A growing number of single Britons are turning away from traditional dating apps in favour of real-world social gatherings, including board game nights and organised group activities, in their search for romantic partners. This trend emerges as data from Ofcom indicates a notable decline in dating app engagement across the UK, with major platforms experiencing a reduction in user numbers and overall time spent swiping.
Toria Papworth, a 35-year-old teacher from Earith, Cambridgeshire, exemplifies this shift. Having become single just before Christmas, she found the prospect of navigating dating apps, which she described as "pretty pants" over a decade of on-and-off use, unappealing. Inspired by how previous generations met through social activities rather than digital profiles, Ms Papworth established a free group for singles in February. Over the past five months, this group has fostered connections through shared experiences such as board game sessions and coastal walks in Heacham, Norfolk.
This move towards 'analogue' dating reflects a broader sentiment among singles seeking more genuine human connection. Ben Ramswell, 40, who joined Ms Papworth's group after an 11-year marriage ended, noted the difficulty in building trust through apps. He found the face-to-face interactions within the group "better than I expected," highlighting the friendly atmosphere, even if romantic success is yet to be determined. The emphasis, according to Ms Papworth, is on turning up to socialise and build friendships, with the potential for relationships to develop organically.
Dating coaches are also observing this change in dating behaviour. Siobhan Copland, a dating coach from Brentwood, Essex, organises mixer events incorporating card games, which she says are effective due to their small, intimate nature, encouraging direct conversation. Ms Copland believes people are increasingly craving authentic human connection and predicts a return to "old-school courting." While some dating apps like Hinge, Bumble, and Grindr have maintained steady user numbers, the overall trend suggests a shift away from the intense 'swipe culture'.
Jackie Jantos, CEO of Hinge, acknowledges the rise of social dating groups but does not view them as direct competition. She also noted that the ongoing cost-of-living crisis is influencing how many people approach dating. The sentiment among experts and singles alike points towards a greater desire for value-centred interactions and a more natural progression from socialising to potential romance, moving beyond the curated profiles and often superficial interactions of digital platforms.