A vibrant city in Somerset,
south west England, Bath is an idyllic place,
steeped in history. A visit to the City
is always recommended if staying anywhere in the Somerset county and it’s not difficult to see
why.
Famous for its natural hot springs, they were
taken advantage of in the Roman period, when baths were built over these
springs, providing naturally created hot water and bathing areas, often used
for social meetings. Becoming
increasing popular once again throughout the Georgian era, people visited from
distances as the City grew in popularity as a famous spa resort.
For those interested in architecture, Bath is a must visit destination. The Georgian architecture is still visible
today, with many companies revolving their businesses in and around the
beautiful buildings. For example, a
large percentage of the 80 Bath
hotels and bed and breakfasts are housed within Georgian buildings, making
for an extremely unusual and individual place to lay your head at night. Furthermore, whilst the Georgian period is
extremely prominent in the City of Bath,
all major periods throughout the past 1700 years can be seen in the City. From
the original Roman baths built in the early hundred years AD to the most recent
Thermae Bath Spa, built after the last millennium, architecture of the years is
in abundance here, and appears beautiful together.
A World Heritage Site for over twenty years, one of Bath’s main attractions is its awe inspiring
Abbey. Known originally as The Abbey Church of Saint Peter, Bath, Bath Abbey is one
of the most prominent examples of Gothic architecture available in the modern
western world. With space for up 1,200
people, the Abbey holds a regular congregation for its frequent members, with
it still being a popular place of worship to this day. A Grade 1 listed building; Bath Abbey has
been restored several times, each time not detracting from its original Gothic
beauty.
After visiting all of Bath’s
many sites, a well deserved break is needed – and you don’t have to travel far
to find some great food and a refreshing drink.
With around 100 restaurants that provide cuisines from all around the
world, there are reputed to be the same number of bars, pubs and wine bars,
making you never more than a few steps from some good food and great drink.
Whilst Bath
is soaked in history, many of its visitors come for the cultural side of the
City. Since the 18th Century,
Bath has been a major player in England’s
cultural scene. Housing five separate
theatres, they attract world famous companies and play-writes that come
throughout the year, but more prominently at Bath’s annual theatre season. With its own historic musical past, Bath caters to all genres
of music, from regular Klais Organ concerts at Bath Abbey to the ever popular
Bath International Music Festival; an annual event frequented my many.
Bath is a City
many consider a historic venue only – which is far from the truth. Its historic values are large, but its arts,
music, food and shopping areas are becoming more and more popular year in and
year out – making Bath
a place to visit whatever your interest.
