Bath
Known for charming architecture, geothermal springs, and stunning countryside, Bath has been a tourist hot spot for hundreds of years. Resting in the bottom of Avon Valley in Southwest of England, water rising from the Pennyquick fault provides Bath with the signature hot springs for which it was named.
Original construction of the Roman baths and temples began in AD 43 to utilize the rich mineral waters as a spa resort. Interestingly, Bath is built upon the mouth of an extinct volcano and is the only naturally occurring hot spring in the United Kingdom. The springs were continually utilized, built upon and attracting pilgrims until the fifth century, when Roman withdrawal from the region caused the structures to fall into a state of deterioration. The area experienced vacillating periods of disrepair and construction until the late 1700's when Bath experienced an upturn in prosperity as a result of English aristocracy reestablishing the city as a fashionable resort destination.
Today visitors can journey to Bath and experience the same mineral rich waters that were once enjoyed by the Romans at the Themae Bath Spa. The unique geography of the area also provides vacationers a chance to explore some of the most unique and beautiful terrain in the world including West Country, Cotswolds, and Stonehenge.
Bath architecture is magnificent and every period of British history is artfully represented throughout the city. There are several popular tours of the city and the surrounding countryside, including balloon, boat, and ghost tours.
Bath offers visitors a quaint selection of establishments for dining, shopping, and nightlife. The city is small and can be walked on foot, so be sure to explore your options. Pubs and bars within the city typically close early on weeknights, but vacationers should have no problem finding an all night disco club on the weekends.
Known for charming architecture, geothermal springs, and stunning countryside, Bath has been a tourist hot spot for hundreds of years. Resting in the bottom of Avon Valley in Southwest of England, water rising from the Pennyquick fault provides Bath with the signature hot springs for which it was named.