Bath

Farleigh Hungerford Castle

Farleigh Hungerford Castle, located 9 miles from Bath, offers visitors a glimpse of life in the fourteenth century. An audio tour will tell the stories of the Hungerford family, who occupied Farleigh Castle for 300 years. Exploring the castle grounds, visitors will be treated to rare medieval paintings in the chapel, exhibits of past excavations, the chapel gardens and intricately carved lead coffins in the crypt.

Farleigh Hungerford Castle by Nick

Roman Baths

This 2000-year old Roman structure was built around the only hot spring in Britain, extending well under the streets and buildings of modern day Bath. The Roman Bath offers a 2-hour tour with features including the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple, the Bath House and the Museum. The museum boasts artifacts including Roman coins, signet ring gems and the head of the goddess Sulis Minerva. Visitors can dine or have coffee and tea in The Pump Room Restaurant overlooking the baths.

Royal Victoria Park

Royal Victoria Park was opened in 1830 and consists of 57 acres with many attractions that can be enjoyed by all ages. The park includes a large play area for children, an 18-hole golf course and a crazy golf course, a boating pond, tennis courts and beautiful botanical gardens. For refreshments, the park boasts a cafe and numerous ice cream stands.

Royal Victoria Park, Bath by ToNG!?

Bradford-on-Avon

Abbey House Gardens

The Abbey House Gardens in Malmesbury offer a beautiful 5-acre wonderland of over 2,000 roses, as well as herbs, irises and tulips. The gardens boast a Celtic knot garden, a laburnum tunnel, a woodland walk that features waterfalls and fish ponds, as well as a quaint tea room overlooking the garden.

Lacock Abbey, Village and Museum

The Abbey was founded in the thirteenth century and was dissolved in 1539. The museum offers the architecture of several time periods, including medieval cloisters and the eighteenth century Gothik hall. After visiting the abbey, take a relaxing stroll through the village and enjoy shopping and dining.

Lacock Abbey, England, UK by Brian Marshall

Longleat Safari & Adventure Park

Voted as the #1 adventure park in the UK, Longleat Safari and Adventure Park will provide a full day of family fun. The park features many wildlife attractions including a meerkat enclosure, cheetahs and a zebra crossing.

Longleat House

The grand Longleat House offers exquisite Elizabethan architecture and opulent gardens. A romantic venue popular with brides and grooms, the Longleat House also offers lodgings to travellers, making it a popular choice. The Old Manor Hotel near Trowbridge is another popular choice for families as the large grounds in which the hotel it finds itseld is ideal for children who need to let off steam . Longleat House features The Green Library with floor to ceiling bookshelves and a grand chandelier, colourful gardens, The Great Hall with sixteenth century features and The Orangery, which overlooks rose-filled gardens.

Longleat House, England, UK by Nigel’s Europe

With much, much more to see in Bath and Bradford-on-Avon, visitors will need weeks to see everything. For visitors with a cultural inclination, Bath is home of the Victoria Art Gallery as well as the Theatre Royal. Bradford-on-Avon offers canal tours and walks, grand historical buildings and the Wiltshire Music Centre.

Jonathan Dedman is a freelance writer based in Canterbury. He loves history and architecture, and can often be found roaming around the grounds of one of the UK’s many beautiful abbeys and cathedrals.

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Cheddar Gorge

Cheddar has fascinating history – both ancient geology and more recent discoveries.  Set in a huge limestone gorge, this is where the remains of Britain’s oldest complete human skeleton were found.  Excavated in 1903 the remains are kept by the Natural History Museum in London. If you and the family are interested in seeing a replica of the skeleton though, a replica is exhibited in the “Cheddar Man and the Cannibals” museum in Cheddar village.

The Cheddar Gorge is Britain’s biggest canyon; a beautiful scenic place that will be interesting to the whole family. There are many caverns, caves and hidden features to explore and countless opportunities for great photos. The Cheddar Man is estimated to be around 9000 years old.

