Bath, England
Nestled between the Cotswolds and the Mendips in South West England, Bath is one of Britain's top ten tourist cities. Settled by the Celts, it was later occupied by the Romans who built their own temple and spa. By the 17th century Bath had become a fashionable spa resort for aristocrats who flocked to 'take the waters'. During this time the majority of the city's elegant Georgian buildings and terraces were built.
Getting to and around Bath
The most convenient way to reach Bath is by train from London's Paddington Station (1 ½ hours). National Express coaches take longer and run to London's Victoria Station (also via Heathrow), Manchester and Oxford.
Alternatively, Bristol International Airport is the nearest to Bath and approximately 21 miles away. An express coach service connects the airport to Bristol rail and bus stations, from where frequent trains and buses operate to Bath.
Bath Spa train station and bus station are both located a short walk from the centre. If you are driving into Bath, be aware that the central streets are often choked with traffic, particularly during busy summer months. Drivers are advised to use one of the “Park-and-Ride” car parks around the periphery. Leave your car here and catch a bus into the city (departures every fifteen minutes). Taxis are readily available in the city.
The compact historic centre of Bath is best explored on foot and most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. If your time is limited you can discover Bath on an open topped double-decker bus, complete with commentary by an informed guide. The tourist office, next to the abbey on Abbey Churchyard, provides information on all transport options.
Bath Highlights
This designated World Heritage City deserves to be explored at a leisurely pace. However, in a two-day visit you will be able to see the main highlights. Bath's fortune was built on the presence of the only hot springs in England. Although the Celts first discovered the medicinal qualities of the hot springs, it was the Romans who effectively turned Bath into a “spa town”. The Roman Baths Museum is one of England's most popular attractions. The Roman Baths themselves were only rediscovered in 1880. They can be very crowded in summer, so ideally visit early on a midweek morning and allow at least an hour to fully appreciate them.
Bath Abbey was built between 1499 and 1616, making it the last great medieval church constructed in England. The Abbey contains some striking stained glass windows and superb fan vaulting. The most impressive feature of the exterior is the imposing west façade, where angels climb up and down stone ladders, commemorating a dream of the founder, Bishop Oliver King. In the Church Yard itself, there is always something lively happening. It's a favourite spot for street entertainers, particularly jugglers and musicians.
Considered an architectural gem, Bath boasts more than 5000 heritage listed buildings. Walk uphill from the town centre and you'll discover The Royal Crescen, the grandest of Bath's crescents, begun by the younger John Wood in 1767. A spacious sloping lawn with magnificent views sets off the stately arc of thirty houses. Don't miss No. 1 Royal Crescent (on the corner with Brock Street), a beautiful building which has been faithfully restored to reflect its original Georgian appearance. Thankfully, building regulations today cite that local Bath stone still be used in any new construction in the city.
Many eminent names in art and literature are also associated with Bath. It was here that Gainsborough established himself as a portraitist and landscape painter and where Jane Austen wrote Persuasion and Northanger Abbey. A visit to the Jane Austen Centre is a must for lovers of literature. Displays include contemporary prints of the city, period costume and exhibits relating to Austen´s personal life, family and homes.
During Bath's heyday, the younger John Wood's Assembly Rooms (on Bennett Street) were the centre of the city's social scene. Although a fire virtually destroyed the building in 1942, it has since been restored. Now housing the Museum of Costume, there is an interesting collection of clothing from the Stuart era through to the latest Japanese designs.
Be sure to explore the shops and restaurants in the many side alleys leading off Bath's main shopping streets. The city is renowned for its gourmet cuisine, though you can also find many inexpensive meals in Bath's many pubs and bistros.
An interesting way to see the city is on a cruise along the river Avon. Boats leave from the steps below Pulteney Bridge, an Italianate structure designed by the 18th century Scottish architect Robert Adam. During summer, you can explore the river on your own by renting a skiff, canoe or punt from the Victorian Bath Boating Station, located behind the Holburne Museum.
