Bath's easy urban delights
Another of my favorite cappers for a day in Bath is heading to a pub to have scrumpy -- "hard hard cider." It's notoriously strong: When I last ordered it, everyone stopped what they were doing just to see what would happen.
From its evening indulgences to its elegant architecture, Bath combines beauty and hospitality better than most. It's a place drenched in history, but made for relaxation.
IF YOU VISIT...
SLEEPING: Brooks Guesthouse is an affordable B&B near the Royal Crescent with 22 modern rooms (moderate, www.brooksguesthouse.com). The Roseate Villa, a short walk from the city center, offers 21 rooms in a Victorian mansion surrounded by a park and extensive lawn (splurge, http://roseatehotels.com/bath/theroseatevilla).
EATING: Clayton's Kitchen, run by Michelin-star chef Rob Clayton, has a romantic atmosphere and offers upscale British cuisine that is artfully prepared and presented (15 George Street, www.claytonskitchen.com). The Scallop Shell serves lavish fish dishes as well as Bath's best fish-and-chips (27 Monmouth Place, www.thescallopshell.co.uk).
GETTING AROUND: You won't need a car in this pedestrian-friendly city; buses and taxis are readily available.
TOURIST INFORMATION: www.visitbath.co.uk.
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(Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio. Email him at rick@ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.)
(c)2018 RICK STEVES DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
