Bath, England
Located two hours west of London, Bath makes for a perfect weekend destination. An easy train ride brings you right to the city center, which is a study in Georgian Architecture. As the name would indicate, the town is also home of Roman built baths, constructed around 60 AD, which still stand today. It is a wonderfully walkable city, with history around every corner, beautiful gardens, a generous amount of pubs, and wonderful historic hotels.
Although the Roman Bath water looks a bit murky, and there is no longer any soaking, the site is an archaeological treasure that requires a visit when you are in town. Yes, it will be overrun with tourists, and likely be very crowded. Yes, it is worth it. It is one of the best preserved Roman ruins in the world. Sometimes sacrifices must be made. Located about 20 feet below the present city level, the original Roman foundations, pillars and baths still exist. If after touring, you are still in the mood for the soak, head over to the Thermae Bath Spa, which has an amazing roof top spring fed pool with views of the Abbey.
The Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, frequently just called Bath Abbey, is actually the third church to occupy this site. The current building, built on the earlier foundations, dates from the early 16th century. A remodel in the early 1800s provided the flying buttresses to the nave exterior, as well as the addition of pinnacles to the turrets. Later alterations include the addition of fan vaulting, for which the Abbey is now known.
Another of the city’s architectural highlights is the Royal Crescent; built in 1774 the row of 30 homes is considered one of the greatest examples of Georgian architecture in the UK. While the interiors have been updated over the centuries, the facade remains virtual unchanged. Original purchasers bought a length of facade, which consisted of 114 Ionic columns, and commissioned their own architect to build the remainder of the home. Over the years, many of the homes were subdivided into flats, while two of the homes combined to form the Royal Crescent Hotel. Number 1 Royal Crescent now acts as a historic house museum, furnished as it would have been when constructed.
Bath is also an easy drive to Stonehenge, which is absolutely worth seeing. There are several tour companies in Bath that offer daily excursions if you don’t have a car. It is Stonehenge, so again, it will be crowded. There are barriers, so you won’t get too close, but obviously these are a necessary evil to protect the prehistoric monument. Possibly dating back to 3000 BC, it is exciting to stand out on the windswept field and appreciate the significance of the site. Many theories abound regarding just what the significance is, but regardless, the effort required to construct the monument is a testament to its importance to the people who built it. It is also impossible to visit and not think of Spinal Tap, which is still hilarious 30 years later.
Bath also has a wonderful selection of hotels located in former mansions or townhouses. MacDonald Bath Spa Hotel is located in a stunning Georgian Mansion, dating from the 1830s. Located on seven acres, the gardens and terraces provide a peaceful place to relax after exploring the city. They also have a fabulous spa, and pool. There is a wonderful onsite restaurant, with several tables on the terrace overlooking the grounds. The rooms are beautifully decorated with canopy beds and soaring ceilings. While it is just a short walk to the town and the train station, you may consider a cab if you have your luggage.
