Bath - Architecture, Beauty and History

by Stanley Headley

A vibrant city in Somerset, south west England, Bath is an idyllic place, steeped in history. A visit to the City is always recommended if staying anywhere in the Somerset county and it's not difficult to see why.

Famous for its natural hot springs, they were taken advantage of in the Roman period, when baths were built over these springs, providing naturally created hot water and bathing areas, often used for social meetings. Becoming increasing popular once again throughout the Georgian era, people visited from distances as the City grew in popularity as a famous spa resort.

For those interested in architecture, Bath is a must visit destination. The Georgian architecture is still visible today, with many companies revolving their businesses in and around the beautiful buildings. For example, a large percentage of the 80 Bath hotels and bed and breakfasts are housed within Georgian buildings, making for an extremely unusual and individual place to lay your head at night. Furthermore, whilst the Georgian period is extremely prominent in the City of Bath, all major periods throughout the past 1700 years can be seen in the City. From the original Roman baths built in the early hundred years AD to the most recent Thermae Bath Spa, built after the last millennium, architecture of the years is in abundance here, and appears beautiful together.

A World Heritage Site for over twenty years, one of Bath's main attractions is its awe inspiring Abbey. Known originally as The Abbey Church of Saint Peter, Bath, Bath Abbey is one of the most prominent examples of Gothic architecture available in the modern western world. With space for up 1,200 people, the Abbey holds a regular congregation for its frequent members, with it still being a popular place of worship to this day. A Grade 1 listed building; Bath Abbey has been restored several times, each time not detracting from its original Gothic beauty.

After visiting all of Bath's many sites, a well deserved break is needed - and you don't have to travel far to find some great food and a refreshing drink. With around 100 restaurants that provide cuisines from all around the world, there are reputed to be the same number of bars, pubs and wine bars, making you never more than a few steps from some good food and great drink.

Whilst Bath is soaked in history, many of its visitors come for the cultural side of the City. Since the 18th Century, Bath has been a major player in England's cultural scene. Housing five separate theatres, they attract world famous companies and play-writes that come throughout the year, but more prominently at Bath's annual theatre season. With its own historic musical past, Bath caters to all genres of music, from regular Klais Organ concerts at Bath Abbey to the ever popular Bath International Music Festival; an annual event frequented my many.

Bath is a City many consider a historic venue only - which is far from the truth. Its historic values are large, but its arts, music, food and shopping areas are becoming more and more popular year in and year out - making Bath a place to visit whatever your interest.