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A unique and historic city Bath is the only entire city in the UK to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors are seduced by the city’s iconic architecture and distinctive, naturally heated, hot springs. But Bath is not just about sumptuous spas and aweinspiring architecture. With its vibrant atmosphere and multitude of activities on offer, you can come for an action-packed week of cycle touring, walking and country pursuits, or a weekend of culture, entertainment and relaxation. Tours and trips in and around Bath can be tailored to your group’s interests. The packed programme of festivals and events will satisfy shoppers, outdoor adventurers, music-lovers
and even Austen fans; from Bath in Fashion to the Great Bath Feast, there is always something special happening. The pinnacle of Bath’s events calendar is the Christmas Market. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Abbey you will find an array of wooden chalets bursting with colourful decorations and unique handmade gifts. Why not hire a boat and enjoy a cruise along the canal? Follow in the footsteps of the Romans or uncover Georgian streets, houses and hidden
passageways. A stroll through the city is a fascinating journey spanning thousands of years of history. Bath’s compactness is complimented by both its location, just 115 miles from London and 15 miles from Bristol Airport, and the proximity of the central coach park and railway station, making it a fantastically convenient city to get to and to get around. The city is characterised by a strong independent vibe, where family run B&Bs sit alongside unique restaurants and boutique retailers. Unique Bath has been welcoming visitors for over 2000 years, and has earned itself an exceptional reputation for culture, hospitality and fun – come and be wowed.
Generations of Style Once graced by toga-clad Romans and refined Georgians, Bath has been synonymous with style and entertainment for centuries. Experience the city today as it was enjoyed by these fashionable residents. Visit No. 1 Royal Crescent for a vivid picture of 18th century life - from its sophisticated aristocracy to the servants below ground. This restored family home abounds with authentic Georgian furniture, paintings and textiles. Make a Georgian bonnet, fan or dress up in gowns and find out where to place your beauty spot! Take afternoon tea at one of Bath’s most elegant restaurants where Bath’s high society often promenaded. Savour a selection of dainty sandwiches, scones and pastries while admiring The Pump Room. Be sure to explore the world famous Roman Baths and walk where Romans once trod on ancient stone pavements beside the Great Bath.
New Airport coach service: Bath to Bristol Airport in just over an hour
Finally, head to one of the UK’s oldest theatres, the Theatre Royal, for top-quality performances from West End productions to opera and dance. Komedia offers a contemporary alternative with live music and stand-up comedians.
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Fun in the Fresh Air Suggested Group Itineraries • Fun in the Fresh Air • Generations of Style • Horticultural Heaven • Artisan Indulgence • To Eat, Drink, Enjoy • Scenic Country Adventures
What better way to see Bath than from above? Take the challenge of the Abbey Tower tour, climbing the 212 steps to gain incredible citywide views. Or treat your group to an exclusive hot air balloon ride and enjoy 360° vistas across the stunning southern Cotswold hills. Go wild at Longleat Safari Park, where you can feed giraffes by hand, or journey into the jungle for some monkey mayhem! Look up for “Hunters of the Sky”, a spectacular display of flying sequences by some of the world’s top predators run by the Hawk Conservancy Trust. For a more active day, indulge your inner Robin Hood with a bow and arrow at the nearby Team Pursuits centre in Lacock, or race your friends on a Giant Scalextric set.
WIN A GROUP EXPERIENCE Book accommodation for your group through us and be entered into two prize draws: • Win evening passes to the Roman Baths by torchlight (July/Aug) • Win free coach parking for the Christmas Market plus 20% off all stalls (Nov/Dec) 0844 847 5256 (quote Destination UK) visitbath.co.uk/groupcomp Front cover photo: ©VisitBritain / Ingrid Rasmussen
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Artisan Indulgence Be inspired with a trip to the artisan quarter: explore a treasure trove of independent shops overflowing with collectibles and antiques, or pick up a bargain at the Sunday flea market. The Bath Vintage & Antiques Market (first and last Sunday of the month) has over 60 handpicked stalls selling a variety of furniture, retro fashion, books and much more. Organise a group workshop at Bath’s very own craft centre, The Makery, where you can practice sewing skills, learn to knit and take home your own handmade garments. Standing proud at the end of Great Pulteney Street is the stunning Holburne Museum, housing some of the finest examples of Gainsborough and the Renaissance. The Victoria Art Gallery offers an unusual collection of fine art and exhibitions in the centre of Bath. Stroll up to the Fashion Museum, where you will find a beautiful collection of historical and contemporary costumes. You can even try on a corset! In April we celebrate the city’s fashion heritage and colourful contemporary retailers with Bath in Fashion – a festival of catwalk shows, talks, exhibitions and vintage fashion fairs.
Top 5 things to do in Bath 1. Behold - the Royal Crescent, Circus and Pulteney Bridge 2. Explore - extensive ruins and treasures at the Roman Baths 3. Experience - a sunset from the rooftop pool at Thermae Bath Spa 4. Conquer - 212 steps to the top of Bath Abbey on a tower tour 5. Indulge - take afternoon tea in the splendid Pump Room Stop at the Visitor Information Centre for maps, ideas and unbeatable local knowledge.
