Stay at home: Bath
Subterranean bars, thermal spas and a thousand Georgian panoramas — arguably the UK's most attractive city, Bath serves up a mean cocktail, too
Bath.
Why go
You don't have to spend long in Bath to understand why its centre was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Status. Around almost every corner you'll find a row of handsome Georgian façades, built from the local golden Bath stone.
What to do
The green hills visible from any point in the city are worth exploring. There are walks available from the Bath Tourist Information Centre — the Bath Skyline is ideal for newcomers to the city.
Where to eat
There may be a few flashier restaurants in town, but Ponte Vecchio is an atmospheric Italian option, with tasty dishes and pleasing terrace views of both the River Avon and Pulteney Bridge.
pontevecchiobath.com
Where to stay
Occupying a pair of Grade II-listed buildings, The Gainsborough Bath Spa offers classically attractive rooms with iPod docks, a fine-dining restaurant and the Roman-themed Spa Village.
We like
Bath does a good line in cosy cocktail bars. One of the best is Opium — in the Vaults under Grove Street — a snug cavern with a sprightly tipple list.
Published in the Jan/Feb 2017 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)
