Bath - Key Attractions

The Roman Baths
The Roman Baths constitute the historical heart of Bath. It was here, around the only hot spring in Britain, that the Romans built this magnificent temple and bathing complex that still flows with natural hot water. One million litres flow from the springs every day at an average temperature of 45C (113F). These beautiful baths are among the best preserved Roman sites north of the Alps, and the atmosphere is magic on July and August evenings when the whole complex is lit up by torches. Expect audio tours from celebrities and fantastic views of the Abbey. The Pump Rooms are also included on the walk-through tour.

Abbey Church Yard
Tel: (01225) 477 785.
Website: www.romanbaths.co.uk

Thermae Bath Spa
When Thermae Bath Spa opened its doors in August 2006, it had been 28 years since the last person bathed in Bath's natural thermal waters, so it was a big day for the city. Finally, locals and visitors could again do as the Celts and Romans did 2,000 years ago: bathe in the city's hot, healing-ground water. The new state-of-the-art spa and bathing complex offers several pools and more than 50 different kinds of spa treatments and activities. It prides itself on being a municipal spa and the prices are very reasonable. There is also a shop and visitor centre.

The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath Street
Tel: (01225) 331 234.
Website: www.thermaebathspa.com

Abbey Church
The cruciform Abbey Church is the dominant edifice in the centre of Bath. The construction of the abbey started in 1499, and it is the last great gothic church in England. It was Bishop Oliver King who decided to demolish the ruined Norman cathedral on the site and replace it with the Abbey, and the magnificent west front of the building represents the dream that made him do so. Visitors who brave the steep climb to the dome are rewarded with views of Bath and the surrounding countryside.

Kingston Buildings
Tel: (01225) 422 462.
Website: www.bathabbey.org

Royal Crescent
The high point of Palladian architecture in Bath, the stately arc of the Royal Crescent is one of the city's true marvels, built to the designs of John Wood the Younger between 1767 and 1774. No 1 Royal Crescent is a museum and has been redecorated and furnished to give visitors an impression of how the house might have appeared in the late-18th century.

Royal Crescent
Tel: (01225) 428 126.
Website: www.bath-preservation-trust.org.uk

The Jane Austen Centre
The Jane Austen Centre is a permanent exhibition devoted to Jane Austen and her relationship with Bath. The great novelist lived in the city from 1801 to 1806, and two of her novels, Northanger Abbey and Persuasion, are largely set in Bath. The centre explores the various ways in which living in this magnificent city affected Jane Austen's life and writing. If it takes your fancy, you can also pay 10.50 to get dressed up and have your hair done in the style of Austen, and for 20 you can have tea in the tea rooms while pretending to be Elizabeth Bennet. Book in advance.

40 Gay Street, Queens Square
Tel: (01225) 443 000.
Website: www.janeausten.co.uk

The Building of Bath Collection
This exciting museum gives a fascinating insight into how Georgian Bath was developed and constructed and turned into one of the true architectural wonders of modern Britain. The museum is housed in the gorgeous gothic-style Countess of Huntingdon's Chapel and is essential for visitors interested in finding out how Georgian Bath came about.

Countess of Huntingdon's Chapel, The Vineyards
Tel: (01225) 333 895.
Website: www.bathmuseum.co.uk