HISTORY, SHOPPING AND HOSPITALITY IN BATH

A rich history awaits you in Bath

The city of Bath is known throughout the world for its much-photographed 18th-century Georgian architecture, natural hot springs and large choice of independent and artisan shops. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Somerset countryside (including Solsbury Hill immortalised by Peter Gabriel), the city attracts tourists from across the country and abroad keen to sample the culture, history and leisure opportunities available.

Bath takes its name from the baths built by the Romans around 43AD. The baths are still in existence today and are a well-preserved showcase of the innovation and ingenuity of the Romans during this period. Tours of the baths are held on most days and visitors can even sample the mineral and element rich drinking water first hand.

Many sightseers often combine a trip to the Roman baths with tours of the city's other notable landmarks, such as Bath Abbey, Royal Crescent and the covered Pulteney Bridge, where boat trips run upriver to picturesque Bathampton village.

Unwind at the Thermae Spa

Any guide to Bath wouldn't be complete without referencing the Thermae Spa, a modern commercial spa for bathers to relax and experience firsthand the warm waters from the geothermal springs. Opened in the mid-2000s the new bath complex is located close to the original Royal Baths and provides a full range of wellness facilities including the open-air rooftop bath, the more intimate Cross Bath, a Roman Steam Room, a Georgian Steam Room, an Ice Chamber and a Celestial Relaxation Room. The spa has a choice of health and beauty packages for individuals and groups and is the perfect place to go for some pampering and relaxation.

Shopping for all tastes

Bath has an abundance of shops ranging from the large national retailers in the SouthGate shopping centre to the quirky and varied independent stores and boutiques found in its narrow, historic streets. Notable well-known specialist shops include Miles Mann Jewellers, (on Cheap Street) established in the area since the 1740s and Topping & Company Booksellers, at The Paragon, stocks tens of thousands of titles and also hosts book signings and talks throughout the year from famous authors and speakers. Elsewhere Margaret's Buildings, a pleasant lane close to The Royal Crescent, has plenty of bistros, jewellers, antique shops and art galleries and Walcot Street is often described as the 'bohemian' area of Bath, another street with a diverse choice of small outlets selling bric-a-brac shops, designer furniture, clothing, upmarket cheeses and collectables.

Dining and drinking

Bath is awash with historic pubs, premium restaurants and contemporary bars. There is a strong live music scene found in pubs like The Bell Inn and the Green Park Brasserie, an attractive former railway station ticket hall. As a university city there are plenty of venues that cater to revellers on a budget, such as Belushis and diners seeking restaurants at the quality end of the market could consider The Olive Tree, part of the Queensberry Hotel and the only Michelin star restaurant in the city, or the Dower House Restaurant at The Royal Crescent.

Book a luxury limousine to make your day even more memorable!

A luxury limousine, party bus or chauffeur car can bring some additional convenience and colour to your special day in Bath - whether you're a history buff, looking for some retail therapy or want to to discover the city's many pubs, restaurants and bars with a group of friends our fleet of comfortable chauffeur-driven vehicles provide a cost-effect and memorable way to travel on any occasion!

Please note while we try to ensure accuracy in this article The Limo People Ltd is not responsible for the content of external sites.