Only 90 minutes west of London by rail, Bath gets its name from the natural thermal springs built by the Romans in 60 AD. In the 18th century fashionable English society took up residence in the area as a resort, and Bath continues to this day to be a popular spa destination for travelers. Once called Aquae Sulis, the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth exploring for its relaxing atmosphere and period appeal. The village can be visited in only a day or two but is an excellent hub from which to visit other nearby attractions such as Glastonbury, Wells, and Stonehenge.
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Roman Baths
Roman Baths
Of course, the Roman Baths are the main attraction. These baths were established almost 2,000 years ago. These were for public bathing in geothermic heated waters but also featured a temple. Roman columns and architecture are found throughout the site. Unfortunately, these baths are not to be experienced as they once were, with bathing in them prohibited. But they still offer a glance into a long history of spas and baths.
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Bath Abbey
Bath Abbey
Next to the ancient Roman Baths is the Bath Abbey. Construction began in the 7th century as a Benedictine monastery. This abbey is made of Bath stone, a common building material in southern England. The light-colored stone is all the more prominent as Bath Abbey is the tallest building in Bath and one of the largest examples of Perpendicular Gothic architecture with vaulted ceilings and stained glass.
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Pulteney Bridge
Pulteney Bridge
Pulteney Bridge is a short stretch over the River Avon, its arches close to the waters below. Construction of the bridge was completed in 1774. It is a 148 ft long and 58 ft wide covered bridge featuring small shops on both sides. This bridge is one of the most photographed sites in Bath.
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A Short Cruise on the River Avon
A Short Cruise on the River Avon
Looking for a great view of the photogenic Pulteney Bridge as you pass under it? Canal cruises offer up a romantic and relaxing ride to a different side of Bath — including waterside pubs. There’s also the John Rennie, a glass-sided floating restaurant and saloon for an even better time checking out Bath.
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Royal Crescent
Royal Crescent
Finished in 1775, the Royal Crescent is a row of 30 terraced residential houses of Georgian architecture laid out in a crescent shape. Here, images of settings from 18th and 19th-century romance novels come to life — particularly the biting commentary of Jane Austen. From the meticulously kept lawn perfect for picnics to the half-circle facade of the Royal Crescent building, this landmark makes for great photo opportunities.
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Jane Austen Centre
Jane Austen Centre
A stop for any lover of literature or history, even more so for those that love both, the Jane Austen Centre is a treasure trove. The Jane Austen Centre focuses on the life and works of the acclaimed author, and the history of the Regency period in which she lived is on display as well. Exhibits and actors in period-appropriate clothing greet visitors.
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Thermae Bath Spa
Thermae Bath Spa
As a city with a millennia-old public bathhouse, Bath itself has spas matched by only a few other cities. The Thermae Bath Spa is a continuation of this legacy. It is supplied by the same natural hot springs as the famous Roman Baths. A full spa experience will help relax the traveler for another day of Bath’s low-key intrigue. This spa is located next to Bath Abbey.
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The Bath Assembly Rooms
The Bath Assembly Rooms
The Bath Assembly Rooms is an opulent building originally built for dancing and music during the 18th century. Completed in 1771, the nobles and gentry mixed for dancing, playing cards, drinking tea, and other revelries of the time. Though the outside is simple, yet elegant, the interior speaks of luxurious snapshots from the 18th century.