A growing number of UK singles are opting for alcohol-free dating, signalling a shift toward wellness-focused romantic experiences. A survey of 1,000 UK respondents by Bridebook, the leading wedding planning platform founded by Hamish Shephard in 2015, found that 55% prefer coffee or casual meet-ups, while 36% favour going on walks.
This trend reflects broader attitudes toward drinking and health. Respondents were 11 times more likely to cite drinking too much as a dealbreaker than abstaining altogether, with 38% versus 3% reporting concern.
Expert insights on mindful dating
Licensed therapist Julie Goldberg of Third Nature Therapy, a Brooklyn-based holistic mental health practice, told Bridebook:
“In my practice, I see clients commit to personal growth before they commit to a relationship. They want to know themselves on a deeper level… People are prioritising healing themselves first before committing to healing in a relationship.”
She adds that many clients are more conscious of alcohol’s impact on sleep, focus, and anxiety. “When people choose dates, they want activities that add to their lives and well-being, not take away from it. That doesn’t mean people aren’t drinking at all; they are just consuming alcohol more mindfully.”
Changing meeting spaces
Dating habits are also shifting beyond traditional bars. 13% of respondents meet potential partners at hobby or interest groups, like book clubs, while 6% choose fitness clubs, with Millennials slightly more represented at 8%. Supporting this trend, a 2025 Ripple Research survey found 51% of British Gen Z avoid alcohol on first dates, preferring dinner or coffee, while Bumble reports 62% of users now favour dry dating for genuine connections.
Gen Z leading the wellness shift
Gen Z is driving much of this change, prioritising shared healthy lifestyle habits. Bridebook’s survey revealed that 13% of Gen Z respondents consider mismatched lifestyle habits, such as inactivity, a dealbreaker—higher than concerns about family disagreements or differing views on children. Mintel’s 2025 UK Gen Z lifestyle analysis reinforces this, showing 60% prioritise wellness over career or money, including interest in fitness, nutrition, and group activities.
A ZipHealth study across the UK and US similarly found Gen Z favouring sober intimacy for mental health and authenticity. According to a 2023 ONS report, 26% of 16–24 year-olds abstain from alcohol entirely, a trend continuing into 2025. Nearly 1/3 (29%) also report being content with singlehood, highlighting a cultural shift toward self-fulfilment.
Intentional dating for long-term relationships
Hamish Shephard, Founder of Bridebook, comments: “The growing trend towards singles currently opting out of drinking dates highlights an overall shift in expectations and goals. Many individuals are focusing on health and personal growth before entering relationships. While this may lead to later relationships and marriages, it will likely strengthen them by encouraging individuals to enter partnerships more intentionally, with greater self-awareness and clarity on what they want from a partner.”
As winter approaches, UK singles are increasingly favouring coffee chats and brisk walks, offering not just romantic connection but a foundation for well-being.
