Bath is very easy to get to by train from Paddington Station in London using GWR. It takes around 90 minutes and Bath station is a five-minute walk from the city centre and the main attractions such as the Pump Room and Abbey.
Jane Austen lived in Bath from 1801 until 1806 and you can find more about her life at the Jane Austen Centre situated in 40 Gay Street close to Queen Square.
Adjoining the main Post Office is the Post Office Museum. It is extremely interesting and is full of unusual exhibits. Bath was on the main horse drawn mail coach route from Bristol to London.
Next to the Guildhall in the centre of the city, is the indoor market. This is quite small but it includes a site explaining the phrase ‘to pay on the nail.’ There is an excellent café where you can get a very reasonably priced meal and hot drinks.
One of my favourite haunts in Bath is the Pickled Greens Café just off the main Abbey Square in Abbey Street. Located close to a huge plane tree planted in 1793, it has lots of character and is a great place for a snack. Close by is Sally Lunn’s house where you can find out more about the famous Bath bun. Dating back to 1680 it is one of the oldest eating places in the city.
If you want to get a comprehensive overview of the city you should take one of the bus trips which goes out into the suburbs. The Skyline Tour takes you above the centre where you will get some spectacular views over Bath.
Whilst in the city you should try to see the new Thermal Spa and in particular the older Spa building nearby.
Pulteney Bridge built in 1769 is just behind the Guildhall and a good place to get a view of Pulteney Weir and the River Avon. If you have time also try to arrange a trip on the Somerset and Avon Canal in the direction of Bradford-on-Avon. This is particularly attractive once you get to Bathampton.
A trip to Bath is not complete without a visit to the Royal Crescent. Just ask a local and you will send you in the right direction. Another delightful attraction is the Holburne Museum at the end of Pulteney Street. To see most of the sights in the city you will really need to stay two or three days.
If you are staying for any length of time in the city you should try and book for a production at the Theatre Royal. It has a great history and is very small inside. Also ask at the Abbey if there are any free events. It is spectacular inside and admission is free (but you can make a donation if you wish)
For more information on Bath, please visit www.visitbath.co.uk
Images courtesy of Godfrey Hall.
