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.

The post A Trip To Bath | England, UK appeared first on Best of European Union.

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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