Cheddar Gorge, Somerset, England, UK by Paul Lewin

Myths and Legends

Kids love myths and Glastonbury is filled with them. From UFO sightings to ghosts appearing in old churches, shops and pubs there is definitely something extraordinary going on in this charming little town. One of the most famous legends in English history is King Arthur who, according to medieval histories, led the British defence of Britain against Saxon invaders in the early 6^th century. In Arthurian legend, the island of Avalon is where King Arthur’s sword Excalibur was forged and later, where Arthur was taken to heal from his wounds after battle. In 1190 Avalon became associated with Glastonbury as Monks at Glastonbury Abbey claimed to have discovered Arthur’s bones. What is now known as Glastonbury used to be The Isle of Avalon. To explore these legends I’d suggest staying at local Premier Inn so that you will be able to take your time around these beautiful sights.

(The below is the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey – legendary resting place of King Arthur and his Queen Guinevere)

Glastonbury Abbey, Somerset, England, UK by Jim Linwood

Roman Baths

This complex is of historical interest in the city of Bath. These are a major tourist attraction and receive more than 1 million visitors a year. The baths were used as public bathing but visitors are not allowed in anymore however, you can still view the baths and enter the museum which are both spectacular. The museum is of particular interest as it holds artefacts from the Roman period including objects which were thrown into the Sacred Spring. Among these objects include 12,000 Roman currency coins – the largest collection from Britain.

Roman Baths in Bath, Somerset, England, UK by Heather Cowper

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Bath is a city in the county of Somerset, situated 97 miles west of London and it’s easily reached from the capital city as it’s only around 90 minutes by train from London Paddington. Originally a spa town in the Roman era, it’s now a World Heritage Site due to its cultural and historical importance: the Roman remains and Bath’s spectacular Georgian architecture are the reasons for this award.

The Roman Baths at Bath, England, UK by Stewart Robotham / License: Creative Commons

Getting around Bath

The city centre is easily navigable on foot, however, for a first visit you may want to take advantage of the tour buses that circulate amongst the main attracts.

What to see in Bath

One of the most famous sites of Bath, and one of the best examples of Georgian architectural design in the UK, is The Royal Crescent, a curved street of 30 terraced houses dating from the second half of the eighteenth century and a major influence on architecture. It’s been seen on the big screen in the 1998 film “The Duchess” starring Keira Knightley amongst others. It’s not the only crescent in the city – better views are to be had from the slightly less grand Camden Crescent.

The Roman Baths have recently undergone a huge renovation project and feature England’s only hot springs. A must-do is to have a taste of the minerally water while you’re there and if you visit on a summer evening, you’ll be able to experience the beautifully atmospheric site when it’s lit by torchlight.

There is one famous author who is of course a looming presence in Bath, Jane Austen and there’s a whole “Experience” dedicated to her at The Jane Austen Centre. Here you can take tea (don’t leave the city without having a cream tea) and discover how her experience of the city influenced her writing. There’s even a Jane Austen Festival in September.

The Hershel Museum of Astronomy is situated in a beautifully preserved Georgian townhouse and celebrates the work of William Herschel, he who discovered the planet Uranus. Not to be missed if you’re at all interested in the history of science and astronomy.

Bath Abbey, England, UK by Clay Shonkwiler

Where to Stay

For a real treat, stay in The Royal Crescent itself with its beautifully presented Georgian interiors plus modern facilities. A more reasonably priced boutique option in a central location in the city is stylish The Halcyon.

Where to Eat

Beautiful little tapas dishes and more substantial evening and lunchtime meals are available at the Same Same but Different cafe – I’m not getting my words confused there, that’s actually the name. For excellent pub grub overlooking the Bath countryside, the Hare & Hounds inn caters for those after just a sandwich and soup, or a three course slap-up meal.

Why Bath?

History is alive and well and living in Bath: you can smell it on the air as well as see it in the streets. If you’re a fan of ultra-modern cities, this one isn’t for you. But if you’ve an appreciation of the past, an interest in architecture and a hankering to walk in the steps of Roman spa-goers, then Bath’s the place to be.

Picturesque City of Bath, England, UK by Karen Roe

Julie loves writing about her travels through short guides on places she visited. She also writes for Fortina Spa Resort, one of the top hotels in Malta specializing in state of the art spa & welness treatments.

