Visit Bath: Places to stay, things to do

Home to an abundance of hidden histories and beautiful views, Bath is an essential location for tranquillity and a hotbed of history

Published: December 17, 2013 at 1:12 pm

Why Go There?

The picturesque town of Bath fulfils every requirement for a visitor, as the bustling farmers' markets are combined with the modern town centre, which is interspersed with the 5,000 listed buildings that allude to its abundant cultural heritage. The clear Roman, Georgian and medieval influences on this town are most notably shown with the Abbey, which has housed three churches since AD 757: the initial Anglo-Saxon church, followed by the Norman Cathedral in 1090 and finally the present Abbey founded in 1499.

A significant feature of this town throughout history is the natural hot springs, as their alleged healing powers were relied upon in the 16th and 17th centuries to boost trade. Currently these hot springs are still significant for tourism as they are used at Bath spa. Furthermore the spa demonstrates the ancient recreational purposes of this town as a Roman creation over 2,000 years ago, which combined with its status as the only natural thermal spa in Britain demonstrates that this attraction alone justifies a visit to Bath. From the relaxing rooftop pool visitors can admire the charming buildings that make up Bath’s landscape, including the magnificent medieval church situated at Bath Abbey.

In addition to the spa reflecting architectural influences on Bath, the famous historic residents including Jane Austen and astronomer William Herschel are celebrated in museums dedicated in their respective names. These alongside the popular fashion museum deem Bath an unrivalled day out for all.

Where to Eat and Drink?

From Michelin star award-winning restaurants to quaint boutique cafes, Bath boasts multiple dining locations that meet any dietary requirement. The Dower House Restaurant incorporates fine dining with a bustling atmosphere whilst displaying the Georgian heritage that Bath has to offer, which makes it an attractive choice to eat appropriately luxurious food in a luxuriously historic town.

In addition to a vast range of restaurants, Bath pubs reflect the west-country nature of its location, with multiple venues priding themselves on local food produce, real ales and most importantly west-country ciders. The Hop Pole pub is an example of the delectable result of utilising local food and drink, which can be enjoyed in its spacious beer garden, an essential for a traditional country pub.

Where to Stay?

Bath’s undeniable cultural heritage is reflected in every element of the town, especially the independent Georgian-style guesthouses such as the luxury Bath Priory hotel. Reflecting the peaceful aura expected in a visit to Bath, the large three acre gardens in addition to the floral décor in the rooms, complete with slippers and robes, accentuates the stature of the guesthouse and prove it to be perfect for a tranquil stay in Bath.

Tell us a Secret…

Legend has it that Prince Bladud, the supposed Father of Shakespeare’s King Lear, founded the City of Bath in 863BC as a consequence of the hot waters of the original hot spring allegedly curing his leprosy.

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