Curious about speed dating but not sure what to expect?
At Ditch or Date, we make meeting new people feel relaxed, social, and straightforward. Our speed dating events are designed to help singles connect naturally in stylish venues across the UK - without the pressure, awkwardness, or endless messaging that often comes with dating apps.
Whether you’re completely new to speed dating or returning after a break from online dating, here’s exactly how a Ditch or Date event works.
Why Choose Ditch or Date?
Unlike some speed dating companies, we focus on creating a genuinely welcoming experience from the moment you arrive. Our events are hosted by experienced, friendly professionals who help the evening run smoothly and ensure everyone feels comfortable.
Many of our hosts have been with Ditch or Date for more than six years, helping thousands of singles meet in a relaxed and enjoyable environment.
Why people choose Ditch or Date:
- Matches are worked out for you after the event
- Match notifications are sent within 24 hours
- Friendly, experienced event hosts
- Stylish venues across major UK cities
- Relaxed atmosphere with plenty of social interaction
- Free return event if you don’t meet someone you’d like to see again
What Happens at a Speed Dating Event?
A Ditch or Date event is simple, social, and designed to feel natural from start to finish.
Here’s what you can expect on the night:
1. Arrival & Registration
Registration usually takes place between 7:30pm and 8:00pm. When you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by your host and given a name badge and matching card.
Your host will explain how the evening works and help everyone settle in before the dating begins.
2. The Speed Dating Rounds
Ladies remain seated while the men rotate between tables every few minutes. Each conversation lasts around four minutes - just enough time to see whether there’s chemistry and enjoy a genuine first impression.
The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and surprisingly fun, even for first-time attendees.
3. Breaks & Social Time
Throughout the evening there are breaks where guests can grab a drink, chat naturally, and enjoy the venue.
Unlike dating apps, speed dating gives you the chance to meet multiple people face-to-face in one evening, without weeks of messaging beforehand.
4. Choosing Your Matches
At the end of the event, simply hand your matching card back to the host.
You can select:
- Date - someone you’d like to see again
- Friend - someone you’d like to stay in touch with socially
- Ditch - no further connection
Our team works out your matches for you after the event, so there’s no need to log in later and manually submit your choices. However, if you prefer, you can still enter your own selections online using your email address and password until midday the following day. Either way, we make sure every guest’s matches are fully processed.
5. Receiving Your Matches
Within 24 hours, you’ll receive notification of any mutual matches, along with contact details so you can continue the conversation.
From there, the next step is completely up to you! For more info, see our article on how matches work.
Why Singles Still Love Speed Dating
Modern dating can feel exhausting. Endless swiping, ghosting, and conversations that never lead anywhere have left many singles looking for a more genuine way to meet people.
Speed dating offers something refreshingly different:
- Real conversations
- Instant chemistry
- No endless messaging
- A relaxed social environment
- The chance to meet 15–20 singles in one evening
Many guests are surprised by how comfortable and enjoyable the experience feels once the event gets started.
Speed Dating Events Across the UK
Ditch or Date hosts regular speed dating events across the UK, including including Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham, Liverpool, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Belfast.
Our events take place in stylish, centrally located venues and are designed to help singles meet naturally in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Browse all upcoming events and book online to secure your place at your nearest speed dating event.