A Guide to Bath's Best Luxury Hotels: Where History and Design Unite
Bath, a city famed for its Roman heritage and Georgian architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a magnet for luxury travellers seeking a blend of history, elegance, and comfort. Steeped in a rich cultural legacy, Bath offers visitors the opportunity to stay in some of the most opulent and architecturally significant hotels in the UK. From restored Georgian townhouses to historical buildings transformed into havens of modern luxury, these five hotels perfectly balance Bath’s timeless charm with refined design and unparalleled comfort.
The Gainsborough Bath Spa – Timeless Luxury Meets Thermal Waters
For those seeking a deeper connection to Bath’s ancient heritage, The Gainsborough Bath Spa stands as a luxurious testament to the city’s Roman and Georgian roots. This five-star hotel is renowned for its exclusive access to Bath’s famed natural thermal waters, providing a unique experience steeped in history and wellness.
Building and Architecture: Classical Meets Victorian Grandeur
The Gainsborough, housed in a Grade II listed building, artfully merges classical and Victorian architecture. The building’s design retains the grandeur of its past, featuring stately columns, sweeping staircases, and expansive windows. Originally built in the 19th century as a hospital, the hotel’s restoration has preserved its historical significance while adding a layer of modern luxury.
Interior Design and Elegance: Roman Influence with Georgian Flair
Inside, the hotel’s decor reflects a sophisticated blend of Roman and Georgian influences. Marble floors, opulent chandeliers, and plush furnishings create an atmosphere of understated elegance. The Roman-inspired spa design pays homage to Bath’s ancient history, with soothing color palettes and luxurious materials that evoke a sense of calm and tranquility.
Unique Features: The Spa Village and Exclusive Thermal Waters
The Gainsborough is the only hotel in Bath with exclusive access to the city’s thermal waters. The Spa Village offers guests the rare opportunity to bathe in mineral-rich waters that have been used for therapeutic purposes since Roman times. The tranquil atmosphere and restorative treatments make this a must-visit for travelers looking to indulge in Bath’s unique wellness culture.
No. 15 by GuestHouse, Bath – A Georgian Gem with Artful Interiors
Nestled along the historic Great Pulteney Street, No. 15 by GuestHouse, Bath offers an immersive experience that seamlessly blends Georgian grandeur with whimsical modern design. This boutique hotel is as much a feast for the eyes as it is a luxurious retreat, where attention to detail reigns supreme.
Building and Architecture: A Timeless Georgian Façade
The hotel’s exterior exemplifies classic Georgian architecture, a hallmark of Bath’s historic aesthetic. The building's symmetrical façade, complete with sash windows and stone balustrades, preserves the refined elegance of its 18th-century roots. Its preservation honors Bath’s architectural traditions, showcasing an era when symmetry, proportion, and understated grandeur were paramount.
Interior Design by Room – The Nina Concept
Inside, No. 15 offers a distinct departure from its traditional exterior. The interior, designed by the creative minds at Room, an Interior Design Company in Bath, blends playfulness with sophistication. Every room is a carefully curated work of art, with unique, eclectic details, vibrant wallpapers, mismatched vintage furniture, and curated local artworks—that bring an exuberant energy to the space. The blend of historic charm and modern touches creates a visual narrative that feels both timeless and refreshingly unique.
Unique Features: An Art Lover’s Dream and Underground Spa
No. 15 is not just a hotel; it’s an art-filled wonderland. From whimsical chandeliers to hidden curiosities tucked away in the corridors, every corner offers a surprise. Guests are invited to explore the art collection that adorns the hotel, while the private underground spa offers a sanctuary of calm with treatments designed to relax and restore, making it a true retreat for the senses.
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa – Quintessential Georgian Elegance
Few hotels capture the essence of Bath’s Georgian heritage quite like The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. Situated within one of the world’s most famous crescents, this hotel offers a window into 18th-century grandeur combined with modern-day luxury.
Building and Architecture: The Iconic Royal Crescent
The Royal Crescent is an architectural marvel, designed by John Wood the Younger in the 1760s. This sweeping crescent of 30 terraced houses is one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in the UK. The hotel, occupying two townhouses in the center of the crescent, maintains the original features of the building, including its Palladian symmetry and grand scale, allowing guests to experience a living piece of history.
Interior Design: Traditional Luxury with Modern Comforts
Inside, the hotel embraces traditional Georgian interiors, with high ceilings, ornate plasterwork, and antique furniture. However, modern comforts are seamlessly integrated, with contemporary touches that enhance the hotel’s luxurious feel. The balance of old-world charm and modern luxury creates an atmosphere of timeless sophistication.
Unique Features: Tranquil Spa and Manicured Gardens
In addition to its historical significance, the hotel boasts a luxurious spa and beautifully manicured gardens, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city life. The spa, located in the hotel’s converted coach house, combines holistic therapies with modern facilities, ensuring a rejuvenating experience for all who visit.
The Francis Hotel Bath – A Regency Delight with Modern Flair
The Francis Hotel Bath, located in the heart of the city, is a Regency-era townhouse with a flair for modern luxury. Combining historical elegance with contemporary comforts, this boutique hotel offers an intimate and refined atmosphere.
Building and Architecture: Regency Charm
The hotel, spread across seven interconnected townhouses, retains the Regency architectural style, characterized by its clean lines, large sash windows, and intricate stucco detailing. The building’s exterior reflects the refinement of the Regency period, while its interior has been thoughtfully restored to balance historical character with modern design.
Interior Design: Eclectic and Chic
Inside, the hotel’s decor is eclectic and chic, with vibrant colors, bold patterns, and elegant furnishings. The designers have carefully blended the building’s historical charm with contemporary style, creating a space that feels both inviting and luxurious.
Unique Features: Prime Location and Historic Ambiance
Located just steps from Bath’s key attractions, The Francis Hotel offers a prime location for exploring the city’s cultural landmarks. The hotel’s stylish bar and restaurant, which feature original architectural details, provide a sophisticated setting for guests to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Bath Priory – A Country House in the Heart of the City
For those who crave the tranquility of the countryside within the city, Bath Priory offers the perfect retreat. This luxurious hotel, set within four acres of stunning gardens, feels like a world away from the urban bustle, yet it is just a short distance from Bath’s historic center.
Building and Architecture: English Country House Charm
Housed in a beautiful Georgian manor, Bath Priory exudes the charm of an English country house. The building’s traditional stone exterior and ivy-clad walls create an inviting and picturesque setting, while the interior maintains the elegance and warmth of a stately home.
Interior Design: Cozy and Refined
The interior design of Bath Priory is warm and inviting, with a focus on comfort and relaxation. Rich fabrics, cozy fireplaces, and antique furniture create an atmosphere of refined luxury, while the hotel’s public spaces are adorned with original artwork, adding a personal touch to the decor.
Unique Features: Michelin-Star Dining and Extensive Gardens
One of the highlights of Bath Priory is its Michelin-starred restaurant, where guests can enjoy gourmet cuisine in an elegant setting. The hotel’s extensive gardens are another standout feature, offering a serene escape for guests looking to unwind in nature.