With over 2000 years of history Bath’s reputation has been linked to natural hot springs, which are believed to be good for your health. The Romans originally developed the city, building a complex of baths and a temple to the goddess, Sulis-Minerva named Aquae Sulis (Waters of Sulis) for the Celtic worshipped at the spring. By the 18th Century Bath had become Britain’s leading spa town. Georgian honeycomb Bath Stone coloured buildings are widespread throughout the city which give Bath it’s distinctive appearance and historical feel.
At the Centre of Bath the outstanding Roman Baths can still be seen today with a quarter of a million gallons of steaming hot spring water coming to the surface each day and an average water temperature of 47 degrees. You can relax in the thermal waters at Thermae Bath Spa.
Entertainment
The city is rich in museums and sites of interest and has many parks, gardens and green spaces. The Bath Theatre Royal and Ustinov Theatre offer a varied programme throughout the year, and the city has two cinemas ranging from arthouse to mainstream. There are innumerable bars, cafes, pubs and restaurants catering for all tastes and price ranges, some of which also serve as venues for live music.
The celebrated Bath International Music Festival takes place in late May and early June each year, beginning with a free opening night firework display in Royal Victoria Park. The festival continues for two weeks and includes jazz, classical and contemporary music performed by international artists. There’s also comedy and contemporary art exhibitions and a host of free entertainment on the streets and in the city’s parks.
The Surrounding Area
Bath is a small, compact city and it takes little time to get out into the countryside. It is close to the Cotswolds, the Mendips, the Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean, all areas of great interest and outstanding natural beauty. The fine old cities of Wells and Salisbury, and the ancient sites of Avebury and Stonehenge, are only an hour away.
