Bath, England: A city guide — Bronwyn Townsend

Bath is arguably one of the most appealing of England’s cities. A UNESCO World Heritage listed site, it’s home to one of the most well-preserved Roman baths which make use of a heated water source to keep temperatures bubbling away at around 46 degrees celsius. Situated approximately 1.5 hours west of London by train, Bath finds itself on the edge of The Cotswolds in Somerset. Renowned for its treasure trove of Georgian architecture, claiming the home of author Jane Austen and performing as the set of countless TV series and movies, Bath is ideal as a day trip or even better, a weekend getaway.

bar at henrietta house bath — Where to stay

**Henrietta House** is a boutique hotel elegantly designed within a 1780s Georgian townhouse set. Just a 10-minute walk from Bath Spa train station, it’s positioned perfectly to explore the heart of Bath on foot.
Price | ££
**Eight** is nestled within a pedestrian lane of Bath’s centre, just steps from the iconic Roman baths. Contemporary styling and creative flair make for a cosy stay among the ancient building it calls home.
Price | ££

Things to do in bath

ROMAN BATHS | You can’t visit Bath without gracing the ancient Roman bathhouses. Set within the lively city centre, this is one of the key draw points for visitors. Not only will you discover one of the best-preserved Roman baths, but there’s also a museum housing artifacts and archaeological excavations of the original baths. It’s like stepping back in time.

JANE AUSTEN CENTRE | A charming small museum that pays tribute to the life and career of local Bath author, Jane Austen. Featuring interactive exhibits, anyone with a penchant for the quality authorship of Austen will thoroughly enjoy spending a few hours here. Finish your visit with afternoon tea at the onsite regency tearooms.

THERMAE BATH SPA | While the Roman Baths are off-limits for a soak, you can unwind in the splendour of Thermae Bath Spa. With various packages available, including entry, robe and towel hire, you can relax in one of the UK’s warmest geothermal baths designed to promote healing and health benefits.

BATH ABBEY | Unmissable, literally as it rises over the centre of the city, but also a must-visit for anyone in the area. Bath Abbey dominates the skyline and is a grand display of brilliant architecture dating back as far as its foundation in the 7th century, with expansions in the 12th and 16th centuries. Entry is free but a donation is encouraged to help continue the maintenance of this exceptional feat of design.

THE CRESCENT AND THE CIRCUS | Two of Bath’s most iconic streets, they both feature terraced houses laid out in crescent shapes. A few famous faces have been known to take up residence including Johnny Depp and Nicolas Cage. Mostly private homes, they are occasionally used as film sets for some of the many productions which have been filmed here, and while the interiors have had their fair share of updates to accommodate modern trends, the exteriors remain virtually untouched since the 1700s. If you want to have a squiz inside, No. 1 Royal Crescent has been converted to a museum.

PULTENEY BRIDGE | Completed in 1774, Pulteney Bridge connects the banks on either side of the River Avon. Amble across the bridge dipping into stores and if the weather is suitable find your way down into the Sydney Gardens and head along the canal for a pleasant greenery walk.

BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET | If you happen to be visiting in the lead up to the festive season, then be sure to stop by the local Christmas market. Stallholders sell a host of locally produced fare from homewares and handmade goods to personalised products and more.

More time during your visit? Why not take a short journey to the nearby towns of Frome and Bradford upon Avon, or explore The Cotswolds.

FOOD AND DRINK

SALLY LUNNS BUNS | Set within one of the oldest houses in Bath, this is where you can find yourself an original Sally Lunn bun. Not only a cafe, there’s also a museum downstairs that you can visit too.

SOCIETY COFFEE | When you need a caffeine fix, the best in town can be found at the airy rooms of Society Coffee.

THE PUMP ROOM | Luxuriate in Georgian refinement with an afternoon tea at the very establishment that Jane Austen once enjoyed with other socialites in their heyday.

CORKAGE | Affordable but delicious wine and small dishes in a low-key unassuming setting. Perfect for a pre-dinner tipple or in lieu of a full evening meal.

OLIVE TREE | Bath’s only Michelin star restaurant, it’s set at the bottom of the Queensberry Hotel. To make the most of your visit, opt for one of the tasting menus.

SOTTO SOTTO | Excellent Italian that prides itself on authentic Italian dishes with a contemporary twist, everything here is about quality.

THE HUNTSMAN | One of the oldest pubs in Bath, The Huntsman is a wonderful gastropub serving up a selection of hearty meals and drinks to accompany them. Dressed with flower boxes in the warmer months, sit outside to enjoy the sunshine.

CAPPADOCIA | Brilliant Turkish cuisine full of authentic flavour. From mezze platters to mixed grills and mains, they also have a wonderful cocktail offering.

WHERE TO SHOP IN BATH

Bath is home to a wonderful selection of independent stores selling local goods from the surrounding region. Here are some of the best.

FOUND | Located on Pulteney Bridge, this beautiful concept store sells an array of contemporary goods. Ideal for anyone who loves unusual finds in a bespoke collection ranging from stationery and prints to homewares and fashion.

TOPPING & COMPANY BOOKS | For those who appreciate the beauty of a good old fashioned paper book, this is the place to pick up your next read. They also stock a load of author-signed copies for fans who want a little extra touch.

FINE CHEESE CO. | Lovers of fromage will be happy among the selection at this lovely cheesemonger. If you aren’t travelling too far or want to pick up something to enjoy during your stay, this is the best place for all your cheese needs.

MAGALLERIA | Looking for off-the-shelf and speciality magazines and publications? This is the place. Stocked full of bespoke titles covering every topic and theme you can imagine, you’re sure to find something special here.

THE ANTIQUE MAP SHOP | Exactly as you might expect from the name, this store is chock full of antique maps from a variety of locations, just choose your favourite.