Honestly….and this isn’t being flippant….look in other countries. Look in the US, Canada, or other European countries. But then, you also have to be careful that someone isn’t looking just for a visa. (So, that’s a worry.) But, you might have better luck. There is something with the men in the UK that somehow often does equate a date with a single woman=automatic sex. I talk to the produce man about avocados and he thinks I’m coming on to him. Why? I don’t get that. What happened to gallantry? Or just getting to know someone? Or just some nice companionship? I totally agree with you. I am not in my 60’s, but it is still the same for a lot of women.
If you stay in the UK…I would not go to the pubs to find anyone, I would not look on dating sites….I would join some clubs in town…the Lions Club, The Rotary Club, Toastmasters ( I think they have those here.) Or you can go to church…some churches have singles clubs. Do you have any hobbies? Join a local organization that has a hobby that that men enjoy, too. (Knitting or crocheting might be out…but maybe birding or boating might work?) Network——tell everyone you know that you are looking for friendship…with a nice man. When you can’t find anyone…..that is nice….you know there are other people out there in the same boat, right? So, what about advertising for a “Singles for Friendship Dinner” at a local eatery….you can organize it and have singles that are looking for other singles to go out and do things with…..to meet and it can be a regular event. If you are looking for men in your age group….you can specify that: “Singles Over 50 Friendship Dinner——A Way to Make New Friends”. Or something similar. You will be surprised at how many people probably want to do the same thing….meet someone who doesn’t just want to have cheap sex.
For some reason, it seems that what you are looking for is someone who comes few and far between here….unless you can be creative and find new ways of attracting them to you. I can sense that you are a lot of fun and really do want to live your life fully…and more power to you!
Having said that….maybe someone on the Fluther is reading this…and is exactly what you are looking for….fingers crossed….:)
Whatever you do, don’t lose hope and don’t give up. There is a pot for every lid!