Bath, England
Craving a break from London’s relentless pace? Just a short train ride away lies Bath! My friends and I embarked on a wintery adventure to this UNESCO-listed gem, drawn by its rich past, vibrant streets, and—yes—the promise of legendary buns. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture admirer, or someone desperately needing a picturesque getaway, Bath delivers.
Our journey began with an easy hour-long train ride from London Paddington station, gliding through the English countryside until we pulled into Bath Spa station. The crisp December air nipped at our cheeks, but excitement kept us warm. Our first stop? Breakfast, of course. And in Bath, breakfast means buns.
Battle of the Buns:
You can’t visit Bath without engaging in its tastiest rivalry. These aren’t just pastries; they’re pieces of history. With limited time and a rumbling stomach, we chose Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House, lured in by the shorter queue and the scent of freshly baked brioche. The Sally Lunn Bun, lighter and airier than its denser counterpart, was the perfect canvas for clotted cream and jam. Pair it with a steaming cup of tea, and you’ve got a breakfast fit for 18th-century aristocrats—and a group of girlies looking for a nibble.
Fully fueled, we stepped into the heart of ancient Bath: the Roman Baths. Built-in the first century AD, this remarkably preserved bathing complex once buzzed with toga-clad Romans soaking in its mineral-rich waters. The audio guide transported us back in time as we wandered through the steaming pools and intricate ruins. The student admission of £19.00 was well worth the chance to glimpse Britain’s past in an immersive way. (Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds, get an entry time slot, and capture unobstructed photos!)
Emerging from the depths of Roman history, we found ourselves in the shadow of Bath Abbey. Initially founded in the 7th century, this towering Gothic structure invites visitors to peek inside and marvel at its stunning stained-glass windows and fan-vaulted ceilings. Even if you don’t have time for a full tour, step inside for a moment of awe.
Crossing the Pulteney Bridge, one of the few bridges lined with shops in the UK. But the true spectacle lay below: the Pulteney Weir. Built to control the River Avon’s waters, its cascading design looked straight out of a fantasy novel. We strolled along the river, soaking in the scenery and pausing for photos.
By now, hunger had returned, and we craved something warm and filling. The Raven, a cozy gastropub in the heart of Bath, was the perfect spot. Known for its pies, this pub serves up British comfort food at its best. We devoured a rich steak and ale pie, washed down with a pint of local cider—a meal that felt like a warm hug on a chilly day.
No trip to Bath is complete without visiting the Royal Crescent, an iconic row of 30 terraced houses that scream Georgian elegance. Fans of Bridgerton might recognize it as a filming location, but even if you’re not into period dramas, the sweeping architecture and manicured lawns are undeniably impressive.
Even on a day trip, a little shopping never hurts. Green Street is a treasure trove of independent boutiques, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to vintage books. We browsed, lingered, and picked up a few unique souvenirs before returning to the station.
From ancient baths to indulgent buns, majestic crescents, and riverside views, Bath is the perfect escape from London’s hustle. It’s a city where every street tells a story, every meal feels like a tradition, and history isn’t just preserved—it’s alive. Whether you have a day or a weekend, ensure Bath is on your Fi-tinerary. You won’t regret it!
