Soaking It in in Bath

Bath, England Yes, there really is a natural hot spring beneath the city of Bath, but soaking in the above-ground sights and sounds will leave you plenty relaxed.

With its Georgian brick buildings and lush green hills, almost everywhere in Bath feels like a living postcard. With landmarks from Roman and medieval times, you may feel youve landed back in time, but the juxtaposition of stately terraced houses and people hustling about on smartphones brings you out of that fantasy.

Bath somehow weaves together threads of small-town life with cosmopolitan sophistication. It has galleries, museums and theaters. Its a college town anchored by the University of Bath. And it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Even on a mere day trip from London, just 90 minutes away by train, Bath bubbles over with charm.

Bath Abbey

A majestic landmark in the center of town, Bath Abbey is the third place of worship to occupy this site in 1,200 years. The first church, built in 757, was replaced by a cathedral soon after the Norman conquest of England in 1066. That one gave way in the 15th century to the abbey thats there today.

Walk inside and eye the vaulted ceiling and stunning stained glass windows showing 56 scenes from Christs life. A floor plaque marks Queen Elizabeth IIs 1973 visit. Tours of the church tower are available; its just 212 steps to the top.

Roman Baths

You might say the Romans were the first in Western Europe to come up with the spa weekend.

The Roman Baths date back to the year 70, with a sprawling pool of natural, hot spring water called the Great Bath located below street level. You can see the steam swirling from a terrace on the street above. People dressed in period clothing such as a Roman soldier or stone mason stand in the archways.

The complex includes several underground spaces and displays.

Read the rest here:
Soaking It in in Bath