Plus Size First Date Ideas That Feel Easy and Fun

The first date is the part that makes most people nervous, and when you are plus size it can feel like there is even more to think about. Will the seats be comfortable? Will you be judged? Will the evening be fun? The good news is that a bit of planning removes most of the worry. Here are our favourite plus size first date ideas, and some tips to make the evening feel easy.

At Shag a Fatty we hear from members every day about what worked and what did not, so these ideas come from real dates.

What makes a good first date for plus size singles?

The best dates share a few things: comfortable seating, enough space to talk, no pressure and something to do besides sitting and staring. Pick somewhere you feel relaxed, and tell your date if you have a preference.

Plus size first date ideas that work

• Coffee and a walk. A short, low pressure meeting that you can extend if it goes well. A park or a riverside walk is lovely and gives you something to talk about.
• A relaxed dinner. Choose a restaurant with proper chairs or booths, and check the menu online in advance so you know there is something you will enjoy.
• A pub lunch or Sunday roast. Easy, friendly and comfortable, with plenty of time to chat.
• A gallery or museum. You can talk about what you see and nobody feels stared at.
• A cooking class or food market. Fun, social and a natural way to bond.
• Mini golf or bowling. A little playful competition breaks the ice, as long as you both know in advance.
• A film night at home. Better for second or third dates, once you have met a few times.

Places to think twice about

• Bar stools or small, fixed chairs with narrow arms.
• Very crowded or noisy places where it is hard to talk.
• Activities that need a lot of equipment, such as tight harnesses or small seats, unless you have checked in advance.

Before the date

1. Check the venue. Look at photos online, read reviews or call ahead about seating.
2. Choose an outfit you feel great in. Comfort and confidence matter more than trends.
3. Meet in public and let a friend know your plans. Safety comes first with any first date.
4. Plan how you will get there and back. Arriving relaxed is half the battle.

During the date

Ask open questions and listen. Keep your phone away and enjoy the conversation. If nerves appear, take a breath and remember that your date is probably nervous too. For more on settling in slowly, our page on shy BBW dating may help.

How to know if it went well

Good signs include easy conversation, laughter, eye contact and a date who suggests meeting again. If you are not feeling it, you can say so kindly and move on. You do not have to settle for anyone who makes you feel small.

Meeting someone first

Most people feel better when they have talked online before they meet. A few days of messages helps you decide whether to meet in person. If you are new to this, plus size dating in the UK explains where to start.

Frequently asked questions

What is a good first date for a plus size woman?

Something relaxed with comfortable seating, like coffee and a walk, a restaurant with booths or a pub lunch.

Should I tell my date about venue concerns?

If something matters to you, such as seating, say so. A good date will be happy to choose somewhere you are comfortable.

How long should a first date last?

One to two hours is plenty. Leave them wanting more.

Who pays on a first date?

It is whatever the two of you agree. Many people split the bill or take turns.

Find Your Next Date With Shag a Fatty

Women date free, and men pay one yearly fee of £39. If you are ready to meet curvy singles, join Shag a Fatty and start chatting.