The ultimate spa-break getaway spot, beautiful Bath is the only place in the UK where you can experience authentic Roman style thermal baths and bathe in natural hot springs. Bath was built around 60 AD by the Romans when they built the baths and a temple in the valley of the River Avon.
Famous for its stunning architecture crafted from local stone, it’s unique in that it’s almost entirely Georgian. You’ll feel as though you have stepped back in time on a visit to this picturesque city, with much of Bath’s charm lying in just wandering its streets. Stroll along the banks of the River Avon for spectacular views of Pulteney Bridge – one of the most beautiful bridges in the world. Like the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, it’s one of only four bridges in the world lined with shops on either side of it.
Located six metres below street level in the Abbey Church Yard is The Great Bath in the Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved Roman remains in the world. Walk the same cobblestoned paths the Romans did 2,000 years ago and explore the remains of chambers that include ancient heated rooms and plunge pools. A romantic torchlight tour at night is a particularly magical way to visit the baths. If you’re feeling brave, sample the water in the Pump Room, said to contain 42 healing minerals. If you’d prefer to try the ancient mineral-rich waters on the outside of your body, relax and unwind in the thermal waters at the Thermae Bath Spa.
Overshadowing the Roman Baths is the magnificent Abbey with its stunning display of stained glass and magnificent fan vaulting. Take the Tower Tour for spectacular views of the city below. Visit one of Bath’s most iconic landmarks, The Royal Crescent, overlooking the immaculate lawns of Royal Victoria Park. Built between 1767 and 1775, it’s a sweeping crescent of 30 terrace houses and is one of the UK’s finest displays of Georgian architecture.
For literary fans, a visit to the Jane Austen Centre is a must with a permanent exhibition telling the story of the famous author’s experience in Bath and how it affected her writing. If a touch of adventure is more up your alley, experience the beauty of Bath from the sky on a hot air balloon ride or tackle the sheer rock face on a climb at Cheddar Gorge.
Just outside of the city centre, you can explore the caves at Wookey Hole, go on safari at Longleat or visit the mysterious prehistoric stone circle of Stonehenge, believed to be created between 3000 and 2000 BC. An hour out of Bath you’ll find the pretty city of Salisbury with its magnificent medieval Cathedral - owner of the tallest spire in England and Europe’s oldest working clock. Shop in the High Street with its beautiful medieval timber framed buildings or stroll along the river bank for picturesque views of the city.
