Bath- how to spend one day in the medieval city of Bath (England)

22.05.2022.

Bath is one of the prettiest towns in England, known by its Roman baths (as the name suggests). The enchanting atmosphere of its medieval charm invites even for one day. Just like rural atmosphere of Cotswolds, Bath is a fabulous day trip from London. The train takes 90 minutes from London but I was travelling around 3h considering the cheaper tickets by bus. If you get a chance, definitely stay 2 or more days.

Now entitled as an UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath is a city that bursts with history and culture. More than that, it has a vibrant street atmosphere full of street performers. If you love the spa culture and are eager to visit some amazing spa towns in Europe, don’t miss Bath.

Sitting on the river Avon Bath has a plenty of things to offer. It’s a birthplace of Jane Austen where you can absorb the vibes of her novels. Actually, I managed to see Priory Gardens, ancient Roman Baths, stunning Pulteney bridge and just absorb the atmosphere.

Priory Gardens, Bath

Priory Gardens in Bath are located withinh 30 minutes walk from the historical centre. When I arrived in Bath, I took a bus near the bus station (as I didn’t know where to go) and returned by foot. You can easily go by foot all the way as the path is just straight. It was such a refreshment in the hot spring day, away from the Sun.

Several lakes decorate the garden, as well as the Gothic temple, Mrs Allen’s Grotto, the ice house and the serpentine lake.

Bath Skyline within 5-minutes walk from the garden encompasses the stunning views. It includes woodlands, meadows, an Iron Age hill-fort and Roman settlements on the 10 km long trail.

Stunning views flow from the Garden to the city of Bath.

Briefly about the history

Following the vision of the local businessman Ralph Allen Priory Gardens were created in the 1700s. His aim was the possibility that everyone can admire Bath. The main idea came from the design that created poet Alexandre Pope. Nowadays the place in the ownership of the National Trust.

Covering several lakes the place is undoubtely romantic and tranquil. The most picturesque is the lake over Palladian bridge. The Palladian style actually originated from the Venetian architect Andrean Palladio (1508-1580). The Palladian bridge is one of the four in the world.

The Priory Gardens defined the English landscape garden. In 1100 the Garden was situated as the deer park. Priory Garden also surrounded Ralph Allen’s house, which is now a private school and later became Priory Park College. Ralph Allen helped creating one of the most fashionable towns in England.

Roman Baths, the highlight of Bath

Magnifiscient Roman Baths represent the essence of this spa town. Located in the centre of Bath next to the Bath Abbey, going inside offers the stunning view of the Cathedral.

The Roman Baths were used untill the end of the Roman rule in Britain in the 5th century. Nowadays the public swimming is not allowed because the water became polluted. That happened due to the dangerous amoeba. A century later the Roman Baths experienced only the ruins untill they were redevoled in the Early and Late Middle Ages.

What’s included in the Roman Baths

The Roman Baths consist of the Sacred Spring, the Roman temple, the Roman Bath house and a museum.

Visiting the Roman Baths allows you to absorb the ancient atmosphere and excellent views of Bath. The main source of water flows under the large spa. The Romans believed that it was a sacred source of Minerva Sulis. The thefts of their clothing were happening pretty usually.

If you’re interesting in bathing, go visit Therme Bath Spa. They offer the splendid views of the cathedral but are pretty expensive.

Pulteney Bridge, Bath

Pulteney Bridge upon the river Avon was constructed in 1774. Designed by Robert Adams in the Palladian style, it’s one of the Bath’s attractions. It covers shops on both sides which is pretty unusual and rare to see in the world.

Boat tours leave regularly to Bathampton. The street over the bridge is closed to the traffic but this excludes buses, taxis and cycles.

Jane Austen Center, Bath

Unfortunately, I didn’t read Jane Austen’s books and I haven’t visited this place. Elegant Georgian building transfers you back in time of her novels. You will see costumed actors in this permanent exhibition. You will also get the opportunity to take some recipes and dress up in Regency costumes.

The annual Jane Austen festival celebrates the novels of Jane Austen by theatre performances, dance, music, readings and the famous costumed promenade. It’s happening during the ten days in September.

Final thoughts- The marvelous city of Bath in England

In one day I saw Priory Gardens, Roman Baths, Pulteney bridge and the amazing atmosphere this city offers. I love the street performers and the vibe is fantastic.

Definitely I wish that I could get more like Jane Austen’s centre. Absorbing medieval historical charm of Bath is just magical. If you can, allow yourself at least two days to explore and enjoy Bath. I even saw the caffe bar from Bridgerton series as some locals told me but I don’t know much about this show. If you’ll visit one city in England in one day, definitely choose Bath. One day I’ll come back and explore more.

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