Bath and Vicinity

Bath is notable as the home of Roman era artifacts and stunning Georgian architecture.  The maintenance and cleaning required to keep these buildings so beautiful is daunting, but well worth the effort and not inconsiderable expense.

Pulteney Bridge and Weir, Bath

There are also gardens and waterways to be enjoyed here.  A brochure at our hotel introduced us to the ‘hop-on, hop-off’ City Sightseeing bus, a very useful way to get around and learn about Bath.  We buy a 48 hour pass, and love the freedom of being able to explore on a whim.

Parade Gardens with Bath Abbey in the Background

An idyllic stroll along the Kennet and Avon Canal is a perfect antidote for jet lag.  We amend the suggested route from the Rick Steves Guidebook by catching a boat cruise upstream on the Avon River to Bathampton, then walk the canal towpath back to Bath.

Rowboats at the Bathampton dock on the River Avon
The George Inn, Bathampton
Strolling the Kennet and Avon Canal

Watching canal boats maneuver skillfully (or not) through the locks is a highlight for us, being long time boaters ourselves.

Canal Boats on the Kennet and Avon Canal

A visit to Bath is incomplete without an excursion to the Roman Baths for which the town is named.

The Roman Baths at Aquae Sulis

We are fortunate to happen by the Abbey in the evening during choir practice, and enjoy the music and ambience.

Bath Abbey

The Brooks Guesthouse provides a comfortable home base for several days.  The breakfast here completely banishes our fears regarding English cuisine.

Our Hotel in Bath

After a relaxing introduction to England, it is time to explore beyond the town of Bath.

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