Roman city of Bath
Sandip Hor visits the thermal springs
in Jane Austen’s city of residence
Located 185 kilometres from London, Bath in southwest England was founded in the 1st century AD by the Romans who were attracted to the continuous gush of hot mineral water 
with exceptional healing properties. Later in the 17th century, it became a favourite place for members of the British royal family and London’s high society, who were keen on bodily wellbeing and rejuvenation.
Besides being a thriving 21st century city, Bath is now a living museum where every footstep unearths captivating Roman antiques, astonishing honey-coloured Georgian architecture, cultural attractions and spectacular landscapes. All of which inspired UNESCO to declare it a World Heritage Site.
ROMAN RUINS The Romans occupied Bath for around 350 years and the bathhouse complex they built is the city’s main draw for visitors. Steaming spring water still fills the bathing pools though getting into the water isn’t permitted.
Visitors can walk on the original stone pavements around the baths like the Romans did centuries ago; touch the ruins of a temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva; and visit the on-site museum, which showcases artefacts recovered from the Roman settlement Aquae Sulis that grew around the natural springs.
ARCHITECTURE Bath is considered to be among the best venues in England for visitors to sample well-preserved 18th century Georgian architecture. Amongst noteworthy buildings are the Royal Crescent and Circus – both of which are sweeping curves of town houses – the Queensbury Hotel and Pulteney Bridge across the River Avon.
BATH ABBEY Since its establishment in the 8th century, this impressive site of Christian worship has been through many transformations until it was restored to its present majestic form in the 16th century. It’s a landmark in Bath and tours offer a spectacular view of the city from the top of the towers.
“Visitors can walk on the original stone pavements around the baths like the Romans did centuries ago”
JANE AUSTEN A major attraction in Bath is the Jane Austen Centre where visitors flock to peruse the memoirs of eminent English novelist Jane Austen, author of many illustrious novels such as Pride and Prejudice, and Emma. She was Bath’s most distinguished resident for five years in the early 19th century.
BOAT TOURS Another popular way of seeing Bath is by taking a cruise along the navigable River Avon.
BEYOND BATH Located nearby is the maritime settlement of Bristol. A visit to this city offers a chance to see street art by Banksy, Bristol Cathedral and the former steamer SS Great Britain (now a museum ship). Visitors can also enjoy the stunning scenery of Avon Gorge