Thermae Bath Spa

Thermae Bath Spa Review

The only place in Britain where you can bathe in natural hot-spring water, and in an open-air rooftop location as well, this striking complex designed by Nicholas Grimshaw consists of a Bath-stone building surrounded by a glass curtain wall. The only difficulty is in deciding where to spend more time—in the sleekly luxurious, light-filled Minerva Bath, with its curves and gentle currents, or in the smaller, open-air rooftop pool for the unique sensation of bathing with views of Bath's operatic skyline. Two 18th-century thermal baths, the Cross Bath and the Hot Bath, are back in use, too (the latter for treatments only). End your session in the crisp third-floor café and restaurant. It's essential to book spa treatments ahead. Towels, robes, and slippers are available for rent. Weekdays are the quietest time to visit. You must be 18 to book a spa treatment. A separate, free Visitor Centre (April through October, Monday through Saturday 10-5, Sunday 11-4) opposite the entrance gives an overview of the project and provides audio guides (£2) for a brief tour of the exterior.