How To Meet Singles in Northern Ireland

Belfast has been listed among the 50 best European city for singles, and approximately 47% of Northern Ireland’s two million residents are single.

But does that mean it’s easy to meet that special someone?

If you’ve been searching for a while, you know the answer to that question. Even though online dating is proven successful, your future partner might not use your favourite app.

So, we’ve put together some tips for meeting singles in Northern Ireland IRL, and even if you don’t connect with “the one,” you’ll have fun trying!

Start as Friends

The name of this blog post might be How to Meet Singles in Northern Ireland, but you don’t have to stick to that Google search to accomplish it. While online dating and singles groups can work their magic, there are other roundabout ways to meet someone with shared interests.

Both the Belfast Friendship Club and the North Belfast Friendship Club have members of all ages and backgrounds. They meet in casual environments like cafes and invite new attendees to join their Facebook Group to continue the camaraderie.

It’s easy to get to know people, and even if you don’t spot a potential partner in the mix, your new friends might have some recommendations.

Be a Patron of the Arts

Lisburn’s Island Arts Centre isn’t just a top attraction for visitors in the area. It’s a place for arts lovers to wander, take classes or workshops, and attend events.

Whether you wander a museum or an arts centre, there are all kinds of people who appreciate the same thing. Plus, you’ve got built-in conversation starters, as well as places to sit, relax, and people-watch.

The Island Arts Center has a Community Arts Walkway, Buzz Visits with tutors, painting classes, music, and more. You might come across family groups, but plenty of singletons in the area appreciate the music and special events.

Pedal Your Way to a Potential Partner

Whether you enjoy mountain biking, taking your e-bike for a spin, or a good old traditional cycle, you’ll find a club near you. However, if you live in East Antrim, we’ve got a suggestion.

The Integrity Cycle Club has members ranging from 16 to 70 years old. It started in Ballyclare and now extends to Carrickfergus, Belfast, and beyond. Members of the “leisure club” cover all abilities, so there are no worries about keeping up – they don’t leave anyone behind.

Clubs like these are perfect for meeting other singles. It’s relaxed, everyone gets to know each other, and you get a workout!

Speed Dating with a Twist

You’re probably already familiar with speed dating if you’re searching for how to meet singles in Northern Ireland. The concept has been around for quite a while now. And it’s a proven way to make some love connections.

You get just a few minutes to meet potential partners and make a good first impression (and vice versa). If both of you tick the box expressing interest on your submission card, the host puts you in contact with each other.

There are new twists on speed dating events with additions like wine and food tastings. However, we especially like Belfast’s Match Made Dating’s variation. It’s an outdoor event at Helen’s Bay Beach in Bangor, where dogs are welcome. Not only is it more comfortable having your fur baby with you, but your pup is a great judge of character!

Match Made Dating doesn’t have the doggie lovers’ event all the time. But keep an eye on their site so you don’t miss the next one.

Take Your Pick at the Grouse Complex

A night out in Ballymena might just be the ticket to meeting someone new. There’s no better place for nightlife, whether you’re looking for something a bit tamer so you can have a conversation or you’d rather be on the dance floor showing off your moves.

You have your pick of both (a twofer!) at the Grouse Complex. The Smoking Monkey offers a laid-back vibe with food, cocktails, and music, while the award-winning Origin Nightclub is a haven for singles in party moods.

You can’t go wrong with either one – just pick the one that suits you best, as you’re looking for someone with similar interests.

Northern Ireland Young Walkers

Are you a singleton in your 20s or 30s? If so, you might want to join a unique walking club specifically for outdoor enthusiasts in your age range.

The Northern Ireland Young Walkers have been around since 2005 and now have about 100 members. Not only will you get some exercise hiking the Antrim Plateau, Mournes, Sperrins, and Wicklow, but there are also social events on the schedule.

You’ll typically have refreshments in the car parks where everyone meets up. But other activities include pub quizzes, dinners, dancing, and parties. It’ll be easy to make some friends straight out of the gate, and you can be sure many of the participants are singles like you.

Dog Parks Filled with Single Dog Parents

If you’re an animal lover, dog parks and play areas are ideal places to meet other single pet parents. It’s easy to start a conversation with someone who catches your eye, as they have nothing to do but keep an eye on their fur baby.

Beechgrove Doggy Fun Park in Bainbridge is an excellent choice. It’s a park and training centre, and you can even join a play group, so you get to know the regulars. Don’t worry if you’re not in County Down, though; there’s sure to be something similar near you.

Be an Event Volunteer

There’s no lack of volunteer opportunities throughout Northern Ireland. But if you’re looking to meet other singles, you’ll get a twofer by volunteering at a theatre or event centre.

North Ireland Screen has a volunteer program for festivals like the Belfast Film Festival. It’s a feel-good and excellent way to mingle with some people excited about the film industry. Who knows who you could meet?!

Ready To Get Out and Meet Northern Ireland Singles?

We’ve hit the highlights of some places to meet singles throughout Northern Ireland that might not be top of mind. But that’s the point.

Sometimes the best things in life are off the beaten path. So, joining a new group or hanging out at some of your favourite places like museums or art galleries might be more successful than a designated singles event.

However, when you’re excited about meeting other singles, make yourself approachable and don’t be afraid to start a conversation. You’ll have an easier time connecting with someone if you’re not surrounded by a group of your mates or scrolling through your Instagram feed instead of looking up to see what’s around you.