subject: Exploring Bath - A World Class City [print this page] Designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, it is in Bath you can look forward to seeing some of the most exquisite architectural sights. Architectural wonders include the Circus - the masterpiece of John Wood the Elder; the Royal Crescent - one of the world's best known landmarks; and Pulteney Bridge - one of the most beautiful bridges in the world.
There's a wide range of other tourist attractions too, of course. There's the world famous Roman Baths - a magnificent temple and bathing complex built by the Romans; Jane Austen Centre - a must for Jane Austen fans; and Thermae Bath Spa - Britain's original and only natural thermal Spa.
And, when it comes to doing a spot of shopping, Bath's city centre is where you'll find a whole host of shops. Bath is home to a varied range of fascinating museums too.
Our pick of the top 5 attractions:
1) Famous throughout the world, the Roman Baths has rightfully earned a placed at the top of our five must see attractions. Situated in the centre of the Bath, the Roman Baths are a significant place of historical interest. Built around Britain's only hot spring, the Romans created the magnificent temple and bathing complex - and it still flows with natural hot water today.
2) An example of Georgian architecture in the city of Bath, the Circus - originally called King's Circus - is the masterpiece of John Wood the Elder. When viewed from the air, the Circus forms the shape of a key, which many believe to be a Masonic symbol. The work of a creative genius, the Circus is one of the main reasons Bath was awarded the title of World Heritage Site by UNESCO - making it very worthy of being in our top 5.
3) Compact and easily walkable, Bath's City Centre is key place to visit during your visit here. In fact, Milsom Street in Bath was voted 'Britain's Best Fashion Street' in 2010 by the Google Street View Awards. You'll discover a wonderful selection of quirky shops and stylish boutiques as well as the usual big name stores.
4) Jane Austen Centre is a tourist hotspot. You can explore how living in this magnificent city affected Jane Austen's life and her writing - it makes for a really interesting visit. Situated in Gay Street where Jane Austen used to live, you can look forward to live guides, a gift shop and a genuine period atmosphere here.
5) Holburne Art Museum is one of Bath's great buildings. A must for art lovers - the most beautiful and fascinating art collection can be found here. The museum can be found in Sydney Pleasure Gardens, Sydney Place - in the Bathwick area of Bath. Crossing the River Avon, the Pulteney Bridge was completed in 1773 and is a grade 1 listed building. It is one of only four bridges in the world which has shops stretching across both sides - shops include a gift shop, flower shop and more.
Leisure activities in Bath
Bath attracts avid golfers as the city is home to a selection of golf courses including Bath Golf Club, Bath Approach Golf Course and Lansdown Golf Club. You can go horse riding at Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa's Equestrian Centre - which is just minutes away from Bath; enjoy walking or cycling around the city; or simply relax and unwind at one of Bath's stunning spas.