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Like many towns and cities in the UK, it has Roman origins, which are still clear to see today. The city originally started as a Roman spa, which then grew in to numerous baths (hence the city’s name), and temples.

Roman Baths, Bath, England, UK by Andrew Dunn

The city is still a cultural melting pot, with a plethora of museums, active baths and spas, theatres, pubs, bars and restaurants. There are also two universities located in the city which adds to the vibrant activity and nightlife of the area.

The varied and numerous attractions of Bath take visitors and tourists on a trip through the ages. Some of the more popular attractions include:

Roman Baths – You can still visit some of the original 2000 year old baths that the city was named after. The Roman Baths are Britain’s only hot spring, and thus are of great importance!

Thermae Bath Spa – This outdoor spa allows visitors to swim outdoors in naturally warm waters – this is a novel concept for such a cold country!

Prior Park Landscape Garden – This beautiful 18th century garden allows visitors to explore the luscious grounds and appreciate breath-taking views over the city.

The Botanical Gardens – This section of the 57 acre Royal Victoria Park is a must-see for flower lovers and budding botanists. Over 100 years old, this 9 acre garden features an incredibly impressive range of flowers and plants.

The Pump Room – The Pump Room (where warm bath water is drawn from the earth) has been the social hub of Bath for hundreds of years. It features the finest British cuisine and afternoon tea.

Tyntesfield – This maginificent Victorian country estate encapsulates historic aristocratic Britain. Located in Wraxall, the grounds overlook the stunning Yeo Valley.

Pubs – Bath is full of pubs, catering for all tastes and budgets. From high end gastro pubs, to quaint bars with log fires, there really is something for everyone.

Upper Town – This part of Bath is a shopper’s paradise; filled with quaint boutiques and independent stores, this one is for those who need a bit of retail therapy.

Theatre Royal – Built in 1805, this grand theatre is shows top quality shows year round, including opera, comedy, dance, and concerts; a perfect way to start a romantic evening.

Bath is an incredibly popular destination for both locals and travellers from further afield. There is so much to do that you are guaranteed not to be dissapointed if you visit this historic city.

If you’re planning to spend a long weekend in Bath, don’t forget to check the dates for the uk bank holidays 2013.

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Luckily, Britain has a lot to offer holidaymakers, so here are some great ideas for activities and sights in the south of the country.

Explore the south-west

Salisbury in Wiltshire is home to the spectacular Stonehenge and you don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate this impressive monument, which is perhaps one of the most instantly recognisable collections of standing stones in the world.

Stonehenge, England, UK by mari

There are also some fantastic towns and cities to explore in the south-west. Bristol offers museums, art galleries, an aquarium, the impressive harbourside and the Bristol Blue Glass Factory and Shop, where you can watch skilled craftsmen blowing glass – and even have a go yourself.

Alternatively, head to Bath and check out the city famed for its historic Roman baths and spas. The city is home to the only hot spring in the UK and natural water still flows through the bathing complex the Romans built around it all those years ago. You can spend the whole day there and feast on a three-course lunch, as well as being pampered in the thermal baths.

Cornwall

Cornwall is a popular holiday destination in the UK and there is plenty to enjoy. If you’re lucky enough to get some nice weather for your holiday, try some of the many watersports on offer, such as canoeing, surfing and body boarding. There are activity centres dotted all along the coast, so you can easily find something near you.

Be impressed by historic buildings

If you’re looking for a rainy day activity, visit some of the many impressive historic houses, castles and cathedrals in the south-east. If you’re in Berkshire you can’t miss an opportunity to check out Windsor Castle, which was famously almost destroyed by fire in 1992.

Canterbury Cathedral – one of the most famous buildings of its type in Britain – is also well worth a visit and this World Heritage Site is a truly impressive example of gothic architecture at its best.

Canterbury Cathedral, England, UK by Steve Evans

Enjoy a day at the races

Visit Plumpton Racecourse in Lewes, East Sussex, which is open for events all year round and hosts 16 days of jumps between September and May. Check out the competition and place some bets, or simply soak up the atmosphere and enjoy watching the races.

