How To Have A Perfect Day Out In Bath, UK
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Why should you visit Bath?
Did you know that the city of Bath is one of the most popular day-trip destinations in the UK? This might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of day-trip spots, but the city of Bath is actually a hidden gem perfect for a day trip. It was the home of Jane Austen and Mary Shelley. It’s the filming location for Bridgerton, as well as many other films. It is also the home to much Roman history, and contains the remains of the old Roman spa that used to be here. This is one of my favourite locations, and I think it’s a must-visit for any literary or ancient history fan. If you’re looking for activities to do in Bath, UK, check out these top-notch suggestions:
Take a stroll along the Pulteney Bridge
We can all agree that the best way to appreciate a city is by walking through it. One of the top spots to take a walk in Bath is Pulteney Bridge. It is one of the most well-known sights in the whole city. Also one of the most charming and impressive pieces of Georgian architecture in the whole city, make sure you don’t miss this one. The large bridge crosses the River Avon, and makes for spectacular views on the approach. Once you’re on it, it also offers impressive views across the landscape of the city. There are also steps down to the promenade, and a beautiful park off to the side. To have the perfect day out in Bath, make sure you don’t miss this iconic sight.
Visit the Roman Baths
The city’s namesake, and the most iconic of Bath’s attractions, are the iconic ancient Roman Baths. Bath’s Roman Baths were built during the Roman era, and are now one of the most-visited tourist attractions in the city. The baths themselves date back to the 1st century, and the opulent bathhouses were built during the reign of the Roman Emperor Claudius. One of the most well preserved Roman sights in all of Europe, you can tour the still-standing remains of the grand Roman spa once located here. You are able to tour the Baths, see Roman artefacts that have been unearthed, and immerse yourself in the city’s history. My top tip is to get the audio guides, as they will provide massive amounts of insight as well as entertaining stories about the Baths’ history. Bath’s Roman Baths are a must-see for day-trippers looking for a day out in Bath, UK.
Check out Bath Abbey
Bath Abbey is one of the most-visited attractions in the country. It is the most recent grand cathedral to be built in the UK. This Abbey was first built around 1499, and took almost 120 years to complete. Today, visitors can explore the abbey’s stunning architecture, including the many chapels and crypts that lie beneath the grounds. Some of the most beautiful architecture in Bath, it is so grand and impressive that it will take your breath away. If you want the full experience of the grandeur of the Cathedral, make sure to book a tour. This way you can go up the bell tower, see the grand old clock, and enjoy impressive views over the city of Bath. I promise you, the walk up the tower is well worth it! If you want the perfect day out in Bath, UK, be sure to stop by Bath Abbey.
See the Georgian architecture
One of the best ways to appreciate the Georgian architecture in Bath is by exploring the city’s many squares. This is one of the most popular activities to do in Bath, UK. The Royal Cresent is the best and, in my opinion, the most beautiful example of Georgian architecture in the entire UK. It consists of a row of 30 large townhouses in a crescent, curving around a large lawn. It is impressive and picturesque, and probably the most famous sight in all of Bath. A stroll along here can really make you feel as though you are in a Jane Austen novel. The perfect day in Bath is simply not complete without visiting this. Besides Royal Crescent, the town itself is full to the brim of Georgian architecture, so you are able to see much of this simply by taking a stroll around the city centre.
Spend an afternoon at Thermae Bath Spa
Thermae Bath Spa is one of the most luxurious day-trip destinations in the UK. The resort town offers visitors a chance to relax in the luxury surroundings of a spa hotel. This one is Britain’s only natural thermal spa, and is located on the site of the original Roman Bath’s themselves. Visitors can enjoy several treatments, such as mud and seaweed wraps, manicures, and facials. This is one of the more luxurious ways to immerse yourself in the city’s history, and get the authentic experience of this spa town. You can spend an afternoon at the Thermae Bath Spa, however they do not have a hotel attached. If you want to turn your spa afternoon into a luxurious weekend retreat, check out the stays at one of the following spa hotels:
Go for a boat trip on the River Avon
Here’s a great way to see the iconic Pulteney Bridge from another angle. There are boat tours that take place all over Bath that take you directly under the bridge and along the River Avon. There are many different types of tours on offer, including river cruises and canal boats. A favourite luxurious activity of the high society that would visit in the Regency period, take to the water for a different view of Bath. As many of the sights are along the river, it will bring you to many of the destinations you may want to see in one trip.
Discover Bath’s History at the Holbourne Museum
Holbourne Museum holds a large collection of 17th -18th century arts and artefacts. These include paintings, ceramics and furniture. If the Georgian period is of particular interest to you, then this one’s a must visit. For the general tourist, this will provide more of an insight into Bath’s fascinating and cultured history. Most significantly, Holbourne Museum is home to Sydney Gardens – the last surviving pleasure gardens of the Regency era. This were exclusive gardens where high society would head to socialise, and show that they were rich and important enough to gain entry. Take a stroll around here, and pretend you’re the latest debutante in the Regency social season! An immersive experience for the perfect day out in Bath.
Get Trendy at the Fashion Museum Bath
The Fashion Museum Bath is yet another unique element of this wonderful city. One of the only museums in the world of its kind, it holds a large collection of clothing and costumes from the 1700’s onwards. This is great for any Jane Austen fans who want to see more of the Georgian and Regency fashions. However, it’s also a great spot for anyone with an interest in historical, vintage, modern fashion, as well as costuming. With large collections of vintage clothing from the 20th century, fans will find a lot to be interested in here. Certainly another unique spot in the city of Bath, this is another interesting way to have the perfect day out.
Royal Victoria Park
This stunning park was opened in the 1830’s by a young Princess Victoria. A link to the Victorian history of Bath, this is an insight into yet another historical period in the city. The park contains a cafe and a playpark for children. It makes for a beautiful walk, with lots of sights. You can find grand monuments throughout the park. A particular highlight is the botanical gardens. You are able to see a wide array of flowers blooming here in spring, or the turning leaves on the wide variety of tree species in spring. For those with children, or for those that wish to explore the beautiful outside areas of the city, this must be on your list.
Conclusion
Bath is not as well-known as its more famous counterpart, London, but it is a very charming city. Whether you choose to go for a walk along the Pulteney Bridge, visit the city’s Roman Baths, check out Bath Abbey, or take a stroll around the Syndey Gardens, you will not be disappointed. This wonderful city is full of history, arts and beauty for you to immerse yourself into. If you’ve never visited, you really must make it a priority. You will not regret it!
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Ta-ta for now! x
