Whether you’re a Jane Austen fan, love the golden architecture or simply fancy a civilised weekend break to relax, Bath is a city which has been tempting visitors since the Romans discover the hot springs.
And this year, the Roman Baths’ Archway Project is due to see a new visitor centre opening in former Victorian spa buildings, with more events and activities for visitors.
Make time for a visit to the Roman Baths themselves with CGI reconstructions bringing the historic site to life, along with the unmissable best of the rest in Bath.
Bath Abbey
Climb 212 steps to the top of Bath Abbey Tower and you can get one of the best views of the city and countryside as you stand above the Abbey’s Gothic vaulted ceiling.
There’s also a new Discovery Centre planned for 2021, telling the story of the Abbey, along with an eco-friendly heating system using energy from Bath’s natural hot springs.
Take the air
After taking the waters at the Roman Baths, take the air on one of the city’s walks. The six-mile Bath Skyline walk leads you through ancient woodland, with views back onto the city.
Or wander through the city and discover the architecture which has led to Bath being a designated Unesco World Heritage site.
Stroll past the honey curves of The Royal Crescent and The Circus, as well as walking across the 18th century Pulteney Bridge to look back on its elegant arches inspired by the Ponte Vecchio in Florence.
Water cure
You can’t take a dip in the Roman Baths themselves, but if you fancy testing the healing power of water, visit Thermae Bath Spa with its spectacular rooftop pool and lovely spa treatments.
You can also visit the Georgian Pump Room Restaurant at the Roman Baths and try a glass of water from the spa fountain.
Enjoy the culture
Bath is home to museums galore, including a chance to relive the Georgian era at No 1 Royal Crescent, to trace style over the ages at the Fashion Museum, and to discover more art and culture at The Holburne Museum and Victoria Art Gallery.
Visit before May 25 and you can see some of Grayson Perry’s earliest art at The Holburne Museum, followed by Canaletto from June 12 to September 20, on display outside Woburn Abbey for the first time.
Get Lost in Austen
Think of Jane Austen and you’ll think of Bath — not only was this slice of Georgian society essential for many of her most famous characters, the author lived in the city between 1801 and 1806.
The Jane Austen Centre features exhibits and costumed characters to tell the story of her time in Bath and how it influenced her work.
Try afternoon tea in the Regency tea room as well, or head to the Assembly Rooms, the exclusive haunt of Bath’s Georgian social elite, where tea is also on the menu.
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