Unified Dating - Meet Singles in Lincoln

Unified Dating is running a speed-dating night in Lincoln on Friday 27 November, and it's pitched as a relaxed, friendly alternative to the apps. The whole thing is built around you making your own choices: you pick the venue, the orientation — straight, lesbian, gay or bisexual — and the timeslot that works for you. It's a self-service approach to meeting people locally, rather than something handed to you on a plate.

There's a bit you should know before you book, though. The organisers run these without staff on the night, so it's just the attendees. They also keep the venue a secret until closer to the date, and they reserve the right to reschedule if turnout is low or the gender mix is skewed. They don't guarantee the number of people who'll show up or what that mix will be, so it's a bit of a leap of faith. You'll need to be 18 or over to take part, and the dress code is smart casual — they put it as 'dress to impress'.

If you're thinking of bringing a mate, there's a 'BringAFriend' code that takes up to 50% off their ticket, provided you've booked your own at full price first. Tickets are £17.99 and sold online only through Skiddle and Unified Dating, so there's nothing to buy at the door. There are no refunds, though they'll offer event credit if you've got a valid reason for missing it.