Dating in London comes with its own set of geographical challenges. New research from Bumble, the women-first dating app, reveals that travel and distance is a barrier when it comes to dating. Almost 7 in 10 Londoners (69%) say they’d prefer to date someone from their borough, and nearly half (48%) consider crossing the city for a date to be ‘long-distance’.

Still, some are happy to go the distance – literally. Over half (53%) of Londoners happily match with people from other parts of the city, and half (50%) are willing to travel an hour or more for a first date, motivated by the chance to discover new places (37%), to show genuine effort and interest (30%), and the romance of the gesture (23%).

To solve the dating transport barrier in London, Lime and Bumble are partnering to help make dating outside your local area as quick and easy as possible, with 3 out of 5 (62%) of those already using Lime bikes to travel to dates, saying it makes it feel more fun and casual.

London Boroughs have Dating and Lifestyle Personas

Bumble’s research also revealed that London boroughs are an important part of London dating culture, with a majority (59%) of Londoners believing that where someone lives is a strong indicator of their personality. Londoners view boroughs as more than just geographical locations – they are lifestyle statements, each with its own unique dating scene, social vibe, and cultural markers:

Most vibrant nightlife: Camden (44%)
Most into fitness: Kensington & Chelsea (24%)
Most career driven: Westminster (45%)
Riding into meaningful connections

This Bank Holiday weekend, Bumble and Lime have come together to help encourage more single Londoners to look for love outside their Borough.

They are giving away hundreds of free Lime bike rides, available on a first-come, first serve basis, with daters able to cycle to a ‘pit stop’ in Clapham, where Bumble x Lime will be giving away dating must-haves – all perfectly sized to fit in a Lime bike basket.

The day wraps up with the ultimate singles party at No.32 Clapham, featuring complimentary drinks, delicious food, and a DJ setting the perfect vibe for singles to start mingling.