Living in the country has lots of perks; beautiful surroundings, a bustling local community, endless dog walking opportunities and plenty of country pursuits to fill up any spare time you might have. Despite the global Covid-19 crisis this year, the Great Outdoors has remained open and can make you feel invigorated and rejuvenated which is perfect for a date!
Whether you have found love via a dating agency Kent or connected over a virtual workshop or online social gathering during lockdown there is such an array of activities for those looking to get active in the Kentish countryside from super active adventures to more sedate experiences. Just because you met on a Kent dating site in the digital world doesn’t mean you can’t get out and enjoy the real world! Inspired by my local area in West Kent, here are my top 3 country pursuit date ideas.
Bird of Prey Flying
I am lucky that just down the road from me is a fantastic Bird of Prey and Wildlife Foundation, Eagle Heights, that offer all sorts of experiences for people looking to get up close and personal with their array of animals, from Hawks to Huskies, Meerkats to Eagles.
Experiences give you the opportunity to take part in the ancient and magnificent art of bird handling whilst learning about the birds and the history behind the tradition. Usually, in small groups, you will be provided with all the gear you will need to enjoy the day such as heavy-duty gloves and a pouch of tasty treats with which to reward the birds.
There are many centres around the UK that offer you the chance to handle and fly their beautiful birds for a day out in the gorgeous countryside. Eagle Heights is closed during lockdown but plan to open as soon as they can after!
If your date is an animal lover then look to further, you won’t be likely to forget the feeling of an eagle with a 5ft wingspan flying and landing on your arm! A date to talk about for years to come!
Golf
Not far from Eagle Heights is the 18-hole, 6713 yards Lullingstone Castle Golf Course made up of undulating parkland which has amazing views of the Kent countryside and Lullingstone Castle. When we are walking the dogs at Lullingstone Park we often see groups of people enjoying a round of golf on the course which just looks like an idyllic way to combine enjoying the countryside and getting active!
Golf is great for a date as it’s a sport that men and women can enjoy playing together and provides an instantaneous ice-breaker. You don’t have to be good either! Bad Golf will be sure to provoke some laughs and an opportunity to connect with your date. Golf is a relaxing, safe, outdoor activity that provides ample opportunity for conversation and by the end of the round, you should know whether you and your date are compatible.
If you’re keen to get into the sport then you will want to make sure you have the right kit. Consider getting a beginner set of clubs which generally have 12-17 clubs in them including a driver, fairway wood, irons, hybrid clubs, pitching wedge, sand wedge and a putter. You’ll also need to have the right shoes which have extra padding to support the midfoot and shock absorption.
Horse Riding
When I was younger I had a few riding lessons and although I didn’t continue for very long it was fascinating to experience trekking through the local countryside astride a majestic horse. There are many local stables that offer horse riding lessons and training from very beginners to more advanced riders.
There is just something romantic about the idea of following a trail through the beautiful Kentish countryside on horseback. Perhaps it is the simplicity of enjoying the outdoors and being in nature together that I find so appealing? A horse ride gives the opportunity for you both to spend a lovely day sightseeing, talking to each other, and enjoying the tranquillity all around you. Be sure to pack a picnic!
There are lots of benefits of horse riding including giving you a good workout! To stay balanced and keep from bouncing around in the saddle, you’ll have to use your core muscles back, your inner thighs and pelvic muscles. Not only do you benefit physically but spending time with animals is believed to raise levels of the mood-enhancing hormone serotonin, so it’s good for your body, brain and emotions.
So, you see, there are lots of great date options in the countryside offering quality time, opportunities to connect with your date and great memories that can turn into great couple-stories you will tell for years to come!
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