First Dates, one of Britain’s best-loved dating shows, has moved to a new filming location in Bath, marking the series’ ten-year anniversary of gracing our screens with entertaining love stories.
Bath, recently dubbed the UK’s most romantic city, is also regarded as one of the most beautiful, with remarkable 18th-century architecture, stunning Roman Baths, and picturesque views all round. Just 11 miles Southeast of Bristol, this world heritage site is the perfect backdrop for those looking for romance.
The new First Dates restaurant is The Botanist Bar & Restaurant, located inside the Grade II-listed Octagon Chapel. Built in 1767, this idyllic building is renowned for its connection to the iconic author Jane Austen, and will soon see a whole new set of singletons enjoying blind dates. With the help of long-time maitre d’ Fred Sirieix, sparks will, hopefully, fly at this brand-new location for Britain’s most romantic show.
The Botanist Bath is just one version of the 25 other bars and restaurants across the country celebrating the weird and wonderful through unique drinks, funky foods, and quirky interiors. Nestled within a 'secret garden' tucked inside the historical Octagon, The Botanist Bath also offers live music and engaging activities, such as Bingo, throughout the week, reimagining your typical dining experience. The fun, lively atmosphere is evident in its plant-loving decor, and the romance and intimacy, sought after by First Dates, extends to the basement bar, minimalistically entitled Beneath.
Speaking about the exciting new venue, Fred said: ‘Making this new series feels special, celebrating a decade of bringing people together on the show, but there’s always more love to be found.’
He adds: ‘They say Bath is the most romantic city in the UK and its true, so what better place to set the scene for romance to blossom than there.’
The location switch-up is in line with production company Twenty Twenty’s dedication to showcasing Britain’s regions, and Channel 4’s broadening of scope, beyond London. James O’Reilly, Creative Director at Twenty Twenty, commented on the show’s move: ‘As well as being the ideal place for our couples to fall for one another, Bath is right on the doorstep of our home in Bristol, and reflects Twenty Twenty's commitment to producing programming here in the south-west; we want to do all we can to nurture talent in the region and help the industry grow on our home turf.’
Echoing Fred’s enthusiasm regarding the shake-up for the BAFTA-award winning show, Channel 4’s Commissioning Editor, Rita Daniels, said ‘After 10 years of love stories, I’m thrilled that First Dates has the stunning and romantic city of Bath as its brand new location.
‘I’m in no doubt that this special place will mesmerise and enthral all our daters which in turn will ensure they have special evening full of romance.’
Fancy recreating First Dates for yourself? These romantic restaurants near bath highlight how this charming city is just right for an intimate night out.