Poole

If you’re heading south a visit to Poole is a must. This lovely coastal town is home to a stunning harbour and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal overlooking the sea. Nature-lovers can head out to Brownsea Island, which is home to the red squirrel, while Adventure Wonderland boasts the largest natural maze in the south and is ideal for those of you with young kids.

Catch fireworks in Plymouth

If you head down south in mid-August you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to watch the British Fireworks Championships. Explore the city during the day before gazing at the spectacular evening show, which will take place on Plymouth Hoe on August 14th and 15th.

British Fireworks Championships in Plymouth, England, UK by Adrian Lilburn

This post was written and contributed by freelance web writer, James Midrun, who has helped many an avid blog reader to find fantastic short breaks in the UK, as well as helping families to enjoy family fun in Skegness!

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Pulteney Bridge / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Heather Cowper

Where to Visit

Start your tour of this beautiful city at the Roman Baths. Built around 2000 years ago and then rediscovered by the Victorians, the unique attraction is an essential visit on your weekend and the only mineral hot springs in England. Although it’s rather pricey for the full spa treatment today, you can still taste the spa water from the fountain and dip your fingers in the Great Bath to test the waters. Wandering the underground rooms and exploring all the different areas, however, is so fascinating that you can easily while away a few hours just visiting.

If you come out of the Baths, you’ll see Bath Abbey ahead of you. The last Gothic church built in England, the impressive building is certainly worth a second look. Great views over the city can also be glimpsed from the top of the abbey tower.

From the abbey, turn right and meander your way to Parade Gardens to find Pulteney Bridge, a quaint spot on the River Avon. The bridge is also one of only four bridges in the world with shops across the length of the bridge on both sides, like the Ponte Vecchio in Florence. Crossing the bridge will bring you to Great Pulteney Street, a fantastic example of the city’s Georgian architecture and a great place for a stroll.

For a lazy Sunday afternoon, head over to Victoria Gardens for a glimpse of the famous Royal Crescent and an ideal picnic spot. The Botanical Gardens in the park also make a pleasant spot to wander and you can go inside the museum at No.1 Royal Crescent to experience the grandeur of 18^th century England.

Roman Baths / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by MonkeyMyshkin

Where to Eat

Although Bath is a small city, there’s a good range of restaurants and pubs for eating out. If you want to treat yourself for the weekend, indulge in a classy French meal at Raphael Restaurant (Upper Borough Walls). There are seasonal chef specials, plus an extensive wine list and an excellent pre-theatre menu for those catching a show at the nearby Theatre Royal.

There’s only one place in Bath for afternoon tea – the famous and undeniably elegant Pump Room, where you’ll sample part of the city’s history as well as some delicious cakes. For those on a budget, try a traditional Bath bun with cinnamon butter (a steal at £3.25) or go all out with the magnificent Searcys Champagne Tea (£48 for two).

Where to eat in Roman baths / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Heather Cowper

Where to Drink

Bath also has a great number of old fashioned pubs for some peaceful evening drinks. The Salamander (Quiet Street) is just the place to sample some of the local Bath Ales, whilst The Old Green Tree (Green Street) is a tiny historic pub that’s well worth the squeeze.

For a livelier weekend, try The Bell (Walcot Street) which has a bohemian atmosphere, a large beer garden perfect for summer afternoons and regular live music. Gascoyne Place (Saw Close), meanwhile, has an extensive range of beers and live jazz on Sundays.

Where to Sleep

Within walking distance from the Roman Baths and city centre, Villa Claudia is the ideal bed and breakfast in Bath for a short weekend getaway. There are three beautiful period rooms and the house itself dates back to 1896 – a great reflection of the city’s history and charm.

A few miles and a short drive outside the city, Lorne House B&B is a smart, sophisticated retreat for visitors seeking a more peaceful weekend in Bath. Recently refurbished, it has lovely solid oak floors, plush furnishings and a relaxing atmosphere.

Alice Woolliams is the Editor for Enjoybedandbreakfast.com, a travel website for accommodation with personality in the UK. The website offers a growing selection of quaint B&Bs, charming inns, small boutique hotels and guest houses. You can find her on twitter @enjoybnb when she’s not travelling the world!

