As a city whose very streets are imbued with literary history, Bath has served as a setting for many a classic piece of literature. Home to the likes of literary heavy weights Jane Austen, Geoffrey Chaucer and Charles Dickens, Bath is always one of my first stops whenever I’m back on English soil. A dream destination for anyone with a penchant for honey-coloured Bath stone or all things bookish, the city’s well preserved streets and picturesque buildings give visitors a fleeting glimpse into the golden age of modern English literature.
Perhaps the city’s most famed and prestigious address is The Royal Crescent. A sweeping terrace of thirty honey-coloured houses, this iconic landmark is arranged around a perfect lawn overlooking the Royal Victoria Park, and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike who flock to the city’s most exclusive address to enjoy the panoramic views of Bath that this beautifully scenic stretch has to offer.
Nestled in the very heart of the city’s showpiece Georgian crescent is the Royal Crescent Spa & Hotel. And while the hotel may boast a regal address, its offering is unique in that it offers visitors a home away from home and an undeniably country house vibe, despite being just a short walk from the city’s cultural centre. An idyllic spot to stay for anyone wanting a stylish and indulgent getaway, it features an elegant library, stylish spa and the sort of five star service reminiscent of a bygone era that no longer exists.
After a warm welcome on a crisp November afternoon, we made our way to our stunning garden suite, which had a living area, sumptuous bed, sparkling bathroom, and an oversized balcony looking over the hotel’s manicured grounds. And while we had grand plans of spending our afternoon enjoying Bath’s festive lights and stylish boutiques, too tempted by the hotel’s offerings, we instead decided not to venture very far, and so after enjoying a cup of tea and some welcome chocolates on the balcony overlooking the landscaped lawns, we made our way to the Spa & Bath House.
With a twelve-meter heated relaxation pool, vitality pool with massage jets, sauna and steam room, we spent a decadent afternoon moving from pool, to sauna to steam room and back again before returning to our room, rested and relaxed, to get ready for an evening dinner at the hotel’s on site restaurant.
The food offerings alone at The Royal Crescent Hotel make it worth a visit; and the excellent service and intimate atmosphere of The Dower House Restaurant provides guests with an unrivalled hotel dining experience. We enjoyed a long and leisurely supper, opting for scallops, roasted sea bass and dark chocolate mousse accompanied by a delicious wine chosen by the French sommelier. Satisfied and satiated we returned to our room, before falling into a deep and dreamless sleep.
Breakfast the next morning was a delicious affair, and after a morning spent in bed reading the papers over piping hot cups of coffee, we made our way downstairs to enjoy freshly baked waffles with maple syrup and cinnamon sugar, as well as the impressive selection of freshly squeezed juices, Danish pastries, cheeses and breads. We followed with a spa treatment (I enjoyed a facial while my best friend Lexy was treated to a deep muscle melt massage), and an hour at the pool, before checking out and ambling around Bath, watching in glee as the Christmas markets were put up.
There are many aspects of our stay at The Royal Crescent and Spa that make it an unforgettable one; from the impeccable service to the fusion of elegance and tradition throughout the hotel, to the stunning grounds and the sumptuous rooms. The refined library and decorous books dotted throughout the hotel offer a well thought-out nod to the literary location of the hotel, and make it a dream destination for anyone wanting to combine their love of literature with unequivocal luxury.
Useful information about The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
Address
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, 16 Royal Crescent, Bath, BA1 2LS
Location
The Hotel is situated in the centre of one of Europe’s most splendid 18th Century architectural masterpieces – the Royal Crescent in Bath. Should you arrive by car, you will be greeted by a member of the Concierge team who will ensure valet parking during your stay.
The Hotel offers complimentary valet parking to our resident guests who book directly with the hotel, either on the phone or through the website. (A £30 Charge will be applied for guests booking through 3rd party websites)
A personalised Chauffeur Transfer Service with air-conditioned cars is available for transfers to the hotel, and for tours and visits to places of interest. The hotel’s concierge team will be happy to arrange this.
The hotel is a 10-minute walk from the city centre and Bath Spa railway station. The City of Bath is a hive of activity with unlimited shopping opportunities, wine bars and restaurants. Meanwhile, the Hotel provides the ideal base from which to explore nearby places of interest such as the Cotswolds, Wells, Stonehenge and Longleat House. See our 50 things to do in Bath & Beyond for more information.
Website
https://www.royalcrescent.co.uk
Price
Room prices start from approximately £251 a night.