British people meet their lifelong partner at 27, new research reveals

Couples are likely to get engaged two years after meeting, says Match.com

Liz Connor19 January 2016

Looking for ‘The One’? You’re most likely to meet them aged 27, according to a new survey.

The study, carried out by dating website Match.com, has found that the average age women find their life partner is 25, while for men it’s a few years later at 28.

Match.com asked 2,000 men and women about their relationship, revealing that nearly one third of respondents kiss a new partner on their first date, while just over a quarter wait between one and two weeks before having sex.

Saying 'I love you' normally happens after five months of dating, whereas you'll have to wait half a year before being given a drawer at your partner's house.

As well as earning your own drawer, at the six-month mark, you’re also likely to reveal your imperfections, have your first argument and introduce your partner to your parents.

Engagements are most likely to happen two years after meeting. Marriage follows at three years and it takes an average of four years before a couple has children.

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Kate Taylor, a Match.com dating expert, said: “While each relationship moves at its own pace, daters are often reassured by comparing their experiences with others.

“We all ask our friends, ‘When did you know your partner was 'The One'?’ or, ‘How long did you wait before you kissed?’

“If your relationship isn’t falling within these time frames, use them to adjust your expectations.”