Bath is one of Britain’s most beautiful towns, its incredible architecture, the healing waters of its spas and the unique atmosphere of its many pubs and cafes have seen its appeal a tourist destination endure for centuries. The iconic streets offer visitors the chance to explore thousands of years of local history - from the Roman era, to the modern. Of course, there are also the town’s namesake waters - with Thermae Bath Spa housing the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain you can bathe in.
Where to stay in Bath
Bath has some superb options for accommodation, ranging from modern hotel and spa complexes, to stunning Georgian guest houses and apartments. Where you choose to stay will of course depend on the nature of your visit, but those making an extended stay in Bath may be best suited to serviced apartments. The Squa.re offer a range of such property, each with enhanced features, such as reception, secure or disable access where required, as well as the added benefit of full kitchen facilities. Whether you are looking for luxury corporate housing, or a stylish studio for one, we present some of the very finest apartments Bath has to offer.
What to do in Bath
Bath’s relatively compact centre is packed with a fantastic array of shops, restaurants and historic attractions. Often cited as one of Britain’s best locations for a city break, visitors will find plenty to do simply by exploring Bath’s historic streets and avenues. Whether you are looking to relax or to experience the area’s rich history, you’ll find everything within walking distance of the city centre.
Of course, the historical landmarks play a big role in Bath’s appeal. The Roman ruins as well as the surprisingly intact bathhouses draw visitors from all over the world and are accompanied by plenty of museums and information centres which document that time in the city’s past. Alternatively, there are also stunning examples of Georgian architecture, as well as several ‘time capsule’ homes displaying what life was like in the city’s heydey.
But Bath isn’t all about history - the baths are still popular with those looking for a health retreat and the city inevitably has a range of spas and relaxation centres dedicated to promoting health and wellness.
Tips for staying in Bath
Places to eat
Bath is simply packed with great places to eat, with something to suit all tastes. Restaurants including Menu Gordon Jones, Sotto Sotto, the Circus Restaurant and Bathwick Boatman Riverside make good use of the local architecture to offer high class dining in beautiful settings, whilst The Herd Steak Restaurant and Firehouse Rotisserie offer local produce in a casual and fun atmosphere.
Shopping
One of Bath’s major characteristics is its high concentration of local goods and crafts stores, selling everything from artisan bathroom furnishings to fine cheese. For more mainstream retail therapy, there’s SouthGate - a smart and modern shopping complex with over 50 retailers, as well several restaurants. Alternatively, Milsom Place is a stylish shopping arcade offering fashion brands and homeware stores.
Attractions
Any first time visitors to the city will want to pay a visit to the Roman baths - a remarkably well preserved site that reveals the city’s ancient origins. There’s also the nearby Old Theatre Royal, with over 250 years of history the building is a major tourist attraction in itself, offering guided tours - not to mention a full programme of productions throughout the year.
There’s plenty to see beyond the city, too, with stunning Somerset countryside to explore, as well as attractions like Stonehenge, Avebury and Longleat Safari Park.
Transport
Bath has fantastic public transport, including a bus service linking it to nearby Bristol, as well as other towns in Somerset. Bath Spa train station has fast routes running to and from London Paddington, with a journey time of under two hours, as well as services to Reading and Bristol. Of course, the town itself is reasonably compact and its charming streets make it perfect for exploring on foot.
Local Business
Bath has a robust and well performing economy, driven by several industries. IT and tech start-ups are prevalent in the city, with firms like SystemGo and IRUN Business Intelligence being based locally, as well as many creative support firms, such as Deep Blue Sky Digital and Design Intellect. Of course, tourism is also a major contributor, with several tour operators based in the city centre.
