Spa Towns in Britain: none beat Bath for history

Although it became fashionable for Britain’s landed gentry to visit the UK’s most popular spa towns during the 16th century onwards, it was the Romans that first promoted health tourism in the country almost 2,000 years ago after discovering the Celts enjoying the spa waters of Bath.

Although Harrogate and Cheltenham are also renowned for their waters, the most famous of Britain’s spa towns is undoubtedly Bath, whose Roman baths are designated a World Heritage site along with the rest of the city. The unique selling point that sets Bath apart from other British spa towns is that it boasts the only natural hot water spring in the country. For Romans far from the warmth of their native Mediterranean this was a major attraction and a welcome reminder of home.

It was almost 2,000 years ago the Romans decided that the hot water spring of Bath was the work of the gods and in tribute built a temple to the goddess of healing, Sulis Minerva. That temple and the alleged healing powers of the waters attracted wealthy citizens from all corners of the Roman Empire for almost 300 years as Bath became one of the original UK tourist attractions. Only when Christianity became the primary religion of the Empire in the 4th century did the temple at Aquae Sulis fall into disrepair.

Centuries later and Britain re-discovered the powers of Aquae Sulis during the 1500s, where the city again rose to prominence as a Spa tourist destination. However, the city has recently opened a luxurious 21st century version, the Thermae Bath Spa. With its unique roof-top open-air pool, here you can discover all the magic that has attracted health tourists over the centuries to the healing spa waters of Bath.

Although accommodation in Bath can be expensive and tends to attract many foreign tourists, less than 20 miles down the M5 Bristol hotels offer another alternative and choice for somewhere to stay. What’s more, in only 30 minutes drive or a pleasant 20 minute train ride away, a stay in Bristol would also put you much closer to other marvellous 21st century attractions such as the brand new shopping mall of Cabot Circus and its more established sister mall at Cribbs Causeway. In addition, there is the stunning architectural attraction of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, sitting high above the Avon; one of Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s finest pieces of engineering.

And then there’s the nightlife. Bath may have the spa and all its Regency charm — great reasons to visit during the day — but Bristol has a buzzing nightlife that’s the envy of the South West; a vibrant location where you should perhaps base yourself if you like it a little excitement in the evenings.

Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.