Royal Crescent, Bath

CITY OF BATH

The World Heritage city of Bath, nestling in the valley beside the River Avon is quite exceptional. There are many opportunities for general or special interest half or full day tours.

With Britain’s only hot water springs, Bath first came to prominence as the Roman town of Aqua Sulis. Today visitors can still see the impressive heritage of the Roman Baths and temple which were built nearly 2,000 years ago.

In the 18th century it became fashionable to visit Bath ‘to take the waters’. Providing facilities for the visitors meant many new buildings and the city now enjoys a rich Georgian heritage of architecture, of which the Circus and Royal Crescent by John Wood are among the highlights.

Fashionable society in 18th century Bath was conducted under the auspices of Beau Nash, the Master of Ceremonies. Visits to the Assembly Rooms, number 1 the Royal Crescent, Bath Abbey, Theatre Royal and tea in the Pump Room all help to recreate the lifestyle of an 18th century visitor.

The artists Gainsborough and Rowlandson, the writers Jane Austen and Fanny Burney, the entrepreneur Ralph Allen, owner of the Bath Stone Quarries, the architect Robert Adam designing Britain’s unique Pulteney Bridge, all played a part in shaping Georgian Bath.

For garden enthusiasts there is a rare Georgian town garden, the beautiful 18th century landscape garden at Prior Park, the Victorian Botanical Gardens plus many attractive public parks within the city centre.

Today there is much for the visitor to enjoy. In addition to the Roman and Georgian heritage, you can experience and enjoy the hot mineral spring waters in the new 21st century spa complex - Thermae Bath Spa.

Let Bath Parade Guides help you make the most of your visit to Bath