10 reasons to visit Bath in 2012
Bath resident John Cleese says he now prefers Bath to London, former Bath resident and film star Nicolas Cage recently commented that he “loved Bath” and described it as “the most beautiful city in the world”. With lots to discover and new things to experience in 2012, here are 10 good reasons to visit Bath and discover why everyone falls in love with this beautiful World Heritage city.
1. The Edgar Townhouse
Stay at the magnificent Edgar Townhouse Designated as a Grade I listed building and in a UNESCO World Heritage Site The Edgar is on Great Pulteney Street which is a Grand boulevard that joins Pulteney Bridge to Bathwick at the eastern side of Bath, England. At over 1,000 feet (300 m) long and 100 feet (30 m) wide, the road itself is the widest and grandest in Bath. Commissioned by Sir William Pulteney, it was designed by the architect Thomas Baldwin and completed in 1789. Close to all the major shops attractions and restaurants .
2. Enjoy the original spa experience
If it’s a spa break you’re after, look no further. Bath is the original spa resort, famed for its natural hot springs – the only ones in the UK which can be enjoyed in Britain’s only thermal spa, Thermae Bath Spa.
3. Shop ‘till you drop with even more new shops to discover in 2012
Shopping in Bath has been undergoing a major transformation. Southgate, a shopping area once dominated by 1970s buildings, has been completely redeveloped and features a total of 56 shops, all constructed in a style befitting Bath’s beautiful Georgian architecture. In addition Bath continues to retain its appeal for boutique and independent shops with quirky and fashionable stores you won’t find anywhere else.
4. On the art trail in Bath
Bath has an amazing collection of galleries; some 16 can be found in the city and reputedly 200 artists work in or near Bath. Whether a serious collector or just an enthusiastic amateur, art lovers will love Bath. Artist Nick Cudworth opened his gallery in Bath 10 years ago to exhibit his original oil paintings, pastel drawings and limited edition prints. Visit his gallery on London Street and pick up a landscape print of Bath. Beaux Arts on York Street near the Abbey is the longest established gallery in the city and holds exhibitions throughout the year to showcase developing talent. At Mauger Modern Art you’ll find a commercial gallery with work from well known artists such as Andy Warhol and Peter Blake. The largest gallery in the city, Victoria Art Gallery, holds art from the 15th Century to today as well as a fascinating and changing annual programme of exhibitions.
5. The Roman Bath's
The Roman Bath's
6. Celebrate 200 years with the Kennet & AvonCanal
The Kennet and Avon Canal runs through the centre of Bath and is a beautiful place to enjoy a walk or a cycle ride leading to the stunning countryside nearby. The canal opened in 1810 and a number of events will be held to celebrate its 200 years of operation. On 13th June organisers will hold a street party in Widcombe, a vibrant high street just minutes from Bath’s city centre.
7. New food Festival
A brand new food and drink festival will be coming to Bath on 3rd and 4th July this year with a line up of the best food and beverage producers in the country. Over 130 local and regional exhibitors will be showing a vast array of products and leading local chefs will be showcasing delicious produce which will be complemented by a Wine Theatre and a good choice of real ales and ciders. Taste buds are sure to be tantalised at this two day event which takes place in Royal Victoria Park.
8. The Jane Austen Connection
The annual Jane Austen Festival celebrates Bath’s most famous resident and everything Regency with special theatre productions, concerts, walking tours, talks and dancing, plus the opportunity to dress throughout the week, if you wish, in 18th Century costume! The event takes place in September and will celebrate its 10th year in 2010.
9. 10th year of Bath Christmas Market
The Bath Christmas Market was voted as the 4th best in Europe in a recent poll. The unique charm of its traditional wooden chalets situated next to the imposing Bath Abbey and historical Roman Baths provides a very special setting. This year, the market will be extended to run for 18 days so there’ll be even more time to find those perfect presents. Provisional dates for the 10th Bath Christmas Market are 25th November – 12th December.
10. Explore the area easily
Bath is set in a wonderful location with Wiltshire to the east of the city, Somerset to the south and the beautiful Cotswolds to the north. These areas not only offer some of the most stunning scenery in the country, but are also home to some top attractions and places to visit such as the famous Longleat, Wells and Bristol.
