Get away! Bath
Elegant and vibrant, Bath has been ranked as the number-one feelgood city in the UK
Shop till you drop
1Retail therapy comes in the form of some wonderful independent shops.
Topping & Company is noted for its amazing collection of first-edition books (topping books.co.uk, 01225 428 111).
Surrounding the historic Bath Abbey is a maze of alleyways lined with stores selling confectionery, glassware, fashion and accessories.
While the market on the high street has been known for its flowers, cheese, silver, ironmongery and leatherware for over seven centuries.
History buff heaven
2Be sure to visit Number One Royal Crescent, a meticulously restored 18th-century house. The knowledgeable guides bring the furnishings and family occupants vividly to life (no1royalcrescent.org.uk, 01225 428 126).
Leave plenty of time for the magnificent Bath Abbey, where you can admire the beautiful interior and stunning stainedglass windows. There are also regular art exhibitions and music recitals to enjoy.
Roman around
3The Roman Baths (adult ticket £16.50) in the heart of the city is also a great place to see, attracting over one million visitors a year. Begun in 70AD, the baths take advantage of the natural thermal spa water. It is now among the world’s best preserved Roman remains.
And relax!
4A visit to Thermae Bath Spa is a must. The facilities include a fabulous open-air rooftop pool filled with the naturally warm, mineral-rich waters, an indoor pool, a cafe, and a new wellness suite. It costs from £36, with a towel, robe and slippers included. Treatments (booked in advance) include the Watsu water massage, where the therapist cradles your head while manipulating your body in a private pool – bliss (thermae bathspa.com, 01225 331 234).
Luxury lodgings
5Two miles outside the city, Bath Mill Lodge Retreat is a tranquil resort with luxury lodges sleeping from two to eight people. You’ll also find an excellent bar and restaurant, plus a small gym on site.
Or choose the four-star Abbey Hotel. This former wealthy merchant’s house dating from 1740 is behind the Abbey, a stone’s throw from shops and historical attractions.
Fine dining
6You won’t struggle to find somewhere to eat! Set in a Georgian townhouse, the Olive Tree Restaurant (the queensberry.co.uk, 01225 447 928) boasts three AA rosettes, serving English cuisine with Mediterranean influences.
Or take in a leisurely brunch at the cool Boston Tea Party in Alfred Street (bostonteaparty. co.uk, 01225 425 318).
And if you’re a fan of Yorkshire pudding, then you’ll have to try the fabulous lamb sausages served in a huge Yorkshire at The Clifton Sausage (cliftonsausage. co.uk/bath, 01225 433 633).