By Andy, founder
If you're in your 50s, 60s or beyond and love walking, you're in good company. Plenty of people find new connections later in life, and a shared love of the outdoors is a lovely place to start. This guide covers how to get started, what to put in your profile, and how to make the most of your first few walks.
Is it too late to start dating in my 50s, 60s or 70s?
Not at all. People meet new partners, companions and friends at every age. Many of our members are in their 50s and 60s, and the over-45s make up the biggest age groups on the site. Wherever you are in life, you bring plenty with you: experience, interests and a good sense of what matters.
You don't need to rush, and you don't need to know exactly what you want. Some people are looking for a partner. Others want a walking companion who might become something more. Both are completely fine.
Why walking is a great way to meet someone
Walking is one of the nicest ways to get to know someone, and it suits almost every age and fitness level.
- It's relaxed. Walking side by side takes the pressure off conversation.
- It's flexible. You can choose a flat riverside stroll or a longer hill walk, depending on how you both feel.
- It's good for you. Fresh air and gentle exercise lift most people's mood.
- It shows you what they're like. You'll quickly learn whether you share a pace, a sense of humour and a love of a good view.
How do I get started?
Create a profile you're happy with
Be honest and be yourself. Say what you enjoy, where you like to walk and what you're hoping for. Our guide to writing a hiking dating profile has plenty of ideas. Choose a few clear, recent photos where you look like you, ideally outdoors and smiling.
Take your time
There's no need to message everyone at once. Look at a few profiles, read what people have written and say hello to those you'd like to know better. Messaging needs a premium membership, and you can see the details on our features page. No card is needed to create your profile.
Start with a short, easy walk
For a first meeting, pick a gentle route of an hour or so on a well-known path. Our first walk date ideas are a good place to start. Meet somewhere public, let a friend know where you're going and have a plan for how you'll get home.
What if I'm not as fit as I used to be?
That's perfectly normal, and a good match will understand. Be upfront about the sort of walking you enjoy now. "I like a gentle two-hour stroll with a stop for a flask" is a great thing to say. Plenty of lovely walking is flat or gently sloping, such as lakeside paths in the Lake District, riverside paths and easy sections of the Cotswold Way.
If you have any health concerns, check with your GP before taking on anything longer or steeper. Wear comfy, supportive footwear and take your time.
How do I stay safe?
A few simple habits go a long way. Meet in public, tell a friend or family member where you're going and who with, keep the walk short and well known, and keep your phone charged. Take a look at our guide to dating safely on walks and the safety page for more.
Should I talk about my past?
You don't need to share everything on a first walk. If you've been through a divorce or lost a partner, an honest sentence is enough. If you'd like some gentle thoughts on this, read our post on dating again after divorce or losing a partner.
What if it doesn't work out?
Not every walk will lead to a second one, and that's fine. A kind goodbye is enough: "It was lovely to meet you, but I don't think we're a match." You've still had a nice walk and a bit of fresh air. Chat, learn and keep going at your own pace.
Tips for making the most of a first walk
- Check the weather and dress in layers.
- Bring a flask and offer to share.
- Be on time, and say if you're running late.
- Ask questions about their favourite walks and listen to the answers.
- Agree an end time up front, so no one feels trapped.
- Enjoy yourself. You're out in the fresh air, and that's already a good day.
What if I'm new to online dating?
Lots of people are. If it all feels a bit unfamiliar, take it one step at a time. Fill in your profile in a quiet moment, ask a friend to look it over, and remember that you can go at your own speed. You can browse before you message anyone, and you can block or report anyone who makes you uncomfortable. Our safety page explains the tools the site gives you, such as blocking and reporting.
What should I look for in a walking partner?
Think about what matters to you. Do you want someone who likes the same pace, the same sort of scenery, or the same long lazy lunch at the end? Do you prefer quiet or chatty walks? Being clear about what you enjoy makes it easier to spot someone who fits. It also helps to be curious. Someone who walks differently from you might open up new places and ideas.
Where can I meet people who love walking?
Go Hiking Dating is a growing community for UK adults who love hiking and the outdoors. Browse the walking areas near you to see where you might meet someone, from the Peak District to the Scottish Highlands.
Whatever stage of life you're at, there's no better time than now to get out there. Create your profile, take your time and enjoy the walk.
- later-life
- walking
- advice
