The clocks went back on 25 October, and with them went our long, light evenings. By teatime the curtains are drawn, the kettle is on and the sofa is calling. It is very easy to decide that dating can wait until spring.
Here at Wise Owl, we would gently disagree. In our view, the colder months are one of the best times of year to meet someone new. Here is why.
Long evenings are made for conversation
In summer, life is busy. There are gardens to tend, grandchildren to entertain and holidays to plan. In winter, many of us have more time at home in the evenings, and that makes it a natural moment to browse a few profiles and enjoy an unhurried chat on the site.
Taking your time over messages is no bad thing. Writing to someone over a few weeks, getting a feel for their sense of humour and what matters to them, is a gentle and safe way to build a connection before you meet. It also makes it easier to spot anyone who seems in too much of a hurry.
Winter dates are cosy dates
Forget the idea that a great first date needs sunshine. Picture it: a crisp, bright Sunday morning, a stroll through the park with your scarf wrapped up tight, then a warming pot of tea in a busy café. Or an afternoon at a museum or a garden centre, followed by a bowl of soup by a pub fire.
Daytime dates have a lot going for them at this time of year. They feel relaxed, they are easy to keep short if you would like to, and you can be home before dark. They also fit neatly with the sensible basics: meet in a busy public place, tell a friend or relative where you are going, and arrange your own transport.
Everyone is looking for a little warmth
There is no getting away from it: the darker months can feel lonely, especially for anyone living alone. In a 2024 report, Age UK said that a million older people feel more isolated at Christmas than at any other time of year.
That is a sobering thought, but it also means you are far from alone in wanting some company this winter. Plenty of people are thinking exactly the same thing, and some of them may be on Wise Owl right now, hoping someone friendly will say hello.
Starting to date does not have to mean finding "the one" by Valentine's Day. It can be as simple as finding a companion for a Christmas market, a pantomime or a New Year's Day walk. Friendship, company and romance all count.
You have time to get ready
Winter is also a lovely season for a little preparation. Update your profile with a recent, smiling photo. Write a few honest lines about what you enjoy, whether that is a good detective drama, a brisk walk with the dog or a proper Sunday roast. Say what you are hoping for, so that like-minded people can find you.
If the thought of a first date makes your stomach flutter, you are in very good company. Our recent piece on first-date nerves at 60 explains why those butterflies are actually a good sign.
A few gentle ground rules
However cosy the season, the sensible habits stay the same. Keep early conversations on the dating site, where you can block or report anyone who makes you uncomfortable. Be wary of anyone who declares strong feelings very quickly, avoids a video or telephone call, or keeps finding reasons not to meet. And never send money to someone you have met online, whatever the story. Our dating safety guide has the full checklist.
Why we think winter wins
Spring will come, and with it lighter evenings and the first daffodils. But there is no need to wait for it. Winter offers time to talk, cosy places to meet and plenty of other people hoping for exactly the same thing. That sounds like a pretty good season for romance to us.
So put the kettle on, settle into your favourite chair and say hello to someone new. You never know where a winter conversation might lead. If you are just starting out, our guide to senior dating in the UK will help you find your feet.
Sources
GOV.UK, When do the clocks change? Age UK, You are not alone in feeling lonely, published 2 December 2024.
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About the author: Ernie S writes news, views and lighter pieces for Wise Owl Dating, the UK dating site for the over 50s and part of the Cafe Dating Collection.