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For people who know
what they’re looking for.
Encounters is a calmer, more considered way to meet genuine people looking for meaningful relationships.
There’s no rush here.
Just real people, looking for something real.
Retired teacher, now enjoying the slower pace — walking in the Brecon Beacons, cooking properly, and too many books on the go at once. Looking for someone kind and curious to spend time with.
See Margaret’s profile…
Spent thirty years in architecture and still can’t walk past an interesting building. Happily semi-retired now. If you enjoy good conversation over a long dinner, we’d probably get on.
See David’s profile…
I love being outdoors — mountains mostly, but I’m not precious about it. Life has taught me what matters. Hoping to meet someone genuine, steady, and ideally someone who can make me laugh.
See Helen’s profile…
Encounters is built for people who value honesty, kindness and good conversation.
Genuine people of all ages, personally reviewed before their profile appears on the site.
Every new profile is checked and approved by a real person on our team — no automated sign-up.
When you contact us, someone in the UK replies — usually the same day. Not a bot, not a script.
Encounters started life with The Times and The Sunday Times as a place for people who took dating seriously, and that’s still who we’re built for.
The matching is the heart of it. Our two-way system only suggests people whose values and what-they’re-looking-for line up with yours, in both directions — not just a one-way score. More than 80% of our members are here for a long-term relationship, which is unusual for online dating and exactly the point.
If you’re new to this, you’ll be looked after. We’re based in the UK, our customer team replies seven days a week, and there’s no rush to figure anything out on your own.
You might also want to read our FAQs or send us a message if you’d like to ask something before signing up.
“It’s the first dating site where I’ve felt respected as a person, not just a profile.”
“Thank you. I never thought online dating could feel this safe and genuine.”
“I had a question and got a reply the same day from a real person.”
Join thousands of like-minded people across the UK.
It’s free to get started