To quote Sir Walter Elliot in Persuasion, “I am for…Bath.” Now, Sir Walter is not the sort of character I would normally align myself with but on this point, we agree. Bath is truly spectacular in so many ways. I defy anyone that visits to not absolutely fall in love at first sight. A few years ago, I did just that when I took my first trip to Bath.
Little did I know then that it would become one of my favorite places in the whole of the UK – no, make that one of my favorite places anywhere. I felt at a slight disadvantage going in, I had no idea what was about to happen. Bath, on the other hand, saw me coming a mile away and knew it had all the charms to woo me. I’m a sucker for old, historical places, I love English literature, I live for a great food and drink scene and I could never be without art and culture. Bath has it all – it doesn’t play fairly and, just like in Jerry Maguire, it had me at hello. And I’m okay with that.
Given its close proximity to London, it’s the perfect day trip. About an hour and a half by train from London’s Paddington Station, it’s quick and easy enough to add other stops to your day but Bath has more than enough to keep you occupied so I recommend you devote a full day to it’s wonders.
Speaking of wonders, one of the notable attractions that Bath is most known for are the ancient Roman Baths and they are well worth a tour. The incredibly preserved baths date back to, well Roman times, though the building is a bit newer having been constructed in the late 1800’s. As you walk through the building, you can see history come alive before your eyes. The baths still flow with natural hot water. At the end of your tour, you can taste the warm bath water from a drinking fountain and experience its healing powers. Don’t skip the gift shop, it’s filled with treasures – everything from natural lotions and sleep balms to local handmade pottery.
If you’ve ever wondered how the Romans lived 2,000 years ago, now’s your chance to find out. If you care to take in the waters yourself, you can visit Thermae Bath Spa. It really is very cool – touting “Britain’s only natural thermal waters,” the spa is located on a rooftop overlooking the city. Not only are you relaxing and taking in the minerals but you’ve also got an amazing view to boot.
Now on to one of Bath’s most famous former residents – Jane Austen. Though she only lived there for a short time, walking around you feel like you’re in an Austen novel. You almost expect Captain Wentworth to round the corner at any moment. This is a city that embraces its history and Jane Austen is no different. You can visit the house the author lived in, designated with a lovely plaque. You can have a wander around the Jane Austen Centre and experience what life was like in Bath during the author’s time. After you’ve had your fill of bonnets, you can head to the Regency Tea Room onsite for Austen themed afternoon teas, such as the popular “Tea With Mr. Darcy.” When all else fails, you can always just walk around and hunt down all the famous locations from Austen’s novels.
Bath really is a treat to walk around, in addition to the maze of streets with shops and restaurants, there are so many historic pieces of architecture to admire. Anyone who’s ever watched an adaptation of an Austen novel will recognize the historic Georgian street of townhouses called Circus. Bath Abbey is a church adjacent to the Roman baths that was founded in the 7th century! It’s an absolutely beautiful example of Gothic architecture. Crossing the River Avon is the Pulteney Bridge. Built in the 1700’s, it’s a classic example of Georgian architecture. I love that it has shops built across it’s span on both sides much like the Ponte Vecchio in Florence. I just love a good walking city.
I know you know I’ve been dying to get to this bit – the food and drinks! Bath boasts an amazing, diverse food and drink scene. From Michelin star dining to cozy pubs to wine bars, it’s a culinary delight. When I was there on this first visit, I have to say, I did not fully explore this scene as I would have liked. That’s not to say I’m unhappy with my choice all those years ago, I ate at the Roman Baths Kitchen. It’s a lovely place directly across from the Roman baths and Bath Abbey with outdoor seating. It was such a beautiful day, the outdoor seating was spoken for but I had a lovely window seat, ate the fish and chips and it was all amazing!
Bath lives up to every bit of its World Heritage City status. I feel a trip there is in my future – all this writing about it has reinforced the longing to walk around, shop, eat, drink and take pictures. Where have you gone that completely took you by surprise and won your heart? Leave a comment!
Until next time, cheers!
Adventures of a New Yorker traveling the world.
Adventures of a New Yorker traveling the world.
