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Dating shows give us true love stories, quirky matchmaking formats and the twists and turns of reality TV, so it comes as no surprise that this TV show genre has captured audiences’ hearts for decades. Here, we take a look at the best British TV dating shows, featuring romance, rows and everything in between.

Love Island

Love Island’s mix of love, heartbreak and strategic gameplay has made it a cultural phenomenon and is, arguably, the most iconic of all modern UK dating shows. The show, which is currently airing its eleventh series, drops stunning singletons in a luxury Spanish villa for six weeks. The contestants mix and match through ‘recouplings’ to find ‘the one.’ Viewers then vote for their favourite pairing and the most popular couple has the potential to win £50,000. Flirting, fierce competition and non-stop drama make Love Island the talking point of the summer.

The final episode of Love Island 2024 will air on Monday 29th July on ITV2 at 9pm.

Married At First Sight

For those who believe in the power of science and fate, Married at First Sight offers a unique take on matchmaking. In this E4 show, complete strangers are paired by a panel of ‘experts’ and meet for the first time at the altar. Cameras follow them through their wedding, honeymoon and the first few weeks of marriage. Can love truly be blind? There’s no guarantee of a fairytale ending but if you’re looking for drama, this show certainly delivers.

Naked Attraction

While Married At First Sight tests the theory of love being blind, Channel 4’s Naked Attraction takes the approach of baring all. Contestants choose potential dates based on their naked bodies, revealed one part at a time. The show challenges the concepts of physical attraction and beauty as well as explores body image and confidence. It’s provocative and not best suited for viewers who prefer old fashioned romance.

Celebs Go Dating

Mixing celebrity culture with the search for love, Celebs Go Dating pairs famous faces with members of the public, including superfans. The show, which has featured reality TV stars such as Joey Essex and Stephanie Pratt, sees the celebs receive guidance from experts and take part in flirting classes, social mixers and therapy sessions to raise their dating game. The blend of awkward moments, humour and occasional romance provide a fun twist on traditional dating shows.

First Dates

In First Dates, real-life singles meet for the first time in a restaurant, with cameras capturing their initial impressions and conversations. The show’s charm lies in its apparent authenticity, as viewers witness genuine interactions and connections (or lack thereof). The diverse cast and relatable dating experiences make First Dates a heartwarming watch.

Take Me Out

The golden rule of Take Me Out is simple; no likey, no lighty. A single man descends in the ‘love lift’ to meet 30 women, who can turn off their lights if they’re not interested. Through rounds of revelations and interactions, the goal is to find a match for a date. The playful and cheesy nature of this dating show is its charm.

Dinner Date

Is good food the way to win someone’s heart? Dinner Date looks to find the answer. Each episode, a single person chooses three potential dates based on menus they’ve prepared. They then enjoy a home-cooked meal with each of their chosen dates, ultimately picking one for a second date while the others receive a ready meal for one.

For the Love of Dogs with Alison Hammond

Not strictly a dating show, but if you’re looking for love stories without the drama, For the Love of Dogs is worth a watch. In this multi-award-winning series, previously fronted by the nation’s beloved Paul O’Grady, staff from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home attempt to find forever homes for rescue dogs. The stories of the dogs’ and their potential owners are often tear-jerking, but, when a match is found, you know it’s likely to be forever.

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