London is undeniably one of the most daunting dating scenes out there. Its sprawling, vibrant, and sometimes misty landscape, paired with an incredibly diverse mix of people, can make the dating journey feel like an uphill struggle—especially for those in the open relationship community. However, there are some clever ways to meet people across the capital, even if those initial connections aren’t always rooted in open relationship dynamics (spoiler: most aren’t!).
Here are a few tips to help you navigate one of the world’s largest dating pools.
London’s Club Scene
London boasts one of the most expansive club scenes in the world, which is especially thrilling for singles. This vibrant nightlife includes swinger clubs such as Le Boudoir, where like-minded individuals can connect. However, you don’t need to limit yourself to swinger clubs to meet people—there are countless other nightlife options across the city where London’s singles mix and mingle.
For instance, you could try the iconic Ministry of Sound for an unforgettable dance night, or head over to Fabric, a favourite for those who love cutting-edge electronic music. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more upscale, Soho’s exclusive Cirque le Soir might just be the spot to catch the attention of someone new. The options are endless, and London’s diverse clubbing scene has something to offer for everyone looking to crack the dating code.
London’s Speed Dating Scene
London, much like any bustling metropolis, has a thriving speed dating scene that’s perfect for meeting new people. While it may not always be the go-to for connecting with fellow swingers, it certainly can be, after all, those interested in open relationships need to meet someone who shares their values first.
The city offers an abundance of speed dating options, but here are a couple that truly stand out.
Date in a Dash
Date in a Dash is well-known for organising fun, fast-paced speed dating events across London. Whether you’re keen to meet someone for a casual connection, a romantic relationship, or even explore the possibility of finding a partner open to the idea of non-monogamy, Date in a Dash offers a relaxed environment for all. Their events cater to a range of interests, with activities like speed boat dating, quiz nights, and even Drunk Jenga, which means there are plenty of opportunities to break the ice in unique and memorable ways.
True Dating
True Dating is another fantastic choice for those looking to make connections in London. Known for its sociable, laid-back atmosphere, True Dating hosts a range of events, from traditional speed dating evenings to mixers and themed parties. These gatherings are a great way to meet a diverse group of people who are open-minded and up for a good time. With many events centred around more than just dating, like wine tasting or ‘Singles Bingo,’ True Dating offers the chance to connect on multiple levels, making it possible to discover someone who’s interested in exploring more unconventional relationship styles.
Both Date in a Dash and True Dating provide welcoming, pressure-free environments where you can meet others and see if there’s a spark, all while having a bit of fun along the way.
Polyamory Meetups
If you want to pursue your desires head-on, consider joining polyamory meetups or open-minded socials.
One popular group is Poly Coffee London, which gathers in casual spots like local cafes for coffee and conversation. It’s an excellent way to meet others who are interested in ethical non-monogamy, all in a relaxed, daytime environment.
Another group is the London Polyamory Social Group, which organises regular meetups for anyone curious about or experienced in polyamory. These gatherings range from informal discussions in pubs to outdoor socials in parks, making it easy for newcomers and seasoned poly individuals alike to find a welcoming space.
Another option is Loving Without Limits, which hosts workshops and discussions on the topic of ethical non-monogamy. These events are usually educational, offering guidance on maintaining open relationships and providing a space for attendees to share their experiences.
These are both great ways to meet people interested in the open relationship and swinger lifestyle.
No matter what way you choose, there’s a lot of great options that help you make London’s dating scene feel a whole lot less intimidating and sprawling.
Charles Lace is a distinguished UK-based writer, born in 1975 in Brighton, who has become a prominent voice in the open relationship and swinger communities. His passion for exploring and documenting alternative lifestyles, particularly in the UK, has made him a well-known figure in these circles.
After studying Creative Writing at the University of East Anglia, Lace began his career as a freelance journalist for London newspapers. In his late 20s, he found his niche writing about non-monogamous relationships and the swinger lifestyle. His breakthrough came in 2005 with the publication of “Open Hearts, Open Doors: An Introduction to Ethical Non-Monogamy,” which became an unexpected bestseller in its niche.
Known for his frank yet sensitive approach, Lace’s writing style combines personal anecdotes with well-researched information and expert interviews. He regularly contributes to various swinger publications, most notably through his column in “Lifestyle Horizons,” a popular UK-based magazine for the swinger and polyamorous communities.