Beautiful BATH
Take a step back in time and explore all that this glorious Georgian gem has to offer
Why go?
This charming city – famed for its Roman Baths, natural thermal waters and Jane Austen – has been drawing in the crowds for millennia, and it’s easy to see why. The only UK city to be a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s rich in history, luxury spas and Georgian grandeur – but these aren’t the only reasons to visit. It also has a superb shopping scene, buzzing bars and some marvellous museums – making it ideal for a romantic getaway, girls’ weekend away, or adventure with the kids.
Explore the ancient world
To beat the queues, arrive early and prepare to step back in time 2,000 years as you enter the city’s most famous attraction – the Roman Baths – which is also where Bath gets its name. Once one of the great religious spas of the ancient world, it’s now one of the finest historic sites in northern Europe. Allow for up to two hours to explore the exquisite ruins – which date back to the middle of the 1st century AD – and immerse yourself in the tales about the city’s Roman roots.
Soak up the views
You’re no longer able to take a dip in the Roman Baths, but you can take a short stroll to the award-winning Thermae Bath Spa and soak up its mineral-rich waters – while also enjoying a heavenly spa treatment or two. Relax and rejuvenate in the showstopping rooftop pool as you take in the breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and surrounding countryside. Day spa packages start from £55; thermaebathspa.com.
Georgian grandeur
A city that’s compact in size, the best way to explore is by foot. Head to one of Bath’s most iconic locations and prestigious addresses, the Royal Crescent, to admire the impressive arch of 30 honey-hued townhouses, which were originally built for the city’s elite. Fans of Netflix’s Bridgerton will instantly recognise the façade of No.1 Royal Crescent as the Featherington family residence. If time permits, it’s worth a peek inside as nowadays it’s a magnificently restored museum dedicated to Georgian life. From here, take a short walk around the corner to the spectacular Circus, and then to the Assembly Rooms for more Georgian grandeur. Daily walking tours of the city are also available from £15; bathwalkingtours.co.uk.
Just the tonic
You’ll be spoilt for choice with Bath’s buzzing bars, bistros and restaurants. Enjoy a delectable dish in Sweet Little Things – one of the city’s most Instagrammable cafes. Or tickle your taste buds at The Coconut Tree with authentic Sri Lankan street food and their signature ‘cocotails’.
Walk in the footsteps of Georgian high society at the iconic Pump Room and savour an elegant afternoon tea, washed down with a glass of fizz or Bath’s famous thermal spa spring water. Unique in taste and smell, during the 17th and 18th centuries people came from far and wide to ‘take the waters’ as it was widely believed to cure illness and disease.
Marvellous museums
Whatever the weather, you’ll never be stuck for things to do in Bath’s vast treasure trove of museums and galleries. Fashionistas will love the world-class outfits in the Fashion Museum, and The Jane Austen Centre is a must for kids and literature buffs, as costumed characters bring the stories about the author back to life. For something a little different, immerse yourself in the Gothic world of Mary Shelley at the House of Frankenstein. And if you have the energy, consider climbing the 212 steps to the top of Bath Abbey Tower for the best views of the city.
Where to shop
Just as it was in Jane Austen’s day, Bath boasts a vibrant shopping scene. Head to Milsom Place, Walcot Street, Bartlett Street and Broad Street for some beautiful one-of-a-kind buys from a collection of independent boutiques.
Where to stay
A unique and independently owned boutique hotel, The Bird is a gentle stroll from the heart of the city and is the perfect spot to unwind from a busy day in Bath. Ample parking available. Prices start from £121 a night; thebirdbath.co.uk.