Bath’s reputation as the UK’s most romantic city has been boosted by the arrival of Channel 4’s First Dates, filmed at The Botanist restaurant in Milsom Place. With couples still loved-up from Valentine’s Day this week, Bath Business News travel editor Anne Gorringe – who was lucky enough to sit in on some of the programme's filming – takes a look at what Bath has to offer.
Get your own taste of romance at the First Dates restaurant without breaking the bank. The Botanist, pictured, is offering special ‘First Dates experience’ cocktails – four love-inspired drinks created by the talented mixologists in collaboration with the show. Available until 21 March. The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Bath | Cocktail Bar, Brunch & Sunday Roasts | The Botanist
Book a romantic private tour of Bath Abbey. Climb the 212 steps to the top of the Abbey’s tower for breath-taking views over the city while celebrating with a glass of champagne or prosecco. The perfect location for a marriage proposal, maybe! Price on request. Bath Abbey Tower Tours – Visit Bath
Dine under the glittering chandelier of one of Bath’s most romantic Georgian buildings. The Georgian Pump Room has been the social heart of Bath for more than two centuries and boasts among its previous patrons Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. Book for brunch and look out for the special ‘combined tickets’, which include a glass of champagne, brunch and entry to the Roman Baths themselves from £43.45. The Pump Room – Bath
Enjoy two nights for the price of one in the heart of one of the UK’s most iconic pieces of architecture. The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, pictured, is offering a two-night mid-week break in one of its suites for the price of one night (dinner must be booked in advance at an extra cost of £80 per head). For full details go to 2 for 1 Suite Delight | The Royal Crescent Hotel, Bath
Enjoy a nightmare date! Explore the Terror Vaults in the basement of Mary Shelley’s House of Frankentein on Gay Street. It’s certain to get the heart racing. The monstrously tall attraction even has an escape room – which can be booked at an extra cost – and four multi-sensory floors. Step into the dark world of Mary Shelley and her infamous creation with tickets from £12.50 each (with a 10% saving if booked online).
Have a laugh together! Take the train to Bristol for the annual celebration of silent and classic screen comedy, which finishes this week. Stars include Hugh Bonneville and Tim Vine. The festival ends on Sunday evening with Robert Lindsay, the star of My Family and Citizen Smith, appearing at Bristol’s Old Vic. https://visitbristol.co.uk/whats-on/slapstick-festival-p2197783
