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First Dates has returned and fans may be wondering where the show’s fancy restaurant is located
A BAFTA winning reality series has returned to Channel 4, with new episodes being released every week.
French maître d’ Fred Sirieix and his team are once again back for a fresh series of First Dates, with yet more hopeful singles on the hunt for love.
First Dates has become a firm favourite amongst viewers since it captured the hearts of the nation back in 2013, with many viewers admitting they are “addicted” to the “best” programme.
Just last week (April 10) the new season kicked off with a bang as one woman opened up about an “isolating” condition after her parents were told she would not live past the age of 16. Elsewhere, a former professional footballer fought back tears as they opened up on a career changing injury.
Another new episode is set to air tonight (April 17), with more singletons hoping they have been matched with their ideal life partner. A synopsis reads: “Some believe destiny brings the right people together – and in the First Dates restaurant, four new couples are about to find out.
“A 50-year-old hair stylist meets a well-travelled nutritionist, a conspiracy theory fan is matched with a science teacher, an opera singer serenades his date, and a high energy spin instructor meets a PE teacher with a passion for mental heath. Will sparks fly or will fate have other plans?”
Once again, they will head to a lavish restaurant as they are shown to their date, who they will meet for the first time as the popular show follows everything from awkward interactions to blossoming romances.
But where is the show currently filmed? Here’s all we know about the luxury restaurant.
Where is First Dates filmed?
First Dates is currently filmed at The Botanist in Bath, which is located in the historic Octagon Chapel. The show moved to this new location back in 2023 to mark its 10th anniversary, as well as the announcement of new cast members and a format change.
According to The Botanist’s website, it reads: “Exciting news! We’re currently filming First Dates this March 2026 – in the words of maître d’ Fred Sirieix, ‘Ooh la la!’
“Welcome to the Official UK First Dates Restaurant. Located in the Octagon Chapel in the centre of Bath, a grade II listed building and hot spot for the likes of Jane Austen dating back to 1767, The Botanist Bath sets the scene for those looking for love with the help of Fred, Merlin and their team of cupids.
“Come here often? Then you’ll know your local Botanist is all about feel-good food, innovative botanical cocktails, beautiful green décor and live music… the perfect spot for date night.”
At the time of the move, Fred Sirieix 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.
“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.”
Before the move, First Dates had been filmed in Manchester at The Refinery and The Anthologist. For the first 15 series, First Dates had been filmed in the Paternoster Chop House in London which is located near St Paul’s Cathedral.
First Dates returns tonight at 10pm on Channel 4
