Famed for its Roman baths and stunning Georgian architecture, Bath is one of few cities worldwide to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety. Surrounded by the rolling green countryside of south-west England, Bath is an idyllic location in itself. But it is the history of the city that makes a visit so worthwhile. After their arrival in England around AD 43, the Romans built sophisticated baths and a temple around the natural hot springs which had already made Bath a famous and revered destination. Arguably, it was not until the Eighteenth Century and the neoclassical architecture of the Georgian era that Bath would truly come into its own and take on the character that continues to attract visitors today.
Our journey begins in the centre of Bath, with the city's most impressive example of Perpendicular Gothic architecture — Bath Abbey. Founded in the Seventh Century as a Benedictine monastery, the Abbey has been reconstituted and rebuilt several times across the centuries. So, what we visit today is a bit of a patchwork of architectural add-ons. The last major phase of the medieval construction ended around 1535, but we owe a lot to Sir George Gilbert Scott whose restoration work during the Victorian era saved the building from the decay and neglect that had befallen it. Visitor tickets can be purchased on arrival. If you have time, be sure to follow the story of Jesus Christ told across 56 scenes on the Great East Window. Find out about other things to see and do...
The world-famous Roman Baths are one of the most significant Roman sites in all of England and the United Kingdom. Prior to the Roman invasion, the Celts worshipped at these thermal springs, dedicating them to the goddess Sulis. For 300 years following their arrival, the Romans brought their impressive engineering and architectural skills to bear, producing the structures whose remains still draw visitors today. These structures were lost over the centuries, only to be rediscovered in the 18th and 19th Centuries. Today, the Roman Baths function as a museum offering visitors a glimpse into Roman daily life. You can book tickets in advance here.
Designed by Robert Adam and completed in 1774, Pulteney Bridge was built to connect the city of Bath with the land on the other side of the River Avon, then owned by the Pulteney family. The bridge is renowned for its unique design, being one of the very few bridges in the world to be lined with shops and restaurants on either side of the thoroughfare. The bridge's architecture celebrates the Classical style, with pediments, pilasters and small leaded domes at either end. If you're ready for quick pit stop, pause for tea and scones in one of the coffee shops on the bridge. Looking for the perfect selfie? The best viewing spots are Pulteney Weir and Parade Gardens.
Head along Argyle Street as far as the Laura Place Fountain and admire the Georgian architecture that Bath is famous for as you turn left onto Henrietta Street. Just past the row of buildings on your right, you will find an entrance into Henrietta Park, a calm and open parkland in the English style. Inside, you will find a Garden of Remembrance — the perfect place for some quiet and restful contemplation before our journey continues. Emerge from the park where "Henrietta Gardens" meets "Henrietta Mews". Then follow Suton Street to find Sydney Gardens just beyond The Holburne Museum (a worthy stop-off for the art lovers). Spend some time exploring the Gardens and its famous canal.
Return to Bath centre following Great Pulteney Street, admiring the architecture as you go. Bath is famous for the oolitic limestone masonry that gives its buildings their unique and recognisable character. If you can ignore the modern-day vehicles, you may feel yourself transforming momentarily into a Jane Austen character as you promenade past the impressive stonework. As you cross Pulteney Bridge once again, you will arrive in Bath centre where you will find countless restaurants, pubs and tearooms to suit every taste and appetite.
You have seen it in all the period dramas from Persuasion to The Dutchess and, most recently, Bridgerton. The Royal Crescent and its famous row of 30 grade-one listed houses, known as The Circus, make up one of the most iconic and distinctive residential streets in all of the UK. It's hard to imagine a more impressive row of terraced houses. To the filmmakers, it's a godsend. Number 1 Royal Crescent has even been restored inside as a Georgian townhouse museum. Book your visit here.
A visit to a city like Bath would not be complete without a bit of English literature. A short walk from The Royal Crescent, you will find the Jane Austen Centre where visitors can learn about the author's life in Bath and how the city influenced her writing. Her novels 'Northanger Abbey' and 'Persuasion' are both set in the city. Your guide through the museum will be dressed in Regency costume, and you will have opportunity to write with a quill and taste Regency food. Book tickets here...
Bring your swimming costume and finish your day trip in the most relaxing way possible: a two-hour visit to Thermae Bath Spa. Watch the sunset from the rooftop pool, filled with the naturally warm spring waters that first drew the Celts and the Romans to this iconic Westcountry location. With today's 21st-century facilities, these mineral-rich waters are enhanced by air seats and bubbling jets. If time allows, you could even book a massage or a facial. And relax...
Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.
Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.
Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.
Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.
Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.
Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable tour.
Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.
An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.
Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.
Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.
Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.
Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.
Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.
The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.
Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.
About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.
Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.
Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.
Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.
Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.
Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.
Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.
The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.
Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.
Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.
Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.
Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.
Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable tour.
An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.
Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.
Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.
Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.
Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.
As a local Irish company, we at My Ireland Tour are passionate about our country and our local community. We're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the place we call home. That's why we put together this definitive travel guide for anyone who wants to come to Ireland and discover this amazing place for themselves.
This is a completely free resource covering everything from top tourist attractions to the nearest yoga centre. We hope it helps!
