An Area Guide to Bath
As UNESCO heritage sites go Bath is a living breathing marvel that you can actually live in. The Romans bequeathed the Baths and the Temple of Minerva, and the Georgians continued the project with elegant outstanding golden buildings. Jane Austen documented the high life of Bath elites at the Assembly Rooms, The Pump Room, and strolling in The Sydney Gardens in some of her novels. With architectural treasures like the Pulteney Bridge, which was built in the 18th Century, and the Royal Crescent, there is more than the stately Bath Abbey to delight in. If you are considering becoming a full-time Bathonian, or flirting with the idea, let us unfold the map for you.
Visiting Bath
Bath stands alone as a destination in the UK landscape. Holding court in the Somerset countryside, Bath commands international interest with 1.3 million visitors a year. With two universities it also is a place of higher learning for many and a serene stomping ground for students. With so much culture and history, Bath is a destination for international travellers and many Britons who are looking for a weekend break. There are many online in-depth guides for visitors new to the city. Visit Bath is the official site for the city and documents what is going on all year round, including special offers for visitors in the spas, restuarants and boutique hotels. This comprehensive site can give you a great window into the city and help you plan your trip from afar.
House Prices in Bath
Primary industries in Bath are tourism, software, and publishing, but with good commuter routes to both London and Bristol, Bath is a commuter option for many. In recent years there has been a steady influx of Londoners seeking the culture and nature of the largest city in Somerset. As a result, house prices have steadily been increasing in the last 10 years. Property prices in this illustrious city are higher than the UK national average but are likely to retain their value in this location. The average house value in Bath is £506,669, but prices tend to come in a bit higher due to demand. If you are after an apartment, set aside something in the region of £368,558. For a detached home, £784,985, and for a terraced house around £488,122. Period homes in beautiful Bath stone are the typical Georgian townhouses Bath is famous for. Further out of the centre are Victorian terraces and family homes. With new developments alongside the riverside pending, there will be more housing opportunities opening up in Bath.
Cost of Living in Bath
The cost of living in Bath is 16.57% lower than in London. Here is a thorough breakdown from rental costs to universal food products, to give you an idea of comparison. Plus, Bath is known for its independent stores, farmers’ markets, and local community markets. So, it is easy to support local businesses and traders and to shop within Bath. Everything is within walking distance in Bath and so transport costs within the city are also less of an issue. As you would expect from such a tourist destination, there are plenty of excellent restaurants and eateries as well as boutique businesses and shops to add variety to some of the high street heavyweights that also are present.
5 Great Restuarants in Bath
There are so many restuarants to choose from in Bath, but here are five to fix onto your radar.
You can’t go wrong with pizza, but live jazz and a happy hour take this place to the next level. With an innovative pizza menu focused on fresh local food there is something for everyone. Cosy heated terraces in their al fresco dining area make for a great open place to eat. Two for £12 cocktails guarantee a lively atmosphere in this easy meet up space.
Bath’s Michelin star chef Robert Clayton can be found at Clayton’s kitchen where atmosphere and cuisine excel within stylish interiors. Mediterranean and modern French cuisine comprise the menu with an appropriately on-point wine list.
Renowned for its Michelin star, The Olive Tree established its roots in Bath many years ago and is a firm local favourite. Classic flavours meet modern techniques in this stylish restaurant. Expect to be impressed.
While not strictly a restaurant, this coffee laboratory is worth having on your map. If coffee is your thing, then this is the place for the real connoisseurs. With a trendy café vibe and a range of coffee beans to try, this must be part of your Bath City Map for when your spirits need reviving.
5- Sotto Sotto
Awarded the best Italian restaurant in Bath in 2012, Sotto Sotto is situated near the original Roman Baths. Drawing on the Roman roots of the city this vaulted venue is steeped in historical atmosphere. Focusing on fine-quality ingredients, local produce and traditional Italian food, simplicity is the key to their fine cuisine.
Culture in Bath
Every year Bath has its own annual Film Festival. FilmBath has been going for 32 years and is a destination for serious film buffs. Five different venues in the city host a varied programme of films, awards, talks and leading-edge culture. Theatre Royal Bath is not the only venue for top class theatre in Bath. Live music and comedy also take place within the historic city. With year-round programs and cultural festivals Bath has something for everybody. National Trust properties and gardens surround Bath and open their doors for visitors who want to wander through time and immerse themselves in natural splendour.
Bath’s Transport Links
Bath is well connected despite being enshrined in beautiful rolling countryside.
By Train –
Bath Spa has a direct line to Paddington London which takes about 90 minutes. Direct trains to Bristol are about 15 minutes and continue onto Cardiff.
By Bus –
Regular local services serve Bath and head to Bristol and beyond.
By Car –
Located on the M4/M5 corridor it is easy to head directly to London, Oxford, Bristol, and further south- west to Devon and Cornwall. For more local information about public transport in Bath check out Visit Bath’s dedicated page.
Thomas Firbank – Bath’s most trusted removals company
As proud Barthonian’s at Thomas Firbank we know why so many people fall in love with Bath. We have helped many people make their Bath dreams come true as they move to this unique city. Whether you are moving around Bath, or from overseas we can assist you in the process with our years of experience. With a variety of removals and storage packages, we can offer you a bespoke service tailored to your needs. Our international removals team can help you understand and prepare for the process whether you are coming or going. Similarly, if you are in Bath and need a swift delivery service or help with a small move, our Man and Van team can adapt to your circumstances. Contact us for a free quote or to discuss your plans to move to Bath today.
