Bath Overview
By Rachel Newcombe
The city of Bath is located amidst the lush Somerset countryside, about 100 miles west of London. It’s one of the country’s finest Georgian cities and boasts a stunning array of traditionally built buildings, as well as the famous Roman Baths, Pump Room and numerous fascinating museums.
Much of the centre of Bath is pedestrianized, with limited parking, so you’re better off using the Park and Ride or one of the many city buses and explore the centre on foot. About 5,000 buildings in the city have listed status, and as you walk around, you’ll see many examples of architectural history.
The Roman Baths were, as the name suggests, built by the Romans around Britain’s only hot spring. The stunning temple and bathing complex, a World Heritage Site, still exists in all its glory today and you can visit the baths, see the source of the water and walk on ancient stone pavements. Next door is the Pump Room, where the spa water is drawn for drinking. Long considered the social heart of Bath, the Pump Room now houses a restaurant, where morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea is served.
Of the many museums, some highlights worth a visit include the American Museum, which shows how the New England Settlers lived, the Museum of Costume, which covers 400 years of fashion, and the Jane Austen Centre, which celebrates the life of one of Bath’s most famous literary writers. And finally, don’t miss a wander to Alexandra Park – it offers fantastic panoramic views of the city. Go!
Cool day trip from London