First Dates Moves to Romantic Bath for New Series
Channel 4 and Twenty Twenty Productions have revealed a stunning new chapter for the hit dating show First Dates. The iconic restaurant is packing up from its usual spot and settling into the breathtaking city of Bath for the upcoming season. The new venue? The stylish Botanist bar & restaurant, right in the heart of this historic city.
Bath: The UK’s Most Romantic City Is The Perfect Match
After 10 years of on-screen love stories, maître d’ Fred Sirieix and his team are ready to spark fresh romance in a charming new setting. Filming kicks off this summer in Bath — celebrated as the UK’s most romantic and beautiful city. Its famous Georgian architecture, scenic Roman baths, and Jane Austen connections add irresistible charm. The Botanist itself sits inside the Grade II listed Octagon Chapel, dating back to 1766 and reportedly visited by Austen herself.
Boosting Regional Production and New Talent
Moving to Bath also signals a big regional push from Twenty Twenty Productions. Their new hub in Bristol will house the First Dates casting, story, and editing teams. Channel 4 is backing this move, aiming to grow TV production outside London and support talent in the southwest. It’s a win for the industry and for viewers craving fresh, local flavours.
New Season, New Faces, and Plenty of Heartfelt Moments
First Dates launched in 2013 and has since won awards and sparked international versions in over 20 countries. This special tenth anniversary season promises a format shake-up, brand new daters, and, of course, plenty of unforgettable romantic moments. Don’t forget the spin-off series First Dates Hotel, where hopefuls jet off to luxe hotels across France and Italy chasing love.
“Making this new series feels special, celebrating a decade of bringing people together,” said Fred Sirieix. “They say Bath is the most romantic city in the UK, so what better place to set the scene for romance to blossom than there!”
James O’Reilly, Creative Director at Twenty Twenty, added: “Bath is the perfect backdrop for our big 10th anniversary series. We’re committed to producing more content in the region and nurturing local talent.”
Channel 4’s Commissioning Editor Rita Daniels also expressed her excitement: “Bath’s charm will enchant our daters and make for truly magical evenings.”
Fans can’t wait to see love stories unfold in this stunning new setting. Bath is ready to set hearts racing once again.
