Where are good places to meet new people?

Learn where to meet new people as a teen and discover practical strategies for making lasting connections, both in-person and online.

About this article...

  • Suitable for members aged 12-17
  • 4 minute read
  • 830 words (2.1 sides of A4)
  • Providing help and guidance on Friends & Relationships
  • Created and reviewed by our team of experts

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Exploring New Horizons: Where to Meet New People

Meeting new people is exciting, and it helps you learn more about the world. We all do it, whether we're starting at a new school or beginning a job. But where can you go to meet new people, especially if you're a teenager who wants to make more friends?

The Digital and Physical Places to Make New Friends

The internet is a great way to make new connections but traditional places are still great for meeting people face to face. We'll look at some of the best spots, both online and offline, where you can find new friends and build strong relationships.

1. Educational Settings

Schools, colleges, and university campuses are key places where young people socialise. These aren't just for studying; they're also where you meet lots of different people. Joining in with class activities, study groups, or clubs at school can help you make new friends.

2. Extracurricular Clubs and Sports Teams

If you're into football, love painting, or enjoy acting, joining a club or sports team is a great idea. The friendship and team spirit make it a great way to meet people who like the same things you do.

3. Volunteer Work and Social Causes

Helping out with something you care about puts you in touch with people who think like you. Whether it's working at a charity shop, helping clean up your community, or volunteering at an animal shelter, you can meet people while doing something good.

4. Local Community Events and Festivals

Going to events like fairs, festivals, or exhibitions is fun and can introduce you to many different people. These events add to your social life and help you meet new and interesting people.

5. Libraries and Book Clubs

If reading is your thing, consider joining a library or book club. These places might not seem like social spots, but they're great for meeting other readers.

6. Workplaces

Part-time jobs or internships are also good for meeting new people. You'll meet others from various backgrounds, which can lead to both professional and personal relationships.

7. Online Forums and Social Media Platforms

The internet lets you meet people from all over the world. Participating in online forums, joining Facebook groups, or following pages related to your hobbies can connect you with others globally.

8. Fitness Classes and Gyms

Joining a gym or going to fitness classes like yoga or kickboxing is not only good for your health but also for meeting other health-conscious people. Most gyms have sessions especially for teens.

9. Cafes and Public Lounges

Cafes and lounges with communal tables or comfy settings are good for starting conversations. Simply sharing a space can lead to making new friends.

Navigating New Social Scenes: Practical Tips

Knowing where to meet new people is key, but it's also important to know how to start and keep friendships. Here are some tips to help you in new social settings:

  • Be Open and Approachable: Be friendly and show interest in others. Smile, make eye contact, and listen to what people have to say.
  • Initiate Conversations: Don't be shy to introduce yourself and ask questions that get a conversation going.
  • Follow Up: If you click with someone, get their contact details and keep in touch to build a friendship.
  • Be Yourself: Being real helps attract friends who will stick around for the long term.
  • Stay Safe: Always think about your safety, particularly with online friends. Meet in public places and let someone know where you'll be when meeting someone new.

Conclusion

Meeting new people can take you out of your comfort zone and add lots to your life. By exploring different places and using good social skills, you open up a world of possibilities for making friends. Whether it's online or in person, each place has something unique to offer. So go out, explore, meet and connect. There are endless opportunities!

How are you feeling?

It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.

If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:

  • Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
  • NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
  • The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
  • SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
  • Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)

*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.