After a recent study found four in 10 Bristolians want to settle down more than before the pandemic, we’ve put together a list of the city’s top dating hotspots.
Bristolians are half-way through their first summer of love free of any Covid restrictions, and July and August have been voted the two months they fall in love the most often, according to the 500 locals polled.
When it comes to planning a date, finding the right spot can make a huge impact. Bristolians named restaurants (39 per cent), pubs (37 per cent), cafes (32 per cent) and bars (30 per cent) among their favourite types of places they like to get to know someone.
But there are 10 specific locations Bristolians voted as the best dating spaces in the city.
To celebrate them, dating app eharmony has awarded each of these a Bristol Love Hub award, with the first badge of honour being given to Bristol Aquarium, which came top of the list.
It also emerged that Bristol’s booming Harbourside has become the city’s Love Corner, as several of the awarded venues are situated in the area, within a five-minute walk of each other.
The Love Hubs list also includes The Watershed and ZaZa Bazaar. Love birds looking to enjoy an activity-based date can also try a trip to Clifton Observatory, or bowling at The Lanes, which each sit at numbers three and four in the poll.
Rachael Lloyd, eharmony’s relationship expert said: “Where you go on a date can play a decisive role in whether you will see that person again. If the other person has chosen the location, it gives you an idea of what they like and can give clues to overall compatibility.
“We are very pleased to present the Bristol Love Hubs and shine a light on where sparks are formed in the city. This award is our testament to our support to dating in the area post-pandemic.”
5. The Planetarium
Stargazing outdoors on a date is old school! Whisk your date off to the Bristol Planetarium instead. Step into the giant silver ball in Millennium Square to discover how constellations and planets move over time. Your date will think it’s written in the stars. | Shutterstock
6. Nando’s
Who says dating has to equal fine dining? Let’s face it, the cost of living crisis is real and a cheap, cheerful and cheeky Nando’s is always a winner. Oysters and champagne are cancelled, pass the spicy chips, darling. Nando’s has restaurants at Park Street and Cabot Circus. | Getty
7. Za Za Bazaar
If your date’s a fussy eater, look no further - they’re sure to find something they like from the huge buffet. The amazing variety of global cuisine, live cooking and cocktails make it a fun choice for a date.
8. Under The Stars
Right, but what could be dreamier than dinner on a boat? Your love interest is going to fall head over heels for this Mediterranean tapas joint moored on Bristol’s historic harbour. | Google