New dating trends capturing UK singles’ hearts – and one is very surprising

A fresh dating phenomenon called ‘choremancing’ has swept across Britain’s singles scene – where dates are combined with everyday tasks such as cooking or dog walking. Relationship specialists suggest that combining romance with routine errands enables potential couples to stay realistic whilst “embracing connection wherever it turns up”.

The movement surfaced in Plenty of Fish’s ninth annual dating survey, which discovered that 42 per cent of unattached individuals now blend romantic meetings with ordinary chores. Including dog walks, going to the gym and even doing the weekly shop.

Meanwhile, others are adopting ‘Retromancing’, with 24 per cent drawing inspiration from their parents’ and grandparents’ courtship tales, harking back to traditional chivalry. This approach has prompted singletons to focus on considerate acts like opening doors and preparing home-cooked dishes.

‘Love Bubbling’ – relishing every aspect of the courtship journey – has also emerged as a significant movement, driven by the growing appeal of ‘romantasy’ fiction. A third of these ‘love bubblers’ cherish everything from preparing for romantic encounters to dissecting every detail afterwards with mates.

Eva Gallagher, resident expert for the dating app, said: “What we’re seeing for 2026 is a real shift in mindset. UK singles are approaching dating with fresh energy, mixing fun and creativity with a more grounded sense of purpose.

“Trends like ‘Choremance’ and ‘Love Bubbling’ show that people are no longer waiting for the perfect moment, they’re making everyday experiences meaningful and embracing connection wherever it shows up.

“There’s a growing confidence in dating culture, and that optimism is exactly what gives people hope.”

According to the report, over half of singletons are skipping the small talk in the ‘Turbo Dating’ trend by being upfront about values, life goals and deal breakers – all on the first date.

Meanwhile, ‘Re-Saddling’ is motivating those who have taken a break from romance to return to dating with renewed focus on authentic self-expression. A third of those who have adopted this technique reported their dating success had improved.

The final phenomenon identified was ‘Fur-casting’, with 17 per cent seeking partners based on mutual animal affection or pet ownership aspirations.

Having pets is widely regarded as a positive indicator, linked to compassion (47 per cent), reliability (46 per cent) and faithfulness (39 per cent).

Stand-up comedian Olga Koch, who has partnered with Plenty of Fish to contribute to the report, added: “Dating in 2026 is all about blending the everyday with the extraordinary.

“From Turbo Dating to RetroMancing, singles are moving away from the old rules and getting creative with how they meet, connect, and fall in love. As a proud admin aficionado, I especially love the idea of a Choremance.”