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Eat, Drink, Enjoy There is an array of great cafés, pubs, bars and restaurants just waiting to tantalise your taste buds. Brush up your culinary skills at one of Bath’s many cookery schools. Learn from expert kneaders with a bread making course at the Bertinet Kitchen or find out how to prepare a delicious meat-free meal at Demuths Vegetarian Cookery School.
Great Bath Feast (October)
Bath goes all foodie with a month of tastings, chef demonstrations, cookery classes, farmers’ markets and much more.
Get a taste of Bath beer with a brewery tour. At Bath Ales you will discover more about the key ingredients and traditional brewing techniques used for their ales and ciders. The guided tour finishes with a generous tasting session. Enjoy the colourful and tempting display of quality, fresh, seasonal
produce at Bath Farmers’ Market. The goods are sold directly by the people who produce them and come from a 40 mile radius of Bath. Take to the waters on your very own narrow boat. Cruise along the canal at your own pace and stop off en route for a picnic made from local cheeses, fresh bread and homemade chutneys. Or moor up along the way and enjoy some of the best pub lunches in the area.
Top Tea Spots • The Pump Room • Sally Lunn’s • Beas Vintage Tea Rooms • Hands Tea Room • Jane Austen Centre’s Regency Tea Room
Horticultural Heaven
A gardener’s delight: from the heavenly scents of Somerset Lavender to explorative talks and walks.
Prior Park Gardens sits just up the hill from central Bath. The intimate 18th century landscape garden was created by Bath entrepreneur Ralph Allen is home to the famous Palladian Bridge, one of only four in the world. Discover woodland paths, wildlife and the ideal picnic spot. Just outside Bath, Kilver Court has a mature rockery, much loved by horticulturalists and its dedicated gardeners, who have been nurturing it for over 25 years! Green fingers can get to grip with some hardy and unusual varieties in the plant nursery. Special gardener’s tours can be arranged at a number of Bath’s most beautiful estates.
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A class of its own Bath is a world-class city in so many ways and the quality of its accommodation is no exception. The city and beyond offer boundless options for accommodation from luxury hotels, independent boutiques and cosy B&Bs to stunning selfcatering properties. City-centre establishments are a great choice for those who like to be close to all the amenities and attractions. The majority of Bath’s attractions are within walking distance of one another. The Abbey Hotel is perfectly positioned for sightseeing, with the Roman Baths, Pump Room and Bath Abbey just a two minute walk away. The stylishly re-furbished Bailbrook House Hotel is just outside the city and offers excellent accommodation rates for groups as well as a great brasserie. For low cost options, try the Holiday Inn Express or for smaller groups or exclusive tours there is a range of delightful guest houses, including Brooks Guest House in the West of the city. The five star treatments at the Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel are sure to leave a lasting impression, with their imperial suites and butler service offering the ultimate in sophistication.
For exclusive discounts on group rates call 0844 847 5256
If you enjoy the quieter side of life why not combine city and countryside and stay outside of Bath in one of the many picturesque towns and villages including Bradford-on-Avon, Box or the National Trust village of Lacock.
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Scenic Country Adventures The countryside surrounding Bath is perfect for cycling, whether your group want quiet, picturesque country lanes, or exciting off-road adventures, Bath is home to some avid cyclists who are keen to show you around. West of Bath sits the dramatic Cheddar Gorge, with a number of stunning marked walking routes the centre at Cheddar Gorge caters for different kinds of adventures from caving explorations to cliff-top climbs. Discover the World Heritage Site of Stonehenge, just a short drive from Bath, or book a private guided tour to understand this fascinating prehistoric site. Thrill-seekers will love Castle Combe Race Circuit, where you can learn to rally drive, practice skid control and off-road driving, or even race against your friends on the Go Kart track.
Five unique activities for groups • Get lucky on the horses at Bath Racecourse • Tour the animal kingdom at Longleat Safari Park • Cheer on Bath Rugby team at ‘The Rec’ • Hone your culinary skills with a cookery course • Discover glassblowing at Bath Aqua Glass
Thermae Bath Spa – Britain’s only natural thermal Spa Bathe in Bath’s naturally warm, mineral-rich waters, just as the Celts and Romans did over 2,000 years ago. Spa sessions offer use of the indoor Minerva Bath, the aromatherapy steam rooms and the open-air rooftop pool with fabulous views over the city. The stand alone 18th century Cross Bath is available for exclusive use. We welcome small groups who can book in advance by calling:
+44 (0) 1225 33 6789 www.ThermaeBathSpa.com
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Large visitor attraction of the year – South West Tourism Awards Group rates for 20+ Organiser and coach driver go free
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• Tailor-made itineraries • Great rates on accommodation, tours and attractions
Groups@bathtourism.co.uk | 0844 847 5256 8
visitbath.co.uk/groups
| 0844 847 5256