Bath – England

A visit to Bath is like a journey back in time to the elegance of the Georgian period.  This World Heritage Site, is set in stunning countryside, and is one of England’s most beautiful destinations.  Bath is a unique city and its key attractions like its world-famous hot springs, Roman Baths, splendid Abbey and Georgian stone crescents have attracted visitors for centuries.  The city centre is traffic-free and therefore great for exploring on foot.  Just in case you get tired, there are many cafes where you can stop for sustenance or enjoy a very English cuppa.

Bath owes its importance to its hot springs which is quite unique in Britain. The Romans built a magnificent temple and bathing complex which still flows with natural hot water today. The complex deteriorated over time and it was not until the 18th century that the city was rejuvenated again. A beautiful Georgian city grew from Bath’s ancient roots and it was Richard ‘Beau’ Nash who played an important part in transforming the city into a fashionable centre of Georgian society.   This was the period of England’s industrial revolution and there was a fair amount of wealth about.  Beau Nash organized endless series of balls, games and entertainment to draw the rich and idle to the city.

Most people will start their visit at the Roman Bath, but Bath’s other attractions are definitely worth seeing as well.  Bath Abbey is close by and if you head north up Barton Street which meets up with Gay Street, you’ll come across The Circus.  The Circus was unsual during the time and departs from the usual Georgian square.  Turn left into Brock Street and you’ll meet the magnificent Royal Crescent.  This is the most majestic street in Britain and on this arc are 30 houses built between 1767-74 by John Wood Jnr.    As you’re exploring, look at the plaques on the buildings and these may sometimes tell you which famous resident used to live in the house.  No. 1 Royal Crescent is a museum and it is believed that the Duke of York probably lived there.

When you’re through with The Crescent and making your way back to the Roman Bath, it’s worth checking out Pulteney Bridge on Lansdown Road.  All these structures are among the finest architectural treasures in the world. 

Bath is absolutely worth visiting and if I were living in England, this is the kind of place I’d love to live in.

Helen