don't want to have our own to tell. So, whether dating in Yorkshire like me or meeting someone through a Jersey dating site, it's time to throw those nerves out of the window and avoid a first date disaster!

Still scared of making mistakes on the romantic first meeting? Fear not – here are some tips on how to secure a successful first date…

Great conversation is key!

Maintaining conversation with a new love interest can sometimes be a challenge, especially when the nerves are present, and we definitely don't want any awkward silences. Start by ditching any cringey pick up lines you're planning on using, and instead opt for an interesting and quirky conversation starter. Remember to keep asking your date questions as well as opening up about yourself; it's got to be a two-way street in the dating game!

Don't date your phone

It's no secret that many of us find ourselves glued to our phone screen daily... but this soon becomes a problem if it stands in the way of our love lives. When embarking on a first date, make sure your phone stays hidden away while in the presence of your potential new love interest. There is nothing ruder than ignoring a riveting conversation with your date for a scroll through your apps and messages – that can wait, right? Say goodbye to your phone for a few hours to ensure that you are fully engaged in the best first date experience possible. Though a sneaky update to your mates while your date visits the restroom won't hurt!

Ex? What ex?

Excited to delve into dating sites and jump into a potential new relationship? Then do not even think about bringing your ex into the conversation. Mentioning your romantic past and the trauma of past lovers is a definite route to deterring your date and losing their interest. Instead revel in the excitement of a brand-new love coming into bloom... opening up about your past can be saved for further down the line.

Plan, plan and plan some more

Struggling to think of date ideas for the first meeting? A bit of pre-planning will never hurt. Having a pre-meditated itinerary of things to do on the first date not only portrays you as organised, but also eager and enthusiastic, which are incredibly impressive traits to have! Whether it is a night out at a swanky restaurant, an adventure to the beach, or even a trip to the cinema while Jersey dating, planning the first date beforehand is a necessary step to avoid confusion, boredom, and of course dreaded awkwardness.

Trust your gut

Finally, perhaps the most important piece of advice is to stay true to your gut feeling – what is it telling you about this person? If the sparks don’t fly after the first romantic experience with that person, remain calm and be clear about your intentions because nobody enjoys being lead on. However, if you are feeling butterflies after the first meeting, then who knows. Perhaps you’ve found the one…

If you're the sort of person who likes to keep active, then why not make sure your dates are active too? It's a great way to build on some teamwork, enjoy your common interests, and get your heart racing (and hopefully not just due to the activity, but the company too...).

So, if you're stepping into the big wide world of Hertfordshire dating and looking to introduce some activity into your dating life, then here are 6 ideas to get you started...

Hiking - Show your date your active, adventurous, nature-loving side by inviting them out for an afternoon of hiking. It'll provide a great opportunity for long conversations and connecting with one another, all while surrounded by beautiful nature and breath-taking views. Make sure to pick comfortable shoes for this one!
Dancing - Whether it's heading to the club for a boogie, taking part in a lesson, or simple throwing some shapes in the comfort of your own home, dancing with one another is sure to bring a smile to both of your faces and guarantee and enjoyable evening. The best part? You can dress sexy and really show off.
Paintballing - Release your mischievous side and compete with your new love interest to become paintballing champion. If you’re a more established couple, make this an opportunity to invite friends and their significant others along too for a big, messy group date. Be prepared for some post-activity bruises...
Cycling - Whether you’re dating in Yorkshire or dabbling in some Hertfordshire dating, you’re sure to find a beautiful park or trail for a chilled out bike ride. It's s a great way to cover a lot of ground and discover some of your beautiful surroundings, all while getting to know each other along the way.
Tennis - Tennis makes for a perfect outdoor couple's activity when the weather is good, and it's a relatively easy sport to get the hang of, so grab your racquet and your trainers, and head to the court for some competitive fun. You could even mix things up by inviting a friend along for an exciting double date scenario.
Rock climbing - If you’re up for a challenge, suggest a rock climbing date to your new love interest. It’s a fab way to get to know each other without feeling too much pressure because attempting a climb is perfect way to fill any conversation gaps that might occur. It's going to be a test of upper body strength too, so be prepared for some aching afterwards!

Let's face it - as adults, sometime our budgets don't stretch as far as we'd like. After forking out for mortgages, petrol, food shops and what feels like endless bills, paying for a luxurious date definitely seems off the cards.

Luckily, for us singletons looking to find love, dating doesn't have to be expensive. In fact, it doesn't have to cost a single penny if you do it right. So, whether you're wanting to make a plan with your long-term partner or are perhaps trying to woo someone you've met on a Strathclyde dating site, here are six date ideas you can do entirely for free!

Grab your boots and head out on a hike

A hike is sure to provide you and your date with fabulous views, lush surroundings, and plenty of opportunity to get to know each other en route. Who knows - you might just end up finishing your walk hand in hand...

Channel your inner child with a blanket fort

Whether you're dating in Yorkshire like me or dabbling in some Strathclyde dating, sometimes a night in can completely trump a night out, and will always be cheaper too! Spend an afternoon building a blanket fort in your living room and snuggle beneath the bedsheet canopies while you indulge in some Netflix or chat the night away.

