The Beauty of Bath
The City of Bath, renowned worldwide as the epitome of British elegance, attracts visitors in their droves, determined to soak up the atmosphere of this bastion of British gentility. Visitors are mesmerised by the city's beautiful Georgian architecture.
(image courtesy of istock.com artist JustinBlackStock)
Bath, however, is more than a mere tourist mecca, steeped in history; the city is also a modern commercial centre; its affluence clearly apparent. But despite its thriving economy, Bath has somehow managed to cling to vestiges of more gracious times - and to market its history to good advantage. There is indeed, something very special about Bath and its unrivalled reputation as a World Heritage Site. The city boasts some of the finest architectural sites, anywhere in the world.
One of the best ways to see Bath is to hop on one of the many city tour buses. Baths Classic City Tour, for example, offers professionally guided tours, from an open-topped red bus, with sixteen hop on and off points. For novelty value, how about taking an oriental style tuk-tuk trip round the city? If you prefer to browse around the city, at your own pace, just follow the elegant finger posts dotted throughout the city. Or, for the ultimate birds eye view of Bath, balloon flights lift off from Victoria Park, daily, weather permitting!
Baths attractions:
Royal Crescent: Designed by John Wood the Younger, the Royal Crescent is an impressive arc of terraced houses with Ionic column facades. For a taster of how the upper echelons of society lived, in Georgian times, visit No.1, Royal Crescent, with its authentic Georgian interior.
The Circus: Designed by John Wood the Elder and completed by his son, The Circus is made up of three crescents, of thirty-three houses each. All have facades that depict three Roman classical architectural styles: Doric, Ionic and Corinthian.
The Roman Baths & Pump Room: Britains only hot springs and arguably the most famous Roman religious spa in Northern Europe is a must for anyone visiting bath.
Bath Abbey: One of the finest examples of fan vaulting, in Britain, Bath Abbey was completely restored during the Tudor period. Today, the Abbey often hosts orchestral and choral concerts.
Pulteney Bridge: Designed by Robert Adam and built in 1771, this is the only bridge in Britain to have shops on either side of its arch.
The Jane Austen Centre: Jane Austen fans will be in their element; the centre captures the refined and orderly world portrayed in her novels.
Shopping: Bath is awash with small, specialist foodie shops, delicatessens, and upmarket arts and crafts outlets. For local produce, visit the Guildhall Market in High Street. This marketplace dates back to 1284.
Atmosphere: Take time out to absorb the simple pleasures of Bath. And where better to relax than in one of the many inviting coffee and tea shops that spread out onto the cobbled pavements, during high season. For sheer ambience, visit Sally Lunns English Tea House. Established in 1680, this café is home to the original Sally Lunn Bun.
The centrally located tourist information office will help you make the most of your visit Bath, with an abundance of leaflets and advice on the citys numerous attractions, as well as details of B&B accommodation in the area.
So, still wondering where to go for your next British break? Make a beeline for Bath - and dont forget your camera!
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