Bucket list experience:
Bath, Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)
Bath is famous for its beautifully-preserved Georgian architecture – most of it made from honey-coloured ‘Bath stone’ and giving the whole city the enchanting feel of having stumbled into the past, or onto a film set.
The city owes its impressive architectural legacy to luck; it happened to become of fashionable spa and social city in the early 18th century – when Georgian and Palladian styles dominated. The gorgeous, golden ‘Bath Stone’ used in the buildings – so pleasing to behold – is all sourced locally in Somerset, from the Combe Down and Bathampton Down Mines.
Look out for architectural gems at the Circus, Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge, with its horseshoe weir.
The Museum of Bath Architecture, housed in a former chapel (built 1765), explains the building of the city during the 18th-century Georgian era, in the Georgian architectural style. In includes maps, paintings, house reconstructions and even a 1:500 scale model of the whole city.
Want more recommendations in this destination?
Destination Guide >It’s best seen on foot: book on architectural walking tours, usually led by a local expert or and enthusiast who can give you the lowdown on the city’s rich past and design style. Allow 2 hours.
Bath, by established authority Michael Forsyth, is the best of the city’s architecture guides, with insightful commentary plus detailed walking tours to follow and excursions further afield.
Bath, Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)
A small museum housed in a former chapel (built 1765) that explains the building of the city during the 18th-century Georgian era, in the Georgian architectural style. In includes maps, paintings, house reconstructions and even a 1:500 scale model of the whole city.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Bath, Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)
Built in 1774 in the Palladian style, this designated ancient monument is one of only four bridges in the world to have shops across its full span on both sides.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Bath, Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)
Bath’s Circus, a grand circle of tall townhouses where three roads meet (the name is from the Latin circus, for oval or ring), was designed by John Wood the Elder in 1754. Wood was inspired by a visit to Stonehenge – and by a penchant for symbolism, embedding 525 motifs representing the arts, the sciences and even Masonic emblems into his design.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Bath, Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)
This gently-curving Georgian promenade of 30 terraced houses, was the first-ever crescent of terraced houses to be built back in 1774. With 114 Ionic columns, it stands as one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in the city and the UK.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Bath, Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)
A bijou bed and breakfast with pretty bedrooms just a five-minute walk from the city centre – Jane Austen would approve.
Official star rating:
Bath, Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)
A Gothic-tinged, classic country house hotel is a luxury retreat with landscaped gardens, a modern spa and exceptional food. Everything you need for an indulgent spa and foodie break.
Official star rating:
Bath, Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)
Slap bang in the heart of things, No 15. is one of the smartest places to stay, on arguably Bath’s grandest road, close to the city centre. There’s beautiful décor, a relaxed bar and fine attention to detail.
Official star rating:
Bath, Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)
Contemporary, stylish hotel spread across four Georgian townhouses on a classic Bath street.
Official star rating:
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Somerset, United Kingdom (UK)
A lovely west country city of world-class Georgian architecture, ancient and modern spas, and an atmosphere of romance and refinement.
