Bath is the ultimate spa city – its right there in the name! Home to some of Britain’s only natural hot springs, it has been used as a relaxing holiday resort for thousands of years (the Romans were big fans). Until a few decades ago, people would travel to Bath to simply ‘take the waters’ and enjoy copious cream teas. But today the city is a fully-fledged spa resort that is pretty hard to resist.
The city of Bath is a resort in and of itself – there is something inherently relaxing about walking down the cobbled streets of a World Heritage Site. But you can’t visit Bath without carving out some time in the city’s famous thermal waters.
The Thermae Bath Spa is the iconic site of the city’s natural hot springs. Schedule at least two hours for the stunning rooftop bath, or book a session in the private Cross Bath, which features its own changing facilities. The warm, mineral-enriched waters are said to have healing and detoxifying properties, while the views from the top will simply take your breath away.
Image courtesy of VisitBath
If you are looking for a more intensive spa experience, there are a number of excellent local spas that offer a full range of facials, massages, body wraps and alternative therapies. The Macdonald Bath Spa is a favourite with the locals due to its competitive day rates and huge treatment menu.
*Image: The Luxurious Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel
There’s something for every tastebud in Bath, but the city particularly prides itself on its indulgent afternoon teas (or ‘cream teas’). A mound of finger sandwiches, cakes and scones with jam and clotted cream are served with endless quantities of tea. Bring your appetite, and cancel your dinner plans!
Bath is popular with loved up couples, stressed out professionals and upmarket hen parties. This is not the place to go if you are looking for a 24-hour party.
*Image: Hall & Woodhouse – Bath
Sip a cocktail on the roof terrace of Hall & Woodhouse, or enjoy a local pint at the cosy Bath Brew House.
Fashion fans and foodies will love the variety of independent shops and markets in the city centre. The historic Guildhall Market is a great place to pick up one-off treasures, while the Bath Farmer’s Market is packed with locally-sourced produce that you can’t find anywhere else.
For fashion finds, browse the independent shops and boutiques of the Upper Town, while the Artisan Quarter (around Walcot Street and London Road) is great for unique gifts and antiques.
Stobo Castle
Rockliffe Hall Spa
Nirvana Spa
