As many have been to the bustling city of London, it isn’t uncommon for travelers to extend their journeys to other parts of England such as Manchester, Oxford or Bath. Approximately 3 hours away by bus from London’s Victoria Coach station, Bath’s Georgian architecture, which is heavily inspired from the Romans, is fairly unique to the ubiquitous Art-Deco style in London.
Touristy Things
Like many travellers, my first trip to Bath was planned off the typical things to do found from the internet. Roman Baths, Pulteney Bridge etc… here’s a good-enough remark on what should be done, and what can be avoided.
Roman Baths
To be honest, I had no interests whatsoever in how the Romans used to believe in healing baths, especially since the waters do not seem to be remotely safe. However, the overall experience turned out to be rewarding. From the get-go, we were able to see first-hand the bathing complex as well as the buildings surrounding it. Then, a comprehensive tour of explanations with artefacts and structures which were preserved from the historical times. Ending the tour is a beautiful view of the outdoor pool and well if you are lucky like us, you may witness someone falling in. #epicfail
The museum also offers their spa water for free consumption. It tasted very alkaline, probably due to the high amount of minerals that it contains. I wouldn’t say that it’s bad but the more you think about it, the more you might gross yourself out. Totally up to your discretion to drink it or not.
Bath Buns/Sally Lunn Buns
Another specialty of Bath is their buns, which you then would be recommended to try the Sally Lunn bun at its eponymous historic house. Surprisingly, Bath buns are not quite similar to Sally Lunn buns, though they were probably created at the same time – no one really could verify the facts.
Nonetheless, the Sally Lunn buns were not as special or delicious as a local delicacy, especially since the buns were created from where it originated. If there is a need to queue, I would recommend you to avoid it instead.
Street Food and Bazaar
Something which I did not really read about in Bath is their street bazaar selling fresh produce and street food. I guess when you have little to no expectations, these experiences will turn out better as surprises. Fresh blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, French crepes and meat steaks, I would recommend trying them to avoid paying higher restaurant costs in Bath.
Pulteney Bridge
While the street itself wasn’t as interesting, the exterior view of Pulteney bridge with the river stream underneath was definitely a dramatic and beautiful view. The architecture reminded me of Ponte Vecchio of Florence, but there are more to see and buy on Ponte Vecchio I felt. There are a few cafes along Pulteney bridge which can allow you to see better the gorgeous river and the greenery behind it. I do ‘stan’ this.
Outdoor Picnic
A picnic in Bath was very spontaneous, but it turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip. After ordering a typical Bath fish & chips in the corner of the Orange Grove street, we sat down – with the other locals – in the city centre not too far away from the Bath Abbey and the Pulteney bridge. Bath is far less crowded than Oxford or London, which makes for a tranquil and relaxing time.
supersponts 