Love doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. If you’re searching for affordable date ideas in Sussex and Surrey, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a memorable day out without splurging. From scenic strolls and quirky activities to hidden gems perfect for couples, here are 10 budget-friendly date ideas that prove romance doesn’t need to break the bank.
1. DIY Afternoon Tea Picnic at Priory Park or Swanbourne Lake
Skip the expensive café and pack your own afternoon tea! With homemade scones, sandwiches, and a flask of tea (or a Piglets Pantry hamper), you can enjoy a charming picnic date at Priory Park in Reigate or Swanbourne Lake in Arundel, all for a fraction of the cost.
2. Scenic Cycle Rides Along the Downs Link
For active couples, grab your bikes and ride the Downs Link, a traffic-free trail connecting Surrey to the Sussex coast. It’s free, peaceful, and perfect for a leisurely ride with plenty of countryside stops along the way.
3.Paddleboarding at Cuckmere Meanders
Try something new with a budget paddle boarding session at Cuckmere Meanders (Sussex). With lower rental prices than coastal spots, it’s a fun, active date that guarantees laughs (and maybe a splash or two).
4. Wander Through Mayfield Lavender Fields
Take a romantic stroll through the Mayfield Lavender Farm in Banstead, Surrey. For just £5 entry, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant purple fields — the ideal backdrop for dreamy couple photos.
5. Open-Air Cinema Nights in Scenic Locations
Catch a movie under the stars at South Downs National Park or Guildford Cathedral Grounds, where open-air cinema nights offer tickets from £10-£12. It’s a more memorable (and affordable) alternative to the traditional cinema date.
6. Brewery and Vineyard Tours Under £20
Explore local flavours with a brewery or vineyard tour. Ridgeview Wine Estate (Sussex) and Surrey Hills Brewery offer affordable tastings and tours, giving you a fun, informative date for under £20 per person.
7. Visit Quirky Local Museums
Discover hidden history together at Dorking Museum & Heritage Centre or Amberley Museum (Sussex). Tickets are typically under £10, making it an affordable and interesting way to spend a few hours.
8. Fish & Chips and a Sunset Beach Walk
Keep it classic with a seaside stroll and takeaway fish & chips. Littlehampton Beach and Seaford Beach are perfect for a simple but romantic dinner date with a sunset view all for under £10.
9. Woodland Walks with a Coffee Stop
Enjoy a relaxing walk at Winkworth Arboretum (Surrey) or Sheffield Park Gardens (Sussex). Affordable entry fees (or free with National Trust membership) paired with a coffee at the onsite café make this a perfect low-key date idea.
10. Mini Golf at Jungle Paradise or Squires Garden Centres
Challenge your partner to a fun, affordable round of mini-golf. Jungle Paradise Adventure Golf (Chichester) and Squires Garden Centres (Surrey) offer courses priced around £5-£8 per person, perfect for a playful, budget-friendly date.
You Don’t Need a Big Budget for a Memorable Date
From countryside adventures to quirky local experiences, Sussex and Surrey are packed with budget-friendly date ideas that prove romance isn’t about the price tag. Whether it’s a lakeside picnic, a paddle boarding session, or an open-air movie night, quality time together doesn’t need to cost a fortune.
