FACT FILE: BATH
How to get there: It’s the M4 or M5 if you’re in a hurry; or the A303 (past Stonehenge), A39, A46 or A367 if you have a bit more time and want to avoid the multi-lane monotony. How long for? A weekend or, even better, a long weekend is just about right. When to go? Early September; after the summer tourists have left but before the university students arrive en masse. How much? Bath isn’t a particularly cheap place to stay but it does have lots of independent B&BS. Budget at least £100 a night and try to book early.