• After shaking up London’s dating scene with its fun, no-swipe singles events, It’s a Date is heading north.
• This October, the much-loved dating brand will launch in Manchester, bringing its unique mix of activity-based events, inclusive atmosphere, and proven matchmaking magic to the city for the very first time.
Manchester, UK – 3rd of September 2025 – After transforming the London dating scene, It’s a Date is set to launch in Manchester this October, with its first singles event taking place on Side Street Manchester, a bar located in the heart of the city.
The appetite for in-person dating is stronger than ever: Eventbrite reports that in-person singles events surged 41% year-over-year in 2024, driven by widespread dating app fatigue. Likewise, a U.S. study found 82% of adults in relationships met their partner in person, not online.
Launched in February 2024, It’s a Date was created as a fun, real-life alternative to scrolling, swiping, and ghosting. In just 18 months, the platform has brought together a vibrant community of singles craving for real connections. From wine tastings and bowling nights to speed dating and singles parties, each event is designed to be relaxed, inclusive, and packed with genuine encounters.
Guests have repeatedly asked for events outside of London, and Manchester was the natural next step. With countless success stories, and even whispers of a wedding invite on the horizon, this expansion marks an exciting new chapter for the brand.
How It Works:
Guests choose from a range of events tailored to different age groups and interests. At the event, a dedicated host ensures everyone feels welcome, making introductions and creating a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Afterward, guests can log into the It’s a Date dashboard to select matches and continue the conversation online if both parties are interested.
Quote from Founder & Matchmaker, James Birrell:
“When my husband and I started It’s a Date, our goal was simple: to make dating fun again. London showed us that people are craving real-world connection, and the response has been incredible. We’ve built a community where friendships, relationships, and even love stories are happening every week. Manchester feels like the perfect next step, and we can’t wait to bring our unique events to the city.”
For media inquiries, please contact:
07402087595
About It’s a Date
It’s a Date is a UK-based dating events platform founded in 2024 by James Birrell and Ricardo Gato. Designed as a modern alternative to online dating, the platform offers activity-based singles events — from speed dating and wine tastings to games nights and cocktail masterclasses — across London and now Manchester. With an inclusive approach and hundreds of success stories, It’s a Date is redefining how people meet.
