What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a Cotswolds Holiday? Is it the rolling countryside, the pubs or the little villages just waiting to welcome you?
You probably think of all these things and many more besides. But there is a city nearby that is absolutely unmissable when you head out to the Cotswolds for a holiday – and that city is Bath.
Bath is a fairly compact town that is ideal for devoting a day or two to exploring. And since everything is pretty close together, you can get around quite happily on foot. It is situated on the southern edge of the Cotswolds, so it does make the ideal day trip to divide up all the time you will spend exploring the countryside!
As you would expect, there are several spots that you should definitely make sure you see while you are in the city. The first of these is the Royal Crescent. This was built over two hundred years ago, and features a sweeping curve of houses that are laid out in a semi circle. Apart from the road which runs around the front of the houses, there is a great expanse of lawn beyond that, which provides a wonderful spot to take some photos.
Of course the Roman Baths are perhaps the most famous and often visited location in the city. It is difficult not to walk around the baths without imagining how they must have been when the ancient Romans used them! Even though it isn’t possible to use the baths yourself, you can sit by the side of them and drink in the atmosphere.
There is also a range of statues and an impressive array of artefacts dating from the period when the Romans used the baths. It almost feels as if you are stepping back into history when you pay a visit here. Be sure to take your camera as you can get plenty of outstanding shots, especially of the main bath area.
Another activity you mustn’t miss out on is a river boat trip along the River Avon. These trips depart close to Pulteney Bridge, which is itself a superb subject for taking pictures of. Somewhat unusually, the bridge is actually a listed building, and quite rightly so as it is a stunning design when viewed from the south.
The weir is situated just in front of the south side of the bridge, and if you do take a boat trip you will start from here and go under the bridge itself. It’s a beautiful way to spend a lazy day on the river! And when you get to the other end you’ll see some great photo opportunities there as well.
As you can see, Bath really is a fantastic place to while away a day or two. And our Grosvenor Place apartment makes the perfect base for a short holiday if you want to stay a bit longer and explore the Cotswolds from a city base too.