The Web’s Premiere Guide to Historic Hotels and Accommodation in the UK, France,
Italy and Western Europe
Historic British Cities: Bath
“Let me recommend Bath to you”
- Jane Austen, Emma
A city equally noted for its aesthetics and its history, Bath attracts visitors from all over the world on account of both.
The majority of the buildings one sees today date from the 18th century, with the Neoclassical Royal Crescent - designed by John Wood (the younger) – being the city’s most iconic architectural landmark.
But Bath’s heritage runs far deeper than the Georgian period, as borne out by its classification as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Indeed, in the baths complex at the centre of the city and the remains of the Temple of Sulis Minerva, the city possesses some of the most precious Roman remains in northern Europe.
Other historic sites and attractions include Pulteney Bridge, Bath Abbey, the Jane Austen Museum and taking tea or having lunch in the 18th century Pump Room.
Period Places to Stay in Bath
Apsley House. Only a mile from the centre of Bath, Apsley House was built by the Duke of Wellington in 1830. Retaining its original Georgian charm, it possesses 12 individually styled rooms, including several four-poster rooms and a family Garden Suite. There is also a licensed bar, drawing room and an immaculately maintained garden for the use of guests. Highly rated by independent reviewers, the hotel is privately owned.
LateRooms
The Bath Priory. The oldest parts of this highly-acclaimed spa hotel date from 1835 when it was built as a private home in ‘neo-gothic’ style. Featuring 4 acres of landscaped gardens, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a sauna and a gym, it is unsurprisingly rated as 4-star. Furthermore, it also boasts an award-winning restaurant and each of its 27 rooms is individually furnished and uniquely styled.
Booking.com | Lastminute.com
The Dukes Hotel. What might be described as ‘Georgian Boutique’, The Dukes is regarded by many as one of the best hotels in Bath. It features two four-poster suites, and many of its rooms overlook the famous Great Pulteney Street. Grade-I listed, its interior styling reflects its heritage, while enthusiasts of contemporary British cuisine will no doubt be interested in what its award-winning Cavendish Restaurant has to offer.
TripAdvisor
Bath Spa Hotel. 5-star rated, the Bath Spa has a fine historic pedigree being where Winston Churchill conducted top secret Admiralty meetings during World War II. One of the city’s larger hotels, it offers in excess of 120 rooms as well as an indoor swimming pool and spa. Its Vollore Restaurant was formerly the ballroom of the old private residence, while those staying in the Imperial Suite benefit from private butler service.
LateRooms | Lastminute.com | Bath Spa
Three Abbey Green. While most accommodation in Bath is within buildings from the late 18th and early 19th centuries, this acclaimed guest house dates back to 1689. Offering the intimacy many larger hotels lack, it boasts only seven en suite rooms including a four-poster (The Lord Nelson). Centrally located, the Roman Baths, Pump Rooms and Abbey are all close by, while the Thermae Bath Spa is only a few minutes walk from the front door.
TripAdvisor
Paradise House. Built in 1735, Paradise House offers bed & breakfast accommodation in classic surroundings on the southern slopes of Bath. It boasts 11 en suite bedrooms, and a walled garden with views over the city. The railway station is only five minutes walk away, and the centre of town little further. Paradise House is licensed and was awarded the Which Hotel Guide of the Year for Bed & Breakfast accommodation in 2001.
Booking.com | LateRooms
Queen Charlotte’s Orangery. Somewhere that will certainly be of interest to those who prefer smaller places to stay (as well as the historic) Queen Charlotte’s Orangery is a four-room guest house located on the same street as Jane Austen once lived. But its real claim-to-fame is that in 1817 it was home to George III’s wife, Charlotte.
Booking.com
Also see...
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If you prefer a holiday or break under your own steam, there are plenty of Historic Holiday Cottages throughout the country. And we keep our list to those said to have been built before 1700, too.
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If you’re seeking somewhere to stay with a bit of history to it, then we believe that Paradise House, Three Abbey Green, Bath Spa, Bath Priory, Apsley House and The Dukes are among the best hotels in Bath. That said, we’re always keen to learn of other period accommodation in the city so that we can make this section as comprehensive as possible. Indeed, if you disagree with the inclusions we’d also like to hear from you. In the meantime, we very much hope you enjoy the site and check back soon. Thank you.
Copyright. Nights In The Past 2007 - 2011