Is Love a Borough Too Far? Nearly Half of Londoners Say Dating Across the City Feels ‘Long Distance’
Dating in London is a game of borough boundaries. According to new research from Bumble, the women-first dating app, almost 7 in 10 Londoners (69%) prefer to date someone who lives in their own postcode. And for nearly half (48%), trekking across the city for romance qualifies as ‘long-distance dating.’
But despite the travel woes, love might just be worth the journey. One in two Londoners say they’d travel an hour or more for a first date—especially if the vibe is right. What motivates them? The thrill of discovering new neighbourhoods (37%), proving they’re serious about dating (30%), and leaning into the romance of it all (23%).
To help break down borough barriers and encourage singles to look beyond their local dating pool, Bumble has teamed up with Lime to launch a series of singles events in Clapham—complete with free Lime bike rides to get you there. With 62% of daters saying Lime makes the experience feel more fun and casual, getting across town just got a whole lot smoother.
Your Borough Says More Than Your Bio
The research also reveals that Londoners see boroughs as lifestyle signifiers, not just postcodes. In fact, 59% say where someone lives speaks volumes about their personality. According to Bumble users:
Camden ranks top for the most vibrant nightlife (44%)
Kensington & Chelsea takes the crown for fitness lovers (24%)
Westminster is home to the most career-driven daters (45%)
Pedal Into Something New This Bank Holiday
To help more Londoners meet outside their comfort zone, Bumble and Lime are giving away hundreds of free bike rides this Bank Holiday weekend. Daters can cycle to a Bumble x Lime ‘pit stop’ in Clapham, where they’ll receive curated dating essentials—conveniently sized to fit in a Lime bike basket.
The day ends with a singles party at No.32 Clapham, featuring complimentary drinks, great food, and a DJ spinning the soundtrack for your next connection.
Turns out, love might just be one bike ride away.
Sign-up here.
