The Best Places to Book Your Stay in Bath

Popular with couples, this ivy- and wisteria-covered place to stay in Bath has the feel of a country house but is within walking distance of the city centre. Rooms are calming sanctuaries, while communal spaces are crammed with fine art. It’s worth splashing out on a romantic meal at the on-site garlanded restaurant overlooking the award-winning gardens. But if the sun’s out, afternoon tea on the terrace can feel just as fancy. Feeling extra indulgent? Treat yourself to a massage at the only L’Occitane spa in the UK.

The fast-growing Hotel Indigo chain by InterContinental is gaining a reputation as a good-value option for travellers the world over – and the Bath outpost is no exception. Rooms in this revamped Georgian mansion are adorned with Austen-inspired artwork and kaleidoscopic statement wallpapers, while the moody wood-panelled restaurant woos omnivores with a nose-to-tail menu. Good news for history lovers: the Roman Baths are a five-minute walk away.

Twenty-nine bedrooms sprawl across four huge honey-coloured townhouses to make up this quirky boutique hotel, where DAB radios and White Company toiletries come as standard in the oversized ensuites. A handful of top attractions – including the Royal Crescent, Bath Assembly Rooms and Museum of Bath Architecture – are just moments away. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a nine-course meal at the on-site Olive Tree Restaurant, home to the only Michelin star in town.

This boutique B&B overlooks wander-worthy Henrietta Park, on the quiet east side of the River Avon. Rooms are tasteful and welcoming, with warm, colourful textiles and home-made shortbread on the tea tray. Once you’ve worked up the courage to pull back the goose-down duvet and vacate your cosy Hypnos bed come morning, it’s time to head downstairs, where the friendly, attentive staff will offer you a buck’s fizz with breakfast (opt for the full English – you won’t be disappointed).

This four-star bed and breakfast is just a short trip from the centre of Bath and perfect for either casual business trips or romantic weekend getaways. The stylish yet minimal rooms feature ensuite bathrooms and kitchenettes; a continental breakfast is available either in the dining area or in the comfort of your room. If you’re looking for a unique experience, the Cedars has an Airstream caravan available to hire outside the main building, perfect for a private weekend.

This welcoming place to stay in Bath, found in a Grade II-listed Georgian villa, is all about local history. Featuring many local historical items, including the original altarpiece from nearby Bath Abbey – one of the most impressive buildings in the city – the guesthouse is a charming B&B with traditional rooms and a wonderful private garden. You can have breakfast in the authentic Georgian dining area.

If you want the definitive Bath experience, the Gainsborough, with its incredible heritage, five-star lodgings and direct access to mineral-rich thermal waters, is the place to stay. Named after local artist Sir Thomas Gainsborough, the hotel offers a luxurious visit. While built in the 1800s, it has all the trappings of a modern hotel, including heated bathroom floors, flat-screen HDTVs and Nespresso coffee machines as standard.

Within a collection of Georgian townhouses, the opulent Francis Hotel Bath is the perfect choice for those looking for an extravagant weekend in the city. Built by Jon Wood the Elder, this Grade I-listed building is worth visiting in its own right. As part of your stay, you can enjoy Egyptian cotton linen, White Company toiletries and beautiful views of the surrounding city. The hotel also has a variety of dining options, including a delightful afternoon tea offering.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, consider staying at the No15 by GuestHouse. Found in an authentic Georgian townhouse down a quiet residential street, it incorporates an artistic touch in the individually styled rooms. Making the most of Bath’s artistic heritage, the hotel also has an art collection. No15 is home to an award-winning restaurant and bar, too, as well as a fully functional day spa offering a variety of different massages and treatments.

Offering a fresh accommodation alternative in the city, SACO is a great option for those looking for a private weekend break or an extended stay. With artfully furnished rooms, fully stocked kitchens and ensuite bathrooms, these self-contained apartments are ideal for self-catering. They’re also close to the city centre and many attractions, allowing you to make the most of your time in the city.