Best Bath attractions

Our Local Expert Says:

The Crescent will transport you back in time. Don’t forget your camera.

Description:

The Royal Crescent is the highlight of Bath's Georgian architecture. It rises above the city majestically, offering great views over the city that it dominates. The crescent was designed by John Wood the Younger, between the years of 1767 and 1775 and has remained unchanged ever since. Visitors who wish to discover what lies behind the crescent's 30 front doors can either check themselves into Von Essen's Royal Crescent hotel, or step inside No 1 Royal Crescent. While a stay at the former will cost you a pretty penny, a visit to No 1 Royal Crescent will cost no more than £12 per family. No 1 allows visitors to step beyond the Palladian façade to discover how the rich of the 18th century lived. If you are after opulence and money isn't an issue though, staying in The Royal Crescent Hotel will be the experience of a lifetime. One of the best things about the Royal Crescent is that you can enjoy it for free. It's easily accessible from Bath city centre, Royal Victoria Park and The Circus, so you can visit at several different times should you wish to. Head there first thing in the morning and you'll have it to yourself. At sunset however, you'll witness the honey-coloured Bath stone aglow... read more

Description:

The Circus is a circular street that attracts hundreds of visitors daily. It is even home to a Hollywood star. John Wood the Elder designed The Circus but unfortunately passed away just three months after the first stone was laid. The work was completed by his son John Wood the Younger, who also built The Royal Crescent round the corner. There are three entrances to The Circus, and it is designed so that wherever you enter, one of the three elegant facades will be opposite you. The Roman Coliseum was Wood's inspiration, but he made The Circus his own by including symbols from the arts, sciences and even the Masons, being a member himself. In actual fact when viewed from the air the Circus, along with Gay Street and Queen's Square, all form a massive key shape, another Masonic symbol. If you're in Bath in December head to the Circus to sing carols by candlelight with the Salvation Army band. This is one of the most traditional carol services going and is a favourite with Bath residents. Otherwise head to the Circus first thing in the morning to beat the crowds.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Thermae Bath Spa has quickly become one of the city’s best-loved and most widely known attractions, and not without good reason. Even the most stressed person leaves the baths feeling relaxed.

Description:

Every Bath resident has an opinion about the Thermae Bath Spa, which eventually opened in 2006, four years later than planned. Most have nothing but praise for the sophisticated complex, although some complain that it is too modern for Bath. In fact the modernisation of the hot baths has been completed very successfully to a high standard and is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. The Thermae Bath Spa caters to all needs and budgets. Those who are watching the pennies can pay £22 to enjoy an ample two-hour spa session that gives access to the famous roof-top pool, steam pods and foot spas, and the spacious Minerva bath. Those who want to splash the cash however can have an all-day spa session including meals, and can enjoy treatments from an extremely varied selection on offer. They range from the more traditional full body massage to the more unusual Chocolate Indulgence and foot massage. No matter how much time and money you choose to spend at the spa you will leave it feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Our Local Expert Says:

One of the top reasons Bath is such a destination. If getting in the water is more your goal then be sure to visit the nearby Thermae Bath Spa.

Description:

The Roman Baths pay homage to Bath's origins, so it's unsurprising that over a million visitors head here every year. Bath is home to three thermal springs of 46°C, that have been enjoyed by many cultures. Before the Romans built their impressive Baths, the Celts had a shrine on the site of the baths, and they continue to be enjoyed today at the Thermae Bath Spa. On arriving at the baths you'll be presented with an audio guide narrated by travel writer Bill Bryson (read his Notes of a Small Country for a satirical view of Britain). Follow Bryson's descriptions through one of the world's best-preserved Roman spas. Sights within the complex include the King's Bath, into which 1.5 million litres of hot water still flow daily, and you'll also see the mechanics behind the baths. The Great Bath is the one that is most likely to captivate you though. With its striking archways and the unusually green water, it transports you back in time so magically, that it's almost possible to forget you are in the 21st century.

Our Local Expert Says:

There is a little park on the riverside, perfect spot for photos, a view & a rest.

Description:

Pulteney Bridge is one of only four bridges in the world to have shops spanning both sides. This, combined with its graceful position over the river Avon, earns it the status of being one of the most elegant sites in England. It was designed by Robert Adam in the 18th century, and was based upon the Ponte Vecchio in Florence and the Rialto Bridge in Venice. The bridge can of course be enjoyed without spending a penny. Sit on a bench alongside the river, or hire a deck chair in the Parade Gardens and just sit and enjoy the view, not only of the bridge, but of Bath Abbey as well. On the bridge itself you can sample delicious baguettes and cakes in XXXXX, find the perfect engagement ring, treat your loved one to a beautiful bunch of flowers or buy a Bath rugby shirt. Either purchase would no doubt be remembered long after you leave Bath. As will the stunning view of Pulteney Bridge.