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by OwenXu

In London itself, you’ll probably want to see all the popular attractions, like The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and Westminster Palace. But, make time to visit London’s other world heritage sites, Maritime Greenwich and the Royal Botanical Gardens of Kew.

Maritime Greenwich is the centre of Britain’s great naval heritage. Greenwich defines the Prime Meridian, or longitude zero, making it the centre of global time and navigation. You’ll be able to visit the Royal Observatory, and see the world’s most famous tea clipper, the Cutty Sark.

At the Royal Botanical Gardens of Kew, you’ll find the finest collection of exotic plants, in one of the most beautiful settings. By London’s standards, Kew is a relatively quiet day out. It’s a good opportunity to give yourself a break from the fast pace of the city.

If you’re willing to venture a little further, no more than an hour or two from London, there’s a way to experience four very different ages of Britain.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by mari

Stonehenge represents Britain’s ancient past, and it’s shrouded in mystery. Despite lengthy debate, nobody really knows what it is, a tomb, a temple, or huge calendar? It also seems incredible that it got there, the giant stones are from many miles away, in Wales. How did the ancient Britons transport them so far across land and sea?

The City of Bath was a major Roman settlement, and its many attractions include some well-preserved Roman buildings. The Roman Baths will be the highlight of your visit, especially the open-air courtyard bath. In addition, Bath is a very attractive city, one of England’s most overlooked beauties, and well worth a day spent exploring.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Steve Evans

Canterbury Cathedral is a medieval masterpiece. Possibly the greatest cathedral in England, Canterbury is a true architectural wonder. It’s also a chance to see the county of Kent, known as the Garden of England. Wherever you go in the UK, you’ll see beautiful countryside. But, most would agree that Kent exemplifies rural England.

Blenheim Palace is where Sir Winston Churchill was born. It’s probably the finest of all the great country houses of England. Inside, the collections of art and antiques are world renowned. Blenheim is also well-adapted for modern tourists, with its visitor centre, ‘Blenheim Palace: the Untold Story.’ And, the surrounding landscaped parkland, and formal gardens are just as impressive as the palace itself.

All the world heritage sites in the UK will provide an excellent day out. If you’re going to the far north, you’ll be able to visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. If you find yourself in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a real adventure. Or, in the south west of England, the tin mines of West Devon and Cornwall will be an eye-opening experience for you. But, remember not to rush yourself too much. There’s a lot to see, so try and enjoy it at your own pace.

Written by CompleteTravelGuide.co.uk

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When you come to Therme Erding for the first time, you really be just staring. The amount of attraction is incredible, there are slides, sauna, salt caves, bars, massages, restaurants, waterfalls and geysers with palm trees… Moreover, everything is perfectly clean, organized, imaginative.

Spa was opened in October 3, 1999 and has already hosted more than 10 million visitors, which regularly takes care of 600 employees. At peak times you can meet there up to ten thousand people a day and they all go here with one goal. Enjoy the hot spring emanating from a depth of 2350 meters below ground, at 63 degrees Celsius. The medicinal effect, which is accepted by the state, is useful for all who have problems with joints, spine, rheumatism, skin diseases or are after trauma.

Gigantic thermal world covers an area of 145,000 m2 and consists of five mutually separated, but still closely connected parts. You can buy ticket to each part separately, but definitely worth to take a ticket for the whole area.

Probably the biggest attraction in Therme Erding is its sauna paradise. On 13.000 m2 you can enjoy 25 saunas, designed like a world tour. Each sauna is dedicated to a particular country. In Britain you can find Celtic waterfalls and sauna with space sky at Stonehenge. In Italy there are Roman baths, etc… It just depends on your taste, and visit Bavaria, Spain, India or North Africa…

In Sauna pavilion you will find lots of naked people, who enjoy swimming at the world’s best dipping.

Admission to all parts of the Therme Erding (in VitalOase and Saunaparadies from 16 years only) per adult per day is 34EUR, on holidays and weekends to pay 4EUR more. Children under 3 are admitted free.

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