Bath Priory Hotel

The Gothic-tinged Bath Priory, built in 1835, is a luxury retreat with landscaped gardens, a modern spa and exceptional food. The lounge and library are decked out with owner Andrew Brownsword’s private art collection, and the bedrooms are large and traditional in style.

The hotel is a short walk from town, so it’s better suited to those looking to relax and indulge than pound the pavements in search of Bath’s major tourist attractions. The hotel’s exceptional afternoon tea, served in the four-acre gardens or library, is divine, and the Garden Spa offers an excellent range of treatments.

It’s just on the outskirts of the city, but in a relaxed, upmarket neighbourhood.