There are some cities you visit… and others you experience. Bath in Somerset is firmly in the second category — one of England’s most elegant and walkable small cities, steeped in history, culture and Georgian charm.
I hadn’t been in decades, so on a recent road journey to London, we made it our stopover — and it was the perfect choice.
Getting to Bath
If you’re travelling from Ireland, Bath makes a superb gateway to southern England.
Sail with Stena Line from Rosslare to Fishguard (around 3 hours’ drive to Bath). Book early for fares from €200 with car.
Irish Ferries operate to Pembroke — a slightly longer sailing but convenient for the A40 route.
Combine your trip with stops at the Gower Peninsula, Margam Park, or Cardiff.
Flying?
Arrive via Bristol Airport, then take a 30-minute bus connection (approx. £11). Train links are also available from Fishguard via Swansea and Cardiff.
A City of Honey-Coloured Stone
Much of Bath’s stunning architecture dates from the 1700s and 1800s, when the city became a fashionable Georgian spa retreat. Its creamy sandstone terraces are instantly recognisable.
The iconic Royal Crescent remains one of Britain’s finest examples of Georgian architecture — a sweeping curve of aristocratic townhouses that feels like stepping into a period drama.
It brings to mind Georgian Dublin, when elegance and symmetry defined urban life.
The Roman Legacy
Bath’s story goes back much further than the Georgian era. The world-famous Roman Baths are among the best-preserved Roman sites in Europe. Built around the sacred spring of the goddess Sulis Minerva, they still flow today.
Book tickets in advance — weekends are especially popular with London visitors and overseas travellers.
Culture, Festivals & Fashion
Bath is small but culturally mighty. It has a vibrant year-round calendar of festivals and events:
Performances at the beautiful Theatre Royal Bath
Comedy and music at Komedia Bath
The annual Bath International Music Festival (May)
Folk Festival (August)
The renowned Christmas Market — one of Britain’s best
Literary fans can explore the Jane Austen Centre, celebrating the author who lived here and immortalised Georgian society.
Fashion also has deep roots in Bath. The dandy Beau Brummell once set trends here, and the city continues to celebrate style with fashion events and exhibitions.
Museums & Attractions
Beyond the Roman Baths and crescents, there’s plenty more:
American Museum & Gardens – fascinating exhibitions (from Wild West themes to Prohibition-era Americana reminiscent of Boardwalk Empire)
Fashion Museum
Georgian gardens and walking trails
Bath Spa and visitor centre
Excellent independent shopping near the Abbey and Roman Baths
Sports lovers will know Bath Rugby, who play at “The Rec,” while horse racing fans can visit Bath Racecourse on the edge of town.
Food & Atmosphere
Bath has a relaxed but refined food scene — from cosy pubs to contemporary dining spaces and art cafés. It feels lively yet intimate, with a friendly West Country charm.
The city thrives on tourism and education (with three universities), while many professionals commute to London — just 90 minutes away by fast train.
Where We Stayed
We stayed at the Bay Tree House, a comfortable and central guest house with parking — a real bonus in Bath, where parking can be expensive and scarce.
Rooms ranged from £75–£100 per night for two. Louise was a welcoming host, and despite our late booking (the city was nearly full), we were well looked after.
Walking Bath
Bring comfortable shoes — Bath is hilly, but wonderfully compact. Wandering its streets reveals hidden courtyards, artisan shops, bookshops and inviting cafés.
The pale stone glows beautifully in the late afternoon sun — a photographer’s dream.
A Perfect Stopover
Whether you’re en route to London, planning a long weekend, or combining Wales and England in one road trip, Bath offers history, architecture, culture and relaxation in one elegant package.
If travelling by ferry with a car, remember:
Duty-free wine can be purchased on return
Petrol is generally cheaper in Ireland, so fill up before sailing
Sterling exchange rates currently favour euro travellers
Bath is not just a stop on the map — it’s a step back into refined England, where Roman waters still flow and Georgian crescents curve with timeless grace.
A truly beautiful city.