Take to the streets on wheels

Take a load off your feet and instead choose a date on wheels. Find a beautiful park or nature trail for a chilled out date with your love interest, taking in beautiful surroundings while enjoying some chat along the way.

Game the day away

Whether it's a case of digging out your retro boardgames, or simply switching on your PlayStation, you and your date can have an abundance of fun together simply by playing games. You just need to decide whether you'd work together in co-op mode, or get competitive by going head-to-head!

Stroll around some free museums

If you and your date share an interest in history, culture, art or heritage, then a stroll around a museum is sure to make for a perfect day together. Luckily there are a number of museums and galleries that offer free entry, and so you and your love interest can get lost in eye-opening and insightful experiences without ever having to dig your purse or wallet out - win!

Simply sit and watch the world go by

Sometimes, all you need to have a good time is great company, so why not simply find a good spot for your and your date to sit, chat, and watch the world go by? Bonus points if the weather is good, too!

Summertime. Longer days. warmer evenings, al fresco dining, fruity cocktails... it all sounds like a perfect recipe for a spot of dating, right?

And whether you're looking for date ideas for you and your partner, or wanting to impress someone new you've met on a Hampshire dating site, here are seven ideal summer date ideas...

Get things sizzling at a BBQ for two

Summer wouldn't be summer without people digging out their trusty BBQs and cooking up a storm in their gardens. Make it an intimate affair by making it a cosy BBQ for two. Enjoy some charcoaled meat in the warm sunshine, and grab some drinks and blankets for when the sun goes down and the evening starts to cool off.

Oh, I do like to be beside the seaside

When we think of the summertime, there's no doubt a trip to the seaside will cross our mind. So, plan a full day with your date to take advantage of the weather as you stroll across the sand, compete for prizes in the amusements, and finish off your adventure with an ice cream.

Basket, blanket and buffet... time for a picnic!

Enjoy a slow and lazy day with your love interest by grabbing a blanket, filling a basket with good food, and finding some beautiful surroundings in which to have a picnic. Extra romance points if you pop open some bubbly too!

Visit the big screen - outdoor style!

A trip to the cinema is always an old faithful date idea, but why not give it a summer spin by finding an outdoor screening? Whether dating in Hull or dabbling in Hampshire dating, enjoy the pleasant weather as you snuggle together and watch a classic film - what's not to love!

Grab your walking boots and go on a hike

Show off your active, nature-loving side by taking you date away for an afternoon of hiking. Stroll side by side, deep in conversation, or make things a little more competitive by racing each other to the tops of hills or fighting for the best views.

Unleash your wild side with a trip to the zoo

If you're an animal-lover, and your date is too, then a visit to a local zoo makes for a perfect day. Coo over the cute animals, stop for a bite to eat, and leave with new treats from the gift shop.

Keep it simple with al fresco food and cocktails

Food and cocktails never disappoints, so why fix what isn't broken? Simply opt for an outdoor table, and voila - you have an easy summertime date!

Known for its sandy coasts and craggy coastal cliffs, Guernsey is a beautiful member of the Channel Islands with the ocean on its doorstep and an abundance of green space to get lost in. And with such stunning backdrops, it makes sense that it’s also a great place to indulge in a spot of romance, right?

So, whether you’re heading off on a trip to the island with your other half, or simply dabbling in a bit of Guernsey dating and looking to meet someone new, here are four romantic things you can get up to...

Get lost in an oasis of colour at Candie Gardens

If you’re looking for a beautiful and tranquil location to spend time with a love interest you’ve met on a Guernsey dating site, the Candie Gardens is the perfect spot. This award-winning Victorian garden is home to a plethora of colourful flowers, vibrant lawns and charming fish ponds - and all of them are sure to take your breath away. Let’s just hope your date has the same effect on you!

Kiss beneath the pebbles and seashells of Little Chapel

When spending time in Guernsey, if you really want to indulge in something romantic, then you can’t miss a visit to The Little Chapel. Located in the the Les Vauxbelets valley, this charming little building really is quite magical. Colourful pebbles and broken China cover the walls, and the lush greenery surrounding it simply adds to the charm. So why not steal a kiss beneath the intricate surrounding with your love interest?

Step into history at Castle Cornet

Guarding Guernsey for almost 800 years now, Castle Cornet is a beautifully preserved ancient royal fortress, steeped in history and well worth a visit. It boasts breathtaking panoramic views over the coast, beautiful historic gardens to explore, and a number of museums to immerse yourself into, so you’re bound to waste hours away here with your love interest, totally transfixed... though by the surroundings, or by the person...?

Wander hand in hand on Shell Beach

Pure escapism waits for anyone who visits Shell Beach. The impeccable coastline, warm waters and exciting activities are sure to leave you feeling like you’ve been transported to an exotic location in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Stroll hand in hand along the sandy shore, hunt for fascinating underwater creatures while rock pooling, get your heart racing with some water sports, or simply lie under the night stars. Whatever your choose to do there, Shell Beach provides the perfect romantic setting.

So there you have it! Four simple but wonderful ideas for a romantic date in Guernsey. Which would you do first?